When it comes to Covid-19 travel restrictions, there’s certainly no shortage of conflicting information out there…
Thankfully, for those Canadians who love nothing more than exploring the tropical forests of Baracoa, soaking up some sun at Cayo Largo del Sur or discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Havana, Cuba is well and truly open for Canadian travellers—and the travel restrictions couldn’t be easier to follow.
Cuba: A Canadian Favourite
“Cuba is one of Canada’s favourite destinations and both countries enjoy a long-standing friendship,” Lessner Gomez, director at the Cuba Tourist Board, explained. “Canadians understand that Cuba is a safe and friendly place that not only offers easy access from Canada, but delivers on quality and good value.”
The country moved swiftly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. A ‘Prevention and Control’ plan, which included the training of medical staff and the preparation of medical facilities, was put in place as early as January 2020. So, when the first three on-island cases were confirmed on March 11, authorities where ready to trace and isolate contacts and roll out a testing program.
After controlling the pandemic to the best of its ability, Cuba opened up to international tourism in a very controlled way.
Cuba’s ‘New Normal’
The restrictions have changed since the country first partially-opened up back in July, but as of October 19, it has embraced a ‘new normal’, and the entire island—except for the provinces of Ciego de Avila and Sancti Spiritus—is now open for Canadian travellers. Airports, car rental companies, tour desks and international marinas in the ‘new normal’ provinces are now open.
Entry requirements remain the same, with just a passport and tourist card required for Canadian travellers. Covid-19 insurance is mandatory, but tour operators like Air Canada Vacations are including it in the overall package price. Administered by Allianz Global Assistance, it comes at no extra cost to your clients.
Landing in Cuba: Free Covid-19 Tests
On paper, the logistics of travelling to Cuba appear to be pretty simple, but what should Canadian travel agents tell their clients to expect when they arrive in destination?
“All passengers must hand in a health declaration form, which they will receive and fill out on their flight,” explained Gomez. “Upon arrival at the airport in Cuba, temperature screening is in place for all passengers. Every traveller will then receive a free Covid-19 test. It’s not painful and the results are ready within 24 hours.”
There’s no quarantine for tourists who are going to hotels, but travellers are asked to wear masks and socially distance themselves for the first 24 hours of their stay until they get their test results. Should a client test positive, they are taken to the hospital where they are cared for. Masks are mandatory at the airport, on bus transfers to hotels and on tours, as well as in any indoor situations where physical distancing is a challenge.
Cuba: Full of Fun
“Canadians love Cuba, so it’s really important to get the message out that we’re a safe and fun destination that’s open for business out there,” added Gomez.
“If your clients understand that they need to follow a few guidelines for their own safety, they’ll have a great time. Cuba hasn’t changed; we still have the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and right now they are less crowded than ever—which is fabulous to experience. And we still have all the vibrant culture and great music that we’re known for—as well as our friendly people, who are ready and waiting to welcome your clients.
On 12DEC, Cuba announced it will unify the Cuban peso and the Cuban convertible peso (CUC) as one currency, and put an end to the decades-old dual currency system effective 01JAN, 2021. This makes paying for excursions and leaving tips so much simpler, as clients can pay directly in Canadian dollars, without having to convert their currency into the CUC.
To allow for a truly touchless experience, tour operators, airports and travel companies in Cuba no longer accept cash. Transactions can be made via credit and debit card.
“So stay informed about what we’re doing to keep your clients safe and happy in Cuba. As a travel advisor, the more informed you are, the easier it is for you to help your clients make the right decision. Having the latest information at your fingertips is essential as you work to regain your clients’ confidence at this challenging time.”
