The Cuba Tourist Board announced a strong resurgence in Canadian tourism and a comprehensive suite of new hotel options, amenities, and partnerships at a gathering with travel advisors and media today at Illuminarium Toronto.

Cuba’s Minister of Tourism, Mr. Juan Carlos García Granda, and the newly appointed Director of the Cuba Tourist Board, Ms. Gihana Galindo, welcomed guests and shared updates underscoring the island’s commitment to enhancing the visitor experience for its primary source market, Canada.

“Canadians are our most valued clients and friends; many consider Cuba their second home," said Minister Juan Carlos Garcia Granda. “We are dedicated to ensuring that every visitor experience is exceptional, and that we continue to provide the quality service and unique offerings that keep our Canadian friends returning year after year.”

"Cuba has long been, and will continue to be, one of the favorite destinations for Canadian travelers—a place where many feel as if they were in their second home," said Gihana Galindo. "Winter sales are already up 25% compared to last year, a result that highlights the dedication of our travel partners and travel advisors’ community."

The 44th Edition of the International Tourism Fair of Cuba, FITCuba 2026, will be held in Varadero from May 6 to 10 and will be dedicated to Canada as the guest of honor.

Key announcements and enhancements for Canadian travellers include:

New Flights and Connections:

WestJet is launching new direct air connections from Toronto:

• Havana: Direct flights beginning December 18 (Thursdays and Sundays)
• Cienfuegos: Direct flights via WestJet/Sunwing Vacations from December 10
• Cayo Largo del Sur: Direct flights via WestJet/Sunwing Vacations from January 20

Expanded Hotel Management and Brands:

Cuba welcomes new international hotel management partners:

• Domina Hotels (Italy): Managing properties including Domina Marina Varadero and future openings in Havana
• Vila Galé Hotels (Portugal): Expanding management with three new properties: Vila Galé Cayo Santa Maria, Vila Galé Express Park View, and Vila Galé Tropical Varadero
• New Brands: Gaviota Hotels introduces "Playa Luxury" (luxury-focused sections) and "Playa Kids" (family-focused spaces), available at several major resorts

Enhanced Amenities and Niche Tourism:

• Active Lifestyle: New facilities have been added for popular sports, including dedicated pickleball courts available in all major destinations (e.g., Varadero, Holguín) and a specialized kitesurfing club opening at the Iberostar Daiquiri Hotel in Cayo Guillermo
• Long-Stay Program: Added values for stays of 15 nights or more at select villas in Varadero and Havana, including personalized check-in/out and discounts on services
• Romantic Travel: Redesigned symbolic wedding packages with exclusive benefits to attract the growing romantic segment

Infrastructure and Operational Improvements:

Major renovations have been completed across key facilities for the winter season, including the Sol Palmeras, Meliá Varadero, and Iberostar Origin Taínos. 

The destination of Cayo Santa María now offers the "Santa Maria All In" concept, providing all-inclusive access to the local plazas (Gallery, Las Dunas, and The One Collection), including bowling alleys, discos, and restaurants.

The establishment of new foreign and domestic importing companies and new wholesale "Cash and Carry" stores ensures efficient supply chains to maintain high service standards across all hotels.

For additional information, please contact the Cuba Tourist Board: info@gocuba.ca.