Cuba is a great travel destination and was to become one of the more popular destinations when it opened for American travel a few years ago. With the change in political climate over the last few years, it’s become much more confusing to go to Cuba so it’s not a surprise that Cuba travel is on the decline and likely to continue. Although improving, Cuba lacks basic tourism infrastructure, internet and ease of credit card use among other things familiar to Americans. That, mixed with the confusion around the island nation tell me that this won’t change any time soon. Here is an excerpt for a recent Allianz Travel Insurance survey.

Cuba saw a 33 percent decline in overnight visitors from the U.S. from 2017 to 2018, and a recent annual survey by leading travel insurance and assistance company Allianz Global Assistance found that Americans’ interest in traveling to Cuba in 2019 is still on the decline (75.5 percent are not interested in 2019; compared to 74.7 percent in 2018). That still leaves 15.6 percent of Americans – or about 50 million travelers – somewhat or very likely to plan a trip to Cuba.

This year Cuba will celebrate the 500^th birthday of its capital city, Havana, and expects to receive 5.1 million global visitors as a result. Yet according to Allianz’s survey, 90 percent of Americans are unaware of the anniversary celebration this November, highlighting an opportunity for boosters of travel to Cuba. The 6.8 percent who were aware of Havana’s anniversary said it positively impacts their interest in visiting the destination, while two percent say it negatively impacts their interest in visiting.

Travel to Cuba can be confusing, especially in light of U.S. travel restrictions and advisories that often might make people think twice about visiting the island. According to the survey, a majority (63.3 percent) of Americans do not understand current travel restrictions to the island nation, which is likely preventing many from being interested in or planning a trip to the destination.

The survey also asked Americans about their preferred method of travel to the island, finding that 18.1 percent would expect to arrive by plane and 6.9 percent by cruise ship.

“With Havana making significant infrastructure improvements, including major hotel renovations, and planning cultural activities to celebrate the city’s 500^th anniversary, it’s a great opportunity for Americans to visit,” said Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Global Assistance USA. “Our survey indicates that Cuba scores highly for its resorts and beaches, as well as its cultural attractions, with 34 percent of Americans listing one of these as the top reason for their interest in visiting the island.”

I agree with my friend Dan that it’s a great opportunity to visit Cuba at the current time but I also know that many Americans will stay away, sadly. I hope this changes as it’s a great cultural and tropical destination so close to the United States that could really use our financial support.

Disclaimer: I work as an ambassador for Allianz Global Assistance (AGA Service Company) and receive financial compensation.

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