Based on trend information provided by nearly 1,100 leisure travel agents from Travel Leaders Group, demand for Cuba is still hot among American travelers despite continued U.S. government restrictions. In a recent survey, Travel Leaders Group found that nearly 22 percent of its leisure travel-focused travel agents stated they’ve already booked clients for Cuba travel this year with over 59 percent indicating clients have expressed an interest in travel to Cuba in 2017.
If your clients are still waiting to check Cuba off their bucket list, they now have more options with Delta Vacations, as the company has announced expansions to its portfolio to include escorted tours that help travelers satisfy the people-to-people Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) requirements. The packages are now available for purchase with travel beginning April 30, 2017.
Travelers can choose an 8-day guided experience to Havana and Varadero or a shorter 6-day Havana itinerary. Each tour includes activities around the island nation that include visits to historical sites such as El Morro Castle, Old Havana, Viñales and Finca La Vigia, Ernest Hemingway’s home. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to interact with locals. For example, a Cuba history scholar will provide insight on the Spanish American War of 1898 while walking around the grounds of El Morro Castle; and a local guide will explain the country’s history and architecture during a walking tour of Old Havana.
Rates for the 6-day Classic Havana package start at $1642.50 pp dbl including airfare from Miami (MIA) with an April 30 departure date. All tours include accommodations, most meals, all educational exchange activities, ground transportation and an English-speaking guide. By booking a package with Delta Vacations, guests receive 1,000 bonus miles in addition to the credited flown miles for flight and hotel packages to Cuba through the SkyMiles program. For more information, call (800) 727-1111 or visit worldagentdirect.com/delta/cuba.
