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Cuba, often celebrated as the “Pearl of the Antilles,” is a country rich in history and cultural significance, leaving a lasting impact on the Caribbean region. With its vibrant heritage and deep-rooted traditions, the island continues to shine as a key player in regional tourism. The unwavering spirit of Cuban travelers remains strong, as they embrace new opportunities and adventures, further solidifying Cuba’s role as a vital hub in the Caribbean tourism landscape.

Visa-Free Access and Outbound Tourism Trends:
In a positive development for Cuban nationals, the country now enjoys visa-free access to 62 destinations as of August 2024, enhancing travel opportunities and fostering greater cultural exchange. This ease of movement is mirrored by a robust 14% growth in international departures in 2023. Cuban outbound tourism is characterized by a diverse destination portfolio, primarily favoring intraregional travel.

Air Travel and Passenger Traffic:
The air travel landscape in Cuba has faced its ups and downs, with the year 2019 witnessing around 500,000 air passengers transported to and from the country. Although this represents a decline from previous years, it underscores an ongoing demand for air travel among Cubans.

Major Ports Serving as Economic Lifelines:

1. Port of Havana: Cuba’s most significant port has centuries of maritime history, serving as a hub for both historical and contemporary maritime activities.
2. Port of Santiago de Cuba: This vital seaport links the second-largest city in Cuba to the Caribbean Sea, playing a crucial role in the country’s trade and commerce.
3. Port of Matanzas: Situated at the confluence of two rivers, this port is essential for exporting local products like sugar and molasses while importing necessary goods.
4. Port of Mariel: Located close to the U.S., Mariel is strategically important for transshipment and acts as a critical connection point in the maritime trade network.

TTW Editor Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan says: “Cuba, affectionately known as the “Pearl of the Antilles,” remains a vibrant force in Caribbean tourism. With the exciting development of visa-free access to 62 countries as of August 2024 and a remarkable 14% surge in international travel last year, Cuban travelers are enthusiastically embracing new opportunities to explore the world. They especially favor destinations within the region, showcasing their adventurous spirit and strong cultural ties.”

Visa free countries list:-

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bangladesh VOA
• Barbados
• Belarus
• Bolivia VOA
• Botswana
• Burkina Faso VOA
• Burundi VOA
• Cambodia VOA
• Cape Verde Islands VOA
• Comoro Islands VOA
• Cook Islands
• Djibouti VOA
• Dominica
• Egypt VOA
• Fiji
• Grenada
• Guinea-Bissau VOA
• Guyana
• Iran
• Kenya ETA
• Kiribati
• Kyrgyzstan
• Laos VOA
• Macao (SAR China) VOA
• Madagascar
• Malaysia
• Maldives VOA
• Marshall Islands VOA
• Mauritania VOA
• Mauritius VOA
• Micronesia
• Moldova
• Mongolia
• Mozambique VOA
• Namibia
• Nepal VOA
• Nicaragua
• Niue
• Palau Islands VOA
• Qatar VOA
• Russian Federation
• Rwanda VOA
• Samoa VOA
• Seychelles VOA
• Singapore
• Somalia VOA
• Sri Lanka ETA
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Lucia
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Tajikistan
• Tanzania VOA
• Thailand
• The Gambia
• Timor-Leste VOA
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tuvalu VOA
• Uzbekistan
• Vanuatu
• Zambia VOA
• Zimbabwe VOA

Key Airports Facilitating Global Connectivity:

• José Martí International Airport: As Havana’s main airport, it serves as the primary entry and exit point for international visitors and residents alike.
• Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport: This airport is vital for tourism in Varadero, facilitating access to one of Cuba’s premier beach destinations.
• Frank País International Airport: Serving the eastern part of the island, it connects Holguín with major international destinations, promoting tourism and business links.

Airlines Enhancing Mobility:

• Cubana de Aviación: Cuba’s flagship airline connects the nation to the world, offering extensive routes across continents.
• Aerogaviota: Focusing on domestic and selected international flights, this airline plays a significant role in enhancing domestic connectivity and supporting tourism.

Cuba’s travel and tourism landscape illustrates a nation that continues to engage globally despite internal challenges. With improved visa-free access and a diverse set of travel destinations, Cubans are increasingly active in the global travel scene. The robust infrastructure of ports and airports supports this outward mobility, ensuring Cuba remains a key player in Caribbean tourism and beyond.

Places to Visit in Thailand

• Wat Pho: Situated prominently in Bangkok, Wat Pho not only holds the title for the city’s largest reclining Buddha but is a treasure trove of Thai heritage, hosting the largest assembly of Buddha statues in Thailand. The complex serves a historical role as Thailand’s first public educational institution, offering insights into the rich Buddhist culture and educational practices of ancient times. The temple’s standout feature, the majestic Reclining Buddha, lies encased in an elaborate pavilion, a testament to Thai craftsmanship and religious art.
• Wat Arun: Known colloquially as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun stands as a beacon on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its distinctive spire-like pagoda offers a striking silhouette against the Bangkok skyline, reminiscent of a missile poised for launch. Named after Arun, the Indian god of dawn, the temple’s origins are linked to King Taksin, who, finding the site after the fall of Ayutthaya, deemed it auspicious for establishing the new capital of Siam. Climbing the temple steps allows visitors to partake in a centuries-old tradition, offering panoramic views and a physical connection to the historical narrative of Bangkok.
• Wat Phra Kaew: As the spiritual nucleus of Thai Buddhism, Wat Phra Kaew holds a revered status, housing the Emerald Buddha—a potent symbol of Thai royalty and religious devotion. This temple complex, adjoining the opulent Grand Palace, once the sealed city of royalty, encapsulates the spiritual and royal essence of Thailand. Its grounds, sanctified since the founding of Bangkok in 1782, continue to draw pilgrims and tourists alike, attracted by its architectural splendor and deep spiritual heritage.

Urban Oasis in the Heart of Bangkok:

• Lumphini Park: Named after the Buddha’s birthplace in Nepal, Lumphini Park stands as the central lung of Bangkok. This sprawling park spans over 58 hectares and is adorned with an artificial lake, extensive lawns, and dense woodland areas, providing a verdant escape from the urban sprawl. Originally a royal hunting ground, the park was transformed into a public space in 1925 by King Rama VI, featuring a statue at the southwestern gate that commemorates its royal origins. Its paths are frequented by joggers, families, and giant monitor lizards, adding a touch of the wild to the urban retreat.

Ascend to Serene Heights:

• Golden Mount: Beyond the typical temple visits, the Golden Mount offers a unique vantage point over Bangkok. Ascending the serpentine steps through a meticulously landscaped artificial hill, visitors pass historical markers, graves, and tributes to benefactors. The summit offers a 360-degree vista of Bangkok, presenting a juxtaposition of historical and modern cityscapes, and remains one of the few natural heights in the city, providing a picturesque escape from the bustling streets below.

Embark on Scenic Rail Journeys:

• Eastern & Oriental Express: For those with a penchant for luxury and history, the Eastern & Oriental Express recreates the romance of the bygone era of train travel. Linking Bangkok with Singapore, this journey is wrapped in opulence, from sumptuous private cabins to elegant dining and bar cars, providing an all-inclusive experience with scenic stops and cultural tours in Thailand and Malaysia.
• Night Train to Laos: Offering an adventurous overnight experience, this train departs Bangkok and meanders through Thailand’s northeastern rural landscapes. The journey continues across the Friendship Bridge into Laos, providing travelers with picturesque views and a serene start to the day.
• Beach Train: The coastal route to Hua Hin meanders through unique landscapes of salt flats and coconut plantations. Hua Hin itself, a royal retreat since the 19th century, blends historical charm with beachfront leisure, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist paths.

Top Hotels for Every Traveler:

• Hotel Clover Asoke: Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, this modern boutique hotel offers a fusion of contemporary design and traditional Thai hospitality. Its rooftop pool and local gourmet offerings make it a prime choice for those seeking a stylish yet comfortable stay.
• Chanalai Garden Resort: Positioned on the serene Kata Beach in Phuket, this resort offers breathtaking views over the Andaman Sea, framed by lush gardens and tranquil pools, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit: This 5-star establishment in Bangkok’s vibrant Sukhumvit area blends luxury with convenience, ideal for both business and leisure travelers seeking a sophisticated base.
• Akara Hotel: This centrally located boutique hotel combines the elegance of modern design with the warmth of Thai hospitality, offering guests a luxurious stay amid Bangkok’s bustling cityscape.

Things to do in Qatar:-

Souq Waqif :- This bustling marketplace stands as one of the most atmospheric destinations in Qatar, offering visitors a vibrant glimpse into the country’s rich culture. Situated on the site of an ancient market, Souq Waqif has remained the social hub of Doha for centuries. Historically, it was a place where Bedouins traded sheep, goats, and wool for essential goods. The entire area has been meticulously redeveloped to evoke the charm of a 19th-century souq, complete with mud-rendered shops, exposed timber beams, and beautifully restored original Qatari buildings. Despite facing decline in the 1990s and suffering damage from a fire in 2003, Souq Waqif has been revived, blending old-world charm with modern amenities.

Falcon Souq:-For those interested in Qatari heritage, the Falcon Souq offers a unique experience. Located adjacent to Souq Waqif, this traditional market dedicated to falconry highlights the deep cultural significance of the practice in Qatari society. The best time to visit is during the evenings, particularly on Thursdays, when the market comes alive with activity. Visitors can observe customers inspecting the falcons, most of which are perched on posts with their hoods on, while engaging in detailed discussions with shopkeepers about the art of falconry.

National Museum of Qatar :- The National Museum of Qatar, which opened in March 2019, is a striking architectural marvel designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. Inspired by the desert rose, the museum’s design is as captivating as the exhibits it houses. Spanning 1.5 kilometers of galleries, the museum is divided into three ‘chapters’: Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and Building the Nation. These exhibits take visitors on a journey through Qatari history and heritage, celebrating the nation’s past, present, and future. The museum provides an immersive, educational experience that should not be missed.

Banana Island Resort :- Banana Island is a stunning crescent-shaped island known for its clear waters and 800-meter-long golden-sand beach. A popular excursion in Qatar, the island is covered in tropical plants and greenery and can be reached via a catamaran ride. Even if you’re not staying at the luxury resort, the island offers numerous activities, including Segway rides, beach diving, bowling, and wave riding, along with dining options at six different restaurants serving Middle Eastern, American, and Italian cuisines.

Museum of Islamic Art:- Boasting the world’s largest collection of Islamic art, this museum is a treasure trove of cultural artifacts spanning three continents. Designed like a postmodern fortress with minimal windows, the Museum of Islamic Art rises from its own purpose-built island near the Corniche, surrounded by lush lawns and ornamental trees. The museum’s design reduces energy use while offering breathtaking views of the water. The extensive collection makes it an ideal spot for short, focused visits to absorb the rich heritage on display.

Top Hotels in Qatar:

The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort – A GHM Hotel:- Located in Doha’s cultural village of Katara, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort offers an exquisite blend of traditional Arabian architecture and contemporary design. Managed by General Hotel Management (GHM), this prestigious property provides a luxurious hospitality experience, reflecting Qatar’s rich cultural heritage through its elegant accommodations and top-tier amenities.

The St. Regis Doha :-Situated in the upscale West Bay area, The St. Regis Doha is a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the heart of Qatar’s capital. The hotel features opulently designed rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Guests can enjoy a diverse culinary journey across its world-class restaurants, which offer both local Middle Eastern delicacies and international cuisine.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha :- Nestled on its private island within The Pearl-Qatar development, Marsa Malaz Kempinski offers an unparalleled luxury experience. The resort’s architecture seamlessly blends European and Arabian styles, providing a visually stunning and tranquil environment. Guests are treated to a range of lavish amenities, including fine dining, a private beach, and an array of leisure activities.

The Ritz-Carlton, Doha :- Located in the West Bay Lagoon district, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is an iconic hotel that exudes elegance and tradition. The hotel’s beautifully appointed rooms offer stunning views of the Arabian Gulf or Doha’s skyline. With world-class dining, a luxurious spa, and lush gardens, The Ritz-Carlton provides a serene retreat while being conveniently close to the city’s cultural and commercial attractions.

JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha :- Offering refined luxury in the vibrant West Bay district, JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha is seamlessly connected to the City Center Mall, providing guests with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The hotel’s elegant rooms and suites feature modern amenities and impressive views of Doha’s skyline. Guests can also enjoy a variety of dining options and leisure facilities, making it an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Things to See in Malaysia:-

Penang National Park: Despite being the smallest national park in Malaysia, Penang National Park covers a mere 23 square kilometers and offers a rich tapestry of beach-lined forests. This park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, and leopard cats. Visitors can immerse themselves in activities such as jungle treks or peaceful boat trips to secluded, golden-sand beaches. Transportation is convenient with Bus 101 from central George Town, and boat trips to various secluded beaches are reasonably priced.

Tawau Hills Park: For those who find the journey into Maliau Basin or Danum Valley daunting, Tawau Hills Park serves as an accessible alternative, offering lush, dense forest right off the plain. The park is ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and even night-time wildlife walks. Though small, the park’s towering hills offer breathtaking views on clear days, making it a tranquil escape, especially during quieter weekdays.

Blue Mansion: This stunning 38-room mansion in George Town, known for its striking blue exterior achieved through indigo-based limewash, dates back to the 1880s. Restored in the 1990s, it now operates as a boutique hotel filled with antiques. The mansion offers guided tours that delve into its architectural significance, feng shui, and the legacy of its original owner, Cheong Fatt Tze, a notable Hakka merchant-trader.

Telaga Tujuh: Known as the ‘Seven Wells,’ this series of natural rock pools at the top of a waterfall offers a refreshing retreat from the typical beach experience. Located near Pantai Kok, visitors can access these pools via a short hike through the rainforest, leading to stunning views and cool, clear waters, ideal for escaping the tropical heat.

Stadthuys: Built in the 1650s as the town hall and governor’s residence in Melaka, Stadthuys is recognized as the oldest Dutch edifice in the East. It now houses a museum complex including the History & Ethnography Museum, offering insights into the region’s colonial past without an admission fee for guided tours on weekends.

Notable Hotels in Malaysia:

EQ Kuala Lumpur: Nestled in the bustling core of Kuala Lumpur, EQ Kuala Lumpur is a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, strategically located near key landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers. Reopened in 2019, it offers elegant accommodations and first-rate facilities, making it a prime spot for both business and leisure travelers.

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur: This oasis of tranquility set against the backdrop of Kuala Lumpur’s skyscrapers offers lush garden settings and impeccable service since its inauguration in 1985. Its proximity to major business and shopping areas, including the Pavilion shopping mall, enhances its appeal to travelers.

The Pacific Sutera Hotel – Sutera Harbour Resort: Part of the Sutera Harbour Resort in Kota Kinabalu, this hotel is a tropical paradise with stunning ocean views and lush landscapes. It features a blend of contemporary and traditional Bornean designs, providing a luxurious stay at its seaside location.

MOV Hotel: A contemporary boutique hotel in Kuala Lumpur, MOV Hotel offers a unique stay experience with its minimalist design and modern amenities, appealing to a young and trendy clientele. It is positioned perfectly for those looking to explore the vibrant city life.

Sunway Putra Hotel: Located in Kuala Lumpur’s PWTC area, Sunway Putra Hotel is known for its excellent service and comfortable accommodations. Connected to the Sunway Putra Mall, it offers guests entertainment and shopping at their doorstep, making it ideal for both short visits and extended stays.

Things to do in Dominica:-

1. Cabrits National Park: Just north of Portsmouth, this verdant national park features the beautifully restored Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British garrison. Offering stunning views of Prince Rupert Bay, particularly enchanting in the late afternoon, the park also hosts several trails winding past historical ruins, including officers’ quarters and soldiers’ barracks.
2. Batibou Beach: Renowned as the island’s finest beach, Batibou is a secluded, palm-fringed bay offering excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. It’s accessible via a short trail and often provides a tranquil escape, with an occasional beach bar for refreshments.
3. Trafalgar Falls: A short stroll from the visitor center at Trafalgar, a platform offers breathtaking views of two majestic waterfalls, known locally as the ‘Father’ and ‘Mother.’ Adventurous visitors can trek further to enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool below the Mother fall.
4. Ti Tou Gorge: An enchanting swim through a narrow gorge leads to a hidden waterfall, creating a mystical experience in this vine-covered ravine. Known as ‘small throat’ in Creole, this spot is a must-visit for its unique natural beauty, though it’s best enjoyed outside of peak cruise ship hours.
5. Middleham Falls: A hike through dense rainforest leads to Middleham Falls, one of Dominica’s tallest and most stunning waterfalls. The trail may be challenging, but the rewarding views and the refreshing pool at the base of the falls make it worthwhile.

Top Hotels in Dominica:

1. Secret Bay: This exclusive resort on Dominica’s northwest coast blends luxury with sustainability, offering private villas and bungalows that provide stunning views and modern comforts, all integrated into the island’s lush landscape.
2. Fort Young Hotel And Dive Resort: Combining historical charm with modern luxury, this hotel in Roseau stands on the site of a colonial fort, with much of its original architecture preserved. It’s a favorite among diving enthusiasts due to its prime waterfront location.
3. Jungle Bay Dominica: Emphasizing wellness and sustainability, Jungle Bay is an eco-luxury resort that offers rustic villas on wooden stilts, designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing comfort and scenic views.
4. InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa: Situated between Cabrits National Park and the Caribbean Sea, this luxurious resort offers sophisticated accommodations with panoramic views, embodying a harmonious blend of natural beauty and refined comfort.
5. Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa: At the meeting point of the Rosalie River and the Atlantic Ocean, this eco-resort focuses on wellness and environmental sustainability, featuring accommodations that incorporate local materials and cultural aesthetics into a luxurious setting.