Cuba ready for Canadian Winter Travelers

We caught up with Lessner Gomez, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto, during the Canadian Meetings and Event Expo 2025 in Toronto. Now in his sixth year leading Cuba’s tourism efforts in Canada, Gomez has helped support the expansion of direct flights from over 30 Canadian gateways to Cuba’s 10 international airports. His unique perspective is shaped by his early career in Cayo Coco’s hotels—experience that grounds his understanding of what Canadian travelers actually want. As Canadians increasingly explore beyond their traditional winter destinations this year, Cuba has been systematically upgrading its tourism infrastructure with new upscale properties and enhanced culinary programs. The timing of these improvements, combined with new air routes launching this December, positions Cuba perfectly for the upcoming winter travel season and beyond.

The Canadian-Cuban Connection

Q: Canada has historically been Cuba’s largest source market. What’s driving the renewed interest you’re seeing in 2025?

“Canadians are actively looking for new winter destinations this year, and Cuba offers something unique—genuine cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean. We’re seeing renewed interest because our value proposition is stronger than ever, with improved direct flight accessibility from cities across Canada. Plus, there’s a sense of safety and familiarity that Canadian travelers have always appreciated about Cuba. They know they’re welcome here.”

From Cayo Coco to Toronto

Q: Your career began in Cayo Coco hotels. How does that operational experience influence your current role?

“Working directly in hotels gave me an understanding of the realities of customer service—what works, what doesn’t, and most importantly, what Canadian guests actually want versus what we think they want. When Canadian tour operators or travel agents raise concerns, I can address them authentically because I’ve been there. This operational background gives me credibility with our trade partners and helps me bridge the gap between policy and practical implementation.”

The Caribbean Choice

Q: When Canadians are choosing between Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Mexico for their winter escape, what sets Cuba apart in 2025?

“First, our beaches remain pristine without the sargassum issues affecting other Caribbean destinations. Cuba offers genuine experiences you simply can’t replicate elsewhere—from exploring Havana’s perfectly preserved 1950s architecture to our exceptional safety record and warm hospitality. We’re less commercialized than heavily developed destinations. You can enjoy real Cuban music and arts, tour tobacco farms, experience classic cars with historian guides, and visit UNESCO World Heritage sites. The value proposition works across all budget levels, and we’re just 3.5 hours from Ontario and Quebec.”

The Full Spectrum

Q: Cuba built its reputation on affordability and pristine beaches that Canadians love. How does this new wave of luxury offerings fit with what made Cuba successful?

“We’re not abandoning what made us successful—we’re expanding choices. Yes, we have new luxury properties for travelers seeking high-end experiences, but we’re maintaining our traditional options too. What’s really exciting is that we’ve elevated standards across all price points. Even our mid-tier properties now offer significantly better food and service. Cuba has found a unique position where we can offer both value and luxury. Whether you choose a three-star or five-star property, those spectacular beaches remain the same.”

Expanding Air Access

Q: There have been some significant developments in air service to Cuba. What should Canadians know about their flight options in 2025?

“The big news is WestJet’s new Toronto-Havana service launching in December—this opens up fantastic opportunities for city-beach combination trips. But that’s just one piece of the story. Sunwing continues their strong presence, Air Canada Vacations and Air Transat are maintaining robust schedules, and we’re seeing increased frequency to multiple Cuban destinations. We now have connections from regional airports beyond just Toronto and Montreal. The competition among carriers is benefiting travelers with better pricing and more schedule options than we’ve seen in years.”

Beyond Sun and Sand

Q: What new experiences are capturing Canadian travelers’ attention?

“Canadians are increasingly interested in cultural immersion—really experiencing Havana’s music and arts scene, not just seeing it from a tour bus. Havana’s culinary scene has exploded with unique bars and restaurants offering everything from traditional Cuban cuisine to innovative fusion. We’re seeing more specialized tours than ever before—from tobacco country excursions that offer genuine insights into this UNESCO-recognized tradition to classic car tours with historian guides, not just drivers. Cooking classes with local families are hugely popular. People want real connections, and Cuba delivers that in ways no other Caribbean destination can.”

2025 Priorities

Q: What are your key initiatives for the year ahead?

“We’re focused on several fronts. Infrastructure improvements continue to be a priority—not just new hotels but upgrading existing properties. We’re working to expand air access even further, particularly from Western Canada. Our trade education programs are crucial—we want travel professionals to understand how much Cuba has evolved. We’re also launching targeted marketing campaigns for different demographics, from young adventurers to mature travelers seeking longer stays. Strengthening our partnerships with Canadian tour operators and travel agencies remains essential to our success.”

As our conversation wraps up, Gomez’s passion for connecting Canadian travelers with Cuban experiences is unmistakable. His unique journey from the hotels of Cayo Coco to leading Cuba’s tourism efforts in Canada provides him with insights that go beyond marketing—he understands both the operational realities and the evolving expectations of Canadian travelers. With unprecedented air access, a new wave of premium properties, and Cuba’s timeless appeal of pristine beaches and rich culture, Gomez has a message for Canadians: “Whether you’ve never visited or haven’t been back in years, now is the time to experience Cuba. Nothing beats the Cuban spirit and hospitality—it’s something you have to feel for yourself.”

About Lessner Gomez:

Lessner Gomez has served as Director of the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto since 2019, bringing over 25 years of travel industry experience to the role. His extensive background includes hotel operations in Cayo Coco and serving as Sub-Delegate of the Minister of Tourism for Ciego de Avila province before taking on his current diplomatic and tourism promotion position.

Connect with Lessner Gomez:

*This interview was originally published in Travel News Today

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