Spanish tourism journalists and writers close international congress in Varadero

By Daily Pérez Guillén

“Cuba is the safest Spanish-speaking country for visitors,” journalist Jauma Singla, member of the Spanish Federation of Tourism Journalists and Writers (FEPET), noted while speaking at the close of the 15th International Congress of the organization, held last week in the Caribbean archipelago.

Singla was one of the panelists who took part in the round table: “What has changed in Cuba from the point of view of the tourism journalist,” chaired by the outgoing FEPET President, Mariano Palacín, and with the participation of two other journalists who have traveled to the island on several occasions.

After five days of touring the tourist destinations of Havana, Viñales, Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Varadero, 50 Spanish professionals gathered at the Hotel Meliá Internacional in Varadero to hold their final session, to which the national press and accredited foreign tourism correspondents were also invited.

The panelists emphasized that even in the midst of difficulties, Cuba is promoting quality tourism that is attractive for families, with a preponderance of all-inclusive options and the possibility of traveling from one tourist destination to another in a pleasant and safe way.

Roman Hereter, who in addition to being a journalist is one of Spain’s most renowned travelers, explained the difficulties that coming to Cuba implies for citizens of his country. “Traveling is a right of every human being,” he said, referring to the US government’s digital visa system, known as ESTA, which involves extra procedures and additional expenses for those applying for a US visa who have previously visited Cuba.

Cuba’s participation in Spain’s International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) was also highlighted. The former press officer of this important leisure industry event, Jesús González, explained how Cuba has taken advantage of this space to present its beaches, heritage, traditions and the novelties in its tourism development.

A special moment for the audience was the dissertation presented by writer, journalist and photographer Muriel Feiner, on the history of bullfighting in Cuba.

It was also revealed that the Complutense University of Madrid will include the training of the tourism and gastronomy journalists as part of its study program.

Karmen Garrido, the new president of the Spanish organization that brings together more than 140 members, noted that her slogan is: “For a FEPET future.”

Cuban Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda, said he was proud that FEPET had organized for its congress to take place in Cuba, and noted that the proposal for young journalists from the organization to participate in familiarization trips to Cuba would be taken into account.