Interview with Sarah Foda (Destination Manager Caribbean Tours Cuba)

Dear Sarah, the Caribbean Tours sales parnters had the opportunity to meet you at this year's ITB in Berlin. How did you like the trade fair?

I thoroughly enjoyed the trade fair, particularly as it was my first time attending ITB and visiting Berlin. The event provided a great opportunity to connect with our key partners and establish new relationships. I found it inspiring to network with so many creative and innovative individuals in the industry. The experience has given me valuable insights and ideas to apply to my work.

In addition to your new position, there have been other personnel changes within Caribbean Tours Cuba. Which are these?

Yahicet Cuesta, who joined our team in 2012, has been promoted to Head of the FIT and Luxury Department in Sales, leveraging her extensive experience in operations and sales. Additionally, Wiebke Vicet, who joined our team in 2019, with her knowledge in the tourism industry and experience in Cuba, has taken on the role of Head of our Products team, building on her previous positions in sales and team leadership. I am very proud of our team's adaptability and expertise, and am confident that these changes will further enhance our capabilities and service delivery.

What are your goals for Caribbean Tours Cuba in the future?

My goals for Caribbean Tours Cuba are centered around strengthening our presence in our current markets while strategically expanding into new ones. I am passionate about showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of Cuba, an island and people that have captured my heart since I first moved here in 2005. To achieve this, I am committed to delivering exceptional, personalized service that exceeds our clients' expectations, while continuously innovating to create unique experiences that not only leave a lasting impression on our clients but also support and celebrate the strength, creativity, and passion of the Cuban people.

What adversities does Cuba have to contend with as a destination, and how are you counteracting them?

Cuba is navigating certain challenges, including infrastructure and supply chain limitations. Despite these, the private sector has continued to thrive, with recent regulations allowing for more importation liberties, offering exceptional services that showcase the island's best. We are committed to supporting our local partners, who have not only adapted to challenges but also elevated their offerings. From high-end dining and diverse cuisines to art, agriculture, music, and luxury private accommodations, the private sector's resilience and creativity shine through. Many local businesses have become self-sufficient with their own power generators, and some are transitioning to solar power.

Caribbean Tours Cuba has recently been recognized by Travelife Partner Stage. How do you live the sustainibility commitment in your DMC?

We are thrilled to have achieved Travelife Partner Stage, as sustainability is a core value that resonates deeply with me both personally and professionally. We embed sustainability into our daily operations, supporting local social projects and sustainable businesses through impactful initiatives while promoting responsible practices in our offices. We are now actively working towards achieving Travelife Certified Stage, further solidifying our commitment to sustainable tourism.