CAIBARIEN.—Through April of 2012, the number of visitors to Cuba has grown by 5.2% in comparison with last year, as was announced during the opening of the 32nd International Tourism Fair, which initiated its sessions May 8 in Cayo Santa María, Villa Clara province.

Tourism Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz stated that a total of 1.24 million visitors traveled to Cuba from January through April.

The principal source countries are Canada and France, as well as Argentina, this last with a growth of 50%. Russia, Germany, Mexico, Holland, Colombia and Brazil are also showing sustained growth, Marrero noted.

He observed that this sustained development is due to Cuba’s interest in promoting more complete and comprehensive visits, including history, nature, culture, health and events as added options to traditional sun and beach vacations. This has resulted in a growing demand for this kind of tourism, particularly in national heritage cities.

In response to this demand, Marrero announced upcoming investments in Viñales, Santa Clara, Remedios, Cienfuegos, Bayamo, Camagüey, Ciego de Avila, Baracoa, Trinidad and Havana, to expand hotel capacity in these areas.

The Tourism Minister also noted that Cuba currently has a total of 58,626 rooms, 63% of which are located in four and five star hotels, reflecting the high degree of comfort in these facilities.