Former President Bill Clinton Says Tourism is Key to Haiti's Recovery

nospam@example.com (Joseph Pedro) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 10:04:29 -0700

Just like the rather quick recovery of Indonesia's Aceh Province after the 2004 Asian tsunami, former US president Bill Clinton believes that tourism to Haiti should be a key investment opportunity in the country's recovery, and it should be seen as a key business opportunity and not aid.

Clinton has launched an appeal to business leaders at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland. He said the catastrophe could turn out to be an opportunity for the nation to emerge from generations of grinding poverty.

Last year, about 800,000 tourists visited Haiti, bringing a much needed boost to the impoverished nation. [BTN]

While many were quick to condemn Royal Caribbean for docking their ships immediately following the quake, cruise lines are sure to play an essential role in the revitalization of the nation.

Canadians Love Visiting Cuba

nospam@example.com (Joseph Pedro) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:06:59 -0700

Although Americans can't travel to Cuba, Canadians can, and they love it. This hot destination is expecting a record-breaking one million Canadian tourists this winter. Canada currently has six carriers that fly to all of Cuba's international airports. Cuba is a popular destination because, although it is warm and sunny, it does not feel as crowded as other Caribbean destinations. It boasts a number of swanky resorts and is known for being safe, affordable, and clean. [The Star]

Earlier this year, legislation to end the 47-year-old travel ban to Cuba was proposed. Same-sex relationships are not recognized by the Cuban government although Havana has a vibrant gay scene. A pole conducted in 2002 revealed that over half of Cuban citizens held negative views of gays and lesbians, but drag shows are a common form of entertainment. Cuba is also known for performing sex-change operations for free. [LGBT Rights]

-Nikki Dowling

Gay Travel Blog - Passport Magazine - Caribbean

Former President Bill Clinton Says Tourism is Key to Haiti's Recovery

Canadians Love Visiting Cuba