Cubans hope for tourism boom

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Source: CCTV.com | 04-12-2009 10:12

A push in the US Congress to lift a ban on travel to Cuba could set off a flood of visitors to the island. Cubans hope this will force some changes in the island's tourism industry.

Cuba began encouraging international tourism 20 years ago. Most visitors come from Canada, Britain, Italy, Spain and France.

Trips for US citizens with relatives in Cuba eased last month.

Cuban-Americans can now visit annually instead of every three years.

Many wonder if Cuba is ready for an onslaught of US citizens unseen for 70 years.

But locals can't wait any longer.

A flower seller said, "Cuba has always prepared for everything. I think that this is a big challenge. We have always been willing to do anything."

A carriage driver said, "We hope tourism will open up! Of course, we hope so! We need much more tourism."