Manuel Marrero, Cuba’s Tourism Minister

The development of Sancti Spíritus as a tourism destination will mainly depend on the growth of accommodation and service capabilities, including those put on the table by the private sector, Cuba’s Minister of Tourism Manuel Marrero told Excelencias.

The complementation of new private management ways with State-run models will clear the way to have the accommodation and service capabilities increased in Sancti Spíritus city, which would brought about its incorporation to the circuit of heritage destinations on the island, Cuba’s Minister of Tourism Manuel Marrero said.

On the occasion of the Fifth Centennial, what did Sancti Spíritus do to strengthen its tourism position?  

Within the framework of this development, we count on a renovated city and we are going to promote its incorporation as a circuit destination, just like the rest of the heritage destinations in the country.

But the growth rhythm speed will be determined by the room capability in the city, as well as the offers and services provided by the private sector.

What have been the main actions carried out to rekindle this destination?

The Ministry of Tourism (Mintur is the Spanish acronym) worked on an investments plan to reincorporate and renovate the existing facilities. Right in the heart of Sancti Spíritus’ boulevard, for example, we have Don Florencio hostel, described as one of the most important works.

This building features heritage value and belongs to Hoteles Encanto. It was born out of the ruins of a building and presently stands as a brand-new 12-room hotel, with a magnificent bar and inner yard with two Jacuzzis.

The streets already have their cobblestones, matching the heritage and urban requirements established by the specialists from the Provincial Cultural Heritage Center.
Furthermore, the Ocio Club Bulevar was inaugurated, a recreational center with an area for electronic games and bar-cafeteria, high-tech everywhere. Besides, we have rehabilitated a homonymous bar specialized in cocktails and wines, with underground wine cellar.

What’s the role played by the new private management models in the increase of capabilities and diversity of offers in town?

We are working on the complementation of the tourism offer with the private management models. We are looking forward to having more private houses and restaurants joining the sector, since it can foster the growth of Sancti Spíritus as a tourism destination.

What are your new projects?

We are going to add six rooms to Plaza Hotel. We are reviewing the historic building that housed the municipal district attorney’s office, so it can be turned into a new hotel facility.

Is Sancti Spíritus ready to join the rest of city circuits on the island nation?  

We can say that Sancti Spíritus city matches the requirements to join the circuit model, along with other heritage destination on the island, with a presence marked by cultural tourism, the rescue of traditions and heritage preservation.