The rise of tourism in Cuba in the first decades of the 20th century (1902-1919)

Abstract

Since the first US intervention in 1998, an influx of American citizens began in Cuba. After 1902, the arrival of hundreds of American tourists was a daily occurrence, which increased over the following years. No evidence has been found of the number of tourist arrivals between 1902 and 1919. The objective of this work is to demonstrate that during the period 1902-1919, tourism in Cuba took off compared to the end of the previous century. The results show the US interest in tourism to Cuba, the creation of hotels, and the promotion of attractions in Cuba during the period. The number of tourists received is estimated at tens of thousands annually. It is concluded that during the period 1902-1919, there was a higher level of tourist arrivals, a subsequent step or takeoff of tourism compared to previous years, signifying the consolidation of Cuba as a tourist destination.