Press Release

With plans in place to lift longstanding U.S. travel restrictions on Cuba later this month, Americans preparing to be the first ones on the island should know what this lift means, what to expect, how they’ll be permitted to travel, estimated costs, and more.

Christopher P. Baker, Cuba travel expert and award-winning author of the best-selling guidebook, Moon Cuba—as well as five other travel books to the country—understands what the imminent lift of all travel restrictions to Cuba will mean for American travelers. A recent Brattle Group study predicted about 3 million Americans would visit Cuba each year without restrictions. With that many residents estimated to flock to Cuba, it’s important they’re equipped with the type of honest and correct advice Baker delivers.

According to Baker, Cuba is upgrading its tourist infrastructure to guarantee American visitors the level of travel they expect.

“Cuba for tourists has changed beyond recognition since my initial visit in 1993,” said Baker. “The government (which owns all hotels) has been polishing its style. The trend is towards more refinement. Most of the once-shabby hotels have been spruced up. Charming boutique hotels are appearing. A national bus service—Víazul—guarantees tourists prompt service aboard imported buses. And there’s no shortage of Toyota and Mercedes taxis. Nor the latest model Hyundais and Audis for rent.”

Baker, the 2008 Lowell Thomas Travel Journalist of the Year, has visited Cuba more than 30 times. He’s personally met with Fidel Castro, as well as leading members of the Cuban government and is personally acquainted with key figures within Cuba as well as key industry figures outside Cuba. His understanding of Cuban history, politics, and U.S.-Cuba relations is profound, as is his ability to converse engagingly and with enthusiasm about everything Cuba-related—from Castro’s family life and lovers, to cigars, Che Guevara, and classic American cars. Baker is a dynamic speaker and has addressed the National Press Club, World Affairs Council, and the National Geographic Society. He’s appeared on Fox TV’s Fox Magazine, ABC, CNN, NBC, Shaw TV (Canada), and NPR Public Radio. He’s also been profiled in USA Today.

If you are interested to schedule Christopher P. Baker for an interview, please contact:

Jodee Krainik

Publicist

Avalon Travel I Seal Press

1700 Fourth Street Berkeley, CA 94710

p: 510.809.3824 e:

Avalon Travel Books or Seal Press

Members of the Perseus Books Group I Distributed by Publishers Group West

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