Airbnb has announced it will now offer accommodations to pre-approved US consumers traveling to Cuba.
The decision has been spurred by a flood of inquiries for Cuba travel since the Obama administration began easing travel and trade restrictions between the two countries said Airbnb co-founder Nathan Blecharczyk.
“For over 50 years, Cuba has been out of reach for most Americans. We couldn’t be more excited that, starting today, licensed US travelers will now be able to experience the unique culture and warm hospitality that makes the island so special through our new Cuban community,” the company said on its blog.
The Airbnb website now lists over 1,000 Cuban properties of which about 40% are located in Havana.
Airbnb said it has deployed teams on the ground in Cuba since December signing up homeowners.
Listed homes will now officially be available for US travelers to book direct with immediate effect.
“We believe that Cuba could become one of Airbnb’s biggest markets in Latin America,” said Kay Kuehne, regional director for Airbnb.
Kuehne said the move has been welcomed by both Cuban and US authorities.
Private homes have played a major role in Cuban hospitality for decades with Casas Particulares – privately run homestays proving popular with travelers.
Source: http://www.travelmole.com
