CubaPLUS Magazine

Canadian Tourist Touches Down in Cuba for Milestone 109th Visit

By CubaPLUS, Photos: Courtesy of the Cuba Tourism Office in Toronto
Jan 24, 2026
Canadian Tourist Touches Down in Cuba for Milestone 109th Visit

If you were told that someone had traveled to a country more than 100 times, you would probably think they were a citizen of that nation, but that's not the case. I'm referring to a Canadian woman, Ursula Kunstmann, who could aspire to be the record holder for visits to Cuba, as she arrives this Saturday for her 109th vacation on the largest of the Antilles.

For Ursula, returning to Cuba is akin to coming home. She has often remarked that, while the destination is beautiful, "it is the people who keep you coming back."

05-t.jpgThroughout her many travels, Ursula has consistently booked through the tour operator Hola Sun Holidays. On this most recent trip to Cayo Coco—one of Cuba’s premier sun-and-beach destinations—the company pulled out all the stops to welcome her with a high-profile reception.

Ursula is a prime example of the "repeat visitor" phenomenon among Canadians. These travelers return to the island time and again, drawn not only by its natural landscapes and traditions but, most importantly, by the warmth and hospitality of its people.

This trend was highlighted during a recent visit to Canada by Cuba’s Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda. During a meeting with over 100 travel agents and specialized media, the Minister expressed optimism for the 2025-2026 winter season, emphasizing that "our friendship with Canada has always been special."

03-t.jpgEchoing this sentiment, Gihana Galindo, Cuba’s Tourism Counselor in Toronto, voiced her confidence in the market’s performance for the current year. "We are aiming to reach one million Canadian visitors. The conditions are right, the infrastructure is ready, and the partnership between Cuba and Canada has never been stronger," she stated.

The preference for Cuba among Canadian vacationers is well-documented. For 30 years, Canada has remained Cuba’s top source market, a position that continues to be reinforced by stories of unwavering loyalty like that of Ursula Kunstmann.

Advertisement