UNWTO Condemns Trump’s Travel Restrictions On Cuba

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) expresses its firm resentment over the recently-announced decision by the United States Administration to restore travel restrictions with Cuba.

This represents a step backwards and a strong attack on the freedom of travel, said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai.

This decision will have limited impact on Cuba’s tourism development, yet it will substantially affect the US economy and American jobs.

Many US companies have started to invest in and do business with Cuba in view of the immense potential of Cuban tourism, which other countries will surely continue to benefit from, he added.

Tourism is one of the key economic sectors in Cuba, supporting many livelihoods and drawing significant interest from foreign investors, which will surely continue being the case.

In 2016 Cuba received over 4 million international visitors, a growth of over 1 million in only five years.

Meanwhile, Istanbul turns into a more attractive shopping destination as the city prepares for the 7th edition of Istanbul Shopping Fest (ISF).

Taking place between July 1 - 16, ISF will offer discounts of up to 50%. Moreover, Istanbul's both modern and traditional shopping centers will host many activities during the fest.

Visitors to Istanbul come not only to see the city but also to discover the culture and art of the city.

There will be design contests, where the best designs will be selected, awarded by Turkey's Trademark Association.

All the events will be held in nine different shopping malls, said Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Chairman İbrahim Çaglar.

Çaglar added that approximately 200 local and foreign designers will participate in the shopping fest.

He noted that 15 artists will hold exhibitions and around 150 workshops and more than 30 music and dance performances will add joy to the shopping fest.

Designated "Design ISF" areas will be located at major shopping malls including Akasya, Capitol, Emaar Square, Forum Istanbul, Istinye Park, Kanyon, Palladium, Venezia Mega Outlet and Zorlu Center. These areas will provide an opportunity for visitors to meet famous designers like Bahar Korçan, Arzu Kaprol and Gamze Saraçoğlu and experience special design products including jewelry, accessories, furniture, ceramics, graphics, fabrics, books, stationery, glass, lighting and organic food.

The Uninvited Jazz Band, Tango Rojo, Can Türkkan, Arbil Çelen, Jülide Hatay, Deniz Güngör and Ali Deniz Kardelen will perform during the shopping fest.