For the past 25 years or more Jamaica and Mexico have been ranked as the hot spots for tourism dollars from their rich North American neighbour, the United States.

More than 10 years ago, I used to fly back to Jamaica to play football in the summer. At the time, Air Jamaica had a raffle where passengers could win a free trip to Cuba. Air Jamaica soon abolished that promotion.

On April 14, President Obama eased restrictions on Cuban-Americans to travel more frequently to visit their families in the communist island.

As relations between Cuba and the United States thaw, Cuba's rich history, miles of beach, cities with 1950s' cars will be a 'mecca' for American tourists. I have been to China many times, born in Jamaica and I also speak mandarin. I wish I had the opportunity to see China pre-Deng Xiaopingy's economic revolution. Then why would I want to go to Jamaica or Mexico when I can go to Cuba and see something I have only dreamed about or will not see in my lifetime, again, if I don't hurry up and see it before Cuba's perestroika come-to-being.

Loosening the fist

As soon as Raul, Fidel's brother, decides to loosen the clenched fist, and the US Congress is satisfied to roll back the draconian embargo, we'll see the plane loads of American tourists, entrepreneurs, businessmen and women, heading south of the US border - not Mexico way or to reggae country.

Air Jamaica may have to start a new promotion to entice the American populace to come to Jamaica and fly them to Cuba. I know I will be heading that way.

So, beam me over there Air Jamaica, United, whomever is flying there.

I am, etc.,

Carlton Wynter

rookiekool@yahoo.com

Washington, DC