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Mindy PoderEditor-in-Chief

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Quick Tips: Tara Russell on Fathom Cuba Cruises

Jun 19, 2016
Fathom’s Adonia is the first U.S. ship to sail to Cuba in more than 50 years. // © 2016 Carnival Corporation & Plc 2
Fathom’s Adonia is the first U.S. ship to sail to Cuba in more than 50 years. // © 2016 Carnival Corporation & Plc 2

Cruising with Fathom might be one of the most comfortable ways of traveling to Cuba at the moment, but that doesn’t mean clients shouldn’t prepare. Tara Russell, president of Fathom and social impact lead for Carnival Corporation & plc, offers some tips for smooth sailing.

Fathom’s Adonia is a premium ship, but agents can make a client’s trip to Cuba more seamless. How?
Communication and expectation management are key. It’s important to help people understand what the physical realities of this country are. It’s a developing country.

For instance, we’ve had travelers ask if we could improve bathrooms in Cuba. Also, the roads are inconsistent and it’s going to be really hot. You need to hydrate and bring breathable fabrics. We have to help people understand the charm of Cuba, but that also means you have to be prepared in advance.

What can American cruisers do to be good ambassadors of the U.S.?
We need to bring our authenticity, our hearts and our desire to connect. If we bring our open-mindedness, I think we are going to uncover stories of humanity that people need to hear. Many of our travelers have said that Cubans love Americans.

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There is an enormous amount of hope in the country right now, and it’s beautiful.

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Want to know more about the Fathom Cuba product? Read this full interview with Arnold Donald and check out this firsthand review of Fathom’s cruise to Cuba.
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