Apple Vacations said its Cuba programs are not affected by
the Trump administration's regulatory changes banning people-to-people group
travel.
Apple said that it sells Cuba tours operated by Cuba Travel
Services, which fall under the "support of the Cuban people" category
of travel, which has not been impacted by the new rules. Other wholesalers and
tour operators have made similar statements.
"There is still high demand for Cuba, and Apple
Vacations will continue to offer opportunities for American travelers to
interact with Cuban culture in compliance with [U.S.] regulations," said Apple
Vacations president John Tarkowski.
"Support of the Cuban people" requires travelers
to have a full-time schedule of activities that result in meaningful
interactions with individuals in Cuba and are designed to enhance contact with
the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote Cubans' independence
from Cuban authorities.
Apple said that in addition to operating currently scheduled
Cuba departures as planned, it plans to develop new Cuba itineraries.