Ah, about that Cuban vacation...

It's not looking so attractive anymore. A Reuters report in USA Today says that Cuban tourism declined in 2006. Sources for the story don't attribute the drop to political uncertainty or even the Dengue Fever epidemic on the island but instead to high prices relative to Caribbean competition and a growing reputation as a not particularly tourist-friendly destination.

Tour operators said Cuba lost its competitive edge when it revalued its currency by 8% in 2005. They said tourists get more quality for their money elsewhere.

The Canadian Association of Tour Operators warned Cuba last year that it was losing out to other Caribbean destinations due to the lack of adequate service for tourists, theft of luggage at airports and hotels, and a failure to attend to complaints.

Of course if Cuban officials admit to a 3.6% decline, you can bet your sweet bippy that it was double or triple that amount.