Puerto Plata ports receive four major cruise ships

Puerto Plata—On Thursday, December 19, four impressive cruise ships arrived in Puerto Plata: Carnival Celebration, Nieuw Amsterdam, Celebrity Apex, and Oceania Vista.

These ships arrived at the ports of Amber Cove, located in the bay of Maimón, and Taíno Bay, located in the city’s center, attracting a wave of visitors and marking a day of great dynamism for local tourism.

In this regard, the head of the tourism office, Yokasta Almonte, reported the following arrivals:

In Amber Cove, the Carnival Celebration cruise ship arrived with 6,175 visitors and 1,760 crew members, while the Nieuw Amsterdam brought 1,755 visitors and 816 crew members.

In Taino Bay, the Celebrity Apex received 2,897 visitors and 1,306 crew members; the Oceania Vista had 1,138 and 773 crew members.

According to RS Noticias, more than 15,000 people, including visitors and crew, visited Puerto Plata in total, generating significant movement in the local economy, especially in commerce, gastronomy, and tourist excursions through the historic center and its surroundings.

In addition, a positive forecast is maintained for the high season, as more than 86 cruise ships are expected in December, consolidating Puerto Plata as a key destination in the Caribbean cruise tourism industry.

Happy Holidays from Luperon Ocean Estates

We are wishing you all near and far a very happy holiday season and joyous new year.

From all of us at LOE Group LLC.

Puerto Plata nears full occupancy as cruise tourism thrives

Puerto Plata.- Carlos Atahualpa Paulino, regional director of the Ministry of Tourism in Puerto Plata, announced that hotels and accommodations in the northern Dominican Republic are nearing full occupancy. This surge in activity is driven by the arrival of 23 out of 86 cruise ships scheduled for December, significantly boosting the region’s tourism.

To enhance visitor safety, 70 additional Politur agents have been deployed across tourist areas. Paulino also noted high occupancy rates in mountain destinations like Jarabacoa and Constanza, reflecting robust tourism growth across the northern region. The Amber Cove terminal is set to receive 32 cruise ships, while Taíno Bay will welcome 54. On four days this month, both facilities will simultaneously host five vessels, showcasing their operational capacity. Approximately 258,000 tourists are expected, averaging 3,000 passengers per ship.

This influx of visitors presents significant opportunities for Puerto Plata’s economy, promoting its natural and cultural attractions. Paulino credited the Ministry of Tourism’s strategic efforts to position the province as a premier destination, offering a unique mix of nature, culture, and hospitality. “Puerto Plata is ready to welcome thousands of visitors and solidify its role as a Caribbean tourism benchmark,” he affirmed.

Arajet achieves record-breaking passenger numbers in November

Santo Domingo.- In November, Arajet, the Dominican low-cost airline, reported transporting 96,586 passengers, accounting for 7% of all travelers entering or leaving the country. The airline also announced that it had surpassed one million passengers in 2024, becoming the first Dominican airline to reach this milestone in a single year.

These figures, which position Arajet as the most active Dominican airline, reflect the positive impact of its operations at Punta Cana Airport. The airline expects even greater growth in December. Arajet’s CEO and Founder, Victor Pacheco Méndez, expressed gratitude to passengers for choosing the airline and emphasized their commitment to offering low fares and high-quality service to strengthen the country’s position as a regional air hub.

Arajet highlighted that the most popular routes from Punta Cana were Buenos Aires and São Paulo, while Bogotá and Medellín were the top destinations in the Americas. The airline projects that by the end of 2024, it will have transported around 1.2 million passengers, further consolidating its expansion across Canada and South America.

Dominican Republic seeks multi-destination tourism partnership with Mexico

Mexico.- During his recent visit to Mexico, Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, reaffirmed his commitment to advancing plans for a multi-destination tourism initiative with Mexico and other Latin American countries. He emphasized the need to revive discussions on this project with Mexico’s new government to boost regional tourism, similar to strategies used in Europe.

Collado explained that the concept aims to encourage travelers to visit multiple destinations in one trip, much like Europeans who combine visits to Spain and Italy. He highlighted the Dominican Republic’s role as a hub for connecting passengers from countries like Canada, Argentina, and Brazil to Mexico, which increases regional air traffic. Currently, 12 additional flight frequencies have been established between Mexico and the Dominican Republic, enabling daily connections from Mexico City and Cancun to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.

While Collado has not yet connected with Mexico’s new Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez, he expressed plans to resume talks to advance the multi-destination strategy. This initiative would include collaborative promotion efforts and joint tourism packages to drive growth in the sector.

Meanwhile, Jesús Almaguer Salazar, president of the Association of Hotels of Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and Isla Mujeres, noted a decline in Spanish tourists visiting Quintana Roo. He attributed this to increased promotion and competitive pricing from destinations like the Dominican Republic and Cuba.

Massive holiday passenger flow overwhelms Las Américas Airport

Santo Domingo.- Thousands of Dominicans living abroad are returning home for the Christmas and New Year celebrations, bringing gifts for their families and friends. The influx of travelers has led airport authorities to implement additional controls, especially in the departure areas, due to the high volume of passengers, including many foreigners coming to greet their relatives.

Flights from the United States, Puerto Rico, Europe, Central, and South America are arriving at full capacity, with most passengers being Dominicans returning for the holidays. The bustling atmosphere at Las Américas Airport (AILA) is heightened by the vibrant merengue music, as travelers navigate through Immigration, Customs, and the crowded exit areas where their loved ones await.

To manage the surge, national and international airlines, including American Airlines, JetBlue, and Arajet, have added extra flights to accommodate the increased demand. Airport authorities and the Aerodom company expect over half a million passengers to pass through AILA in December. Additionally, the government has allowed Dominicans returning for the holidays to bring gifts worth up to US$5,000 tax-free, a policy being closely monitored by Customs and other security agencies. Enhanced security measures have been put in place at the airport and along the Las Américas highway to ensure the safety of travelers.

Minister Bisonó highlights Dominican Republic as a premier investment destination in Miami

Miami.- The Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM), Víctor “Ito” Bisonó, highlighted the Dominican Republic’s competitive advantages as an investment hub during the World Strategic Forum 2024: Prospering in the New Economy held in Miami. He emphasized the nation’s transformation under President Luis Abinader, crediting strategic policies and sustainable development for what he called “the Dominican miracle.”

Bisonó detailed the country’s post-pandemic recovery, citing a projected 5.1% growth for 2024, the highest in the region according to the World Bank and IMF. He noted Standard & Poor’s recent upgrade of the Dominican Republic’s credit rating to BB, signaling stability and legal security for investors. Foreign direct investment rose 7.1% year-on-year in 2023, representing 41% of Central America’s total inflows. The United States remains the primary investor, contributing 30% of investment over the last decade.

Bisonó spotlighted the country’s readiness for nearshoring, particularly in the semiconductor and printed circuit industries. With incentives like decree 324-24 prioritizing semiconductor development, advantages include a strategic location, robust logistics, eight international airports, top-ranked port connectivity, and skilled talent. Initiatives like “Zero Bureaucracy” and “24-hour Office” streamline processes, ensuring a business-friendly environment. “The Dominican Republic is not just a future opportunity—it’s a place to invest today,” he concluded.

FAO representative: Dominican Republic’s zero hunger goal by 2028 is achievable

Santo Domingo.- Rodrigo Castañeda, the FAO representative in the Dominican Republic, affirmed that the country’s goal of eradicating hunger by 2028 is realistic and attainable. He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to increase sustainable food production, enhance income, and expand social assistance to ensure food access for vulnerable families. Castañeda cited examples of nations like Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, and Costa Rica, which have successfully eradicated hunger, as proof that the goal is achievable.

Castañeda commended President Luis Abinader’s political commitment and the Agricultural Cabinet’s leadership in producing 90.6% of the nation’s food supply. This achievement significantly contributes to poverty reduction and food security, paving the way for meeting the zero-hunger target. His remarks came during the conclusion of a training program for over 50 technicians from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Dominican Coffee Institute (Indocafe).

Minister of Agriculture Limber Cruz echoed Castañeda’s optimism, expressing confidence that the Dominican Republic could achieve its zero-hunger goal ahead of schedule.

Puerto Plata nears full occupancy as cruise tourism thrives

Puerto Plata.- Carlos Atahualpa Paulino, regional director of the Ministry of Tourism in Puerto Plata, announced that hotels and accommodations in the northern Dominican Republic are nearing full occupancy. This surge in activity is driven by the arrival of 23 out of 86 cruise ships scheduled for December, significantly boosting the region’s tourism.

To enhance visitor safety, 70 additional Politur agents have been deployed across tourist areas. Paulino also noted high occupancy rates in mountain destinations like Jarabacoa and Constanza, reflecting robust tourism growth across the northern region. The Amber Cove terminal is set to receive 32 cruise ships, while Taíno Bay will welcome 54. On four days this month, both facilities will simultaneously host five vessels, showcasing their operational capacity. Approximately 258,000 tourists are expected, averaging 3,000 passengers per ship.

This influx of visitors presents significant opportunities for Puerto Plata’s economy, promoting its natural and cultural attractions. Paulino credited the Ministry of Tourism’s strategic efforts to position the province as a premier destination, offering a unique mix of nature, culture, and hospitality. “Puerto Plata is ready to welcome thousands of visitors and solidify its role as a Caribbean tourism benchmark,” he affirmed.

Government invests RD$300 million in Eastern tourist highways

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Government has announced an investment of 300 million pesos to repave the Autovía del Este and Autopista del Coral, starting with an initial one-kilometer section toward Punta Cana. Vice Minister of Supervision of State Works, Roberto Herrera, explained that the project uses micropaving, a cost-effective technique that reduces expenses by approximately 35%.

The first phase, from the Coral II toll booth to Punta Cana, has already been contracted, with plans to extend the paving from San Pedro to Punta Cana. The initiative aims to extend the road’s lifespan by another five to eight years while ensuring uninterrupted service. Herrera also mentioned that Minister Deligne Ascención and other officials are exploring asphalt recycling in Puerto Rico to further cut costs.

Additionally, the Puntacana Group is contributing to road safety by constructing a marginal roundabout near the airport to alleviate traffic congestion. Heavy equipment, including roller trucks, is already at work, with the Alba Sánchez construction company handling the project. These efforts are expected to significantly improve transportation and road conditions in the region.

Turizonenado Gastrofest: An initiative for the whole family in the Colonial City

Santo Domingo.- The sixth edition of TURIZONEANDO starts this Saturday at the Museum of the Fortress of Santo Domingo in the Colonial City, offering festive family entertainment during the Christmas season. This year’s event, featuring the TURIZONEANDO Gastrofest, will run on December 14-15 and 21-22, showcasing over 20 bars, restaurants, and brands from Santo Domingo with a diverse array of dishes and products.

Organized by the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR) in partnership with the Santo Domingo Tourism Cluster, the Restaurant Association (ADERES), and the Santo Domingo Hotel Association (AHSD), the event promises a family-friendly atmosphere with tastings, bistro-style and picnic areas, live concerts, and gourmet markets. Visitors can savor Dominican and fusion cuisine, enjoy artisanal drinks, and explore free access to the museum’s facilities, including night map projections on the iconic Tower of Homage.

More than 12 artists will perform during the festival, accompanied by background music, artisanal offerings, and a lively cultural ambiance. For updates, attendees can follow MITUR, ADERES, the Santo Domingo Hotel Association, and the Santo Domingo Tourism Cluster on social media.

Committee meets to implement National Pact for Road Safety

Santo Domingo – Milton Morrison, executive director of the National Institute of Transit and Land Transportation (Intrant), headed yesterday the first meeting of the Social Participation Committee for Mobility, Transportation, Transit and Road Safety, which was established after the signing of the National Pact for Road Safety and President Luis Abinader’s decree 656-24.

During the meeting, the road map for the work schedule was presented, including creating eight thematic tables for formulating the National Road Safety Plan 2025-2030, a project that should be ready by May of next year.

Among the steps and aspects socialized, the first leveling workshops for the actors and sectors that signed the National Pact for Road Safety and other interested parties are scheduled for December 9 and 10.

Introducing the meeting, the director of the newspaper Listin Diario, Miguel Franjul, promoter of the Urban Mobility Forum, an initiative to reach a consensus with different actors of the civil society on short-term measures that the Executive Power can implement, proposed to take up the proposals of the seminar to improve congestion and road safety in the Dominican Republic.

Morrison said that technicians from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will coordinate and direct the thematic tables.

Also participating in this first meeting, held at the premises of LISTÍN DIARIO, were Sara Burgos, Technical Manager, representing Mario Pujols, Executive Vice-President of the Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic (AIRD); Félix Santos, Executive Director of the Dominican Federation of Municipalities (Fedomu), and Franklin Glass, Executive President of the Dominican Chamber of Insurers and Reinsurers (CADOAR).

In addition, Reynaldo Peguero, executive director of the Council for the Development of Santiago (CDES); Reverend Sergio de la Cruz, president of the Dominican Association of Rectors (ADRU) and rector of the Catholic University of Cibao; Miguel Jiménez, president of the Movido Foundation and representative of the Road Coalition, and Jesús Guerrero, representing Raquel Casares, president of the Association of Property Owners and Residents of the Colonial City.

The participants agreed to take the meetings of the Social Participation Committee for Mobility, Transportation, Transit and Road Safety to other regions of the country to socialize the 29 points contained in the National Pact for Road Safety, of which President Abinader is a signatory, together with 121 public, private and civil society entities, to save lives and to reduce traffic accidents.

LISTÍN Forum

On January 16 of this year, Listin Diario successfully held the “Forum on Urban Mobility,” an initiative to reach a consensus with civil society actors on short-term measures that the Executive Branch can abide by to improve congestion and road safety in the Dominican Republic.

The Forum brought together experts and actors involved in the traffic and mobility system. Its goal was to seek joint proposals for solutions to the traffic and mobility crisis affecting Greater Santo Domingo.

Listin Diario proposed it and was immediately welcomed as sponsors by the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña (UNPHU), the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC), the Ministry of the Presidency, through Intrant, and the Dirección General de Seguridad de Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre (Digesett).

Euroairlines to link Paris and Punta Cana with new charter flight

Punta Cana—Euroairlines reported launching a charter service connecting Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport with Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Operations will begin on February 7 and run until May 3, 2025, then resume between November 25, 2025, and May 26, 2026.

According to the company, this initiative seeks to strengthen connectivity between France and the Caribbean, promoting tourism development in both regions. Promotional fares for this new route will be available until December 6, offering a limited opportunity for travelers interested in planning their next destination.

Antonio López-Lázaro, CEO of Euroairlines, stated that “this new route demonstrates the Group’s commitment to the French market and supports the recovery of French tourism in the Dominican Republic.” He also stressed that they hope to “offer French travelers an improved and direct connection with Punta Cana.”

Euroairline’s new offer will be available through the main distribution channels and travel agencies to facilitate access to the French market. The company, founded in Spain in 2000, evolved from a commercial air transport operator to a group offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate in more than 60 markets, including commercial, BPO, and consulting services. Its headquarters are in Madrid, and it has offices in New York, Miami, Cancun, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Lima, Sao Paulo, Santiago de Chile, and other European capitals.

According to Aviacionline, the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Paris will host a presentation event aimed at tour operators on December 12. At the event, additional details about the service will be offered, such as which airline’s fleet will be used for the service.

Dominican Republic promotes culture with Experiential Dome in Times Square

New York.- The Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic unveiled its Experiential Dome in Duffy Square, Times Square, New York, on Sunday, offering an immersive celebration of Dominican culture. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., the event drew the attention of locals and tourists, who experienced the country’s vibrant rhythm, flavors, and cultural richness in an interactive setting.

Prominent Dominican personalities attended the event, including Congressman Adriano Espaillat, who emphasized the importance of initiatives like this to strengthen the nation’s identity and boost tourism. The initiative showcased the Dominican Republic’s commitment to sharing its unique heritage on a global stage.

With the theme “Change the Season in Times Square – Savor the Dominican Experience,” the dome provided attendees a sensory journey through the nation’s cultural values. This interactive display highlighted the Dominican Republic’s dedication to enhancing its international tourism appeal through cultural promotion.

Dominican Republic looks to French bachata enthusiasts to boost tourism

Puerto Plata, DR.- Carlos Rodolí, president of the Association of Hotels and Tourism Enterprises of the North (ASHONORTE) in the Dominican Republic, has highlighted the potential of bachata to significantly boost tourism from France. While attending the 12th edition of the Paris Bachata Festival, Rodolí emphasized the global appeal of bachata and the strategic opportunity for the Dominican Republic to leverage this popularity to promote its destinations.

Given France’s status as the world’s most visited country and a thriving bachata scene with seven major events, Rodolí expressed his enthusiasm for inviting French bachata enthusiasts to experience the Dominican Republic firsthand. He extended an invitation to attend the upcoming ADN Bachata World Festival 2025, scheduled for January 23-26 in Puerto Plata and Santiago. This year’s festival will honor bachata pioneer Leonardo Paniagua and feature France as the guest of honor, thanks to a partnership with the French Embassy in the Dominican Republic.

The festival will take place at the Playa Dorada complex, with Emotion Hodelpa serving as the host hotel and V-Heavens, Gran Ventana and BlueBay as co-hosts. To welcome both international and local participants, a welcome party will be held at Puerto Plata’s Central Park, followed by the official opening ceremony at the Puerto Plata Amphitheater. The Playa Dorada complex will serve as the primary venue for parties, competitions, and the international competition.

Rodolí believes that bachata can serve as a powerful tool for promoting the Dominican Republic, much like Mexican ranchera music and films have boosted tourism in Mexico. By tapping into the passion of bachata fans worldwide, the country aims to attract more visitors to its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture.

Zoe Saldaña earns first Golden Globe Nomination for Emilia Perez

United States.- Dominican-born actress Zoe Saldaña has been nominated for a Golden Globe in the Best Supporting Actress category for her role as lawyer Rita Mora Castro in the musical thriller Emilia Perez. This marks another milestone in her illustrious career.

The film also garnered recognition for Spanish actress Karla Sofía Gascón, who received her first Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress, and Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres, nominated in the drama category for I’m Still Here. Gascón’s nomination is historic, as she becomes the first transgender female performer recognized in a film category by the Golden Globes.

The awards ceremony, set for January 5 in Los Angeles, will see Gascón competing against notable actresses such as Zendaya (Challengers), Amy Adams (Nightbitch), and Demi Moore (The Substance), highlighting the diversity and talent represented in this year’s nominations.

American Airlines relaunches daily Miami-La Romana flight

La Romana.- American Airlines has reinstated its daily flight route between Miami and La Romana International Airport, reconnecting the Dominican Republic’s eastern tourist hub with Florida. The inaugural flight, AA3071, was welcomed with Dominican music, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and notable attendees, including executives from Central Romana, airline representatives, and local authorities.

Luis Emilio Rodríguez, director of La Romana International Airport, celebrated the route’s revival, emphasizing its importance for the region’s tourism growth. He highlighted La Romana’s expanding appeal with new hotel investments and diverse accommodation options. American Airlines’ regional manager, Oliver Bojos, underscored the significance of this reopening, noting the airline’s strengthened presence with connections to over five Dominican destinations.

The daily flight departs Miami at 10:37 a.m., arriving in La Romana at 2:00 p.m., with a return flight departing at 3:15 p.m. Attendees of the reception ceremony included leaders from Central Romana, Casa de Campo, and Miami County, as well as Dominican government officials, marking a celebratory milestone for regional connectivity and tourism development.

U.S Undersecretary hopes Trump administration will continue Open Skies Agreement

United States.- José W. Fernández, Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and Environment, expressed optimism that the bilateral Open Skies agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States will proceed under the new administration. With just over a month left in the Biden-Harris Administration, Fernández emphasized that the agreement, which aims to reduce flight costs and increase frequencies between the two countries, is now in the hands of the Dominican Congress. He hopes it will be finalized soon.

Fernández, who personally worked on the agreement, highlighted its potential to offer more affordable flights, particularly for Dominican families, and ensure better connectivity between the two nations. The agreement was signed in August by Fernández and Dominican Minister of Tourism David Collado, in the presence of President Luis Abinader. After passing through the Senate, the agreement now awaits approval by the Chamber of Deputies before being ratified.

During a virtual conference, Fernández also discussed his work with the Dominican Republic, particularly on medical equipment and supply chain initiatives, and his positive relationship with Minister of Industry and Commerce Víctor Bisonó. He praised the country’s role in hosting the Economic and Health Dialogue of the Americas, which aimed to improve regional health systems. The agreement is set to be ratified once both chambers of the Dominican Congress approve it, followed by formal promulgation by President Abinader.

Chinatown in Santo Domingo to host festive Christmas celebrations

Santo Domingo.- The Flor Para Todo Foundation, led by Rosa NG, has announced a series of festive Christmas events in Santo Domingo’s Chinatown, running every Saturday from December 7 to December 21. The vibrant neighborhood will come alive with music, lights, and cultural traditions, providing a joyful experience for both Dominicans and visitors.

Events will take place from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM and feature live music, cultural showcases, and the iconic Sunday food fair. The grand finale on December 21 will include a performance by the international music group Latin Internacional Bang and a culinary celebration of Asian cuisine, featuring dishes from China, Korea, Japan, and Indonesia.

Rosa NG emphasized the neighborhood’s ongoing restoration efforts in collaboration with the city council and Mayor Carolina Mejía, inviting everyone to enjoy the festivities. She highlighted Chinatown as a vibrant space where tradition meets modernity, offering unique experiences during the holiday season.

Air Transat will increase its frequencies between Montreal and Puerto Plata to four

Air Transat reported that it would increase its frequencies to destinations such as Cancun (Mexico) and Puerto Plata (DR)from Montreal, as well as Montego Bay (Jamaica) and Varadero (Cuba) from Toronto.

The airline increased its operations by adding routes to Puerto Plata from 3 to 4. In addition, it will maintain one operation in Samaná and the seven it carries out in Punta Cana.

DestinyFrom MontrealFrom Quebec CityFrom TorontoCancun – Mexico9 (+1)17Cayo Coco – Cuba3Holguin – Cuba32Liberia – Costa Rica2Montego Bay – Jamaica23 (+1)Port-au-Prince – Haiti1Puerto Plata – DR3 (+1)2Punta Cana – DR717Samaná – DR1Santa Clara – Cuba11

The increase is due to medium-haul flights to the south in its flight schedule for the summer of 2025, which includes a new direct route between Montreal and Valencia. Thus, the airline is consolidating its presence in Spain. With the latest addition, the airline offers four destinations in Spain, including Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga.

The 2025 summer program bolsters Air Transat’s offering for the upcoming peak season, totaling more than 275 weekly flights from Montreal, Toronto, and Quebec.

According to the company, incorporating Valencia into its summer program reinforces its strategy of offering diversified travel options.

“The inclusion of Valencia in our summer program, an exclusive non-stop route from the Americas, demonstrates our expertise in offering unique and diversified travel options,” said Sebastián Ponce, Transat’s Chief Commercial Officer.

On the other hand, the airline will maintain its two most popular destinations in Florida, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, with an increase in frequencies to Orlando. Four additional weekly flights will be added to respond to the growing interest in the destination.

It will operate seven weekly flights from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale and one weekly flight from Quebec City. In Orlando, it will operate 14 weekly flights from Montreal.