Ecotourism Fair seeks to boost the economy and expand agriculture in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Science and Art Foundation, under the guidance of directors José Serulle Ramia and Jacqueline Boin, proudly introduced the Twenty-Seventh Ecotourism and Production Fair. This event is designed with the primary goal of showcasing and advancing the community of El Cercado, situated within the San Juan region of El Valle.

The overarching objective of this endeavor is to transform ecotourism and sustainable production into viable avenues for economic, social, cultural, and environmental progress within the Dominican Republic’s communities. The ultimate aim is to foster comprehensive development throughout the region.

José Serulle emphasized the potential of ecotourism as an alternative for development, one that doesn’t necessitate extensive financial investments. He elaborated on the idea that communities, in collaboration with local businesses, can pool their resources and establish eco-friendly accommodations, create pathways to visit attractions like spas and harness the natural treasures of the area.

This remarkable event is scheduled to take place from November 16 to 26 of this year under the overarching theme: “For the preservation of the Neiba mountain range and the rational management of the Macasías sub-basin-Artibonito basin! For sustainable agriculture and comprehensive development!”

Jacqueline Boin stressed that the purpose of these fairs extends beyond merely showcasing the beauty of a region; it is a platform to facilitate community development and capture the attention of relevant authorities. Among the key objectives is stimulating the local economy and ensuring its equitable distribution among the community members. Additionally, there is a commitment to expand and enhance agricultural practices in the region.

José Serulle, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving these objectives. He noted that raising awareness within the community is paramount, underlining that “divided, we will not achieve anything.” He further clarified that the fair serves as a catalyst, but their true aspiration is for people to come together, improve their living conditions, and recognize the intrinsic value of their natural and cultural resources.

Tropicalia will begin construction of its long-awaited Four Seasons in Miches

Miches.- Tropicalia, a real estate development project initiated by Cisneros Real Estate, has officially commenced the construction of the first phase of the Four Seasons in Miches, with plans to open its doors in early 2026. This development represents an investment exceeding $200 million.

The property, known as “Four Seasons Resorts and Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia,” will comprise a 95-room resort and 25 private residences, featuring three to four bedrooms, all conveniently located just steps away from the beach.

Adriana Cisneros, CEO of Cisneros, expressed her joy and pride at this significant milestone, emphasizing the close collaboration with the Miches community for over a decade in pursuit of sustainable development. She reiterated the commitment to continue working towards the community’s development and environmental preservation.

William Phelan, President of Tropicalia, highlighted the determination behind the project’s vision, which exemplifies their commitment to the region and their goal of making this ambitious project a reality. He believes it will elevate the standard of sustainable luxury tourism in the country while providing a socioeconomic and environmental boost to Miches.

Four Seasons currently manages 126 hotels and 53 residential properties across 47 countries. The introduction of Four Seasons Tropicalia, establishes a significant precedent as the first and only Four Seasons property in the Dominican Republic, reinforcing the commitment to invest in the country.

David Collado, Minister of Tourism, expressed pride in having an investment like Four Seasons Tropicalia by the Cisneros family in the Dominican Republic. He highlighted the government’s efforts to promote and revive tourism and believes this luxury hotel will diversify the tourist demographic while contributing to the sustainable development of the country’s tourism sector.

The construction is being undertaken by the French company Bouygues, a leader in sustainable construction operating in over 80 countries. The construction phase will create approximately 2,000 jobs for the local community in Miches.

Designed with a modernist tropical concept by Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld, Four Seasons Dominican Republic at Tropicalia aims to set a new standard for natural and sustainable elegance, appealing to discerning travelers worldwide. The resort will offer an array of amenities, including a gym, sports facilities, a spa, event spaces, a kids’ club, and a diverse culinary experience with numerous dining options.

Coconut water from the Dominican Republic will enter US markets for the first time

Santo Domingo.- The governments of the Dominican Republic and the United States, as well as the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, have given the green light for the export of water coconuts and avocados, respectively, in a move that has been hailed as a significant boon for the nation’s agricultural sector.

The Ministry of Agriculture made this encouraging announcement, highlighting the positive impact of President Luis Abinader’s administration on the country’s agricultural producers. Ibrahim Shaqir, the Head of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS-USDA), conveyed the approval through a communication addressed to the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Agriculture’s Plant Health Department, under the leadership of Rosa Lazala. A similar notification was sent to the government of Jamaica through the Dominican ambassador in that country, Angie Martínez.

In the communication from APHIS, it was stated: “APHIS kindly confirms that the revised import requirements came into effect immediately, as mentioned in our letter of August 22, 2023. We hope to receive the immature coconuts from the Dominican Republic without shell and water or in the shell (with at least 75% of the green outer shell removed) and with water, in accordance with APHIS import requirements currently listed on our Agricultural Commodity Import Requirements (ACIR) website.”

Minister Limber Cruz expressed his gratitude to the dedicated efforts of his plant health and ACTO (Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures) team for their diligent work in overseeing all aspects of commercial export treaties. He recognized the immense business opportunity that now lies ahead for the Dominican Republic, thanks to these approvals.

The renowned Hollywood actors who will participate in a golf event in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Prominent Hollywood actors, including Don Cheadle, known for his roles in “House of Lies” and the Ironman and Avengers movies, and David Costabile, famous for “Breaking Bad” and “Billions,” are set to participate in the Cap Cana: World of Golf Celebrity Championship.

This tournament is scheduled to take place from October 5 to 8, 2023, and will also feature actors Dean Norris, Bruce Greenwood, Kim Coates, Grant Show, Dane DeHaan, Amaury Nolasco, and Mike Mills, the bassist and founding member of the alternative rock band REM.

The event aims to bring together prominent figures from sports, music, and entertainment while raising funds for local and regional charities. It will showcase the Dominican Republic’s culture and attract international media attention, contributing to economic, community, and charitable impact in the region.

The inaugural event will raise money for academic scholarships and the construction of a new baseball field in Verón. Additionally, a live musical performance by legendary musician Elton John is planned, marking his first performance in the Dominican Republic since 2014.

Ticket prices and further details can be found on the official website of the World of Golf at www.worldofgolftour.com.

World of Golf is a championship series that features prominent personalities from various fields, including sports, music, and entertainment and aims to raise awareness and funds for charitable causes while offering a unique golfing experience.

The Dominican Republic is ranked 53rd among the “Best Countries of 2023”, according to a study

The Dominican Republic has been ranked 53rd out of 87 in the “Best Countries of 2023” ranking, a project by US News & World Report, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and a global marketing services company. This ranking evaluates 87 countries on 73 different attributes grouped into 10 subclassifications, with a focus on areas like tourism, quality of life, power, and wealth. While the Dominican Republic stands out in tourism and other categories like “being open for business” and having a “pleasant climate,” it shows lower percentages in education, entrepreneurship, and skilled labor.

At the top of the list are countries like Switzerland, Canada, Sweden, Australia, the United States, Japan, Germany, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

See the complete list here: Best Countries in the World

The ranking is based on a survey of more than 17,000 global citizens from 36 countries, including business leaders, college-educated individuals, and general citizens, and was conducted from March 17 to June 12, 2023.

Remittance flows to the Dominican Republic grow 3.9% in 2023

The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) has reported that for the first eight months of 2023, remittances received have amounted to $6,769.9 million, marking a 3.9% growth compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth aligns with the projection of exceeding $10 billion by the end of the year.

Specifically, in August, remittances reached $860.6 million, reflecting a 1.4% increase compared to August 2022. However, this figure is $28.8 million less than what was received in July this year when remittances totaled $889.4 million.

The BCRD attributes the behavior of remittances to the economic performance of the United States, as 84.0% of formal remittance flows in August, approximately $643.6 million, originated from the United States. Factors contributing to this include a low general unemployment rate of 3.8% in the U.S., similar to levels observed before the pandemic. Additionally, the non-manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) of the Institute of Supply Management (ISM) registered a value of 54.5 in August, indicating the sustained expansion of the services sector, where a significant portion of the Dominican diaspora resides.

The BCRD also highlighted the receipt of remittances from other countries in August, such as Spain, which contributed $45.5 million (5.9% of the total). The National District received 36.0% of remittances in August, followed by the provinces of Santiago and Santo Domingo with 13.7% and 9.0%, respectively. More than half (58.7%) of remittances are received in metropolitan areas.

Looking ahead, the BCRD anticipates continued significant flows of remittances, exports, tourism income, and foreign direct investment throughout 2023. These inflows will continue to influence the relative stability of the exchange rate, with international reserves reaching $15,833.5 million at the end of August, representing 13.2% of GDP and about 5.9 months of imports, exceeding international organization recommendations.

Abinader: “My goal right now is the security of the Dominican Republic”

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader has announced that the Dominican Government’s objective in implementing the measures announced is to safeguard national security, particularly in response to the sociopolitical crisis in Haiti and the construction of a canal in the Masacre River, which violates bilateral agreements between the two nations.

The President emphasized the importance of ensuring the security of the Dominican Republic in both the short and long term. He expressed hope that a peacekeeping force in Haiti could help improve the situation. Abinader acknowledged that the canal construction is not a project of the Haitian Government and does not have its authorization, considering it an informal construction without the involvement of reputable construction companies.

He stressed that the Dominican Republic cannot allow uncontrollable individuals in a neighboring country to act without restraint and that if they cannot be controlled on their side, measures must be taken on the Dominican side to ensure security. Abinader assured that the Dominican border is fully safeguarded and will be further reinforced.

Regarding the international community, the President mentioned that he plans to raise the issue with international organizations but noted that this is not the primary reason for his attendance at the United Nations Congress in New York.

Abinader also announced his intention to meet with the President of Kenya to discuss plans related to military support in Haiti. Kenya has proposed different plans involving the use of military force to protect important buildings in Haiti.

Senate approves tax exemptions for luxury vessels in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- In a second reading, the Senate has granted approval to a contentious bill that offers tax exemptions to a specific category of luxury vessels, encompassing yachts and sailboats.

The approved project, which was passed during an extraordinary Senate session, stipulates that yachts, competitive yachts, motorboats, personal watercraft like jet skis, sailing boats, and other similar vessels will be exempt from taxes for a period of ten years, commencing from the date of the law’s promulgation.

This initiative, introduced by Senators Alexis Victoria Yeb and Ginette Bournigal, also outlines that investments made in infrastructure developments intended to promote recreational nautical tourism will enjoy tax benefits. Article 48 of the project further exempts real estate taxes on land and improvements utilized in nautical activities.

Paragraph two of article 48 specifically states, “Complete exemption from import duties, contributions, or liens applicable to the importation of materials, equipment, furniture, and accessories used in the construction, renovation, and commercial outfitting of the service activity or products associated with recreational nautical tourism.”

Supporters of the project argued that the Dominican Republic possesses significant potential to harness recreational nautical tourism, citing the country’s unique geographical advantage, with 75% of its border adjacent to the sea.

The bill’s objectives underscore promoting nautical tourism by establishing regulations governing navigation and nautical equipment for recreational, private, and commercial purposes.

The legislation excludes maritime vessels engaged in commerce, scientific research vessels, artisanal fishing vessels, and auxiliary port vessels from its provisions.

The proposal will now move forward for consideration in the Chamber of Deputies.

FEDA Director says Dominican Republic is attractive for investment

Santo Domingo.- The director of the Special Fund for Agricultural Development (FEDA), Hecmilio Galván, highlighted the Dominican Republic’s attractiveness as an investment destination during the International Dominican Chocolate Fair held in Belgium. Galván spoke about investment opportunities in Dominican agriculture and emphasized the country’s strategic location in the heart of the Caribbean.

He pointed out that the Dominican Republic has established a legal and regulatory framework that protects property rights and offers enticing tax incentives to encourage foreign investment.

At the fair, organized by FEDA and the Dominican Consulate in Antwerp, Belgium, Galván also praised the quality of artisanal chocolate produced by small businesses, particularly those led by women, as well as the chocolate manufactured by larger companies in the country.

Several Dominican chocolate manufacturers, including Chocolatera la Norteña, Chocolala, Conacado Agroindustrial, Choco Cibao, and others, participated in the exhibition.

Galván noted that the Dominican Republic is the world leader in organic cocoa exports, primarily to European countries.

He highlighted that agribusiness in the Dominican Republic is a vital sector with the potential for significant returns on investment. Besides cocoa, the country has a diverse range of agricultural products, including coffee, bananas, tobacco, and vegetables, which offer opportunities for expansion and export.

Lee gains power again as a major cyclone and Margot could be a hurricane this Monday

Santo Domingo.- Hurricane Lee has regained major category status with maximum sustained winds of 120 miles per hour (195 kilometers), while Tropical Storm Margot may become a cyclone on Monday. Currently, neither of them poses a land threat, according to the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami. However, Lee may bring hazardous conditions to the western Atlantic beaches this week.

Lee, a Category 3 hurricane out of 5, is positioned around 285 miles (455 kilometers) north of the Leeward Islands (Lesser Antilles) and is moving west-northwest at 8 miles per hour (13 km/h). In recent days, Lee fluctuated between Category 5 and Category 2 on the Saffir-Simpson scale.

Hurricane-force winds extend up to 45 miles (75 km) from Lee’s center, with tropical storm-force winds reaching up to 175 miles (280 km) from the center. Forecasts suggest Lee will pass well north of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the next two days. Additional strengthening is expected, with possible intensity fluctuations on Monday and Tuesday. The NHC warns of dangerous waves and currents affecting various regions.

Tropical Storm Margot is also of concern, with maximum sustained winds of 65 miles per hour (100 km). It is likely to become a hurricane on Monday. Margot is positioned about 1,175 miles (1,895 km) west of the Cape Verde Islands, moving north at approximately 9 miles per hour (15 km/h). Tropical storm-force winds extend up to 80 miles (130 km) from its center.

Video: Abinader reiterates Pedernales will receive first cruise this December

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader announced that by December 18, 2023, the first cruise ship will arrive at the port of Cabo Rojo, Pedernales province, which will boost tourism and generate jobs and income for residents of the different communities in the area.

The Royal Caribbean company, the first cruise scheduled to reach the country’s South, will have about 3,000 cruise passengers plus the crew, who can enjoy this natural beauty and its different destinations.

“We are working so that cruise passengers can enjoy the best experience and at the same time the town of Pedernales is ready to meet their requirements and that it impacts socially and economically to Pedernales and the entire Enriquillo region,” said the president.

To achieve these goals, the tourism development plan of Pedernales contemplates the readaptation of public spaces for recreation, knowledge of culture, and gastronomic enjoyment of cruise passengers.

Ecological destinations include Laguna de Oviedo, Hoyo de Pelempito, Bahía de las Águilas, and Pozos de Romeo. The rehabilitation of the boardwalk, artisan squares, and artistic murals is added.

The head of state reiterated that the project will become the economic development engine in the southern region, specifically in the Enriquillo and Del Valle regions, because it will impact San Juan and Elías Piña in their agricultural production.

Collado: “We achieved a record summer and winter is already presold”

Punta Cana, DR.- Given the excellent results in the arrival of tourists to the Dominican Republic this year, the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, said, “We achieved a record summer, and winter is already present.”

Month by month, the country has broken records for the arrival of visitors. However, Collado acknowledged that the summer season was a bit uncertain due to the decrease in tourists from the European market.

Therefore, he indicated that “the time that was paying more attention was to the summer for long-haul flights from the European market where there is a great economic crisis due to war and inflation.”

He reiterated his concern: “We were afraid that we would fall the summer, and yet in July, we had the best month in history in tourism, and already over the summer, reservations, and hotels are with double-digit increase about 2022 and much more if we look at 2019. Which means winter is presold in flight and booking quantities.”

“We are very happy with what is happening in the tourism sector of the DR and if no international phenomenon happens, we will be among the 9.9, or 10 million tourists at the end of the year 2023,” he emphasized.

Collado indicated great expectations throughout the sector at the end of the year due to the large projections of meeting the goal. “Everywhere we see tourism is growing. The arrival of tourists is growing in all the country airports, especially the great rebound that the Cibao and Santo Domingo airports have had.”

U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic collaborates with airlines to detect illegal travel

Santo Domingo.- The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic reported collaborating with airline personnel to detect illicit travel to and from the United States.

Recently, in conjunction with the Dominican National Police, the embassy’s Office of Criminal Investigations of the Diplomatic Security Service trained employees of airlines offering services to the United States and for personnel at the Punta Cana Airport.

The embassy mentioned that the training covered facial recognition techniques, identification of impostors, security features of U.S. travelers’ documents, and current trends in organized crime related to trafficking and smuggling.

According to data from the Migration Policy Institute, immigrants from the Dominican Republic constitute the fourth largest group of Hispanic immigrants in the United States, after Mexicans, Salvadorans, and Cubans.

Dominican immigrants primarily enter the United States through family connections, with 99% arriving through family sponsorship, in contrast to 69% of all immigrants, according to the report.

Abinader: the first cruise passengers would arrive in Cabo Rojo in December

n December 18 of this year, the Dominican Republic is set to welcome its first cruise ship at the Port of Cabo Rojo, which is currently under construction as part of a public-private alliance strategy aimed at developing the southern region of the country.

This announcement was made by the President of the Dominican Republic following a working group meeting held in the area of port construction. During this meeting, various authorities involved in tourism projects in the province of Pedernales participated.

The President shared that the inaugural cruise, operated by Royal Caribbean, is expected to bring approximately three thousand cruise passengers, along with the crew, to the southern coast of the Dominican Republic. These visitors will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of this new tourist destination.

The President emphasized that all relevant institutions are working diligently to ensure that the town of Pedernales is fully prepared to receive cruise passengers and provide them with an exceptional experience. This includes ensuring a reliable supply of water, electricity, and road infrastructure by the National Institute of Drinking Water and Sewerage (Inapa), Edesur, and the Ministry of Public Works and Communications.

The President stated that this project will serve as a catalyst for economic development in the southern region, particularly in the Enriquillo region, and will also impact the Del Valle region, benefiting areas like San Juan and Elías Piña in terms of agricultural production. Furthermore, it is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and generate income for local communities.

The President also inaugurated several naval detachments in Barahona, reinforcing security in the coastal area, and launched construction work for the Barahona Air Base, aimed at enhancing security, reducing response time, combating crime and drug trafficking, and contributing to regional development.

Furthermore, he initiated the renovation and readjustment of the Jaime Sánchez Hospital in Barahona, with an investment of RD$310,759,340.54. This project aims to transform the southern region into three health areas focused on maternal and child care, oncology, and traumatology, thereby saving lives. Additionally, the rehabilitation of the Nadin J. Hazoury Baseball Stadium in Barahona was supervised by the President during this visit.

Luis Abinader calls on young people to be “guardians of change” to avoid regression from the past

Santo Domingo.- The presidential candidate of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), Luis Abinader, hailed the Dominican youth as “guardians of change” and urged them to prevent the return of elements from the past.

Following his official agenda on Wednesday evening, Abinader convened with hundreds of young individuals from various regions at the Basketball Pavilion in the Olympic Village.

During the pre-campaign event, Abinader called upon the youth to take on the historic mission of thwarting the return of individuals associated with darker periods in the country’s history, emphasizing that they should not return or gain power.

Additionally, Abinader expressed his gratitude, admiration, and commitment to the young people of Barahona who provided him with emotional support.

He listed several initiatives carried out by his government to support the youth and the population in the southwestern region. Abinader highlighted their support for the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) and the Technological Catholic University of Barahona (UCATEBA) and their efforts in education and youth development.

Abinader mentioned the plans for UASD extensions in Bahoruco, Azua, and Baní provinces, demonstrating the government’s commitment to education in the region.

He also discussed addressing the issue of “NiNi” youth, those who neither study nor work and the importance of their positive involvement in society.

Furthermore, Abinader shared that he initiated the construction of the first Jaime Sánchez maternity-child hospital in the southwestern region and plans for the first cancer center in Barahona.

The massive indoor gathering included young people who expressed their support for Luis Abinader’s re-nomination in the upcoming elections and endorsed his government’s efforts, as organized by the local leadership of the Modern Revolutionary Youth (PRM).

Hurricane Lee strengthens and could reach category 5

Santo Domingo.- Hurricane Lee is rapidly gaining intensity in the central Atlantic, and it is currently located near the northeast of the Lesser Antilles. Weather analyst Jean Suriel predicts that by Saturday, the hurricane could develop winds of up to 249 km/h, potentially reaching the verge of becoming a Category 4 or even Category 5 hurricane.

The slow movement of Hurricane Lee is allowing it to absorb more moisture and heat from the warm waters, which is contributing to its rapid intensification. The reduced translation speed means it will take a bit longer to approach the forecasted zone.

According to Suriel, by Monday afternoon, the hurricane is expected to be located north of Puerto Rico, and between Tuesday and Wednesday, it will pass north of the Dominican Republic. However, the current projections suggest that the eye of the hurricane will be about 600 kilometers north of Samaná and approximately 700 kilometers north of Punta Cana.

The meteorologist notes that the effects on the Dominican Republic are likely to be indirect. The most significant impact could be dangerous swells with heights ranging from 12 to 14 feet extending from Saona Island to Monte Cristi. While there is no direct threat to the country, the extensive cloud field of the hurricane may lead to occasional rainy periods and moderate gusts of wind in different areas.

Punta Cana International Airport receives an award for the seventh consecutive year

Punta Cana.- The Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) has been awarded the “Best Airport by Size and Region” in the category of 5 to 15 million passengers per year in the Caribbean and Latin America at the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards ceremony by the Airports Council International (ACI). This marks the seventh consecutive year that the airport has received this prestigious recognition.

In addition to this award, the Punta Cana International Airport also received the new Customer Experience accreditation, which guides airports toward excellence in customer experience management across various domains.

The airport’s director of Landside Operations, Alberto Smith, accepted the award on behalf of the airport during a ceremony held in the Republic of Korea. He expressed gratitude to the more than 8,000 people working at the airport for their dedication and commitment to achieving this recognition.

The Punta Cana International Airport continuously evaluates passenger satisfaction metrics to implement improvements and create the best possible travel experience for passengers. This commitment to excellence has established the airport as one of the top 10 airports in Latin America and the most important in the insular Caribbean.

The airport recently expanded Terminal B, initially catering to airlines from North America with plans to extend connectivity routes to Latin America and Europe. It serves as a vital hub connecting 64 cities in 26 countries and transports eight million passengers annually.

The Airport Service Quality Awards program, organized by ACI, assesses passenger satisfaction and recognizes airports worldwide that offer outstanding customer experiences. The Punta Cana International Airport’s consistent excellence in this area highlights its importance in the Dominican Republic’s growing tourism industry.

Cap Cana will host the Ironman 70.3 held for the first time in the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana, DR- Cap Cana and the Colombian company SBR Sports signed an agreement to hold for the first time the Ironman 70.3 in the Dominican Republic, a competition that is projected to be held in 2024 with the format: 1.2 miles (1.9 km) swimming, 59 miles (90 km) cycling and 13.1 miles (21 km) running.

Wilber Anderson, CEO of SBR Sports, said, “We are proud, satisfied and happy about this collaboration between SBR Sports and Cap Cana to work together to make Ironman 70.3 a reality in the Dominican Republic.

In addition, it is very important to present an international destination like this, which lends itself to athletes from all over the world to enjoy this privileged and strategic location just 10 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), which connects quickly with the most important cities in the world, from North and South America, as well as Europe, the number one destination in Latin America and the Caribbean”.

“Our athletes will be able to compete and enjoy the richness that Cap Cana has, definitely a perfect destination for a race like this one,” he added.

Jorge Subero Medina, executive president of Cap Cana, expressed that the destination city is honored to receive this vital triathlon that will make its first stop in the Dominican Republic. He said the participating athletes will enjoy competing in this paradise thanks to all the characteristics that make Cap Cana a unique place.

“Their family and friends will be surprised and I am sure they will love everything we will offer. In our destination there is something for everyone, from relaxing on the beach, adventures accompanied by nature with authentic cenotes, to enjoying beautiful views, all-inclusive hotels and exquisite cuisine,” he concluded.

Dominican Today wins Pasaporte Abierto 2023 award for article by journalist Adrian Morales

Chiriqui, Panama.- Dominican-Cuban journalist Adrian Rafael Morales González won the seventh edition of the Pasaporte Abierto 2023 international tourism journalism award, in the Investigative Journalism category, for his article “Specialized tourism for the rich variety of the Dominican Republic’s flora,” published by online newspaper Dominican Today.

Pasaporte Abierto, which rewards the most outstanding in specialized tourism communication and tourism in general, is sponsored by the World Tourism Journalism Organization (WTJO); this year the award ceremony was held in Chiriqui, Panama.

Mexico won five statuettes and one of the top awards; Brazil was also awarded five times; the Dominican Republic was the winner in four categories (five if we count the Dominican Today award); and Argentina and Chile received two awards each.

Panama stood out as well, receiving one of the two Pasaporte Abierto Grand Prizes, while Colombia, Honduras, Spain, Peru and Cuba received one award each.

During the Gala, WTJO’s general secretary and founder Miguel Ledhesma announced that the XXIII International Congress of Tourism Journalists and Professionals will be held in March in Campos do Jordão, Brazil, and the 8th edition of Pasaporte Abierto will be held during the first week of September in Cali, Colombia, the country that will be in charge of the general direction of the organization in 2024.

Winners:

Mexico

1. Sentir para ver. San Luis Capital. México. (GRAN PREMIO PASAPORTE ABIERTO).

2. Impuesto sobre hospedaje, entre la sospecha y la desconfianza. Istar Meza. México. (Investigación Periodística).

3. Suplemento Turismo Diario El Sol de San Luis. San Luis Potosí. México. (Medio Especializado en Turismo).

4. San Luis en Bici. San Luis Capital. México. (Mejor propuesta Turística).

5. Asociación de Hoteles de Cancún, Puerto Morelos e Isla Mujeres. México. (Organismo Colaborador).

Brazil

1. Programa de TV Viaje Por Aí. Brasil. (Medio Especializado en Turismo).

2. Rota da Cachaça, Areia, Paraíba. Brasil. (Mejor propuesta Turística).

3. Felipe Augusto. Prefeito Sao Sebastiao, Brasil. (Emprendedor Turístico Comprometido).

4. Luciana Balbino. Areia, Paraíba, Brasil. (Emprendedor Turístico Comprometido).

5. Chef Eudes Assis, dono do restaurante Taioba. Brasil. (A la Trayectoria).

Dominican Republic 

1. Cocina Solidaria: la acción que ha salvado de la hambruna a millones de personas en el mundo. Juan de Dios Valentín. República Dominicana. (Originalidad).

2. Date 2023. República Dominicana. (Evento del Año).

3. Cap Cana, República Dominicana. (Destino Turístico Responsable).

4. Consorcio Energético Punta Cana – Macao, S.A (CEPM). República Dominicana. (Trabajo en Equipo).

Argentina

1. Las más bellas capillas cordobesas, sus secretos y leyendas. Mariana Otero y Patricia Molaioli. Argentina. (Investigación Periodística).

2. María Ulivi. Argentina. (A la Trayectoria).

Chile

1. www.saborysaber.cl. Chile. (Medio Especializado en Turismo).

2. Paola Andrea Fernández Chamaca. Chile. (A la Trayectoria).

Panama
Mirtha Rodríguez Mendieta (GRAN PREMIO PASAPORTE ABIERTO).

Colombia
Turismo sin límites. Colombia. (Medio Especializado en Turismo).

Honduras
Honduras: Tela, la ciudad con las mejores playas de Centroamérica. Leonel Armando Espinosa Flores. Honduras. (Originalidad).

Spain
Cómo el afrobeats nigeriano ha conquistado a las ‘tiktokers’ iraníes y al resto del mundo. Lucía Foraster Garriga. España. (Relevancia Social).

Peru
Una experiencia inclusiva en San Luis Potosí. Eric Barrantes. Perú. (Reconocimiento de los otros).

Cuba
Specialized tourism for the rich variety of the Dominican Republic’s flora. Adrian R. Morales González. Cuba/Dominican Republic. (Investigación Periodística).

For further information:
https://www.periodismoturistico.org/

Visa and Duty Free Americas will provide benefits to travelers from Punta Cana

Punta Cana.- Visa and Duty-Free Americas (DFA), a leading operator of duty-free stores in the Western Hemisphere, have entered into an agreement to offer exclusive benefits to Visa cardholders when they make purchases at DFA stores in select airport terminals.

The partnership encompasses the terminals of several airports, including Punta Cana International Airport in the Dominican Republic, Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, El Salvador International Airport in San Salvador, and Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena, Colombia.

This strategic alliance aims to provide Visa cardholders with convenience, security and streamlined digital payment experiences. The specific benefits offered will vary by location and will be updated periodically.

Dov Falic, Vice President of Duty-Free Americas, expressed the company’s pleasure in establishing this partnership with Visa, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and rewarding shoppers.

Santiago Rega, Senior Director of Cross-Border Business Development for the Caribbean and Central America at Visa, highlighted the significance of duty-free shops at airports for international travelers and emphasized Visa’s collaboration with Duty-Free Americas to offer exclusive benefits to Visa cardholders in these stores.

Duty-Free Americas offers an extensive range of over 2,000 high-quality products, including cosmetics, fragrances, fashion, jewelry, wines, spirits, food, exclusive gifts, and more.

Travelers using Visa credit, debit, or prepaid cards issued worldwide will have the opportunity to redeem benefits for purchases at Duty-Free Americas duty-free stores, as well as at participating restaurants and bars.