Jodie Foster and Annette Bening describe their experiences filming “Nyad” in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Annette Bening and Jodie Foster shared their experiences filming the Netflix film “Nyad” in the Dominican Republic. Bening, portraying the legendary swimmer Diana Nyad, expressed her fondness for Juan Dolio and Santo Domingo, where most of the filming took place. She became particularly enamored with Larimar, a stone indigenous to the Dominican Republic, bringing several pieces back as gifts for friends.

According to Listín Diario, Foster, playing Nyad’s close friend Bonnie Stoll, highlighted the importance of having a diverse, Spanish-speaking crew from various countries. She also shared the lively weekends they experienced during filming, with crew members enjoying local culture and cuisine.

Bening spoke about the challenge of portraying Diana Nyad, focusing on capturing the duality in Nyad’s character – her strength and vulnerability. She emphasized the importance of her on-screen relationship with Foster’s character, Bonnie, and how their off-screen friendship enriched their performances.

Foster shared her admiration for both Nyad and Stoll, noting the power and importance of portraying mature, complex women and their deep, enduring friendship.

She reflected on her interactions with the real-life counterparts, describing them as fascinating and eccentric individuals. Foster believes the film captures the essence of a significant and impactful relationship in one’s life, as portrayed through the characters of Bonnie and Diana, the newspaper reported.

Gesproin Group launches Coral Golf Resort, a new master development in Punta Cana

Punta Cana.- Gesproin Group, in collaboration with national and international investors, has unveiled the Coral Golf Resort, an exclusive urban development situated in Cabeza de Toro – Punta Cana. This project offers prime lots for the construction of apartment complexes within an upscale environment.

The Coral Golf Resort also features Gesproin Group’s real estate endeavor, the Moon Garden, which will encompass 197 new homes, all boasting stunning views of the central lake, golf course, and exclusive amenities.

Partners in this venture include Alejandro Garrigó Lefeld, Francisco González, Efrain Forero, Hernando Jiménez, José Fernando Pinto, Daniel Sánchez, and Gadonso Properties. Together with Gesproin Group, they are investing in the growth and development of Punta Cana as the central hub of tourism in the Dominican Republic.

The resort’s golf course, redesigned by renowned golf course architect P.B Dye, features 18 holes that harmonize nature and luxury, creating a high-end multifamily residential environment prioritizing functionality and comfort.

Coral Golf Resort enjoys a strategic location, just 10 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport and close to the region’s finest beaches and large commercial areas such as Blue Mall Punta Cana and Downtown Mall Punta Cana. The project will include its commercial area, a hotel, golf course, clubhouse with a pool, children’s area, restaurant, park, pier, racket club, sports area, and more.

Moon Garden, part of Coral Golf Resort, is ideally situated beside the central lake, making it a prominent focal point in the area. It’s a mere 5-minute drive from the Pearl Beach Club, offering investors access to the region’s top tourist attractions.

Investing in Moon Garden is a secure choice, whether for personal use or investment purposes. Its appeal lies in its exceptional location, high-quality homes, and numerous amenities. This project presents an opportunity to be part of the Dominican paradise.

Moreover, investing in the Dominican Republic is considered a sound choice due to its growing tourism industry and international reputation as a desirable destination. The country offers a secure investment environment backed by a robust legal framework and economic incentives for investors, such as the Confotur Law. Consequently, there’s substantial demand for properties from both residents and foreigners.

Gesproin Group has been at the forefront of real estate projects since 2017, delivering over 1,300 units in the Punta Cana area. Renowned for construction quality, the company has generated over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, fostering significant economic and touristic growth in the region. This continued success is set to influence the area surrounding the Coral Golf Resort project.

Grupo Piñero celebrates reopening of Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda in Punta Cana

Punta Cana.- On December 1, Grupo Piñero marked a significant milestone in the Dominican Republic’s hotel industry with the reopening of Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda in Punta Cana. This reopening is the result of an extensive comprehensive renovation, reflecting the group’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

The renovation, which involved an investment of over 30 million euros, elevated the standard of Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts. It encompassed the refurbishment of all 570 rooms, common areas, and introduced new room categories, such as the Junior Suite Deluxe Swim Up. Additionally, the project included the addition of fresh culinary concepts, a sports bar, and special amenities aligned with the latest trends in the tourism sector.

Guests will now enjoy enhanced facilities characterized by practical and contemporary architecture that harmoniously blends with the tropical environment. The hotel has introduced two unique culinary experiences, Taino Restaurant and Mongolian Restaurant, both exclusive to the Bahia Principe portfolio. Moreover, the renovation features an upscale theater and a new kids’ club conveniently located next to the Water Park, ensuring a complete family-friendly experience.

The standout highlight of this transformation is the introduction of “Alma Taína,” a concept that immerses visitors in the rich Dominican culture through its architecture, experiences, and gastronomy. Seven distinct restaurants within the hotel each represent a unique thematic experience, including international cuisine, Taíno, Indian, Brazilian, Mongolian, and a beachside snack restaurant. Furthermore, guests have access to over 26 specialty restaurants, 34 bars, and 9 swimming pools across the rest of the Bávaro Complex hotels, guaranteeing a comprehensive and unforgettable experience.

Genaro Benítez, the country manager of Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts in the Dominican Republic, expressed his enthusiasm for the modernization and increased comfort provided to guests. He emphasized the deep connection between the hotel’s concept and its surroundings, aiming to offer an immersive experience where culture, essence, and experiences converge.

Benítez highlighted Grupo Piñero’s commitment to allowing guests to embrace the essence and roots of the destinations where their hotels are situated. This initiative aims to celebrate and showcase the unique culture and richness of each location.

Dominican Republic shines at Qatar Tourism Fair with unique experiences

Doha, Qatar.- The Dominican Republic made a successful appearance at the second edition of the State of Qatar tourism fair held at the Doha City Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The Dominican Republic showcased its offerings with an impressive stand featuring interactive activities such as mini-golf, hand-made cigar demonstrations, bachata dance classes, and tastings of Dominican coffee and chocolate. The stand even included an imitation of a beach to immerse visitors in the country’s atmosphere.

The inauguration of the stand was led by the Dominican Republic’s ambassador to the State of Qatar, HE George Bahsa Hazim, and Alexandra Streltsova, the director of the Tourism Promotion Office (OPT) Central Asia. The Dominican Republic received recognition from the fair organizers for their support and successful presentation, with the Dominican Republic pavilion being one of the most visited thanks to the engaging experiences it offered to visitors.

The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) organized various promotional activities, including a talk for professionals on the topic of the “Unique Marketing Proposal: Dominican Republic case,” as well as folklore dance performances as part of the “Global Village” festival. Members of the diplomatic mission in Qatar were present throughout the three-day fair to provide official information to interested individuals. Additionally, representatives from ProDominicana highlighted the favorable investment climate in the region.

The Dominican Republic’s stand was unique in the Caribbean and Latin America, as it had the assistance of key government entities to provide comprehensive information about the country’s offerings.Doha, Qatar.- The Dominican Republic made a successful appearance at the second edition of the State of Qatar tourism fair held at the Doha City Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The Dominican Republic showcased its offerings with an impressive stand featuring interactive activities such as mini-golf, hand-made cigar demonstrations, bachata dance classes, and tastings of Dominican coffee and chocolate. The stand even included an imitation of a beach to immerse visitors in the country’s atmosphere.

The inauguration of the stand was led by the Dominican Republic’s ambassador to the State of Qatar, HE George Bahsa Hazim, and Alexandra Streltsova, the director of the Tourism Promotion Office (OPT) Central Asia. The Dominican Republic received recognition from the fair organizers for their support and successful presentation, with the Dominican Republic pavilion being one of the most visited thanks to the engaging experiences it offered to visitors.

The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) organized various promotional activities, including a talk for professionals on the topic of the “Unique Marketing Proposal: Dominican Republic case,” as well as folklore dance performances as part of the “Global Village” festival. Members of the diplomatic mission in Qatar were present throughout the three-day fair to provide official information to interested individuals. Additionally, representatives from ProDominicana highlighted the favorable investment climate in the region.

The Dominican Republic’s stand was unique in the Caribbean and Latin America, as it had the assistance of key government entities to provide comprehensive information about the country’s offerings.

Dominican Republic eyes regional market for export growth

Santo Domingo.- The Caribbean, home to over 44 million people and known for its white-sand beaches and rich heritage from Spanish, French, and Dutch ancestors, is emerging as a key export destination for the Dominican Republic. This potential is underscored by data from the Dominican Republic’s Export and Investment Center (ProDominicana), which shows a trade exchange of US$ 9.12 billion with the Caribbean from 2019 to 2022. Notably, 2022 saw trade amounting to US$ 2,143 million.

Victor Bisonó, the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM), emphasized the geographical proximity and agricultural development of the Dominican Republic as significant factors in exploring the Caribbean market. He pointed out the growth in exports, like fruit products, which increased from US$ 4.8 million in 2018 to US$ 17 million in 2022, with notable exports of avocado to Guyana and bananas to Turks and Caicos.

Biviana Riveiro, the director of ProDominicana, highlighted the strategic need to diversify markets. She noted that while the majority of remittances, migration, and trade typically involve the United States and Europe, the Caribbean offers new opportunities for Dominican businesses. In 2022, exports to Jamaica reached US$100 million, and other nations like Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao, Grenada, and Saint Kitts and Nevis are seen as potential markets, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

The challenges in tapping into this potential include enhancing connectivity, developing infrastructure, and having a skilled workforce. Factors like the Russia-Ukraine war, border closures, pandemic effects on maritime trade, and rising raw material and fuel costs have impacted the Dominican Republic’s global trade balance. Peter Palewonsky, director of the National Competitiveness Council, acknowledged that global factors influence the national economy but stressed the importance of looking towards the Caribbean to diversify export destinations.

Rescheduled 2023 Tourism Investment Forum to showcase Dominican tourism industry

Santo Domingo.- Asonahores announces that the 2023 Tourism Investment Forum, rescheduled due to heavy rains in November, will take place on December 13 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Convention Center (Mirex) in Santo Domingo.

The forum will feature the presentation of the study “Impact of the Tourism Sector on the Dominican Economy” by Analytica, sponsored by Banco Popular. This study will provide an updated overview of the national tourism industry.

Additionally, a panel discussion on “Regulations regarding Tourism Investment” will feature prominent figures such as Alejandro Fernández, Superintendent of Banks; Ernesto Bournigal, Superintendent of Securities Markets; and Francisco Torres, Superintendent of Pensions. Javier Tejada, General Director of United Capital, will moderate the discussion.

Another panel, “New Luxury Tourism Proposals,” will include industry leaders Encarna Piñero, CEO of Grupo Piñero – Cayo Levantado Resort; Frank Elías Rainieri, president & CEO of Grupo Puntacana – Proyectos Miches; Andrés Pichardo, president of Casa de Campo; and Thomas Becker, president of Playa Grande Golf and Ocean Club – Amanera. The discussion will be moderated by Andrés Marranzini.

The forum will also recognize and honor companies and allies in the tourism sector for their continuous support in strengthening the local tourism industry.

Epic Master of the Ocean Event in Cabarete 2024

Cabarete.- In a dynamic event in Cabarete Bay, the organizers, athletes, and press gathered to announce the nineteenth edition of the event, scheduled for February 22 to 26, 2024, at Playa Encuentro, located between Sosúa and Cabarete.

This unique competition attracts professionals in five disciplines: Surfing, Windsurfing, Kitesurfing, Stand Up Paddle, and Wingfoil. Participants can compete individually across all five disciplines or as part of a team with each member specializing in one sport.

Aiming to promote economic development through tourism and environmental awareness, the nineteenth edition of the Master Of The Ocean will take place from February 22 to 26, 2024. This distinctive event expects to host over 70 top-class athletes from 12 countries.

The organizers, German watersports pioneer Marcus Bohm and communicator Patricia Hiraldo, envision Master Of The Ocean as more than just an extreme water sports festival. It has also been a driving force in the region’s progress for 20 years.

Events like Master of the Ocean draw local and international tourists, action water sports enthusiasts, and beach lifestyle aficionados. Patricia Hiraldo commented, “The creation of high-quality action content and the dissemination of images of our tropical beaches and warm people convey the essence of Cabarete as a premier sports and adventure destination. This significantly contributes to our country’s tourism-based economy.”

She also mentioned a strategic agreement with DIGO Hispanic Media, a major network covering over 55 Spanish-language media outlets in Spain, Latin America, and the United States, reaching over 30 million Hispanics in the U.S. and 500 million users globally. DIGO Hispanic Media will play a key role in the event’s advertising campaign.

The north coast has seen a remarkable resurgence since the pandemic, marked by over USD 150 million in real estate investments and over 90 new residential and hotel projects. Many property buyers in the Cabarete area are repeat visitors and water sports enthusiasts.

Ms. Maike Friedrichsen, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany in Santo Domingo, will host a cocktail event for German athletes and the local German community, demonstrating solidarity within the tournament. This supports Marcus Bohm’s efforts in promoting sports on the north coast and empowering children in vulnerable conditions.

The pre-launch press conference for Master Of The Ocean was held at Drifter and Carib Wind, overlooking the warm waters of Cabarete Bay.

The event is sponsored by Carib Wind and Drifter, a Mediterranean-style restaurant by the sea in Cabarete.

For more information, contact Patricia Hiraldo at 809 856 4798, email patricia.hiraldo@gmail.com, or visit www.masteroftheocean.org.

Follow the event on social media @masteroftheocean.

Punta Cana Airport attracts more than 67% of travelers in the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana.- During the first ten months of 2023, Punta Cana International Airport emerged as the primary entry point for foreign visitors to the Dominican Republic, handling 67.71% (3,788,198) of all international arrivals. This data, as highlighted in the October 2023 statistical bulletin (#253) by the Hotel and Tourism Association of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores), underscores the airport’s significant role in the country’s tourism sector.

The bulletin further reveals the distribution of foreign visitor arrivals at other Dominican airports. Las Américas International Airport (AILA) facilitated 19.58% of these arrivals, while Gregorio Luperón Airport in Puerto Plata catered to 4.68%. Additionally, Cibao International Airport received 5.51%, La Romana Airport 1.03%, Catey (Samaná) 0.95%, and La Isabela (El Higüero) 0.54%.

The total count of foreign visitors and non-resident Dominicans arriving in the country from January through October 2023 was 6,554,589, marking a 15.99% increase from the same period in 2022, when the visitor count was 4,746,517. Notably, the number of foreign visitors alone rose by 12.50% in comparison to 2022, increasing from 5,826,086 to 6,554,589.

The bulletin also provided a breakdown of the visitors’ geographic origins. Over half of the arrivals (53.13%) were from North America. South American visitors accounted for 16.89%, and European travelers made up 16.66%. Central American and Caribbean visitors contributed 9.61%, while Asian arrivals stood at 2.84%. Visitors from other parts of the world constituted the remaining 0.88%.

Hidalgo is investing in three hotels in the Dominican Republic, operated by Hyatt

Santo Domingo.- Juan José Hidalgo, the president of Globalia, discussed his company’s investments in the Dominican Republic during an appearance on Spanish television. He revealed that Globalia is investing in three hotels in the Dominican Republic, which will be operated by Hyatt. This information was shared in the interview, specifically starting at 15:22 of the video clip.

In addition to discussing his investments in the Dominican Republic, Hidalgo drew comparisons between the situations in Latin America and the Caribbean and those in Spain. He emphasized that his business ventures, including those in the Dominican Republic, have been carried out without government assistance. This clarification was made during his appearance on the program “A Question of Priorities.”

Puerto Plata strengthens cruise ship growth: will attract 71 vessels in December

Puerto Plata—Puerto Plata is preparing to receive a total of 71 cruise ships during December, consolidating its position as one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Caribbean.

This figure represents a constant flow of visitors who will explore the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Two of the most prominent tourist ports, Amber Cove and Taíno Bay, will be the epicenter of this vibrant activity. Amber Cove will host 25 cruise ships, while Taino Bay will welcome 46, totaling a remarkable 71 cruise ships for the month.

The deployment not only promises to offer unforgettable experiences to visitors but will also boost the local economy by promoting tourism and strengthening interaction with the various businesses and services in the area.

For this reason, the northern regional director of tourism, Atahualpa Paulino, indicated that “this high cruise season is shaping up to be a resounding success.”

“The constant arrival of cruise passengers will contribute significantly to consolidate Puerto Plata’s position as one of the most outstanding tourist destinations in the Caribbean region,” he said.

He also thanked President Luis Abinader and the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, whose support has been fundamental for the flourishing of this crucial industry for Puerto Plata.

Tourism contributes RD$12 billion to collections as of October

Santo Domingo.- In the first ten months of this year, revenue from tourism in the Dominican Republic, mainly from airport departure taxes and tourist card fees, reached approximately 12.4 billion pesos. This surpasses the revised budgetary target of 12.3 billion pesos set for the end of the year. In October alone, these taxes contributed about 1 billion pesos to the treasury.

According to Diario Libre, passenger departure tax increased 15.3% in these 10 months and retention for tourist visas increased 14%.

The increase in revenue corresponds with the growing number of tourists visiting the Dominican Republic in 2023. As of November, air passenger arrivals totaled nearly 7 million, an 8.1% increase from the same period in 2022.

Breaking down the revenue sources, the state collected approximately 8.2 billion pesos from the airport departure tax for passengers traveling abroad from January to October.

Revenue from tourist cards, mandatory for visitors entering the Dominican Republic for vacation purposes without a visa, was about 4.1 billion pesos in the first ten months.

Dominican Republic among Iberostar’s main destinations for exclusive weddings in 2024

Santo Domingo.- Iberostar Beachfront Resorts has unveiled a series of special wedding promotions for its locations in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Mexico. These promotions are part of Iberostar’s commitment to responsible tourism and aim to provide personalized and sustainable wedding experiences. The company’s wedding packages focus on uniqueness and eco-friendliness.

For couples planning their wedding at an Iberostar property, travel agents can now offer an enticing incentive: five complimentary nights for a return stay at any Iberostar resort in these countries, as reported by TravelPulse. This is in addition to other benefits for travel agents, such as earning double points in the Iberostar Star Agents program and a higher commission of 15% on wedding day events.

Couples will also enjoy a complimentary activity for their Wedding Week group. They can choose from options like a semi-private rehearsal dinner, a mixology class combined with a cooking workshop, or a cocktail hour featuring a select bar. These offerings are designed to enhance the wedding experience for both the couple and their guests.

Arajet emerged as “the best new airline in the world” at the World Aviation Summit

Santo Domingo.- Arajet, the Dominican low-cost carrier, has been honored as “the best new airline in the world” at the prestigious CAPA Awards, held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during the World Aviation Summit. This recognition comes amidst awards in nine other global aviation and airport categories.

Selected from over 20 newly established airlines in the past three years, Arajet stood out for its innovation and significant impact on the global aviation industry. A key factor in winning the award was Arajet’s modern fleet, which currently includes six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, expected to expand to eight by the end of the year. The airline also has an ongoing order with The Boeing Company, potentially increasing its fleet to more than 45 aircraft by 2027.

Arajet’s aircraft are noted for being more fuel-efficient and quieter than previous generations. In its first year, the airline has already transported around half a million passengers. The company’s press release highlights these achievements.

Víctor Pacheco Méndez, Arajet’s CEO and founder, expressed pride in receiving the award, seeing it as a realization of a dream. He emphasized Arajet’s role in transforming the Dominican Republic into a key hub in the Americas, connecting 22 destinations across 16 countries with over 150 connection possibilities in just one year.

At the CAPA Awards, Arajet was recognized alongside other notable winners like Alaska Airlines, which won Airline of the Year, and London Gatwick Airport, named the best large airport in the world.

Gardiner Porter, Boeing Aircraft’s Commercial Director, present at the ceremony, lauded Arajet as an extraordinary partner for The Boeing Company. He mentioned that Arajet is the first 737-8 operator to achieve this recognition.

Pacheco Méndez dedicated the award to the Dominican people and Arajet’s over 400 employees, acknowledging their efforts in realizing this vision. He also thanked the Dominican Republic’s government for its support, which has been instrumental in enhancing the country’s and Latin America’s connectivity.

Abinader receives the credentials of six ambassadors

Santo Domingo.- Yesterday, President Luis Abinader, accompanied by Vice President Raquel Peña and Minister of Foreign Affairs Roberto Álvarez, received the credentials of six new ambassadors in a formal ceremony at the Ambassadors’ Hall of the National Palace.

The newly accredited diplomats to the Dominican Republic are:

1. Jacqueline DeLima Baril from Canada, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Studies from Queen’s University and a Master’s degree in Global Development Management from the UK Open University.

2. Ángel Arzuaga Reyes from the Republic of Cuba, a graduate of the “Enrique José Varona” Higher Institute with a degree in History and Social Sciences (1981), and further studies at the Higher Institute of International Relations “Raúl Roa García” (1995).

3. María Sandra Winkler from the Republic of Argentina, who graduated in International Relations from the National University of Rosario, Argentina. She previously headed the economic and commercial sections of the Argentine embassies in Japan and Paraguay.

4. Deryck Lance Murray from Trinidad and Tobago, a former member of the Trinidad and Tobago foreign service and a delegate to the Programs and Coordination Committee at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

5. Beate Stirø from the Kingdom of Norway, who has been part of the Norwegian Foreign Service since 1990, with roles related to the UN Department of Humanitarian Affairs.

6. Franz Hall from Jamaica, a Bachelor of Science holder and a veteran of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica since 1992.

Each diplomat was accompanied by their respective entourage and discussed their careers and missions with President Abinader. The ceremony also featured the playing of the national anthems of the Dominican Republic and the respective countries of the new ambassadors.

Dominican Skyhigh inaugurates route to Miami from Punta Cana Airport

Punta cana.- Skyhigh Dominicana, a Dominican airline, has recently launched a new direct flight route connecting Miami, USA, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This service will operate three times a week: Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The inauguration event was attended by David Collado, the Minister of Tourism, who praised the airline’s efforts in enhancing connectivity between the Dominican Republic and the United States.

Collado emphasized the role of the Punta Cana International Airport in boosting tourism in the country, noting its continuous innovation and record-breaking achievements. He also mentioned that the country is on track to welcome eight million tourists by air and over two million via cruises, projecting a total of 10 million visitors by the end of December.

Cesarina Beauchamp, Vice President of Skyhigh Dominicana, highlighted the airline’s commitment to connecting the Dominican Republic with North America and other regions. The flights will be operated using Embraer 190 aircraft, accommodating 97 passengers, with nine seats in business class and 88 in tourist class. Departures from Miami are scheduled for 8:00 AM, arriving in Punta Cana at 11:20 AM, with return flights at 1:00 PM, reaching Miami at 2:20 PM (winter time).

Giovanni Rainieri, Director of Airside Operations at Punta Cana International Airport, stated that this alliance aligns with the airport’s goal to remain the most trafficked in the Dominican Republic, currently receiving 69% of the country’s tourists.

This new route is part of Skyhigh Dominicana’s international expansion, following the launch of services to Providence and Rhode Island. The event was also attended by Héctor Porcella, General Director of the Civil Aviation Institute (IDAC), Antonio Yapor of the Civil Aviation Board, Juan Chamizo Alonso, President of Skyhigh Dominicana, and Frank Elías Rainieri and Paola Rainieri of Grupo Puntacana. For reservations, interested individuals are directed to the Skyhigh Dominicana website.

Abinader predicts foreign investment will reach 4.4 billion dollars this year

Samaná.- President Luis Abinader presided over the inauguration of a new luxury hotel on Cayo Levantado, a development representing a €50 million investment in the Samaná province. This upscale hotel is set to create over 500 direct job opportunities in the region.

During the inauguration event, President Abinader highlighted the positive trends in foreign investments in the Dominican Republic. He noted that foreign investments are anticipated to reach $4.4 billion this year, up from $4.1 billion in the previous year. This upward trajectory in foreign investments signifies economic growth and increased investor confidence in the country.

Abinader expressed his gratitude to the Piñero Group for their commitment to promoting tourism and providing employment opportunities to around 7,000 Dominicans. He also mentioned that the tourism sector is expected to receive over $30 billion in investment next year.

David Collado, the Minister of Tourism, revealed that investments totaling 1.7 billion pesos are currently underway in Samaná, with completion expected in January and February 2024. He also predicted that 2023 would be a record-breaking year for tourism, with over 10 million tourists expected to visit the country.

Collado commended the government’s responsible approach to reopening the country to tourism during the pandemic, which played a pivotal role in the sector’s recovery. He highlighted the international recognition that the Dominican Republic has received for its remarkable rebound in the tourism industry.

The newly inaugurated Cayo Levantado Resort boasts 218 rooms and represents a significant investment of over €50 million. It focuses on sustainability, wellness, promoting local culture, and preserving the natural environment. The resort offers unique amenities, including “Yubarta,” a space for personal development inspired by the local humpback whales of Samaná.

This resort has also become a source of employment for the province and surrounding areas, creating approximately 500 direct jobs, with a majority being Dominican citizens, contributing to the region’s economic and social growth.

Cayo Levantado Resort’s emphasis on sustainability extends to environmental conservation efforts, including landscaping and revegetation work on the island, the implementation of paperless check-in, the elimination of single-use plastics, and the use of clean energy sources like photovoltaic panels and waste biodigestion system.

The resort aims to raise environmental awareness among its guests through programs and activities organized by the Eco Bahia Foundation, encouraging a deeper connection with the natural environment.

The opening ceremony was attended by various government officials, including the Minister of the Environment, the governor, the senator, the mayor of Samaná, the commander of the Navy, the directors of Apordom and Politur, the Spanish ambassador to the Dominican Republic, and representatives from the tourism sector.

Collado: New projects will turn Samaná into a paradise

Samaná, DR.- David Collado, the Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, has expressed optimism about the transformation of the province of Samaná into a top-tier tourist destination. This transformation is anticipated following the completion and initiation of various public space projects in the area.

Collado confidently stated that within six months, significant changes will be visible, making Samaná a “true paradise.” Key developments include the completion of the boardwalk and the commencement of construction on the tourist pier, along with various initiatives in Las Terrenas. These efforts align with the vision of Collado and President Abinader to establish Samaná as a premier tourist locale in the Dominican Republic.

The Minister announced the scheduled delivery of the Samaná boardwalk in February 2024. This project, involving lighting enhancements and flood prevention measures, represents an investment of around 400 million Dominican pesos. Additionally, Collado highlighted other significant investments in the province, including the reconstruction of the Fishermen’s Village, costing over 230 million pesos, and the development of the Cosón highway, a 16 million dollar project. These investments reflect the government’s commitment to boosting Samaná’s appeal as a tourist destination.

The UNWTO analyzes investment opportunities in tourism in Latin American countries

Madrid.- Ecuador, Paraguay, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia are spearheading tourism projects valued at 2,350 million euros (approximately 2,573 million dollars), as highlighted in the first investment guides for each country prepared by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with their respective Ministries of Tourism.

The UNWTO has so far published seven guides that delve into the tourism development opportunities in these four Latin American countries, as well as Uzbekistan, Tanzania, and Mauritius. The combined potential investment of these projects is estimated at around 5.5 billion euros (5.981 million dollars), according to Natalia Bayona, the executive director of the Madrid-based organization, in her interview with EFE.

The investment projects vary by country. In Colombia and Uruguay, the focus is mainly on hotel and real estate developments, estimated at 274 and 231 million dollars respectively. In Paraguay, the investment targets river tourism, interpretation centers, museums, sports, and airport infrastructures, amounting to 350 million dollars. The Dominican Republic is aiming for investments totaling 1,718 million dollars, primarily in maritime, road, health constructions, innovation centers, film studios, public spaces, golf courses, theme parks, and historical monuments and forts.

These guides detail the types of investments sought (private, public, or public-private partnerships) for each project and the potential job creation, among other aspects. The UNWTO envisions a broader model of tourism investment promotion, incorporating education (investment in people), technology and innovation (for prosperity), and sustainability (for the planet).

Bayona notes that 66% of global tourism investments are concentrated in hotels, highlighting a significant opportunity for diversification. In Latin America, the UNWTO has partnered with CAF (Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean) to create guides for some countries. In addition to Ecuador, which already has its guide, the UNWTO is working with Barbados, Uruguay, Panama, and El Salvador in the first phase of the agreement with CAF. The second phase is expected to include Jamaica, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, and Honduras, potentially launching at the next edition of the Fitur tourism fair in Madrid.

Outside the CAF collaboration, guides for the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Paraguay have been prepared. Additionally, the UNWTO is working with Chile to showcase the country’s potential at an investment promotion forum on December 7.

The goal is to have a roadmap by the end of 2024 for nearly all of Latin America to promote investments under the framework the UNWTO seeks to standardize. Over the past five years, 175.5 billion dollars have been invested in 2,415 tourism projects worldwide, with Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East being significant recipients. Europe remains a primary investment destination due to its robust and mature tourism industry. However, private investors are increasingly exploring emerging markets in Latin America and the Middle East.

The Dominican Republic’s health offer is world-class

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has positioned itself as the leading destination in the Caribbean region for health tourism, but many do not know that the sector that leads this appetizing market niche is dentistry.

This was clearly evidenced during the 6th International Congress on Health and Wellness Tourism, where statistics on the sector were presented and an interesting panel entitled “The Dominican health offer for the world” was held.

This expert discussion was moderated by renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Arnaldo Espaillat and was attended by Dr. Virginia Laureano, president of the Dominican College of Dentists (CDO); Sergio Guzmán, president of the Dominican Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (SODOCIPRE); Héctor Sánchez Navarro, renowned robotic surgeon, and engineer Carlos Prato, investor and president of IMG Hospital.

Dr. Laureano revealed that 179,000 international dental patients will spend an average of over 5,000 dollars per case in the country during 2022, leaving a significant economic benefit.

According to Dr. Sergio Guzmán, president of SODOCIPRE, over 40 thousand international patients underwent plastic surgery procedures due to medical tourism in 2022 and a favorable growth is expected for 2023.

Dr. Sánchez Navarro and engineer Carlos Prato pointed out that for a health center to stand out at an international level, it requires planning, investment in technology, training and international accreditation, focus on protocols, quality, safety, differentiating factors and a good communication strategy.

The experts concluded that it is essential that in addition to these private efforts, the government and the Tourism Ministry should encourage and invest in promoting health and wellness tourism internationally.

United States Embassy highlights business opportunities in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Patricia Aguilera, the charge d’affaires of the United States Embassy in the Dominican Republic, expressed optimism about the business environment in the country, emphasizing its potential for growth. Speaking at the traditional Thanksgiving lunch of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (Amchamdr), Aguilera highlighted the shared commitment between the two countries to foster innovation, drive economic growth, and create mutually beneficial partnerships.

Aguilera also mentioned the impressive visa processing achievements of the Embassy. She noted that the Embassy team is on track to process over 210,000 non-immigrant visas this year, surpassing the number processed in 2019. Additionally, she revealed plans to process more than 65,000 immigrant visas to the United States from Santo Domingo, marking the highest number ever recorded.

An important development Aguilera pointed out is the implementation of the Global Entry program in the Dominican Republic. This initiative allows Dominican citizens with visas to apply online for entry and use inspection kiosks at airports in the United States, facilitating a quicker and more efficient entry process by avoiding long lines.

Edwin De los Santos, the president of Amchamdr, also spoke at the event, underscoring the strong alliance between the US Embassy and the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic. He acknowledged the significant role of the US Embassy in fostering the economic and commercial development of both nations and the region. De los Santos highlighted the current state of the bilateral relationship as one of the best moments, characterized by cooperation and mutual commitment that translate into opportunities.