Dominican Republic expands air connectivity in 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic is set to enhance its air connectivity in 2024, as reported by José Marte Piantini, President of the Civil Aviation Board (JAC). In the first session of the organization this year, Piantini announced an increase in frequencies to and from the country.

During the session, the plenary members were informed about Sky High Aviation Services’ request for a Special Permit to expand air connectivity through flights on various routes. These routes include Santo Domingo/Curaçao/Miami/Curaçao/Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo/Aruba/Miami/Aruba/Santo Domingo, and Santo Domingo/English Guyana/Santo Domingo.

Sky High Aviation Services’ request encompasses a total of 184 round-trip flights. Among these, there are 53 flights scheduled on the Santo Domingo/Aruba/Miami/Aruba/Santo Domingo route, with a frequency of one flight every Wednesday and Saturday, from March 1 to September 1 of this year. Additionally, there are 53 flights on the Santo Domingo/Curaçao/Miami/Curaçao/Santo Domingo route, with a frequency of one flight every Thursday and Sunday, during the same period.

Furthermore, the airline plans to conduct 78 flights on the Santo Domingo/English Guyana/Santo Domingo route every Monday, Thursday, and Sunday, from January 10 to July 10. Operations will be carried out using Embraer 175, Embraer 190, and Boeing 737-300 aircraft.

Marte Piantini took the opportunity to commend the efforts of the work teams within the sector, highlighting that their dedication ensures efficient flight operations in the Dominican Republic.

In the pursuit of expanding the country’s air connectivity, JAC members were informed of a Special Permit request from AIR TRANSAT. This request involves the operation of 56 round-trip flights from January 5 to 31, 2024, covering routes such as Hamilton/Puerto Plata/Ottawa, Hamilton/Punta Cana/Quebec City, London, Ontario/Punta Cana/Ottawa, Ottawa/Puerto Plata/Hamilton, and Ottawa/Punta Cana/London.

Additionally, the plenary session addressed another Special Permit request from AIR CANADA. This request seeks authorization for round-trip flights every Sunday on the Montreal/La Romana/Montreal route from January 14 to March 31 of this year. Piantini clarified during the hearing that this route is already authorized in the SUNWING AIRLINES Operation Permit, signifying ongoing developmental progress for the route.

President Abinader champions tourism as key to Dominican Republic’s growth

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader emphasized the critical role of tourism in transforming the Dominican Republic into a leading global and regional tourism power. During a public address, he recognized the sector’s substantial economic impact and its role in job creation and community development.

Abinader highlighted the direct and indirect employment opportunities generated by the tourism industry, noting the significant economic ripple effect it has on local communities. From taxi drivers to farmers supplying produce to hotels, tourism’s influence extends far beyond the sector itself.

Praising the efforts of the Tourism Cabinet and the Ministry, the President underscored this success as a collective achievement of the Dominican society, including the government, private sector, and social sectors. He stressed that such advancements are not possible without the support and collaboration of all these groups.

Abinader underscored tourism’s significance in the Dominican economy, noting its growing recognition and impact on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He expressed his belief in tourism as a driving force for the nation’s socio-economic development.

The President also spoke about specific projects and developments aimed at boosting tourism. These include infrastructure investments in regions like Miches and Pedernales, and plans for the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. He mentioned initiatives like building an aqueduct in Miches, improving connectivity through new roads, and designing a Convention Center in Santo Domingo.

Abinader concluded his speech with optimism about the future of tourism in the Dominican Republic. He reiterated his commitment to supporting the sector’s growth and prosperity, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these goals.

Collado: “2023 has been the best year for tourism in the history of the Dominican Republic”Collado: “2023 has been the best year for tourism in the history of the Dominican Republic”

Santo Domingo—Tourism Minister David Collado reported that the sector registered a growth of more than 36% in 2019 and exceeded the goal of 10 million visitors by more than 300,000.

In an event headed by President Luis Abinader, where the performance of tourism last year was announced, Collado said that in the January-December period, the country received 10,306,517 visitors by air and sea, thus surpassing more than 300 thousand the goal of 10 million.

He indicated that the Dominican Republic received 8,058,670 by air and another 2,247,847 by sea last year.

“2023 has been the best year for tourism in the entire history of the country, thanks to the vision of President Luis Abinader and that great alliance of the public and private sectors,” he added.

He said that in December alone, 867,570 tourists arrived in the country by air, 106,635 more than in 2022, representing a growth of 13%.

He pointed out that 8,058,670 tourists arrived in the country in January-December, exceeding by 22% in 2022 and 25% in 2019.

In addition, he said that in the same twelve-month period, cruise passengers totaled 2,247,172, while in December alone, 327,172 arrived, representing an increase of 45% over the same month of 2022.

Meanwhile, it was announced that the major destinations visited last year were Punta Cana with 42%, Santo Domingo with 18%, Puerto Plata with 12%, and La Romana with 11%. The main countries of origin of tourists were the United States with 43%, Canada with 16%, Colombia 7%, Spain 5% and Puerto Rico with 4%.

Dominican Republic’s Tourism sector achieves record growth

Santo Domingo.- In a significant event presided over by President Luis Abinader, Tourism Minister David Collado announced remarkable growth in the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector. The country recorded a growth of over 36% compared to 2019, surpassing the ambitious goal of 10 million visitors.

Minister Collado reported that during the January-December period, the Dominican Republic welcomed a total of 10,306,517 visitors, both by air and sea. The breakdown includes 8,058,670 arrivals by air and 2,247,847 by sea.

“2023 has been the best year of tourism in the entire history of the country, thanks to President Luis Abinader’s vision and the strong public-private sector alliance,” Collado stated while presenting last year’s statistics. In December alone, the country saw an influx of 867,570 air travelers, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

The Minister highlighted that the annual tourist arrivals by air in 2023 exceeded the numbers of both 2022 by 22% and 2019 by 25%. Additionally, the country saw a significant rise in cruise passengers, with 2,247,172 visitors over the year and 327,172 in December alone, a 45% increase from December 2022.

President Abinader emphasized the critical role of tourism in bolstering the nation’s economy and GDP, contributing to job creation and spurring economic development. He expressed confidence that the current period remains optimal for investment in the country, citing ongoing growth, international recognition, and enhanced security measures.

The President also underscored the success of the public-private partnership and the Tourism Cabinet in driving investments and development in new tourist destinations like Puerto Plata, Miches, and Cabo Rojo. He mentioned the construction of road projects to better connect these tourist hotspots.

The top destinations visited last year were Punta Cana (42%), Santo Domingo (18%), Puerto Plata (12%), and La Romana (11%). The United States led as the primary tourist source country (43%), followed by Canada (16%), Colombia (7%), Spain (5%), and Puerto Rico (4%).

During the event, President Abinader and Minister Collado presented an award to businessman Rafael “Papo” Blanco, recognizing his contributions to the tourism sector.

What’s happening with the price of the dollar in the Dominican Republic, Guillermo Caram answers

Santo Domingo—The former governor of the Central Bank, Guillermo Caram, informed this Friday that the dollar had increased the satisfaction of the demand for imports, thus leading to a reactivation of the economy.

“This increase in the demand for the dollar is a real manifestation of the economy that we are satisfying more needs with imports and forces us to look at how we can reactivate the economy so that there are more,” he explained.

Caram further dismissed expectations of change in the country’s political economy.

“The president looks very satisfied with his economic policy in general, and I do not perceive in the civil service any initiative for change,” he said.

He described 2024 as challenging “because we just had moderate economic growth for the first time in many years, and we are going for an election year where there is a propensity to spend.”

“I see the government accelerating many provisions that had long been on the table. For example: the issue of advertising, the regulation of administrative processes, among others,” he added.

Regarding Luis Abinader’s mandate, the economist believes that the change from the Partido de la Liberación Dominicana (PLD) to the Partido Revolucionario Moderno (PRM) “was worth it.”

“I supported Abinader in 2012, 2016, 2020 and now I am going to support him. I think the change was worth it because above all, what would have happened if Abinader had not won when what we have seen what is happening in the justice system,” he concluded.

These statements were offered in the program Uno + Uno, which is broadcast on TeleAntillas channel 2.

Falcon’s Resort in Punta Cana rebrands as Paradisus Grand Cana

On January 15, Falcon’s Resort by Meliá, All Suites Punta Cana, is set to rebrand as Paradisus Grand Cana, following a market response evaluation and brand strength assessment, announced Andre Gerondeau, the director of operations at Meliá Hotels International.

Originally known as Paradisus Grand Cana, the property underwent renovation and relaunch in early 2023 under the Falcon’s Resort by Meliá name, part of a collaboration with Falcon’s Beyond, an entertainment development company.

The rebranding aligns with Falcon’s Katmandu Park Punta Cana, a neighboring theme park, creating a unique “resortainment” experience. Despite the rebranding, the partnership with Katmandu Park will persist at Paradisus hotels in Punta Cana.

The Paradisus Grand Cana will feature 108 special “Katmandu Experience” swim-up suites among its 432 accommodations, providing guests with enhanced amenities and complimentary access to Katmandu Park Punta Cana.

Additionally, Gerondeau disclosed Meliá’s ongoing expansion in Punta Cana, with plans to commence construction on a new Zel-branded property in May. The Zel brand, a collaboration with tennis star Rafael Nadal, debuted in late 2022 with its first establishment in Mallorca.

The Paradisus Grand Cana and the upcoming Zel project are integral parts of a larger complex in Punta Cana, including Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort, and Meliá Caribe Beach Resort.On January 15, Falcon’s Resort by Meliá, All Suites Punta Cana, is set to rebrand as Paradisus Grand Cana, following a market response evaluation and brand strength assessment, announced Andre Gerondeau, the director of operations at Meliá Hotels International.

Originally known as Paradisus Grand Cana, the property underwent renovation and relaunch in early 2023 under the Falcon’s Resort by Meliá name, part of a collaboration with Falcon’s Beyond, an entertainment development company.

The rebranding aligns with Falcon’s Katmandu Park Punta Cana, a neighboring theme park, creating a unique “resortainment” experience. Despite the rebranding, the partnership with Katmandu Park will persist at Paradisus hotels in Punta Cana.

The Paradisus Grand Cana will feature 108 special “Katmandu Experience” swim-up suites among its 432 accommodations, providing guests with enhanced amenities and complimentary access to Katmandu Park Punta Cana.

Additionally, Gerondeau disclosed Meliá’s ongoing expansion in Punta Cana, with plans to commence construction on a new Zel-branded property in May. The Zel brand, a collaboration with tennis star Rafael Nadal, debuted in late 2022 with its first establishment in Mallorca.

The Paradisus Grand Cana and the upcoming Zel project are integral parts of a larger complex in Punta Cana, including Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort, and Meliá Caribe Beach Resort.

MargaritaVille to exit Dominican Republic as Playa Group acquires Cap Cana hotel

Punta Cana.- The MargaritaVille brand is set to cease its operations in the Dominican Republic, with the Cap Cana hotel being acquired by the Playa Group. This development is already being discussed in top tourism and banking circles, indicating that the deal is nearly finalized.

As per sources from arecoa.com, Grupo Playa is poised to purchase a 65 percent stake in the property, which is currently owned by the Barderas family. Following this acquisition, Karisma, which has been managing the hotel for the past two years, will no longer be involved.

The new majority shareholders are reportedly in talks with Marriott to bring one of its brands to the Cap Cana hotel, replacing MargaritaVille. While this detail is yet to be officially confirmed, the source is considered highly reliable.

Financial specifics, such as the exit penalties for Karisma and MargaritaVille, are still being worked out. Speculation suggests a figure around 10 million dollars, but the exact compensation for MargaritaVille has not been disclosed. The exit of both companies from the Cap Cana hotel is expected to occur within the next few months.

The Playa Hotels Group is emerging as a formidable player in the market, with a strong commitment to expanding its presence in the Dominican Republic. The group seems to favor collaborations with North American brands, indicating potential future partnerships and operations in the country.

Dominican Republic shines in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has made a notable impression in this year’s TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, securing prestigious spots in two categories. The country ranked 16th in the list of ‘Top Destinations’ (previously known as popular destinations) and achieved an impressive 4th place in the ‘Best Honeymoon Destinations’ category.

Travelers are drawn to the Dominican Republic for its unique blend of pristine white sand beaches and charming Victorian gingerbread architecture. With nine hundred miles of Caribbean coastline, it’s a haven for beach enthusiasts. TripAdvisor highlights must-visit spots like the Loma Isabel de Torres cable car in Puerto Plata and the vibrant nightlife of Cabarete. Punta Cana, with its idyllic palm trees and crystal-clear waters, is particularly noted for epitomizing a tropical paradise.

TripAdvisor’s report also sheds light on travel trends for the new year. Nearly half (45%) of travelers are planning three or more trips, with 46% including at least one international journey. A significant 93% of Americans intend to spend the same or more on travel this year, indicating sustained momentum in the travel sector.

The Travelers’ Choice Awards 2024 for ‘Best of the Best Destinations’ are determined by analyzing the quality and quantity of reviews across various categories, including accommodations, restaurants, and activities. These reviews are gathered from global travelers on TripAdvisor between October 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023, ensuring a comprehensive reflection of traveler experiences and preferences.

Ministry of Tourism issues resolution to regulate cruise terminal services

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Mitur) issued a new resolution on January 9, 2024 to regulate the provision of services at cruise terminals in the country.

The tourism authorities have implemented a comprehensive set of regulations to guarantee the highest standards of quality across all aspects of the cruise terminal experience. From meticulously maintained facilities and well-trained staff to robust security measures and clear signage, every detail is intensively considered to ensure a smooth and worry-free visit.

Key points of the document

• Requires all service providers at cruise ports to have a valid operating license and describes specific requirements for facilities, security, signage, and staff training.

• Requires operators to report passenger counts and any incidents to the Ministry of Tourism and requests collaboration with relevant government agencies.

• Establishes obligations for cruise port operators, including the implementation of security measures and service quality, as well as the notification of passenger counts and incidents to the Ministry of Tourism.

• Requires collaboration with relevant government agencies and public dissemination.

Other aspects

Operating licenses for service providers: All service providers at cruise ports must have a valid operating license issued by the Ministry of Tourism, according to the type of service provided. Individuals or entities that use third parties under a subcontracting arrangement must ensure that the subcontractor also has a valid license.

Compliance with specific regulations: Restaurants must comply with the provisions of Regulation No. 2116, on Classification and Standards for Restaurants, while gift shops must follow Regulation No. 2123 for gift shops. Travel agencies must comply with the provisions of Decree 815-03, which approves the regulation of classification and standards for travel agencies.

Security and quality measures at cruise ports: Cruise port operators must implement measures to ensure the highest standards of security and quality in the provision of services. These measures include the development of prevention and contingency management programs, the development of strategies to maintain security, the placement of maps and signs in Spanish and English, and the guarantee of adequate general lighting and permanent surveillance in the port facilities.

Obligation to inform the Ministry of Tourism: Operators of cruise ports are required to inform the Ministry of Tourism, within the first three (3) days of each month, the number of passengers who leave the terminals and enter the port facilities.

Mitur is unwavering in its dedication to providing an exceptional experience for every visitor who sets foot on its shores. This commitment extends to those arriving by cruise ship, ensuring their safety, satisfaction, and enjoyment throughout their time in the country.

Furthermore, Mitur is committed to fostering a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere at its cruise terminals. This includes showcasing the rich culture and natural beauty of the Dominican Republic through locally-owned shops and restaurants, as well as offering a variety of exciting excursions and activities for visitors to explore.

Punta Catalina leads energy generation in the Dominican Republic

Baní.- The Punta Catalina Electric Generation Company (EGEPC) has solidified its position as a leading entity in the Dominican Republic’s energy generation sector. Recent statistics from the Coordinating Body of the National Interconnected Electrical System (OC) highlight this dominance. From January to November, EGEPC contributed a total of 4,460.32 GWh of energy, accounting for approximately 22.29% of the country’s total production, which was 20,006.65 GWh during the same period.

This substantial contribution not only showcases Punta Catalina’s capacity but also emphasizes its pivotal role in the national energy landscape. By the end of December, it is estimated that EGEPC’s net generation reached around 4,902 GWh, a figure pending official confirmation by the OC.

Punta Catalina’s significant lead in generation volume is evident when compared to other companies, with the second-highest generator reaching only 2,617 GWh. The exceptional performance of Punta Catalina’s CTPC 1 and CTPC 2 units has been instrumental in securing this leadership position. These units have consistently been in the top priority positions for thermal power plant dispatch due to their significant energy contribution, efficiency, and operational capacity.

The company has maintained a pattern of excellence and reliability, adeptly adapting to seasonal changes and ensuring stability in the Dominican Republic’s electrical grid. Celso Marranzini, the executive vice president of EGEPC, highlighted the company’s pivotal role in the energy sector, attributing its success to innovative strategies and a focus on operational excellence. Marranzini’s remarks underscore Punta Catalina’s crucial impact on the growth and stability of the Dominican energy sector.

U.S. Officials visit CODEVI industrial park to discuss job creation and bilateral cooperation

Santo Domingo.- Tom Perez, former Secretary of Labor under Barack Obama’s administration, and Juan S. González, Special Assistant to Joe Biden and Senior Director of the National Security Council (NSC) for the Western Hemisphere, recently visited the CODEVI industrial park in Juana Méndez, Haiti, situated on the border with the Dominican Republic.

During their visit, the U.S. officials met with businessman Fernando Aníbal Capellán Peralta to explore job creation opportunities and discuss the future prosperity of both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Capellán Peralta highlighted the significance of the meeting on his Twitter account, sharing photos and emphasizing the productive dialogue on job creation and a better future for people in both nations.

The tweet read: “Productive conversation about the opportunities and challenges for creating more jobs and a better future for people in both countries. #HopeHelp #Nearshore Cooperation @POTUS.”

This visit underscores the United States’ interest in enhancing bilateral collaboration in labor and economic matters. It demonstrates a commitment to fostering job growth and improving living conditions in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The engagement at CODEVI is a positive step towards strengthening ties and cooperation between these neighboring countries and the United States.

Air Europa considering daily business class flights to Punta Cana

Punta Cana.- Air Europa, a part of the Globalia Group, is reportedly planning to expand its service offerings by introducing business class flights on all its routes from Madrid to Punta Cana Airport. This potential upgrade in service comes in response to considerable demand from passengers for VIP flight options to the Dominican Republic’s leading airport.

Currently, the Spanish airline operates only one business class flight per week to Punta Cana, specifically on Mondays. In contrast, Air Europa offers daily flights with business class service to Las Américas Airport, indicating a precedent for such premium services in its operations.

While Air Europa has not officially confirmed the introduction of these daily business class flights to Punta Cana, the decision is expected to be announced soon, possibly around the time of Fitur, the international tourism trade fair. This move, if confirmed, would significantly enhance the airline’s service offering and meet the growing demand for more luxurious and comfortable travel options to Punta Cana.

IDB Invest grants $75 Million loan to Banco BHD to empower women entrepreneurs

Santo Domingo.- IDB Invest, a member of the IDB Group, has announced a significant initiative to bolster the economic empowerment of women in the Dominican Republic. A subordinated loan of $75 million, extendable up to seven years, will be provided to Banco BHD. This strategic funding aims to enhance credit access for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) led or owned by women, through loans in Dominican pesos.

With about 1.5 million MSMEs, constituting 98% of all Dominican businesses and employing 65% of the workforce, these enterprises are crucial to the country’s economy. However, a notable gender gap in financial inclusion persists, as evidenced by a 22% lower loan reception rate for women compared to men over the last year.

Banco BHD, recognized for addressing gender gaps in financing, collaborates with IDB Invest to promote the WeFinance Code, a private sector-led initiative in the Dominican Republic. This initiative aims to utilize sex-disaggregated data to enhance support within the financial ecosystem for women’s MSME segment.

The WeFinance Code, supported by the Women Entrepreneurs Financing Initiative (We-Fi), focuses on unlocking financing for female entrepreneurs. Banco BHD will receive IDB Invest’s technical advice on digitizing and utilizing data for tailoring financial offers to businesswomen. This includes conducting market studies for rural and urban entrepreneurs and applying tools to mitigate unconscious bias in credit processes.

This collaboration aims to automate and scale Banco BHD’s offerings for women-led MSMEs, catalyzing knowledge transfer among financial entities and stakeholders in the Dominican Republic. The project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on gender equality, economic growth, innovation, and reducing inequalities.

About IDB Invest:
IDB Invest, part of the IDB Group, is a multilateral development bank dedicated to promoting economic development in Latin America and the Caribbean through the private sector. It supports sustainable companies and projects for financial success and broad economic, social, and environmental development in the region. With a portfolio of $16.33 billion and serving 394 clients across 25 countries, IDB Invest offers innovative financial solutions and advisory services across various sectors.

Santiago Mayor declares 2024 as the “Year of Tourism Promotion”

Santiago.- Abel Martínez, the mayor of Santiago, has announced 2024 as the “Year of the Promotion of Tourism in Santiago.” This declaration, contained in the municipal provision 016-2023, was made on December 30th.

Martínez outlined that the Santiago council is engaged in various programs aimed at enhancing tourism and culture within the district. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to integrate the community into the national dynamics of the Dominican Republic. He underscored that Santiago de los Caballeros has recently been recognized as a model city in terms of order, organization, and development, attracting both domestic and international tourists.

Tourism in Santiago is reportedly experiencing rapid growth, attributed to the effective city model implemented during Martínez’s administration. The mayor highlighted the city’s advancements and attractions, including its cleanliness, the city mural route, mountain tourism, and notably, the burgeoning sector of health tourism.

Martínez also cited recent investments in the hotel industry, state-of-the-art medical facilities with international certification, and Santiago’s prominence in sports with iconic baseball, basketball, and soccer teams. The expansion of the International Airport, new commercial establishments, cultural, shopping, and gastronomic routes, all bolstered by agreements with prestigious national and international entities, were also mentioned as key factors in this declaration.

Furthermore, the provision issued by Mayor Martínez mandates the use of the slogan “2024 Year of the Tourism Promotion in Santiago” on all official council documents, reinforcing the city’s commitment to elevating its tourism profile in the coming year.

Standard & Poor’s reaffirms Dominican Republic’s ‘BB’ rating with stable outlook

Santo Domingo.- Standard & Poor’s (S&P Global) has reasserted the Dominican Republic’s credit rating as “BB with a stable outlook.” This decision reflects the country’s strengthened governmental institutions and the ability to sustain high economic growth rates, improved fiscal planning, and better public debt management.

In December 2022, the credit rating of the Dominican State was upgraded from “BB-” to “BB”, marking the highest credit rating achieved by the country. S&P Global emphasizes that macroeconomic stability will continue to underpin these positive outcomes.

The S&P report specifically notes the reduction in inflation, attributed to measures implemented by the Central Bank in 2023. It also projects a swift return of the country’s economic growth to its long-term levels. Furthermore, the robust performance of the tourism sector is credited for contributing to the expansion of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and reducing the current account deficit.

A potential further improvement in the rating hinges on the approval and implementation of reforms enhancing fiscal and debt planning, leading to lower fiscal deficits.

Minister of Finance Jochi Vicente highlighted the government’s submission of the Fiscal Responsibility Law draft to the National Congress in 2023. This law aims to ensure the sustainability of public finances. Vicente acknowledged the challenges faced both domestically and internationally, noting that the government’s improvements and reforms have positively impacted the country’s credit evaluation. This, he says, translates into more and better opportunities for the nation.

Vice Minister of Public Credit, María José Martínez, further explained that the improvements in credit rating achieved under the current administration provide the Dominican State with access to capital markets at lower interest rates. This enhances the country’s appeal for foreign investment.

Cibao International Airport celebrates arrival of two millionth passenger in 2023

Cibao International Airport marked a significant milestone on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, as it welcomed its two millionth passenger of the year. Rafael Tiburcio, a 76-year-old traveler, arrived on Delta Airlines flight 1845 from New York and was the lucky two millionth passenger. To commemorate this occasion, Tiburcio was awarded 200,000 pesos, 10,000 travel miles, and a recognition plaque.

Félix García Castellanos, president of the Board of Directors of Cibao International Airport, expressed his excitement over achieving this passenger count in 2023. He extended his gratitude to the passengers who choose Cibao International Airport and shared the airport’s goal to double this number following its ongoing expansion work.

The airport celebrated the arrival of the flight carrying the milestone passenger with a festive atmosphere. The event featured an artistic performance by the merengue singer of typical music, El Prodigio. Additionally, folk dances, piglets, Roba la Gallina, and other characters representing Dominican culture added to the jubilant celebration. Members of the Board of Directors of Cibao International Airport also participated in the event.

This achievement at Cibao International Airport contributes to the Dominican Republic’s record of welcoming over 10 million visitors in 2023, as reported by Diario Libre. This milestone underscores the country’s growing appeal as a tourist destination and the airport’s role in facilitating this growth.

Historic arrival: First cruise ship to dock at Cabo Rojo Port in Pedernales

Pedernales.- The Southern region of the Dominican Republic is poised to experience a historic moment with the scheduled arrival of the first cruise ship at the newly ready Cabo Rojo port in Pedernales. The port, boasting a stunning view, is set to welcome its first influx of tourists, significantly marking a new chapter in the region’s development.

Sigmund Freud, the director of Public-Private Partnerships, shared glimpses of the picturesque Cabo Rojo port on social media, stirring excitement about its potential to attract visitors. “We are ready! [It] will be a historic day for the Dominican Republic, with the arrival of the first cruise ship with nearly 3,000 visitors to Port Cabo Rojo in Pedernales,” Freud announced, expressing enthusiasm for the impending event.

This inaugural docking will occur today, with the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship, arriving from Miami with 2,873 passengers. The event is set to be graced by the presence of President Luis Abinader, Minister of Tourism David Collado, alongside other dignitaries and industry stakeholders. The arrival is anticipated not only as a milestone for Pedernales but as a significant step in opening up the Southern region to global tourism, creating a narrative of change, opportunities, and prosperity.

Marriott International eyes expansion in Dominican Republic’s booming tourism sector

Santo Domingo.- Marriott International, inspired by the promising prospects of Dominican tourism, is exploring new opportunities to expand its presence in the country, focusing on emerging market segments. Bojan Kumer, the regional vice president of Development for Marriott International in the Caribbean and Latin America, has expressed high confidence in the Dominican Republic’s tourism potential, spanning from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana.

Kumer highlighted the Dominican Republic as a destination with considerable growth possibilities, especially in luxury and all-inclusive segments. The interest sparked by the Cabo Rojo project in Pedernales has led Marriott to actively seek participation opportunities in this promising venture.

Excitement is mounting within Marriott International about its expansion in the region, including a range of upcoming projects. As of the third quarter of 2023, Marriott boasts 493 properties under 22 different brands across 37 countries and territories in the Caribbean and Latin America. In the Dominican Republic alone, Marriott operates 14 properties with over 3,700 keys.

The Dominican Republic hosts nine of Marriott’s global portfolio brands, which include over 30 brands globally. These are AC Hotels by Marriott, Autograph Collection, Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, Sheraton Hotels, The Luxury Collection, and Westin Hotels.

Kumer confirmed the Dominican Republic’s status as a key market for Marriott in the region, both in terms of existing properties and future projects. The country currently has 17 properties in medium to long-term development, adding more than 3,000 keys.

Financially, Marriott’s recent performance in the region is strong, reflecting healthy growth in Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR), which increased by 2.8% over the third quarter of 2022, and occupancy rates growing nearly 3% over the same period, as reported by Listín Diario. This positive trend underscores Marriott’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the Dominican Republic’s thriving tourism sector.

Abinader to inaugurate important infrastructure projects across multiple provinces

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader is set to embark on a busy two-day tour, inaugurating nine significant projects across Peravia, Barahona, and Pedernales provinces. A highlight of this tour includes the first phase of the Cabo Rojo port.

His itinerary begins in Peravia province with the inauguration of the Prof. Carlos McKinney Experimental High School of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD). This event is scheduled for noon on Wednesday.

Following this, President Abinader will proceed to Azua province to oversee the handover of property titles, a move set to positively affect local families by ensuring their right to decent housing.

In Barahona, the President will inaugurate a 26.6-kilometer section of the Barahona/Enriquillo highway and several other developments. These include the San Rafael and Enriquillo viewpoints, the Maniel River bridge, and 1.3 kilometers of new asphalt.

The day concludes in Pedernales with the inauguration of the renovated Dr. Elio Fiallo Hospital and the opening of a new First Level Center.

On Thursday, the President’s agenda kicks off with the opening of the first stage of the Cabo Rojo port in Pedernales at 8:00 AM. This will be followed by a ceremony marking the arrival of the first cruise ship with visitors to the region.

These inaugurations reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s infrastructure, boosting tourism, and improving healthcare and educational facilities.

La Romana-Bayahíbe awaits over half a million cruise passengers in 2024

La Romana, DR.- The tourism landscape in La Romana-Bayahíbe is set for a significant boost in 2024, with the president of the Romana-Bayahíbe Hotel Association (AHRB), Andrés Fernández, announcing the expected arrival of over 500,000 cruise passengers.

This surge is attributed to the recent structural upgrades at the La Romana cruise terminal, positioning it among the largest in the Caribbean.

Fernández expressed high hopes for the 2024-2025 cruise season, emphasizing the terminal’s quality and the strategic geographic advantage of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. Additionally, he highlighted the crucial role of La Romana International Airport in this resurgence.

The airport not only caters to the influx of cruise tourists but also uniquely connects the Dominican Republic with Italy, besides recently expanding its routes to include Miami and Puerto Rico. This growth in cruise tourism is a testament to the region’s appeal as a key Caribbean destination and its capability to handle a growing tourist influx efficiently.