Grand celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the El Dorado Tournament

Santo Domingo.- The Santo Domingo Yacht Club has exciting plans for the grand celebration of the fiftieth edition of the El Dorado tournament, scheduled for Saturday, March 9. This announcement was made on Wednesday night at the Odette restaurant in the capital city.

Battísimo Palamara, the commodore of the club, expressed gratitude to members, local yacht clubs, friends, relatives, and the sports press for their presence at the event. He highlighted the significance of the celebration, as it marks not only the 50th anniversary of the El Dorado tournament but also the 59th anniversary of the Santo Domingo Nautical Club.

Palamara welcomed attendees to the press conference, stating, “We are facing a double celebration with the 50th anniversary of the El Dorado tournament and the 59th anniversary of the Santo Domingo Nautical Club. I hope you can enjoy it as much as possible and that it is as successful as the other events that we usually organize in our club.” He then handed over the floor to director Max Rodríguez.

Director Max Rodríguez expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted the hard work put into bringing the tournament to the level it deserves. He acknowledged sponsors, the sports press, and the Navy of the Dominican Republic, represented by Captain Vegazo Fanith, who attended on behalf of Vice Admiral Agustín Alberto Morillo Rodríguez, the General Commander of the ARD.

Rodríguez used a giant screen to showcase the facilities, program of activities, and supplies that will be provided to the participants. The fair is scheduled from 7:00 in the morning until 6:30 in the afternoon, when all boats must return to the Boca Chica dock for the weighing committee. The minimum weight for validation is 12 pounds, and the registration of 25 to 30 boats is anticipated. The tournament will be dedicated to retired Rear Admiral José Altagracia Beltré Tejada, with only goldfish catches eligible for awards.

A youth category (ages 12 to 16) will be featured, and participants cannot compete with adults. All captured pieces must be presented at the weighing station by 6:30 in the afternoon.

Present at the meeting were notable figures, including Past Commodore José Luis Núñez, Wally Heinsen, Héctor Duval, and directors Jorge Leroux, Eduardo José Brugal, and Alfonso Khouri, along with club communicators and members.

Minister Almonte announces updated regulations for solar panel market

Santo Domingo.- Minister of Energy and Mines, Antonio Almonte, has announced that the Superintendency of Electricity (SIE) will release updated regulations for the approval, interconnection, and operation of distributed energy generation facilities in the solar panel market before the end of this semester. Almonte emphasized the necessity for adapting the existing 2012 regulations to the current demands of the growing solar panel market, following consensus among various stakeholders.

Highlighting the surge in demand for solar panels, Almonte stressed the importance of readjusting regulations to ensure effective control and balance in the sector. The upcoming resolutions, developed through international consultations and advice, will address concerns related to over-remuneration and subsidy for customers with solar panels, which has impacted distributors facing losses due to users still connected to the traditional energy system.

Speaking on the El Zol de la Tarde program, Almonte underscored the need for clear and well-established regulations, dismissing speculative statements from companies in the competitive solar panel market. He clarified that the Dominican Government, led by President Luis Abinader, is actively promoting renewable energies at both mega and distributed generation scales, encompassing residential, small business, and industrial installations.

Almonte pointed out that the new regulation will introduce a net billing regime to replace the current net metering system. Under this framework, injected energy will be remunerated at a rate lower than withdrawal prices, and limits will be imposed on injected energy to prioritize the primary objective of distributed generation—self-consumption. This measure aims to discourage the emergence of net suppliers, microgenerators injecting energy into the grid under favorable conditions without intending self-consumption.

Abinader announces daily Caribbean Ferries route connecting San Pedro de Macorís to Puerto Rico

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader has announced the launch of a new Caribbean Ferries route, connecting San Pedro de Macorís in the Dominican Republic to Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, on a daily basis starting from July of this year.

This initiative, spanning 133 nautical miles and lasting six hours, is expected to have a profound impact on the tourism and economy of the Eastern Sultanate. The route will be capable of transporting around 1,000 passengers, 350 vehicles, and 300 containers to the Dominican soil.

The collaboration between the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom) and the Spanish company Balearia, presented at the recent International Tourism Fair (Fitur 2024), aims to transform the Port of San Pedro de Macorís into a hub where cargo and tourism seamlessly coexist between the Dominican Republic and Mayagüez.

Currently, there is an existing ferry route between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, with fixed departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 6:00 in the evening. Operated by Ferries del Caribe, these routes travel from San Juan, the Puerto Rican capital, to Santo Domingo on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays at the same specified times.

Collado anticipates record-breaking arrival months in February, March, and April

Santo Domingo.- Tourism Minister David Collado has lauded the advancements in the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector, emphasizing the substantial public investments and consistent tourist influx month after month. Anticipating record-breaking numbers in the early months of the year, Collado expressed confidence in the sector’s firm and robust progress.

Collado highlighted that until 2019, the Dominican Republic’s cumulative growth was 4.6%, slightly below the global growth of 4.8%. However, from 2020 to 2023, while the world experienced an annual decrease of 3.6%, the Dominican Republic maintained a growth rate of 4.2%.

Expressing gratitude for President Abinader’s acknowledgment of the sector’s accountability, Collado declared 2023 as the best year in the history of Dominican tourism. He foresees an exceptionally strong start to 2024, noting that January saw over a million visitors, and February recorded the best February in history.

Collado emphasized that tourism continues to strengthen, with expectations of record-breaking months in February, March, and April. In line with the president’s infrastructure plan, efforts are underway to revitalize all beaches in the country.

The minister highlighted ongoing projects in various locations, including Miches, Macao, Guayacanes I and II, Galera, Palenque, Haina, Los Patos, and Los Quemaítos, underlining the commitment to reclaiming and enhancing the country’s Sun and Beach tourist destination identity. Collado also mentioned the restoration of boardwalks in Santo Domingo, San Pedro, La Romana, Samaná, Cabrera, Montecristi, and Pedernales.

Collado concluded by emphasizing that these infrastructure investments align with the vision of creating a safer and more accessible destination.

Punta Rucia-Puerto Plata highway nears completion after 40 years

After over 40 years of construction, the Punta Rucia-Puerto Plata highway is set to be completed and handed over to the community in the coming months, as announced by the Minister of Public Works and Communications, Deligne Ascención.

The highway originates in Villa Elisa, on the Duarte-Montecristi highway, extending to La Ensenada beach in Puerto Plata, encompassing a 23-kilometer stretch, with 14 kilometers already paved with asphalt. The remaining sections will undergo grading, followed by the application of the initial asphalt layer.

Initiated during the 12-year governance of Joaquín Balaguer from 1966 to 1978, the project remained unfinished during subsequent administrations led by Antonio Guzmán, Jorge Blanco, Joaquín Balaguer, Leonel Fernández, Hipólito Mejía, and Danilo Medina, according to historical records from local residents.

Ascención emphasized the highway’s significance, enhancing the northern part of Puerto Plata, connecting to tourism destinations such as Cayo Arena, Punta Rucia, and La Ensenada. Additionally, it serves as a crucial communication route with Santiago, the Northwest Line, Valverde, and Montecristi.

Currently, stabilization efforts are underway, starting with the construction of sidewalks within the slope to address erosion and ground conditions. Ascención highlighted the potential for landslides during rare rainfall events, emphasizing the importance of preserving the mountainous terrain, the road, and ensuring the safety of those who traverse it.

The UNWTO is now UN Tourism

Since January of this year, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has introduced a new name and brand: UN Tourism.

The international organization states that this decision marks a new era, emphasizing its role as “the United Nations specialized agency for tourism and the world leader in tourism for development, driving social and economic change to ensure that ‘people and planet’ are at the center of attention.”

According to a statement, the UNWTO engaged a global branding agency to translate its renewed vision for tourism into a new visual identity and brand narrative.

Moving away from acronyms, UN Tourism adopts a more accessible stance, leveraging the strengths of ‘UN,’ signifying authority, and ‘tourism,’ a simple concept universally identifiable.

Supported by the 160 member states worldwide, this change aligns with the evolving needs of the tourism sector, aiming to become a universal catalyst for prosperity.

Zurab Pololikashvili, the secretary-general of the international organization, emphasizes the key objectives of enhancing people’s well-being, safeguarding the natural environment, promoting economic progress, and fostering international harmony.

The organization takes on the role of a sustainable force, now central to many economies, in promoting positive transformations.

The gradual establishment of the new brand will occur across all UN Tourism touchpoints in the coming months, starting with digital channels such as the website, social media accounts, and newsletters. Subsequently, the transition will extend to physical spaces like offices and events, along with elements like reports and office supplies.

According to the first issue of this year’s UN Tourism Barometer, published in January, international tourism reached 88% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, with an estimated 1.3 billion international arrivals. Subregions such as Southern Mediterranean Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, and Northern Africa have surpassed their arrival levels from 2019.

Abinader highlighted economic growth with new docks and tourist ports

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader highlighted the economic advancements and positive impact on families resulting from the construction and inauguration of over 8 fishing docks, along with the opening of 3 tourist ports – 2 in Puerto Plata and one in Pedernales. These developments have been facilitated by the Dominican Port Authority under the leadership of Jean Luis Rodríguez.

During the accountability ceremony, President Abinader emphasized the transformation in Pedernales due to the new tourist development, including the inauguration of the Cabo Rojo port, hotel construction, and other projects. He stated, “Pedernales has changed.”

Furthermore, the president underscored the growth and fortification of the Dominican Port System over the past three years. He noted, “Upon our arrival in government, three cruise ship docks were operational. In three and a half years, we have added Taíno Bay in Puerto Plata and Pedernales. This year, we will complete the Barahona tourist pier, and the private sector will finalize the Santa Bárbara de Samaná pier. In the coming days, we will initiate a public-private alliance to construct the Arroyo Barril tourist cruise ship dock and theme park.”

President Abinader celebrated the inauguration of at least 8 tourist and fishing docks, part of the “National Fishing Dock Plan” developed by the Dominican Port Authority. He mentioned the completion of docks in Luperón Bay, Puerto Plata, Samaná, Boca de Yuma, Las Cañitas in Hato Mayor, Cabeza de Toro, Sánchez in the province of Samaná, and Palenque in San Cristóbal during 2023.

He also highlighted the commencement of the Puerto Rico – San Pedro de Macorís ferry route for passenger transportation, set to begin daily operations in November. This initiative is expected to open new horizons for the region, impacting tourism and the local economy.

The Executive Director of the Dominican Port Authority expressed pride and happiness for the sector’s achievements, aligning with President Abinader’s statement that the country is better than four years ago. From Apordom, he acknowledged the positive changes witnessed in the port sector.

Asonahores commends positive impact of government policies on tourism growth

Santo Domingo.- The Hotel and Tourism Association of the Dominican Republic, Asonahores, has praised the positive impact of President Luis Abinader’s administration’s public policies on the growth of investment in the country’s tourism sector. David Llibre, Asonahores’ president, highlighted the strategies implemented by the Dominican government, particularly by Minister David Collado, citing examples such as the construction of new hotel infrastructures in Miches, Punta Bergantín, and Cabo Rojo.

Llibre reaffirmed Asonahores’ commitment to supporting government strategies, emphasizing the role of the tourism sector in boosting all productive sectors of the national economy. He credited the collaboration between the public and private sectors for achieving the milestone of 10 million visitors. The synergy has resulted in a public investment strategy in key tourist areas and new centers.

Expressing trust in the country, Llibre revealed plans for the next three years, with over 9,000 new rooms distributed across 19 projects, representing an estimated investment of nearly three billion dollars. He highlighted the increased tourist flow, enabling the Dominican Republic to maintain regional leadership and global recognition as the preferred destination in the Caribbean.

Hilton to open 15 new hotels in the Caribbean by 2024

Hilton announced it will open 15 hotels in the Caribbean and Latin America by 2024. Last year, Hilton opened 19 new hotels and approximately 4,000 rooms, representing the most significant number of rooms added in the region’s history.

The U.S. hotel chain plans to make openings across multiple brands, including the opening of Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Cacique, Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, and Curio Collection by Hilton in the Dominican Republic.

Hilton’s portfolio in Latin America and the Caribbean comprises more than 220 hotels and 40,000 rooms, spanning 15 brands and 29 countries and territories. The company’s pipeline in the region continues to strengthen with the signing of more than 35 new hotel agreements in 2023. With a strong year of signings in 2023 and a broad portfolio of 110 hotels under development, the company expects this momentum in the region to continue.

“The record growth we achieved in the region in 2023 is the result of our strategic focus on bringing the right hotels to the right destinations at the right time by partnering with exceptional owners,” said Pablo Maturana, vice president of development, Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton.

Hilton is experiencing unprecedented growth in Argentina and plans to double its portfolio in the country to 20 hotels. It currently has ten hotels open and ten projects under construction or design. In Mexico, Hilton has approximately 120 hotels available and under development. Finally, with six hotels in operation and more than 10 in development, Hilton plans to triple its presence in the Dominican Republic.

Hilton is a leading global hotel company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising nearly 7,500 properties and over 1.2 million rooms in 126 countries and territories.

Dominicans celebrate today 180 years of national independence

Santo Domingo.- Today, on February 27, the Dominican Republic marks the 180th anniversary of its independence, commemorating the historic declaration that severed the Spanish-speaking part of the island from the western region, which was under the control of French-speaking inhabitants (Haiti).

The announcement of Haiti’s separation took place at the Mercy Gate, signified by Ramón Matías Mella firing the blunderbuss on the night of February 27, 1844, concluding a 22-year period of Haitian dominance.

On this significant date, the tricolor flag was hoisted at the Count’s door by the distinguished Francisco del Rosario Sánchez. Both Mella and Sánchez were guided by the ideals of the national founder, Juan Pablo Duarte.

The conclusion of Haitian occupation was joyously embraced by the residents of Santo Domingo, who predominantly displayed Spanish flags, interspersed with a few French ones.

The journey to independence was paved by the establishment of the Trinitaria, a group initiated by Duarte to advocate patriotic ideals and the separatist agenda.

Dominican Republic fuels hotel boom: will open 3,000 rooms in 2024

The boom the Dominican tourism industry is experiencing, especially its hotel offering projects from prestigious international brands, is an aspect that Asonahores is already highlighting, anticipating that in 2024, the country’s hotel plant will add 3,000 new rooms.

“In 2024, some 3,000 hotel rooms are expected to be formally inaugurated in projects being developed in Punta Cana and Miches; in the case of this new tourist center, we are aware of two projects that will be opening this year,” said the president of Asonahores, David Llibre.

The executive of the country’s largest tourism association also referred to the hotel growth that will be registered in Puerto Plata and Santo Domingo in the short term.

Llibre recalled, “in Puerto Plata two new projects will start in Punta Bergantín, one with the Rainieri family and another with the Hyatt chain. In addition, we will soon learn of new projects that are in the process of negotiation.” (Meliá, “perfect ally” of Rainieri in his bet for Puerto Plata).

Valdez Albizu highlights economic achievements at CMCA anniversary event

El Salvador, DR.- Héctor Valdez Albizu, the Governor of the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD), emphasized the noteworthy reduction in inflationary pressures as the primary accomplishment of the economy in 2023.

Attributing this success to the implementation of more favorable monetary and fiscal measures, Valdez Albizu revealed a decline in inflation from a peak of 9.64% in April 2022 to 3.32% in January 2024, surpassing the target range of 4.0% ± 1.0%.

The governor highlighted that these achievements paved the way for the initiation of a monetary stimulus plan, involving a 150-basis point reduction in the monetary policy rate, bringing it to 7.00% to date.

Speaking at the 60th-anniversary celebration and the 300th meeting of the Central American Monetary Council (CMCA) in San Salvador on February 22 and 23, Valdez Albizu also acknowledged a significant economic recovery in the last months of 2023. The fourth quarter saw a 4.2% expansion, and December recorded a 4.7% year-on-year growth, culminating in an average economic growth of 2.4% for 2023.

He highlighted positive developments in the labor market, with the employed population reaching its historical maximum at 4.9 million workers, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 178 thousand employed individuals by the end of 2023.

Turning to the external sector, Valdez Albizu commended the dynamism in the tourism sector, which, along with the energy and real estate sectors, attracted significant foreign direct investment (FDI) totaling US$4,381 million in 2023. Remittances amounted to US$10,157 million, and exports reached approximately US$12,900 million in 2023, with US$7,900 million attributed to free zones.

This positive external sector performance contributed to a reduction in the current account deficit to approximately -3.8% of GDP in 2023, primarily financed by FDI flows. The increase in foreign currency flows further strengthened international reserves, closing the year at around US$15,464 million, exceeding the International Monetary Fund’s recommended thresholds.

The exchange rate remained relatively stable, experiencing a year-on-year depreciation of 3.2% at the end of the year, below the average of the last five pre-pandemic years.

Regarding the economic outlook, Valdez Albizu anticipated that inflation would remain around the target range of 4.0% ± 1.0% for 2024, in an environment of active monetary policy. Economic activity is expected to continue the trajectory of GDP growth around 5.0 – 5.5% annually for this year.

The event, attended by the presidents and governors of the region’s central banks, featured welcoming remarks by Róger Madrigal López, president of the Central Bank of Costa Rica and president of the CMCA, and Douglas Rodríguez Fuente, president of the Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador, along with the executive secretary of the CMCA, Odalis F. Marte Alevante.

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Central American Monetary Council and its Executive Secretariat, the event reflected on the organization’s transformations over time and paid tribute to its contributions to regional macroeconomic and financial stability. Various speakers, including Marta Ruiz Arranz of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Alexandre Tombini of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), provided insights into regional programs, challenges, and perspectives for 2024.

The gathering also featured presentations on digital innovation by the president of the Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador (BCRS), Douglas Rodriguez. Each central bank had the opportunity to present the current macroeconomic context and prospects for 2024, with discussions highlighting the significance of reducing inflation while maintaining regional economic growth.

GEHID launches Yerba Buena-Los Corrales highway construction

San José de las Matas, DR.- The Dominican Hydroelectric Generation Company (EGEHID) has initiated the construction of the Yerba Buena-Los Corrales highway in San José de las Matas, Santiago. This project is part of an extensive development plan aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the communities within the sphere of influence of the Tavera-Bao and López-Angustura hydroelectric complex.

The estimated investment for this endeavor is RD$ 521,404,559.84, covering a 16.70-kilometer road with associated infrastructure. This includes a drainage system, box-type culverts, and a two-inch asphalt layer, all of which entail substantial earthmoving efforts. The construction is being carried out by the company CONSTRUCTORA TEDDY SRL, involving road widening and signage.

The groundbreaking ceremony, led by EGEHID’s administrator, Engineer Rafael Salazar, and attended by local authorities, marked the commencement of the highway construction. EGEHID’s corporate social responsibility program aims to bring about community-beneficial projects in the provinces where hydroelectric complexes are situated, as a way of reciprocating the contribution of hydrographic basins to the country’s development through water production for human consumption, agricultural irrigation, and clean energy generation.

The Los Corrales Yerba Buena highway has been a decades-long demand, according to residents and local representatives, aligning with EGEHID’s extensive asphalt program in the mountain municipalities. San José de las Matas Mayor Alfredo Reyes expressed gratitude to President Luis Abinader for addressing the community’s needs and praised EGEHID’s swift execution.

Administrator Salazar emphasized the area’s value in environmental protection and water conservation, underscoring the community’s deserving of enhanced well-being.

To ensure the project’s quality execution, a commission of observers was sworn in by the official, responsible for overseeing the work’s correct implementation to meet community needs.

Various dignitaries participated in the groundbreaking ceremony, including Senator Eduardo Estrella, Deputies Braulio Espinal and Francisco Díaz, Provincial Governor Rosa Santos, Mayors Ramón Alfredo Reyes of San José de las Matas, Hilario Fernández of Jánico, Fermín Rojas Noesí, and Juan Alberto Tavárez, elected mayor of the municipal district of Juncalito, as well as the Mayor of El Rubio, Ibanova Ramos. The former President of the Chamber of Deputies, Julio César Valentín, and other regional and local leaders were also present.

Mitur second tradeshow in Miami targets U.S. market

Miami, US.- The Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Mitur) is set to host a second tradeshow in Miami to bolster the influx of tourists from the United States to the Caribbean nation. Scheduled for April 3, 2024, at the JW Marriott Marquis in Miami, Florida, this event aims to showcase and promote the Dominican tourism product specifically for the summer season.

Anticipating the participation of more than 400 travel agents, tour operators, and other allies from the American market, the tradeshow will have a strong focus on targeting the United States market. Representatives from hotels, tour operators, travel agencies, airports, airlines, and cruise lines in the Dominican Republic will be in attendance to showcase their products and unveil special summer packages. The event is expected to draw the participation of over 200 tour operators and travel agencies.

In a statement, the organizers highlighted the purpose of the event, stating, “This edition will have a summer focus for the United States market. Hotels, tour operators, travel agencies, airports, airlines, and cruise lines in the Dominican Republic will be present to publicize their products and special summer packages, where more than 200 TTOOs and travel agencies will be present.”

The tradeshow will provide a platform for scheduling appointments for negotiations, presenting business offers, proposing price packages to potential clients, and fostering networking opportunities with key players in the industry. The participation of Dominican institutions involved in the sector, such as Asonahores and others, is also expected, adding depth to the event.

It’s worth noting that the Dominican Republic Tradeshow is centered around the exhibition and sale of the destination, showcasing the diverse niches and offerings that the Dominican Republic has to offer to potential travelers.

Powerful Sunwing Airlines offensive for Punta Cana with flights from the U.S.

During the third ordinary session of this year, the members of the plenary heard the request for new special permits to incorporate new operations to the Dominican territory, informed the president of the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), José Marte Piantini, after hearing the request of Sunwing Airlines, Sky High Aviation Services, Delta Air Lines, Frontier, and United Parcel Service.

In this regard, the plenary heard the request for another Special Permit from the foreign airline operator Sunwing Airlines to fly on the routes Newark/Punta Cana/Newark; Buffalo/Punta Cana/Buffalo; Detroit /Punta Cana/Detroit; Detroit /Punta Cana/Cincinnati; Detroit/Punta Cana/Detroit; Cincinnati/Punta Cana/Cincinnati and Cincinnati /Punta Cana/Cincinnati, from February 17, 2024 until April 07, 2024.

It also heard the request for a Special Permit from the national air operator Sky High Aviation Services to operate 79 roundtrip flights from March 19 to September 18, 2024, with a frequency of three flights per week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays on the Santo Domingo/El Salvador/Santo Domingo route.

It also learned of the request for another Special Permit from the foreign air operator Sunwing Airlines to fly on the routes Newark/Punta Cana/Newark; Buffalo/Punta Cana/Buffalo; Detroit /Punta Cana/Detroit; Detroit /Punta Cana/Cincinnati; Detroit/Punta Cana/Detroit; Cincinnati/Punta Cana/Cincinnati and Cincinnati /Punta Cana/Cincinnati, from February 17, 2024, until April 07, 2024.

Likewise, the agency members heard the foreign air operator Frontier’s request to operate 202 roundtrip flights on the routes Cleveland /Punta Cana /Orlando; Orlando/Punta Cana/Cleveland; Philadelphia/Punta Cana/St. Louis; St. Louis /Punta Cana /Philadelphia; San Juan /Punta Cana /Cleveland; San Juan /Punta Cana /St. Louis; St. Louis /Punta Cana /San Juan and Cleveland /Punta Cana /San Juan, from February 1 through April 15, 2024.

Likewise, they also heard requests from Delta Air Lines to operate flights on the following routes: Fort Myers/Santo Domingo/Atlanta; Atlanta/Santo Domingo /Fort Myer and Sarasota/Santo Domingo /Atlanta, from March 8, 2024 through March 10, 2024.

Finally, the plenary members heard the request for a Special Permit from United Parcel Services to operate cargo flights on the San Juan/Santo Domingo/Miami route beginning March 4, 2024.

Dominican Republic receives thirteen nominations at the World Travel Awards 2024

Santo Domingo.- The World Travel Awards, a globally recognized platform honoring excellence in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry, has bestowed six prestigious nominations upon the Dominican Republic in its 2024 edition. This acknowledgment positions the Dominican Republic as a standout destination in the Caribbean.

The thirty-first edition of the awards will culminate in a gala ceremony scheduled for May 19, 2024, in Jamaica, where the winners will be celebrated in the Caribbean and the Americas. The Dominican Republic has received a total of 13 nominations, showcasing its prominence in various aspects of the tourism sector.

In the “Destination” category, the Dominican Republic has secured five noteworthy nominations:

1. Leading Adventure Tourism Destination in the Caribbean

2. Leading Beach Destination in the Caribbean

3. Leading Cruise Destination in the Caribbean

4. Leading Natural Destination in the Caribbean

5. Leading Sports Tourism Destination in the Caribbean

Additionally, there is a special accolade in this category: “Leading Caribbean Tourism Board,” which recognizes outstanding efforts in promoting the destination to attract visitors and maintain competitiveness. The Dominican Ministry of Tourism has earned a nomination in this esteemed category.

Furthermore, the awards have recognized six Dominican hotel complexes across four categories and three Dominican companies in three categories associated with tourist transport, contributing to the Dominican Republic’s impressive total of 13 nominations. This acknowledgment solidifies the country’s status as a leading force in the Caribbean travel and tourism industry.

Source: Visitantes

Minister David Collado unveils revitalized Duarte Park in Montecristi

Montecristi, DR.– Tourism Minister David Collado inaugurated the revamped Duarte Park in San Fernando, Montecristi, this Tuesday, after a thorough reconstruction exceeding RD$35 million.

Spanning a generous 4,935 square meters, the project revitalized the heart of Montecristi’s Duarte Central Park. “We’re back here today, keeping our promise to deliver this iconic park to Montecristi, fully restored,” Minister Collado declared.

He emphasized how this project exemplifies the Ministry’s dedication to propelling Montecristi’s tourism potential. The park’s facelift includes the iconic Montecristi Clock Tower, meticulously restored to its former glory and reclaiming its position as the area’s centerpiece – a historical treasure and architectural gem of the Dominican Republic.

Furthermore, the project encompassed rebuilding the sidewalks and curbs bordering the park, alongside a refreshed outer fence. Design enhancements include new pavements, captivating landscaping, and modern lighting.

Not only were the entrance fountains refurbished and equipped, but the bust of Juan Pablo Duarte also received a facelift. Additionally, an innovative rainwater drainage system was incorporated, utilizing a network of pipes and complementary infrastructure to effectively manage rainfall runoff.

Spearheaded by Sixto Brea and his team at the Tourism Zone Infrastructure Execution Committee (CEIZTUR), the project signifies a significant investment in Montecristi’s future, costing RD$35,616,215.21.

New $20M Coca-Cola line unveiled in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- With President Luis Abinader in attendance, Bepensa Dominicana, the bottling company, unveiled a new production line dedicated to Coca-Cola brand beverages, involving an investment exceeding $20 million.

At the inaugural event, Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, Víctor Bisonó, emphasized the President’s presence as a clear testament to his dedication to the country’s progress and his keen interest in driving economic revitalization.

Bisonó underscored the Ministry’s role in fostering productive chains and enhancing industry competitiveness, leading to the adoption of the “Made in the DR” seal by the Coca-Cola System in 2022. This, according to Bisonó, exemplifies a firm commitment to the national industry and the economic advancement of the Dominican Republic.

Business leaders commended the Dominican Republic’s favorable business climate, enabling the Coca-Cola System to champion initiatives promoting environmental stewardship and the socio-economic development of communities.

They also highlighted the country’s significance as one of the region’s key markets, projecting an investment surpassing $40 million and the creation of 140 new jobs in 2024. Alonso Gasque, Bepensa Bebidas’ general director, shared that in the 17-year history of Bepensa Dominicana, their investments have exceeded $350 million.

Louis Balat, President of the Central Latin American region for the Coca-Cola Company, expressed gratitude for the advanced technology of the new production line, ensuring consumers can continue enjoying high-quality Coca-Cola products. Balat emphasized the importance of reaching Dominican families’ tables with beverage options that cater to their needs, all while making a positive impact in the communities they serve.

The executives from both Bepensa and Coca-Cola underscored their commitment to environmental protection through waste collection programs, incorporating recycled materials in packaging, water conservation efforts, and environmental education initiatives. They also highlighted their dedication to fostering economic growth and empowering individuals through various programs.

Alonso Gasque concluded that this significant investment not only expands production capacity but also contributes to the overall development of the country’s productive chain.

Piñero Group’s plant biodiversity initiative revealed at Botanical Bridges 2024 Congress

Colombia.- In collaboration with the Botanical Garden of Santo Domingo, the Piñero Group presented the project “Actions to Improve Plant Biodiversity in Playa Nueva Romana in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic” at the Botanical Bridges 2024 Congress in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. Launched in 2019, the initiative focuses on restoring and enhancing plant biodiversity in the green areas surrounding the residential project and golf course.

The Piñero Group’s efforts include eradicating invasive species, planting native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, and promoting elements that facilitate natural seed dispersal for spontaneous regeneration. These measures not only contribute to biodiversity recovery but also enhance the environmental quality of the region.

A crucial aspect of the project involves pest and disease control in flora, along with an ecological plant nutrition system based on natural extracts. The group also implements alternative ecological methods for managing plant waste, aiming to retain carbon and naturally enrich the soil.

Pablo del Toro, Head of Environment at Grupo Piñero, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the National Botanical Garden and sharing experiences at the Botanical Bridges 2024 Congress. This collaboration exemplifies Piñero Group’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable practices, showcasing how local initiatives can align with global consciousness. Through such partnerships, bridges are established to preserve biodiversity and foster a lasting commitment to a sustainable environment.

The Botanical Bridges Congress 2024 aims to encourage collaboration among botanical gardens, enthusiasts, and research centers in the Caribbean and Central America. These regions host unique species but face threats like habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change impact. The congress emphasizes the importance of knowledge and resource exchange as crucial for developing joint conservation strategies, highlighting collaboration between botanical gardens, research institutions, and local communities as essential pillars to address current threats.

Air Europa’s new routes connecting the Dominican Republic to North Africa

Santo Domingo.- Air Europa has announced the launch of flights from the Dominican Republic to North Africa with a layover in Madrid, starting in March of this year. The airline plans to commence flights to Morocco next month, followed by trips to Tunisia starting in June 2024.

These routes to Marrakech and Tunisia are scheduled until the end of October, allowing Air Europa to meet the growing demand observed in both tourist destinations since their initiation. Flights to the Moroccan capital began in 2017, while connections between Madrid and Tunisia were established in 2019. Last year, the route’s success was evident, with average occupancy levels exceeding 87%.

Air Europa intends to operate these services using its Boeing 737 fleet, specifically chosen for its suitability in covering short and medium-distance routes. This single-aisle model aims to balance a high volume of passenger movement with responsible fuel consumption.

In a significant move, Air Europa signed a codeshare agreement with Kenya Airways this year. This collaboration enables the airline’s customers to fly from Madrid to Nairobi via Amsterdam, expanding their range of destinations on the continent through a single ticket.