Tourism Minister meets with U.S. Transportation Secretary to discuss aviation progress

United States.- David Collado, the Minister of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, recently met with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to discuss advancements in Dominican aviation, including the newly enacted Aviation Law.

Secretary Buttigieg commended the Dominican Republic, President Luis Abinader, and Minister Collado for their swift progress in aviation. He also praised the Dominican technical team for addressing all FAA audit observations, securing the country’s permanence in Category 1 status, with the recent approval of the aviation law being a critical step.

President Abinader had appointed a commission to oversee these efforts, led by Minister Collado, businessman Manuel Estrella, and Civil Aviation Director Héctor Porcella. This commission was instrumental in finalizing the open skies agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States, a negotiation that had been pending for over two decades.

Minister Collado’s visit to Secretary Buttigieg’s office in Washington, D.C., was accompanied by a national delegation, including Civil Aviation Director Héctor Porcella and Vice Minister of Tourism Patricia Mejía, among others.

Secrets Cap Cana achieves Five Diamond Award for third consecutive year

Punta Cana.- For the third consecutive year, the luxurious Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa, part of the Inclusive Collection under World of Hyatt, has won the prestigious “Five Diamond” award at the AAA Diamond Awards, hosted by the American Automobile Association (AAA).

“Being awarded AAA Five Diamonds for the third consecutive year is the result of the great effort of our colleagues, who strive every day to offer our guests the best services and to enjoy the majestic facilities offered by Secrets Cap Cana,” stated Lionel Gómez, general manager of Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa.

He detailed that achieving this category requires meeting stringent criteria, including exceptional hospitality, cleanliness, property setting, room decor, 24-hour room service, excellent lighting, luxury amenities, comfort, security, and comprehensive services and facilities.

The diamond rating is conducted annually by a team of professional evaluators who inspect over 29,000 participating properties. Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa consistently met all established requirements, offering luxurious facilities and personalized service to earn this distinction once again.

To obtain the AAA Five Diamond rating, the hotel must also ensure easy access and amenities for people with disabilities, implement a robust environmental conservation program, and maintain impeccable facilities, among other criteria.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa is an exclusive, adults-only hotel featuring 457 suites with stunning ocean views or spectacular landscapes. The resort offers a selection of seven à la carte restaurants, a diverse buffet, a grill, and six bars catering to all tastes, along with 24-hour room service. These amenities promise an unparalleled experience of comfort and hospitality.

Advancements in the Dominican Republic’s energy transition

Santo Domingo.- The energy transition involves shifting from an electricity production system based on fossil fuels—such as coal, petroleum derivatives, and natural gas—to one dominated by renewable and clean sources like water, sun, wind, and biomass.

According to the “2023 Climatescope Ranking” by Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), which assesses the attractiveness of markets for foreign investment in energy transition, the Dominican Republic has improved its international standing. It moved from 45th to 43rd place out of 140 countries. In emerging markets, it rose from 22nd to 20th place among 110 nations, and in the Latin American and Caribbean region, it advanced from 7th to 6th place.

A press release from the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) states that this achievement has been recognized by organizations such as the Latin American Energy Organization (Olade) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena).

In 2023, the World Economic Forum placed the Dominican Republic in 88th position in its global ranking of countries in energy transition, scoring 50.7, the best position for the country in the past nine years.

The MEM highlights that the country’s renewable electricity generation capacity grew from 555.5 MW in 2020 to 1,126.25 MW by the end of 2023, marking over 103% growth in three years. Currently, more than 1,300 MW of photovoltaic projects are under construction. During peak times between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, renewable sources contribute over 35% to the system, approximately 890 MW.

The increase in clean energy reduces spot market prices and decreases fossil fuel consumption and imports, leading to less pollution and reduced foreign energy dependence.

To support these efforts, President Luis Abinader issued Decree 65-23, updating the Renewable Energy Incentives Law (Law 57-07) to enhance transparency and eliminate uncertainties in renewable contracting processes.

In 2023, foreign direct investment in the energy sector, along with tourism, led the national economy, totaling US$1,071 million.

Five new multipurpose facilities coming to Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata.- The Dominican Government has launched an ambitious plan to build five multipurpose sports clubs in the country, with a total investment of over 200 million pesos. The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Sports (Miderec) and the Presidential Commission to Support Provincial Development, aims to provide modern facilities for sports, education, and community development.

At an event held at the Gregorio Luperón Club in Puerto Plata, Administrative Minister Igor Rodríguez Durán presented a certificate worth 105 million 744 thousand 607 pesos and 45 cents to Minister of Sports Francisco Camacho, marking the start of the construction of basketball roofs for five iconic clubs: Gregorio Luperón, 12 de Octubre, Gustavo Behal, Hugo Kunhardt, and Miramar League.

Miderec will be responsible for constructing sports centers at Gregorio Luperón, 12 de Octubre, and Miramar League clubs, while the Presidential Commission to Support Provincial Development will build facilities at Gustavo Behal and Hugo Kunhardt.

Minister Camacho emphasized that the current government, led by President Luis Abinader, has made significant investments in sports infrastructure, with over 185 school sports facilities being built or renovated. He noted that this investment is crucial for the development of children and young people, as it combines physical activity with education and helps to build a better nation.

Camacho also praised Rodríguez Durán’s efforts in facilitating the construction and renovation of sports facilities across the country. “I hope to have Igor (Rodríguez) in sports because the youth of our country needs him,” he said, referring to Rodríguez Durán’s commitment to supporting sports development.

The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local communities, providing safe and modern facilities for athletes of all ages to practice their favorite sports.

Launch of English Program for Employability in Pedernales

Pedernales, DR.- The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (MESCyT) and the tourism sector of Pedernales province have announced the launch of the English Program for Employability, aimed at tourism workers in the Southern region.

Franklin García Fermín, head of MESCyT, stated that the program’s first stage will impact 10,000 students in the southern area. He emphasized that Pedernales is experiencing significant development, particularly in the tourism industry, making it crucial to enhance service quality through the training of skilled human resources.

Provincial governor Altagracia Brea de González encouraged all citizens to seize every opportunity to strengthen their knowledge and skills. “There is no better place for a Pedernales resident to have more opportunities than in their own land,” she remarked.

Carlos Peguero, vice minister of tourism for International Cooperation and executive director of the Pedernales Tourism Development Project, highlighted the government’s shift from promises to actions. “We are preparing the people to receive the positive impact that is coming. This will be the first destination in the Caribbean and Latin America designed with sustainability from the beginning,” he concluded.

Bishop Andrés Napoleón Romero Cárdenas of the Diocese of Barahona underscored the importance of supporting development projects that benefit the Southern region. “We are glad that your eyes, hands, and hearts are focused on continuing to create interesting initiatives for this great province, which has waited patiently for many years,” he added.

English for Employability

The English Program for Employability is based on a self-learning platform aligned with all levels of the Common European Framework, offering over 2,000 hours of content, multimedia material, and interactive exercises with voice recognition for pronunciation. Students can achieve English proficiency from A1 to C2 levels, including industry-specific English. The program features daily classes, learning tools, a translator, standardized leveling tests, progress monitoring, a grammar and pronunciation lab, articles, and other resources.

WTTC predicts 9% increase in Dominican Republic tourist spending for 2024

Santo Domingo.- The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts a record-breaking year for the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector in 2024. International visitor spending is projected to increase by nearly 9% compared to 2019, reaching US$10,400 million. Domestic tourism spending is also expected to achieve a historic high at $3,700 million, marking a 6.5% increase from 2019 levels.

According to the Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2024, conducted by WTTC in collaboration with Oxford Economics, the tourism industry will contribute $19,400 million to the Dominican Republic’s GDP, representing a 12.6% rise from pre-pandemic levels. By the end of 2024, the sector is anticipated to provide over 841,000 jobs, constituting more than 17% of total employment in the country.

WTTC’s analysis across 185 countries highlights the Dominican Republic as one of 98 destinations that surpassed GDP contribution records in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by over 8%. Currently, the tourism sector accounts for 15.3% of the national economy, contributing $18,700 million.

Dominican Republic sets record with 121 new air routes in 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic established a record 121 new air routes to various global destinations in the first five months of 2024, announced Dr. José Ernesto Marte Piantini, president of the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), at the organization’s eleventh full-body meeting.

Dr. Piantini also revealed that within this period, a total of 60,043 air operations were approved, including 3,034 flights with special permits and 3,119 non-regular or charter flights. These operations have generated an estimated direct and indirect income of $7.646 million for the country.

He emphasized that the increase in air operations will be crucial in enhancing the connectivity of the Dominican Republic as the new government under President Luis Abinader takes office on August 16.

“The addition of new air routes during the first five months of the year has expanded and strengthened the country’s connectivity with the Caribbean, South America, and Europe,” Dr. Piantini stated.

To sustain this growth in passenger air transport, the Civil Aviation Board reviewed World2Fly’s request for a permit renewal and Neos’ request for a special permit to operate routes including Verona/Rome/La Romana; Verona/La Romana/Montego Bay; Rome/La Romana; and Malpensa/Punta Cana/Cartagena, with a frequency of one flight each.

Statistics from the JAC Air Transport Department indicate that from January 2023 to May 2024, Neos transported 143,939 passengers through 554 air operations on authorized routes. Meanwhile, World2Fly carried 466,387 passengers in 1,246 air operations between January 2021 and May 2024. Dr. Piantini noted that both national and foreign airlines operating in the country remain confident about the sector’s future, which bodes well for improving air transport efficiency in the Dominican Republic.

Airports receive recertification for carbon footprint reduction

Santo Domingo.- The International Airports Council of Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC) has announced that the six airports in the Dominican Republic operated by Aerodom and Vinci Airports have retained their Level 3 (Optimization) certification in the Carbon Footprint Accreditation (ACA) Program.

In a press release, Aerodom explained that Level 3 certification is awarded to airports that not only map their carbon footprint but also reduce emissions according to set criteria. These airports also work to influence third-party operations at their facilities, encouraging airlines and service providers to adopt CO2 reduction measures.

Carbon emissions at each airport are independently verified in compliance with ISO 14064 (greenhouse gas accounting) and based on tangible evidence.

Aerodom has continued expanding its solar generation capacity over the past year, installing panels on the roofs of Las Américas, José Francisco Peña Gómez, La Isabela, Dr. Joaquín Balaguer, and Gregorio Luperón International Airports. Aerodom is now the leading private generator of solar energy for self-consumption in the country, significantly reducing emissions from airport operations.

The ACA program evaluates and acknowledges airports’ efforts to identify and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Aerodom first achieved Level 1 “Mapping” certification in 2018, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Aerodom and Vinci Airports received Level 3 certification for Las Américas, José Francisco Peña Gómez International Airport in Santo Domingo; Dr. Joaquín Balaguer Airport in Santo Domingo Norte; Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata; María Montez International Airport in Barahona; President Juan Bosch International Airport in Samaná; and the Arroyo Barril Aerodrome in Samaná.

Mónika Infante Henríquez, CEO of Aerodom, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental impact reduction, as evidenced by this certification.

“Aerodom remains dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices in the airport industry. Achieving recertification at Level 3 in the Carbon Footprint Accreditation Program is a significant milestone. We will continue to work with our airport community to implement additional initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions across all our terminals,” said Infante Henríquez.

The ACA Program is the only globally recognized carbon management certification for airports, assessing and acknowledging efforts to manage and reduce carbon emissions through seven levels of certification: ‘Mapping’, ‘Reduction’, ‘Optimization’, ‘Neutrality’, ‘Transformation’, ‘Transition’, and ‘Balance’.

Five new multipurpose facilities coming to Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata.- The Dominican Government has launched an ambitious plan to build five multipurpose sports clubs in the country, with a total investment of over 200 million pesos. The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Sports (Miderec) and the Presidential Commission to Support Provincial Development, aims to provide modern facilities for sports, education, and community development.

At an event held at the Gregorio Luperón Club in Puerto Plata, Administrative Minister Igor Rodríguez Durán presented a certificate worth 105 million 744 thousand 607 pesos and 45 cents to Minister of Sports Francisco Camacho, marking the start of the construction of basketball roofs for five iconic clubs: Gregorio Luperón, 12 de Octubre, Gustavo Behal, Hugo Kunhardt, and Miramar League.

Miderec will be responsible for constructing sports centers at Gregorio Luperón, 12 de Octubre, and Miramar League clubs, while the Presidential Commission to Support Provincial Development will build facilities at Gustavo Behal and Hugo Kunhardt.

Minister Camacho emphasized that the current government, led by President Luis Abinader, has made significant investments in sports infrastructure, with over 185 school sports facilities being built or renovated. He noted that this investment is crucial for the development of children and young people, as it combines physical activity with education and helps to build a better nation.

Camacho also praised Rodríguez Durán’s efforts in facilitating the construction and renovation of sports facilities across the country. “I hope to have Igor (Rodríguez) in sports because the youth of our country needs him,” he said, referring to Rodríguez Durán’s commitment to supporting sports development.

The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local communities, providing safe and modern facilities for athletes of all ages to practice their favorite sports.

Arajet to begin operations at Punta Cana International Airport

Punta Cana.- Dominican low-cost airline Arajet and the Puntacana Group announced on Sunday that Arajet flights will begin operating from Punta Cana International Airport starting November 1st.

Frank Elías Rainieri, Executive President of the Puntacana Group, and Víctor Pacheco, Founder and President of Arajet, highlighted the significant impact this partnership will have on increasing passenger numbers for Arajet and boosting tourism in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic.

Pacheco stated that Punta Cana International Airport will become Arajet’s second base, allowing the airline to connect this popular tourist area with its extensive network of destinations and over 200 connection combinations. The primary base for Arajet will remain at Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo.

“We are committed to ensuring that Arajet continues to be the airline for all Dominicans. That is why we aim to operate from all airports in the country, providing opportunities to travel to various destinations at the lowest market prices,” Pacheco added.

Rainieri expressed gratitude to Arajet for choosing Punta Cana Airport and involving them in their expansion plans, which will promote tourism and economic growth in the country.

“We are delighted to welcome Arajet as commercial partners to our airport community. We are confident that this alliance will be successful. With these new routes, we continue to expand our network of destinations and connections internationally, positioning ourselves as the most important airport in the Dominican Republic,” Rainieri said.

Punta Cana Airport handles 68% of the country’s tourist air traffic, connecting with 75 cities in 34 countries through 58 airlines, and serves over 9 million passengers annually.

Arajet’s specific destinations from Punta Cana will be announced at a later date.

Arajet was the leading Dominican airline in terms of passenger movement in the first four months of 2024, accounting for 8% of total passengers transported in the country last May.

Spanish group Acciona awarded contract for Cabo Rojo International Airport Construction

Pedernales.- Acciona, a Spanish business group, has secured a nearly 62.4 million euro contract for the construction of the new Cabo Rojo International Airport in Pedernales, Dominican Republic, near the Haitian border.

The project, initiated by the Pro-Pedernales Trust, includes building a 3-kilometer-long runway and taxiways or aircraft parking platforms, according to industry sources. Acciona’s construction division was chosen based on its extensive experience and qualifications among the three prequalified firms.

The contract is expected to be completed in 16 months. Subsequent phases will involve constructing a control tower, fire station, electrical substation, and hydrosanitary plant. Future stages will focus on developing passenger and cargo terminals.

The airport’s terminal is anticipated to serve as a gateway for international flights, supporting tourism to Pedernales and the newly constructed hotels in the region.

Construction for Cabo Rojo International Airport is underway in Oviedo’s Los Tres Charcos community, where the government commenced clearance work in November 2023. Recently, Sigmund Freund, head of the Pro-Pedernales Trust, visited Cabo Rojo to oversee hotel construction progress and inspect the model room of the first hotel, operated by the Spanish chain Iberostar, featuring 580 rooms. This hotel is scheduled to partially open by year’s end.

Cabo Rojo, situated on the southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic within Pedernales Province, marks the country’s southernmost point. It is approximately 330 km from Santo Domingo, the capital city.

Dominican Republic tourism: Millennials, Gen Z, and Boomers drive potential

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s tourism industry is undergoing a significant shift, with a growing demand for urban destinations and unique experiences. According to national authorities, by 2024, 49% of trips will be to urban areas, 56% to outside the city, and 63% to the beach. This diversification is expected to boost the country’s competitiveness in the tourism market.

A key factor driving this change is the spending habits of Generation Z, born between 1995-2000, who prioritize saving money on flights, shopping, and food. Unlike older generations, 52% of Gen Z spend their money on experiences, compared to 29% of baby boomers.

According to Acento, millennials take five trips per year and allocate 29% of their income to tourism, significantly more than both boomers and Gen Z. The data suggests that younger generations are more likely to prioritize travel and exploration.

In May 2024, the country welcomed 846,735 non-resident foreigners, with 677,475 visitors arriving through traditional channels and 169,260 via cruise ships. This marks a significant increase from the previous period, with 5,026,990 visitors counted between January and May 2024.

The majority of tourists arrived through Punta Cana International Airport (61%), followed by Las Américas (22%) and Cibao (10%). The United States remains the largest market for the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry, accounting for 53% of non-resident visitors, followed by Canada (11%) and Colombia (5%).

When it comes to spending habits, tourists from Western Europe lead the way, with an average expenditure of US$158 per capita. South Asia and Eastern Europe follow closely behind, with expenditures of US$128 and US$88 respectively. In contrast, tourists from Southeast Asia spend the least in the Dominican Republic, with an average expenditure of US$72.

Non-resident foreigners typically stay in the country for seven days, with popular destinations including La Altagracia, Santo Domingo, and Puerto Plata. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, the Dominican Republic is well-positioned to capitalize on these changes and attract even more visitors in the years to come.

Economic impact of Medical Tourism in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Health tourism has become a “very important” sector in the Dominican Republic’s economy due to its contribution to resource generation, job creation, and technology transfer.

Alejandro Cambiaso, president of the Dominican Association of Health Tourism (ADTS), highlighted the growing influx of tourists seeking health services in the Dominican Republic. Globally, health tourism generates over 100 billion dollars and accounts for 2.5% of airline tickets.

Cambiaso noted that the Dominican Republic leads in medical tourism in the Caribbean, ranks second in Latin America, and holds the 19th position worldwide, according to the Medical Tourism Index.

The main health service centers for tourists are located in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerto Plata. Most patients traveling to the country for health services are Dominicans living abroad, as well as individuals from the Caribbean Islands, the United States, Canada, and Spain.

In 2022, the country welcomed 338,747 health patients, with 292,902 coming for medical tourism and 75,845 for tourist medicine. These health tourists contributed 1,321 million dollars to the Dominican economy, with an average expenditure of 7,500 dollars per tourist, plus their companions, as 70% of health tourists travel with a companion.

Speaking on the program ‘Now’ on Super 7 Matutino, Cambiaso mentioned that the majority of health tourists visit the Dominican Republic for dental care and cosmetic surgery.

Dominican Embassy strengthens collaboration with Spanish entities

Santo Domingo.- Ambassador Juan Bolívar Díaz, head of the Dominican Republic’s diplomatic mission to Spain, signed legal agreements with two Spanish entities at the embassy yesterday.

The first agreement was signed with Fernando Herrera Mendieta, president of Power & Glen Asociados SL (Punto Ahorro Stores). The second was with Luis Socías Uribe, director of Invest In Madrid (IIM) and representative of the Madrid Foundation for Competitiveness (FMC). Patricia Ortiz, director of Institutional Relations at IIM, also attended.

The agreement with Punto Ahorro Stores grants Dominican consumers special advantages when purchasing products, including home accessories, electronics, sports, health, beauty, and fashion items. These can be bought in stores or online at www.puntoahorro.com, as well as through the Correos Market or Wallapop Pro digital platforms. This agreement will last for six months and can be renewed for an additional year unless terminated by either party with three months’ notice.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the FMC and the Dominican Government outlines the cooperation framework that IIM and the Embassy will develop to enhance institutional relations and foster mutual cooperation in investment and foreign trade. According to Ambassador Díaz, this MOU will facilitate periodic meetings to identify actions to promote business internationalization programs, such as export initiation and consolidation, opening new markets, and finding business cooperation methods to optimize resources.

The MOU will also encourage the regular exchange of information, publications, and data, particularly regarding the regulatory frameworks of each country, to guide business opportunities. This agreement, valid for three years, will automatically renew for another three-year term unless an extension is agreed upon in writing.

The signing of these agreements, facilitated by the commercial section of the Dominican Embassy in Spain, led by counselor José Manuel Vargas, reflects the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and aims to enhance reciprocal commercial cooperation.

Members of the Dominican Republic Embassy in Spain attended the formal signing ceremony.

Dominican tourist ports generate over $20 Million in May

Santo Domingo.- Dominican tourist ports generated approximately $20,840,040 in May, with each cruise tourist spending an average of $100 to $120 per day.

According to a report by the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom), the Dominican Republic welcomed around 176,667 passengers in May through ports including Amber Cove, Taino Bay in Puerto Plata, La Romana, Santa Bárbara in Samaná, and Santo Domingo Crucero.

Amber Cove and Taino Bay, known as the Bride of the Atlantic terminals, continue to lead the country’s cruise industry.

Jean Luis Rodríguez, the executive director of the Port Authority, highlighted the economic benefits for local communities, noting that each cruise passenger spends between $100 and $120 during their visit.

“In the Dominican Republic, the arrival of cruise ships has increased due to the country’s tourist attractions and its ports. The schedule for tour operators has also expanded significantly, with excursions growing from carrying 10 people to now accommodating 200, representing a substantial economic impact,” Rodríguez stated.

June 2024 Cruises in Dominican Ports

Until June 29, the Dominican Republic expects to receive an average of 40 vessels at its ports and anchorages.

Amber Cove, with its accommodation, entertainment, and shopping facilities, will host 19 arrivals, Taino Bay will welcome 15, and La Romana will see 2. This indicates a significant increase in vessel activity within Dominican territory.

The ships scheduled to arrive from June 1 to 29 include Carnival Horizon, Freedom Of The Seas, MSC Seashore, Carnival Venezia, Wonder Of The Seas, Adventures Of The Seas, Carnival Vista, Carnival Celebration, Marella Discovery, Norwegian Sky, and Carnival Mardi Gras.

Additionally, Enchanted Princess, Norwegian Jade, Carnival Magic, Norwegian Breakaway, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Freedom, and Valiant Lady, among others, are expected.

The Dominican Port Authority noted that the projected schedule for visitors may vary due to weather conditions, route changes by cruise lines, and other factors that could affect the number of visits.

US Senate to consider new Ambassador to the Dominican Republic today

United States.- The United States Senate is set to convene on Thursday to consider Juan Carlos Iturregui’s nomination as ambassador to the Dominican Republic, marking a pivotal moment nearly seven months after President Joe Biden put forward the Puerto Rican native for the role.

Iturregui’s confirmation hinges on securing at least 51 votes from the 100-member Senate. If successful, he would follow in the footsteps of Hans H. Hertell as the second ambassador of Puerto Rican descent appointed by Washington to serve in the Dominican Republic. Hertell held the position from 2001 to 2007.

Iturregui’s nomination represents the second appointment during Biden’s presidency to fill the vacancy left by Robin Bernstein following the 2021 change in administration. Bernstein, who was appointed by Republican Donald Trump, served as the U.S. ambassador to the Dominican Republic.

RCD Hotels unveils Latitud 18 with two new hotels in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo.- This Wednesday, President Luis Abinader Corona, along with prominent national and international figures from the tourism and business sectors, inaugurated the new Latitud 18 project and the Santo Domingo Marriott Piantini & Aloft Piantini hotels.

These additions signify a strategic expansion in high-growth markets, further boosting both local and international tourism.

Roberto Chapur, CEO of RCD Hotels, expressed excitement about the expansion and the opening of these hotel brands, as well as the new gastronomic center, in one of the Caribbean’s most cosmopolitan destinations. He emphasized that Latitud 18 is known for its exceptional hospitality and gastronomy, featuring restaurants such as Cueva Siete, offering contemporary Mexican cuisine, and Makoto, an internationally acclaimed brand of modern Japanese food. Chapur highlighted that the Dominican Republic’s rich culture, blending ancient and modern elements, enhances the appeal of these offerings.

Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities

Chapur announced that Latitud 18 will create over 300 new jobs. The project boasts 400 rooms and five restaurants, providing a diverse array of options for visitors. He also noted that this investment will bolster executive tourism in the country, positioning Santo Domingo as a vibrant city and the first European settlement in the Americas.

Innovative Hospitality and Cultural Offerings

Yudith García, representing Marriott International in the Dominican Republic, highlighted Aloft’s vibrant and eclectic spaces designed for music lovers and creators. The brand is renowned for its innovative musical programming through the Live at Aloft platform. García also introduced the Santo Domingo Marriott Piantini, a hotel embodying Marriott International’s flagship brand known for its global hospitality excellence. This hotel aims to innovate while maintaining familiar comfort for guests worldwide.

García concluded by emphasizing that both hotel brands offer distinctive service and comfortable design, catering to the diverse needs of their guests.

Event Highlights

The event featured the presence of the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, and the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Víctor Bisonó. They joined the Chapur family on a tour of the new hotels, guided by general director Eduardo Perezmoreno and commercial director Raúl Melgen.

Dominican tourist ports generate over $20 Million in May

Santo Domingo.- Dominican tourist ports generated approximately $20,840,040 in May, with each cruise tourist spending an average of $100 to $120 per day.

According to a report by the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom), the Dominican Republic welcomed around 176,667 passengers in May through ports including Amber Cove, Taino Bay in Puerto Plata, La Romana, Santa Bárbara in Samaná, and Santo Domingo Crucero.

Amber Cove and Taino Bay, known as the Bride of the Atlantic terminals, continue to lead the country’s cruise industry.

Jean Luis Rodríguez, the executive director of the Port Authority, highlighted the economic benefits for local communities, noting that each cruise passenger spends between $100 and $120 during their visit.

“In the Dominican Republic, the arrival of cruise ships has increased due to the country’s tourist attractions and its ports. The schedule for tour operators has also expanded significantly, with excursions growing from carrying 10 people to now accommodating 200, representing a substantial economic impact,” Rodríguez stated.

June 2024 Cruises in Dominican Ports

Until June 29, the Dominican Republic expects to receive an average of 40 vessels at its ports and anchorages.

Amber Cove, with its accommodation, entertainment, and shopping facilities, will host 19 arrivals, Taino Bay will welcome 15, and La Romana will see 2. This indicates a significant increase in vessel activity within Dominican territory.

The ships scheduled to arrive from June 1 to 29 include Carnival Horizon, Freedom Of The Seas, MSC Seashore, Carnival Venezia, Wonder Of The Seas, Adventures Of The Seas, Carnival Vista, Carnival Celebration, Marella Discovery, Norwegian Sky, and Carnival Mardi Gras.

Additionally, Enchanted Princess, Norwegian Jade, Carnival Magic, Norwegian Breakaway, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Freedom, and Valiant Lady, among others, are expected.

The Dominican Port Authority noted that the projected schedule for visitors may vary due to weather conditions, route changes by cruise lines, and other factors that could affect the number of visits.

Brazilian Airline GOL increases flights to Punta Cana

Brazil.- GOL Linhas Aéreas announced that it has scheduled 1,096 flights for July 2024 on its international air network. Of these, 247 are new operations planned exclusively for this period to capitalize on the high demand of the winter season.

The company reported the addition of 46,200 new seats for the holiday month, representing a 36% increase compared to June 2024, which is considered low season. Overall, the company’s total capacity—combining both international and domestic networks—increased by 26.5% between these two months.

As part of its plan, GOL will operate daily flights to Bogotá from Buenos Aires and São Paulo. Additionally, the number of weekly flights to Punta Cana from Guarulhos will increase from 2 to 4, before being reduced to 3 flights per week starting in September, according to a company statement.

Currently, GOL serves 12 international destinations in countries across the Americas, including Colombia, the United States, Argentina, Uruguay, and the Dominican Republic.

In partnership with nine other major airlines, GOL extends its reach to an additional 216 destinations in 50 countries worldwide. Tickets are sold through GOL’s own channels, and flights are operated either by GOL or its partner airlines.

Raquel Peña oversees arrival of Arajet’s tenth aircraft

Santo Domingo.- Arajet has welcomed its tenth Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, named “Los Haitises,” featuring the Dominican Republic flag in its design to emphasize Dominicanness and provide travel opportunities for Dominicans, according to the airline.

At the reception ceremony, Vice President Raquel Peña emphasized that Arajet is a platform that showcases the Dominican Republic’s tourist offerings and represents the Government’s support for private initiatives. Peña stated, “We have no ceiling to continue developing our country,” highlighting that Arajet’s fleet expansion demonstrates private and foreign investors’ confidence in the country’s potential.

Arajet CEO and founder, Víctor Pacheco Méndez, expressed gratitude for the support from the Dominican State, which has enabled national airlines to operate within a competitive legal framework, positioning the country as a Latin American aviation power. “This tenth aircraft is special as it increases our connections across the continent and reaffirms our commitment to democratize the skies of Latin America with low prices, top quality, and Dominican service warmth,” Pacheco said. He noted that Arajet currently flies to 23 destinations in 16 countries and aims to fly to the United States in 2024, pending the signing of the open skies treaty.

Pacheco also highlighted that in just a year and a half, Arajet has flown over a million passengers, boosting tourist numbers to the Dominican Republic and transit passengers using Arajet for connections. “The dream of turning the DR into the new Hub of the continent is becoming a reality thanks to our over 400 direct employees, recognized internationally when we were awarded the best new airline in the world in 2023 at the world aviation summit, a source of pride for all Dominicans,” he said.

Pacheco added, “It is an honor for Arajet to name an aircraft ‘Los Haitises,’ a Taíno word meaning high land or land of mountains, one of the most beautiful corners of our country, promoted by the current administration to bring development and hope to the northern Dominicans.”

“Los Haitises,” a Boeing 737 MAX 8 with a 185-seat configuration, arrived from the Boeing factory in Seattle, USA. It joins the fleet alongside other aircraft named after Dominican landmarks such as Pico Duarte, Valle Nuevo, Jaragua, Ojos Indígena, Tres Ojos, Isla Saona, Lago Enriquillo, Laguna Redonda, and Bahía de las Águilas, further establishing the Dominican Republic as the Caribbean Hub.

The event was attended by Vice President Raquel Peña, Arajet CEO Víctor Pacheco Méndez, Boeing’s President for Latin America, Landom Loomis, along with other officials, investors, and company executives.