Puerto Plata Mayor’s Office reopens the doors of Paseo de Doña Blanca

Puerto Plata – Roquelito García, mayor of Puerto Plata, reopened the doors of the Paseo de Doña Blancas (Callejón Rosado) after several days of work to rehabilitate and maintain the tourist attraction.

It is one of the most visited destinations, as every year, the local government intervenes before the holiday of the main week with the intention of maintaining its attractiveness and beauty before an arduous work that makes one of the professionals of the brush, as is Alex Jimenez.

The mayor was accompanied by the Regional Director of Tourism, Atahualpa Paulino; the Director of Municipal Tourism, Leonardo Medrano; the Director of Transit, Anibal Polanco; and other civil and military authorities.

Hotels, bars and restaurants increased 10.6% in February 2024

Santo Domingo – The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) reported the preliminary results of the economic activity of last February 2024.

Hotels, bars, and restaurants showed an inter-annual variation of 12.8% in February of this year, accumulating an expansion of 10.6% from January to February 2024.

This remarkable performance was largely supported by the arrival of passengers by air, which reached 1,498,061 tourists. Together with the reception of 602,985 cruise passengers, this totaled 2,101,046 visitors in that period.

Likewise, the consolidated credit portfolio directed to the sector increased by 12.5% compared to February 2023.

The monthly economic activity indicator (IMAE) registered an expansion of 6.2 % during February of this year, higher than the 4.6 % observed in January, thus accumulating an average year-on-year growth of 5.4 % in the first two months of 2024, continuing with the growing trend that the economy has been exhibiting in recent months.

Finally, most economic activities registered a positive performance in the first two months of 2024, except Mining, whose 15.9 % drop is explained mainly by the cessation of operations of the ferronickel extraction company since December 2023.

Likewise, the slowdown in the gold and silver extraction process has affected the activity’s performance due to the readjustment plan of the facilities required for the continuity of the mining activity in the country’s main deposit. This process is expected to normalize in the next few months of this year, regularizing production levels.

Puerto Plata: Mitur and hotel sector expect to receive 50 thousand visitors

Puerto Plata—The North Coast is preparing to receive the thousands of vacationers who choose to spend the Holy Week holiday in the area. Hence, authorities of the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) said that Samaná, María Trinidad Sánchez, and Puerto Plata to Montecristi are working on conditioning and cleaning algae from the main beaches.

In addition, they placed a security system and a large staff as part of the actions undertaken by the Mitur and the hotel sector because they estimate that about 50,000 people could visit the coastal towns from Thursday to Sunday.

A total of 1,000 police and military personnel will be deployed for security.

Carlos Atahualpa Paulino, northern regional director of Mitur, said that in the province of Puerto Plata alone, 22,800 people are expected to visit.

He indicated that during the Semana Mayor, Puerto Plata’s more than nine thousand rooms are all full, and 12,800 visitors from different countries are expected to arrive only by air.

In María Trinidad Sánchez, 10,000 visitors are expected to visit its beaches and resorts, and another 7,000 in Montecristi.

The official informed us that on five beaches of Puerto Plata, such as Cofresí, Pueblito, Camacho, and Costa Rica on the boardwalk, and Sosúa, they are working on the placement of towers for the safety of bathers.

“In the case of the beach cleaning, it is a work that we do permanently together with the hotel businessmen of this area,” Paulino told elCaribe.

Meanwhile, the provincial governor of Puerto Plata, Clariza Rochet, informed that 12,800 travelers and another 48,000 cruise passengers are expected to arrive by air through the two terminals, Amber Cove and Taíno Bay.

The Executive Branch representative said they are working with the emergency, mitigation, and response committee to organize the Easter Week operation. The area’s businessmen hope that the presence of thousands of Dominicans visiting the Dominican Republic for domestic tourism will boost the economy.

Meliá Hotels International and CEPM inaugurate solar park

Punta Cana.- The Paradisus Palma Real hotel and the Punta Cana-Macao Energy Consortium (CEPM) have officially inaugurated a photovoltaic plant, boasting 901 solar modules and an installed power capacity of 500 kWp. In its first year of operation, the plant is projected to produce an estimated 791 MWh of energy, resulting in the avoidance of approximately 560 tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to 465 barrels of oil.

Francisco Camps, the Area General Director of Meliá Hotels International in the Dominican Republic, emphasized that this initiative aligns with the commitment of the Meliá Hotels International Group to environmental protection. He stated, “We view sustainability as a crucial tool for leaving a positive legacy on our planet and society, achieved through responsible resource management with the goal of continually reducing our CO2 emissions.”

Camps further highlighted the significance of the alliance between Meliá Hotels International and CEPM, a leading energy company in the Dominican Republic. He praised CEPM for offering new energy solutions that contribute to sustainable development, particularly in regions such as Punta Cana.

The investment in this photovoltaic plant by CEPM underscores Meliá Hotels International’s dedication to advancing the decarbonization of its operations, thus promoting a more efficient and environmentally responsible tourism model.

Oscar San Martín, the general manager of CEPM, expressed enthusiasm for the solar park’s inauguration, emphasizing its role in supporting their joint mission to establish the tourist destination as a zero-emissions hub of global significance.

The event was attended by executives from Meliá Hotels International in the Dominican Republic, including Francisco Avalos, Director of Operations; Antonio Fuentes, businessman; Ángel Medina, general manager of Paradisus Palma Real; Henry Báez, from the Technical Service and Engineering department; Sara Ranghi, Marketing and Brand Development representative for America, as well as Lourdes Ripoll, the Group’s Sustainability representative, among others.

Representatives from CEPM included Oscar San Martín, the general manager; Antonio Martorell, the commercial director; Claudia Castillo, the commercial and customer experience manager; and Carlos Rodríguez, the senior manager of Marketing and Corporate Affairs. Additionally, representatives from Trace Solar, including José Hernández, the executive director, and Aníbal de la Rosa, the general director, were present, both of whom are part of the Association for the Promotion of Renewable Energies (ASOFER).

Safety measures implemented for beach-goers in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata, DR.- The Civil Defense in Puerto Plata has downgraded flag placements on the beaches of the Atlantic coast from red to yellow. This precautionary measure aims to ensure the safety of beachgoers, allowing swimming in designated areas at various beach resorts where security measures and lifeguard supervision are in place.

As conditions improve along the coastal areas of Puerto Plata, with dangerous waves subsiding, Whascar García, Director of Civil Defense, reported waves measuring 4 to 5 feet, accompanied by moderate winds and slightly irregular marine currents in deeper waters of the Atlantic Zone.

García emphasized the potential for sudden changes in wave and wind patterns, underscoring the need for vigilance among beach users to avoid potential risks to their lives. “We anticipate better conditions tomorrow, and thankfully, we have had no incidents to regret during the initial phase of operations,” stated García.

Furthermore, García advised citizens seeking navigation permits to contact the Dominican Republic Navy (ARD).

Puerto Plata Launches Operation for Holy Week 2024

Authorities in the Atlantic jurisdiction commenced their Easter security and prevention operation on Wednesday, March 27. The operation involves 1,092 uniformed personnel (including police and military), 177 vehicles, and communication equipment.

The launch event, held at the parking lot of the General Gregorio Luperón Sports Complex in San Felipe de Puerto Plata, was overseen by General Jorge Luis Galán Guerrero, Northern Regional Director of the National Police. He was joined by Civil Governor Claritza Rochett Peralta, Regional Tourism Director Atahualpa Paulino, Puerto Plata Air Base Commander Brigadier General Manuel Abad García Lithgow, and Municipal Mayor Roquelito García.

High demand: Iberia expands Easter flights to Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic emerges as one of the top destinations for Iberia Airlines during the Easter 2024 period, driven by several factors, including the surging demand from Spanish travelers who consistently favor the Caribbean island as a prime long-haul destination.

Iberia has decided to ramp up its flight operations to the Dominican Republic, scheduling four weekly frequencies and initiating the summer season earlier than usual, in early April. This strategic move capitalizes on the heightened demand typically associated with the Easter holiday.

During this period, Iberia and its affiliate airlines are set to operate a total of 5,471 flights from March 22 to April 1, marking a notable 7.69% increase compared to the previous year. Altogether, the Iberia Group will offer over one million seats, catering to the surge in travel demand.

Aside from the Dominican Republic, Iberia’s other highly sought-after destinations include Paris, with ten daily flights, Rome with six, New York with three, and Athens with one daily flight.

María Jesús Lopéz Solas, the commercial director of Iberia, emphasized, “Holy Week represents one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and as such, we have expanded our capacity to accommodate the high demand for travel to popular destinations. Additionally, we are pleased to offer our customers the opportunity to explore new destinations that are part of our summer season schedule.”

British diplomats interested in Cabo Rojo tourism development project

Pedernales, DR.- A delegation from the British Embassy, led by David Rutley, Minister for the Americas and the Caribbean of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office of the United Kingdom, alongside the UK’s ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Mockbul Ali, recently visited the Tourist Development Project in Cabo Rojo, Pedernales.

Joined by Sigmund Freund, Executive Director of the General Directorate of Public-Private Partnerships (DGAPP), and representatives from the Pro-Pedernales Trust, the diplomats toured the construction site of the project’s first hotels, receiving detailed updates from the engineers overseeing the construction.

The itinerary included visits to the cruise port and the Cabo Rojo Nursery, which stands as the country’s first conservation program for endemic and native species. This initiative was launched by the Pro-Pedernales Trust prior to the commencement of civil works on the project.

The diplomats had the opportunity to admire the ecotourism beauty of Cabo Rojo and its rich biodiversity during a boat tour from La Cueva to Bahía de las Águilas.

Sigmund Freund, DGAPP’s Executive Director, emphasized that the visit by British Minister David Rutley and Ambassador Mockbul Ali signifies strong support for the initiatives spearheaded by President Luis Abinader, not only within the Cabo Rojo project but nationwide, for the benefit of Dominicans.

Minister David Rutley expressed his admiration for the project, pledging to support the Dominican Government’s efforts in tourism development in the Southern region by encouraging British companies to engage in the project.

“It’s an honor to witness the scale and ambition of sustainable economic and environmental development here in Cabo Rojo. The cactus conservation project underway, along with the nursery, ensures the preservation of important plants and cacti for future generations. I’m truly honored to be here and witness the magnitude of opportunity for the country and the region’s residents,” said the British diplomat.

He further added, “As more people discover the offerings here, they’ll enjoy unforgettable vacations and experiences in this part of the Dominican Republic, ones they’ll cherish for a lifetime due to the incredible environment found here.”

Ambassador Mockbul Ali expressed gratitude to Freund, the DGAPP, and the Trust team for providing “an impressive tour of Cabo Rojo, where we learned about visionary projects in development and their steadfast commitment to environmental protection.”

Air Century announces new Santo Domingo-Punta Cana route

Santo Domingo – Air Century announced its new route from Santo Domingo’s La Isabela Airport (JBQ) to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), which represents a significant step in further connecting domestic and foreign travelers to the country’s most popular destinations.

The direct flights from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana will offer passengers convenient schedules to one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after tourist destinations.

With regular departures from La Isabela Airport, travelers can enjoy a comfortable and efficient flight to Punta Cana in just 20 minutes.

To meet passengers’ needs and preferences, Air Century offers fares starting at $79 each way. In addition, each passenger will enjoy the convenience of one piece of luggage up to 23kg, which is included in the ticket price. All taxes are included in the cost of the flight, providing transparency and clarity in the booking experience.

“We are excited to be able to offer this new route from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana,” said Felipe Gutierrez, Air Century’s commercial director.

“Our goal is to provide our passengers with convenient and affordable travel options, and this new route is a testament to our continued commitment to our passengers,” he concluded.

According to a statement, Air Century is committed to continuing to offer innovative solutions and exceptional travel experiences for its passengers, consolidating its position as a leader in the aviation industry in the Caribbean.

Travelers interested in booking their flight from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana can do so through Air Century’s website or by contacting the airline’s customer service center. Flights are scheduled for Wednesdays and Sundays.

The 8 risks that will impact the business environment in the Dominican Republic

LLYC, a global corporate affairs and marketing firm, presented the report “Dominican Context: Challenges for the business environment,” revealing the country’s main reputational risks for the current year. This comprehensive analysis evaluated over 3 million digital mentions, identifying the most critical challenges facing the Dominican Republic in public and private spheres.

The report highlights that instability and forced migration from Haiti, the effects of El Niño and Hurricanes, the impact on tourism from multi-regional conflicts, and misinformation are among the main risks, underscoring the need for informed and strategic decision-making to address these issues. This analysis was based on the work of specialized Public Affairs, Risk, and Deep Learning teams, which employed advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning tools.

“Dominican Context: challenges for the business environment” offers essential strategic insight at a crucial time for the country: presidential elections combined with a convulsive and volatile international environment. The report provides a vital decision-making tool for corporate entities and the subsequent political leaders, highlighting the importance of proactively and effectively addressing these reputational risks.

The construction of the Dominican Republic Reputational Risk Prioritization Map was carried out by LLYC’s team of international experts, employing data intelligence supported by advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning tools and the team’s analysis of country indicators and reports, which resulted in the identification and prioritization of the challenges for the country:

Risk 1. Impact on tourism due to multi-region hostilities: in the face of fear due to multiple war conflicts, we analyzed what actions can be implemented as a country to protect one of the main economic activities.

Risk 2. El Niño phenomenon and hurricanes: as an island nation, extreme weather events have a cross-cutting impact on the country’s economic activities, so implementing resilient infrastructure and establishing early warning systems to protect the population and minimize financial losses are vital actions to address them.

Risk 3. Instability and forced migration from Haiti: The international community’s and companies’ perceptions of the impact of the prolonged crisis in the neighboring country pose a significant long-term threat to the Dominican Republic.

Risk 4. Inflation and its economic impact: the economic challenge would require resilience measures for the country to adapt to a volatile global environment. Likewise, public-private collaboration that guarantees investment conditions will be vital this year.

Risk 5. Elections, new government, or ratification? This topic concentrates the greatest volume of conversation analyzed, as well as the diversity of communities and scope. Uncertainty, polarization, and confrontations between the different political forces are evident.

Risk 6. Cybersecurity and the role of AI: This is an accelerating territory with very limited communities. The media mainly exposes capabilities, applications, and associated risks.

Risk 7. Citizen security: Given this risk, it is essential to design strategies to mitigate the problem and strengthen a more favorable environment for its citizens and, therefore, for businesses. According to the Reputational Risk Prioritization Map, this risk has a high impact and moderate probability. Building solutions that foster social peace will allow for a better development of the country.

Risk 8. Disinformation: In the Dominican context, disinformation is presented as a crucial risk for public opinion, as some political organizations and influential figures may contribute to the spread of unverified information.

According to Iban Campo, General Director of LLYC Santo Domingo, “Managing the context and not only reacting to it will allow organizations to design mitigation strategies to face the detected impact, or take an anti-fragility perspective that allows companies to achieve their business objectives and protect their reputation.”

According to Renata Sanchez, Director of Corporate Affairs at LLYC Santo Domingo, “In an environment of permacrisis and constant uncertainty, in which risks are much more complex, having the information supported by insights from Big Data allows designing more powerful strategies in the volatile environment that characterizes the global and Dominican environment.”

This Reputational Risk Prioritization Map aims to provide the country with an essential tool for making informed and strategic decisions, both for corporate entities and for upcoming leaders.

About LLYC

LLYC (BME:LLYC) is a global Corporate Affairs and Marketing firm that partners with clients in creativity, influence, and innovation to grow and protect the value of their businesses. It turns every day into an opportunity to nurture its clients’ brands.

LLYC, founded in 1995, is present in Argentina, Brazil (São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro), Brussels, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Spain (Madrid and Barcelona), the United States (Miami, New York, San Diego and Washington, DC), Mexico, Panama, Peru, Portugal and the Dominican Republic.

In 2022, LLYC’s operating revenues exceeded €72 million. According to the PRWeek and PRovoke rankings, LLYC is among the 40 largest companies in its sector. It was named Best Consultancy in Europe 2022 in the PRWeek Global Awards and Latin America Consultancy of the Year 2023 by PRovoke.

Santo Domingo Fortress Museum Interpretation Center will open on Wednesday

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Tourism took to its Instagram account to announce the upcoming public opening of the Interpretation Center at the Santo Domingo Fortress Museum. Following its recent inauguration, the center will welcome visitors free of charge starting next Wednesday until Sunday.

The announcement underscores the innovative nature of this initiative, which features video mapping and immersive experiences aimed at delving into the history of this iconic site. Designed to both captivate and educate visitors about the fort’s cultural heritage, the center is anticipated to be a compelling attraction for both locals and tourists.

MSC Cruceros bets on Puerto Plata with its newest ship

Puerto Plata – MSC Cruises is bringing its newest ship, MSC World America, to Miami to sail the Caribbean. The cruise ship will set sail for its inaugural season on April 12, 2025, on a 7-day itinerary.

MSC World America will sail the eastern and western Caribbean in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan Island, Honduras; and the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas.

Puerto Plata continues to establish itself as an increasingly captivating tourist destination in the Caribbean, attracting not only international visitors but also cruise ships that recognize the beauty and potential of the jewel of the northern region.

MSC World America will be MSC Cruises’ first ship in the U.S. market powered by LNG. It is also the second of the boats specially designed for North American guests, with restaurants, bars, and unique experiences that seamlessly blend European design with American comfort.

Ruben A. Rodriguez, president of MSC Cruises USA, said, “There is no better place to welcome MSC World America than the cruise capital of the world. We look forward to seeing her set sail from our state-of-the-art cruise terminal built in partnership with Miami-Dade County and PortMiami.”

Easter Week: These are the destinations where tourists travel the most

With the arrival of Holy Week, Punta Cana has experienced a notable increase in tourism activity that drives its economy. This economic boost extends to various industries, including mobility, where Uber is constantly evolving to offer people accessible options to go wherever they want.

“At Uber we support tourism by transforming the way the country moves, especially in tourist areas like Punta Cana. For this reason, we strive to offer solutions that suit the needs of visitors, making their vacations a safer and more reliable experience,” said Carolina Coto, communications manager for Uber in Central America and the Caribbean.

Tourist trends

Coto highlighted some trends in the use of the app by tourists who have visited the country during Easter Week:

The tourists who most use Uber to request a ride are from the United States, Canada, Colombia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and France.
Among the favorite destinations of tourists are Punta Cana Airport, Downtown Punta Cana, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Plaza San Juan Shopping Center, Drink Point Bávaro, and Blue Mall Punta Cana.
The app’s peak usage days are weekends, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.
In addition, he added that the Uber app offers product options that make users’ exploration of the country unique and memorable. One of these options is Uber Select, which will be available in the Bávaro Punta Cana area starting in 2022.

This option allows tourist cabs affiliated with CODOTATUR member associations, whose vehicles have their documents in force and meet the requirements, to register on the Uber platform as driver-partners and have access to Uber’s cutting-edge technology, access the app’s user base and increase their opportunities to generate additional earnings.

On the other hand, according to the Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, in its passenger arrival tracking report, it assured that it is already proven that in March and April 2024, Punta Cana will boom in tourism since only in January 2024 the effective hotel occupancy was 75.9%. Some 2,128 international flights landed at the local airport, bringing with them more than 330,000 tourists to the area.

About Uber

Uber’s mission is to create opportunity through movement. It started in 2010 to solve a simple problem: how do you get access to a ride at the touch of a button? More than 15 billion rides later, they continue to build products to bring people closer to where they want to be. By changing how people, food, and things move around cities, Uber is an app that opens the world to new possibilities. Uber is available in over 10,000 cities in 76 countries on six continents. Uber has been available in the Dominican Republic since November 2015. The app covers Santo Domingo, Santiago de los Caballeros, Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, San Pedro de Macorís, La Romana, and Higüey.

For more information, you can log on to www.uber.com.

The Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico energy project exceeds US$ 1,000 million

Santo Domingo.- Rafael Vélez Domínguez, president of the Caribbean Transmission Development Company (CTDC), has disclosed that connecting the Dominican Republic with Puerto Rico via a submarine electrical cable would entail a cost exceeding US$1,000 million.

Reported by El Nuevo Día, Vélez, a key figure behind the submarine cable initiative, underscored its potential to forge stronger ties between the two largest economies in the Caribbean. Despite administrative hurdles, it is anticipated that the project could reach fruition by 2030.

CTDC has formally presented a proposal to the federal government, seeking presidential authorization to proceed with the ambitious endeavor.

The Caribbean Transmission Development Company is diligently working towards securing United States presidential approval to advance its vision of installing an underwater cable for transmitting electrical energy from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico.

While informal discussions have taken place in the Dominican Republic to introduce the project, Rafael Vélez, the company’s president and CEO, has refrained from disclosing specific participants or formally requesting requisite approvals from local authorities.

Named the Hostos Project in tribute to Eugenio María de Hostos, this initiative could potentially inject up to 500 megawatts of energy into Puerto Rico’s electrical grid, accounting for approximately one-sixth of the island’s peak hour electricity demand.

US and Canadian tourists are the main users of Uber in Punta Cana

Punta Cana.- As Holy Week approaches, Punta Cana witnesses a significant surge in tourist activity, leading to heightened mobility in the region, with Uber emerging as a primary ground transportation choice for foreign visitors exploring the country.

Carolina Coto, the communications manager for Uber in Central America and the Caribbean, has outlined the usage trends of the app among tourists:

The majority of Uber trip requests originate from visitors hailing from the United States, Canada, Colombia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and France.

Popular destinations frequently requested via Uber include Punta Cana Airport, Downtown Punta Cana, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Plaza San Juan Shopping Center, Drink Point Bávaro, and Blue Mall Puntacana.

The peak hours for app usage coincide with weekends, specifically from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

“We at Uber are committed to supporting tourism by revolutionizing transportation dynamics, particularly in tourist hubs like Punta Cana. Hence, we endeavor to provide solutions tailored to visitors’ needs, ensuring their vacations are safe and dependable,” stated Coto.

Moreover, she highlighted that the Uber app offers diverse product options, enriching users’ exploration experiences in the country. Notably, one such option is Uber Select, introduced in the Bávaro Punta Cana area since 2022, as reported by El Pregonero.

This feature permits tourist taxis affiliated with CODOTATUR member associations, equipped with up-to-date vehicle documents and meeting requisite standards, to join the Uber platform as driver partners. By leveraging Uber’s advanced technology, accessing the app’s extensive user base, and enhancing profit opportunities, these drivers can offer visitors a seamless and rewarding travel experience.

Frank Rainieri’s vision: proposing 17 million tourists by 2035

Santo Domingo.- Tourism magnate Frank Rainieri predicts an inevitable expansion of tourism across the entire country in the coming years, aiming to transform the Dominican Republic into a prime tourist destination. Speaking at the “Breakfast Conference of the Archbishopric of Santo Domingo,” Rainieri proposed a bold target of hosting 17 million tourists by 2035, emphasizing the need for foresight, diligence, and collaboration across various sectors of national life to sustain this growth.

Reflecting on the evolution of tourism since its modest beginnings in the 1970s, Rainieri cited historian Frank Moya Pons, who recognized tourism as a pivotal driver of economic change, transforming the Dominican Republic from a small agrarian economy to a global tourism powerhouse. Despite challenges such as the Covid pandemic and geopolitical conflicts, Rainieri emphasized the resilience of the industry, asserting its substantial contribution to the national economy.

In 2023 alone, tourism injected US$9,828 million into the Dominican economy, surpassing exports from other sectors. Rainieri attributed this success to concerted efforts from the hotel sector, the Ministry of Tourism, President Luis Abinader, and the Verón-Punta Cana Community. Notably, the Punta Cana region, boasting nearly 50,000 hotel rooms, emerged as a key economic driver, generating a significant portion of the country’s GDP and providing employment for thousands.

Looking ahead to 2024, Rainieri anticipated further expansion of tourism infrastructure, with the Punta Cana-Miches area set to reach 50,000 rooms. Established destinations like Bayahíbe, La Romana, Puerto Plata, and Samaná continue to grow, while emerging locales such as Pedernales, Baní, and Barahona prepare to enter the global tourism landscape. Additionally, Rainieri highlighted the burgeoning tourism potential of cities like Santiago, Jarabacoa, Constanza, and Santo Domingo.

Acknowledging the responsibility of businesses to contribute positively to society, Rainieri underscored the importance of sustainable investment initiatives that benefit local communities. He emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration and visionary leadership to uphold the Dominican Republic’s position as a premier tourist destination amidst global competition

Puerto Plata embraces new airline route to Puerto Rico

Puerto Plata.- Tourism entities in the Northern region are set to promote the latest route offered by Silver Airways, which now provides two weekly flights between San Juan and Puerto Plata.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), the Puerto Plata Destination Tourism Cluster (CTDPP), alongside various associations and hotels in the Puerto Plata destination, will host a roadshow in Ponce and San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 21 and 22, 2024, to bolster awareness of the Dominican North coast.

Birgitt Heinsen, president of CTDPP, highlighted the objective of supporting the new route and announced the participation of several prominent establishments including Blue Jack Tar, Amhsa Marina Hotels & Resorts, VH Hotels & Resorts, Viva Resort by Wyndham, Emotions by Hodelpa, Marien Puerto Plata, and Hospitality Management Solutions.

Heinsen emphasized the historical and close connections, both in tourism and commerce, between Puerto Rico and Puerto Plata, underscoring the importance of promotional efforts in this market.

“The destination presentations for travel agents will include an educational webinar and a familiarization trip, aiming to stimulate demand for the diverse tourist offerings in Puerto Plata and the surrounding region,” Heinsen elaborated.

He expressed gratitude to Mitur, as well as to Aida Virginia Martínez of the Tourism Promotion Office (OPT) of the Dominican Republic in Puerto Rico, and Atahualpa Paulino of the Northern Regional office, for their collaboration in this and other initiatives spearheaded by the private sector in Puerto Plata, aimed at enhancing tourism growth and sustainability.

Abinader and Collado inaugurate projects in the Colonial City

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader and Minister of Tourism David Collado inaugurated the renovated Las Damas Street and the Santo Domingo Fortress Museum today as part of the ongoing efforts within the Comprehensive Tourism and Urban Development Program of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo (PIDTUCCSD) or Colonial City Revitalization Program. Of the twenty projects comprising the Colonial City Program, the president and the Minister of Tourism unveiled these two revitalized works during their visit to the historic center.

Under the Prioritized Streets Rehabilitation Project, Las Damas Street was officially opened, extending from Plaza Pellerano Castro to Plaza Reloj de Sol, spanning a length of 456 meters. The street underwent a complete renovation, including the installation of new pavement with concrete slabs, transforming it into a unified platform area between sidewalks and streets to ensure safe mobility for all users. Additionally, the drinking water network and connections to residences and businesses were replaced, and the sanitary drainage was separated from storm drainage. Podotactile signs were incorporated into the pavement to guide disabled individuals safely, and the use of paving stones helped reduce the street’s temperature by 33 percent.

As part of the Revitalization and Architectural Adaptation of Museums Project, President Abinader and Minister Collado inaugurated the Santo Domingo Fortress Museum, also known as Fortaleza Ozama, which received new and modern museographic content. The intervention aimed to enhance the value of this historic monument through three main areas of work. Firstly, there was an architectural enhancement of its infrastructure, incorporating new energy generation and climate adaptation systems. Secondly, a museum project focusing on the Tower of Tribute was implemented to highlight its role in the Dominican Republic’s history. Lastly, immersive experiences were introduced, featuring audiovisual and technological resources across three scenarios showcasing the country’s cultural, ethnic, and landscape richness, celebrating Dominican identity.

The enhancements at the Santo Domingo Fortress Museum will expand its museum offerings for visitors, greatly impacting the Colonial City.

The Revitalization and Architectural Adaptation of the Museums Project aims to restore the four most emblematic museums of the Colonial City: the Cathedral Museum, the Don Diego Colón Viceregal Palace or the Alcázar de Colón Museum, and the Museum of the Royal Houses, in addition to the Santo Domingo Fortress.

During the event, President Abinader reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the preservation of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo and the promotion of its cultural heritage as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Minister Collado emphasized that the interventions in the Colonial City have always been a priority in his agenda, aiming to not only restore the historic center but also strengthen historical and cultural tourism offerings, making them more competitive.

President Abinader and Minister Collado were accompanied by Minister of Culture Milagros Germán, Mayor of the National District Carolina Mejía, IDB Group’s Representative Katharina Falkner-Olmedo, EU Ambassador Katja Afheldt, and Program Coordinating Unit’s General Coordinator Amín Abel Santos.

The Colonial City Revitalization Program is financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and co-financed by the European Union. It aims to revitalize the Colonial City in urban, economic, and cultural tourism aspects, executed by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of the National District (ADN) and the Ministry of Culture (MINC). The program consists of approximately twenty ongoing projects aimed at revitalizing public spaces and historical monuments, improving living conditions for residents, fostering local economic development, and strengthening the management of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo.

Las Terrenas implements regulations for Holy Week festivities

Las Terrenas, Samaná.- The Mayor’s Office of Las Terrenas announced on Wednesday that certain activities will be prohibited during Holy Week 2024, including clandestine parties, noisy vehicles, and the setting up of tents.

Mayor Eduardo Esteban Polanco stated in a press conference that only two traditional events will be permitted during the holiday: one in front of Las Cayenas at Playa Las Ballenas and the other at Bonche Las Terrenas.

He further elaborated that municipal residents and visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy three days of free artistic performances on Punta Popi beach, with the event schedule set to be released soon. During this time, parking will not be allowed on Francisco Alberto Caamaño Deñó Street (Las Ballenas Beach), and vehicles or motorcycles causing excessive noise due to modifications will be impounded.

However, the installation of mobile booths in support of local merchants will be permitted at Punta Popi and Playa Calolima, subject to written permission from the Mayor’s Office. Public parking facilities will be available for visitors at the site.

Las Terrenas is a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists, particularly during Holy Week, owing to its diverse entertainment activities.

However, despite the benefits brought by the influx of visitors, concerns remain about maintaining cleanliness in the area. Mayor Polanco emphasized the need for organization and responsible stewardship of visited locations to ensure their preservation.

Venezuelan chambers in Dominican Republic and USA sign collaboration pact

Santo Domingo.– The Dominican Venezuelan Chamber of Commerce and the Venezuelan American Chamber of Commerce of the USA have entered into a collaboration agreement aimed at enhancing commercial relations between the two organizations.

The agreement, signed by Luis Enrique Meneses, President of CADOVEN, and Christian Monahan, representing the VACC, aims to foster commercial ties and streamline financial support. The signing took place during a business seminar held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in the Capital City.

The seminar featured three prominent professionals from the Venezuelan American Chamber of Commerce of the USA: Morella Salazar, a renowned lawyer specializing in immigration issues; Christian Monahan, an expert in tax services and international and local tax advice; and Enrique Urdaneta, an expert real estate consultant.

Salazar delivered a detailed presentation on the challenges and opportunities in the immigration process to the United States, emphasizing key legal strategies for businessmen, entrepreneurs, and professionals.

Monahan shared insights into tax strategies for residents of the Dominican Republic and future tax residents in the United States.

Meanwhile, Urdaneta provided valuable perspectives on the international real estate sector and investment opportunities in the current market. Leveraging his experience, he offered a comprehensive view of successful strategies for real estate transactions on a global scale.

The event, attended by a wide array of businessmen and professionals from various sectors of the national economy, was marked by an enriching exchange of ideas and the opportunity to learn from experts in entrepreneurship and international business.

Leading the event, Luis Meneses, President of CADOVEN, announced that both chambers have scheduled a forthcoming meeting in April in the city of Miami to present investment and business opportunities in the Dominican Republic.

Santiago to host FIFA Women’s World Cup

Santiago, DR.- During the unveiling of the Santiago Tourist Bureau initiatives and the Visit Santiago promotion platform at the León Center, President Luis Abinader made significant announcements. He revealed that the province would host the Women’s FIFA World Cup in the third quarter of this year and projected that by 2026, the Central American Games would take place in this tourist destination.

You may be interested in reading: Boosting tourism: Visit Santiago and Santiago Turístico Bureau launch

Among other initiatives outlined by the president is the establishment of the Don Alejandro Grullón Museum in Santiago, located within the Inposdom facilities and sponsored by Banco Popular. Additionally, he mentioned the transformation of the Hotel Mercedes into a cultural center managed by Banreservas.

President Abinader emphasized Santiago’s institutional strength as a foundation for promoting tourism development. He highlighted the city’s rich history in industries such as tobacco, rum, and healthcare, envisioning a future where Santiago-Puerto Plata becomes a major metropolitan area connected by the Ámbar highway.

Engineer Manuel Estella, a founding partner of Visit Santiago, and Ramón Paulino, president of the Santiago Tourism Cluster, praised the support of the Dominican Government and the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) in advancing Santiago as a premier tourist destination.

The event was attended by Vice President Raquel Peña, First Lady Raquel Arbaje, Presidency Minister Joel Santos, Tourism Minister David Collado, Melany Rodríguez, President of Visit Santiago, Fernando Capellán, and other executives.