Dominican Republic highlights its tourism growth and consolidates its leadership at Festuris

How would you describe the Dominican Republic's experience at Festuris this year?

For us, Festuris is one of the most important fairs in Brazil. Being in Gramado is a privilege; it's a wonderful city. The turnout has been highly productive: the stand hasn't stopped receiving visitors, and both the Ministry and the invited partners have finalized very good negotiations. The result has been extraordinary.

The Dominican Republic constantly participates in international fairs. What's next on the agenda?

We have a tireless minister who practically lives between airplanes and trade shows promoting the country. We just returned from London, today we are here in Gramado, and in a few days we will resume activities in the United States. This constant commitment is what allows us to reach the goal of 12 million visitors this year, a historic figure that even surpasses the number of Dominicans on the island.

Beyond the numbers, how would you rate the year in terms of tourism quality?

Quality is fundamental for us. From the Ministry, we carry out constant inspections of hotels, agencies, bars, restaurants, and complementary services. We measure standards, hygiene, operations, and satisfaction, and today we have a score of 4.7 out of 5 in visitor satisfaction. This indicator comes from ongoing surveys that we conduct through the Ministry.

In your recent tours, the progress in infrastructure stands out. What investments are being made?

The central government is making a huge investment in roads, city access, security, and airport modernization. In addition, virtually all the major hotel chains are investing in the country. We currently have more than 15 hotels under construction in destinations such as Miches, Pedernales, Sosúa, and Samaná. It's unprecedented development.

Miches is emerging as one of the most sought-after destinations. What is your view on this growth?

As a Dominican, I can say it's one of the most beautiful areas in the country. Miches Bay is a dream, and two spectacular new hotels have already opened. It's a destination with a very bright future. Bávaro–Punta Cana is already fully established, and Miches is its next big natural expansion. The growth there is impressive.

Tourism also has a social impact. What progress is being made in this area?

One of the president's priorities is job creation. The private sector is very committed because it understands the opportunity that tourism growth represents. Furthermore, two months ago the construction of the new Convention Center in Santo Domingo was announced, a long-awaited project that will boost meetings tourism.

Many tourists visit the Dominican Republic without knowing Santo Domingo. How are you working to reverse that situation?

We are working hard to position the city. Starting next year, you will see important changes: the new convention center, new hotels, and the renovation of the historic center. Public and private investment has been enormous.

Santo Domingo has an immense cultural offering: religious tourism, gastronomy, museums, and the historical value of being the birthplace of the discovery of America. There you will find the first cathedral, the first university, the first street… all restored and recovered. Museums such as the Cathedral Museum and the Maritime Museum, both extraordinary, have been inaugurated. There is so much to discover.