Big Times In The DR
The Dominican Republic’s tourism industry is gearing up for a busy 2017, setting aggressive new targets that are underpinned by new developments, increased investment in infrastructure and growing cruise traffic.
In 2016, the Dominican Republic broke a number of arrival records, posting a 9% increase over 2015. Perhaps more impressive, is the 67.5% increase in cruise arrivals, which grew to 580,000 during the year.
As well, Punta Cana airport arrivals increased 7.1% over 2015, and it continues to be the most popular airport in the Caribbean, accepting over 2.4 million arrivals each year.
With new hotel developments, US$100 million investments into Las Terrenas, a collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency for sustainable tourism, and the addition of Cap Cana Marina as an international cruise port, plus new and re-invigorated activities and festivals throughout the country this year, all signs are pointing to a strong and profitable tourism industry within the Dominican Republic for 2017.
The National Association of Hotels and Tourism reports that hotels and resorts in Punta Cana have achieved an average of 82.8% occupancy this year. Overall occupancy in the DR has averaged at 79.3% and it’s optimistic that number will remain positive into 2017.
For more, go to http://www.GoDominicanRepublic.com .
