Abril 25 2009

Dominican Minister of Tourism reveals eco-tourism plans

Punta Cana.– The Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE) held in Punta Cana April 20-22 drew international tourism buyers and media to the Dominican Republic, the Caribbean's "It" destination for natural beauty, amazing eco-tourism and a growing wealth of sophisticated hotels and resorts.

During the country's annual tourism conference, Minister of Tourism Francisco Javier Garcia stressed that the government will continue its strong investment in DR tourism infrastructure including building the Atlantic Boulevard in Puerto Plata, the revitalization and development of major highways and roads, and an "even deeper commitment to ensuring that the natural beauty of the DR is sustained for generations to come."

Garcia announced the DR's long-term commitment to developing beautiful, well-lit urban spaces where tourists can walk among shops and restaurants while experiencing the friendly culture and easy-going lifestyle of Dominicans. He noted the urban space developments will take place in cities like Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo and Samana.

Garcia also highlighted the concerted effort by the country to revitalize roads and build new highways, including a highway from Santo Domingo to Samana that shortens drive time from 5.5 to 2 hours and a planned highway from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana that will shorten the drive from 3.5 to 2 hours.

In addition, cruise tourism to the DR is growing with the newly opened Sans Souci terminal in the port of Santo Domingo and more cruise ships are regularly stopping in Samana and La Romana. He also noted that a study is underway to develop the port in Puerto Plata.

Source: Dominicantoday.com