TORONTO — The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism kicked off its DR Tourism Roadshow in Toronto and Montreal, which aims to re-connect, revitalize and re-position the Dominican Republic as the ultimate tourist haven for Canadians. These events were attended by more than 500 tour operators and travel agencies from across Canada, as well as Canada’s Tourism Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada at the Montreal edition.
The Ministry also provided valuable insights on the significant impact Canadian tourists have on the tourism industry. In the first eight months of 2023, the Dominican Republic welcomed seven million tourists, which included 5.5 million arriving by air and 1.5 million by cruise ships. Ontario accounted for more than 350,000 Canadian tourists, constituting nearly half, while Quebec contributed significantly, with more than 288,000 visitors, representing almost 30 per cent of Canadian tourists. Additionally, the Ministry shed light on one of Dominican Republic’s most ambitious projects, Punta Bergantín, the largest and most advanced water theme park in the Caribbean and El Dorado.
Dominican Republic also introduced the DO Travel Rewards program, a loyalty initiative designed for travel agencies which allows travel agents to earn rewards while promoting the Dominican Republic, providing them with access to valuable information, destination training and news updates.
“The Dominican Republic’s Roadshow transcends being just an event; it’s a joyous celebration of the enduring friendship between our nations,” says Dominican Republic Tourism Minister David Collado. “Our visitation from Canada this year is tracking at record levels with more than one million Canadians expected to visit our shores by the end of the year. We eagerly anticipate strengthening our ties and continuing to create unforgettable moments for Canadians who choose to explore the wonders of the Dominican Republic.”
The Roadshow showcased the Dominican Republic’s prime destinations, such as Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Samaná, Miches, La Romana and Santo Domingo. Additionally, strategic meetings were convened with major airlines, including Air Transat, Air Canada, and Sunwing, and an agreement to introduce new routes has been signed with Arajet and Flair Airlines, further enhancing connectivity, choice and convenience for Canadian travellers to the Dominican Republic.
