UNIVERSIDAD TECNOLOGICA DE SANTIAGO

(UTESA)
FACULTY OF HUMANITIES

LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

SUBJECT

English Tourism

TITLE:

THE TOURISM IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND THE

CARIBBEAN

SUSTENTANTE

Wilkin Luciano

STUDENT ID 1-

19-5122

PROFESSOR

Willian Torres

DATE

8/10/2023
THE TOURISM IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND THE CARIBBEAN

After doing some researches we found out that centuries ago when indigenous Taino
people inhabited the land. Christopher Columbus stumbled upon this paradise during his
voyage in 1492, marking the start of a tumultuous colonial history. The Dominican
Republic became a melting pot of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences, shaping
its unique identity.

Fast forward to the 20th century, when the nation's natural beauty started attracting
attention from adventurous travelers. Sun-kissed beaches like Punta Cana and Puerto
Plata became synonymous with relaxation and luxury. The allure of turquoise waters,
swaying palm trees, and warm hospitality drew tourists from around the globe.

As the years passed, the Dominican Republic worked tirelessly to build its tourism
infrastructure. Resorts sprung up along the coasts, offering all-inclusive packages that
catered to every traveler's needs. But the country also recognized the importance of
preserving its environment and culture. Efforts were made to balance development with
sustainability, ensuring that the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage remained
intact for generations to come.

The Dominican Republic's tourism story wasn't just about beaches, though. Its vibrant
cities, notably the capital Santo Domingo, held historical treasures dating back to the
colonial era. Cobblestone streets, ornate cathedrals, and lively markets provided a
glimpse into the nation's past.

Adventurers and nature enthusiasts found solace in the country's diverse geography.
From the lush rainforests of Los Haitises National Park to the rugged beauty of the
Cordillera Central Mountain range, the Dominican Republic offered a playground for
hikers, explorers, and eco-conscious travelers.

Local cuisine also played a starring role in the tourism experience. Visitors savored
the flavors of traditional dishes like "la bandera" (rice, beans, and meat), "mangú"
(mashed plantains), and fresh seafood. Music and dance, especially the infectious
rhythms of merengue and bachata, became the heartbeat of the nation's soul over the
time has exceed.
 It faced challenges too, such as natural disasters and the need for sustainable
practices, but the nation's resilience and determination prevailed. And so, the story of
tourism in the Dominican Republic continues to unfold, a tale of sun-soaked beaches,
cultural richness, environmental consciousness, and the warm embrace of its people.
Travelers from all corners of the world still flock to this Caribbean haven, seeking not
just a vacation, but an experience that touches their hearts and souls.

Economic Impact In The Dominican Republic And The Caribbean

Based on some researches done during this work we realized that only Panama, the
Dominican Republic was one of the fastest growing economies across Latin America,
Central America and the Caribbean prior to the pandemic. Within the periods of 2015 to
2019 the country grew at an average rate of 6.1% per year, compared to the region’s
average yearly growth rate of 3.1%. In general, the country experienced an average
annual gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate of more than 5% consistently for more
than 25 years with modest procyclical fiscal deficits and a slowly rising public debt/GDP
ratio.

Taking into consideration that during this period the Dominican economy has been
characterized by its openness to foreign investment and its trade integration with the rest
of the world. Consequently, the country is becoming the main recipient of Foreign
Direct Investment (FDI) in the entire Caribbean with FDI being one of the main sources
of foreign exchange earnings for the country. In other words, according to the Central
Bank of the Dominican Republic foreign exchange income derived from FDI from 2010
to 2020 generated average of US$ 2.539 billion per year and FDI in the tourism sector
accounted for 21.35% of the period’s accumulated FDI flows.

The figures of greenfield investments of FDI show that the Dominican Republic has
attracted more than 26 projects receiving nearly US$ 5.7 billion in tourism capital
investments in the region between 2016 and 2020, trailing Mexico. Regarding the GDP
contribution by sector, the economic fabric of the Dominican Republic has changed
significantly, going from an economy with more than 50% of the GDP generated by the
primary (agricultural activity, livestock, forestry and fishing), and secondary sectors
(mining, manufacturing, construction, manufacturing of beverages and tobacco
products), to an economy driven by the service sector and improved the quality of life of
the citizens in all the sense of the word.
 In 2019 the service sector generated 61% of GDP and proved more than 70% of
country’s employment. Given the latter, the tourism sector has developed into a key
pillar of the country’s economy, generating 15% to 16% of GDP, including its indirect
impact that had also changed the economy of the country increasing the employment and
opportunities.

Tourism in the Dominican Republic and the wider Caribbean region is a significant
and vital industry that plays a crucial role in their economies. These areas are known for
their stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant local
communities, making them popular destinations for travelers from around the world.
Let's take a closer look at tourism in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean.

The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the
Caribbean. It offers a range of attractions, from beautiful beaches and clear blue waters
to historical sites, ecotourism opportunities, and vibrant nightlife. Some key points about
tourism in the Dominican Republic include: Beaches and The Dominican Republic
boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean, such as Punta Cana,
Bavaro Beach, and Playa Rincon.

Historical and Cultural Sites: The capital city, Santo Domingo, is the oldest European
settlement in the Americas and is rich in colonial history.The Zona Colonial is
considered by UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved colonial
architecture. Ecotourism: The country offers diverse ecosystems, including rainforests,
mountains, and coastal areas, making it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts.

All-Inclusive Resorts: The Dominican Republic is known for its all-inclusive resorts
that offer a wide range of amenities, including accommodations, dining, and
entertainment. Golf Tourism: The country has become a popular golf destination, with
world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects.

Adventure Activities: Visitors can engage in various adventure sports and activities,
such as water sports, hiking, and zip-lining. The Caribbean as a whole is a collection of
diverse islands and nations, each with its own unique culture and attractions. The region
has been a sought-after destination for decades, drawing tourists for its natural beauty,
warm climate, and welcoming atmosphere and the love of the people that makes it
better.
 Key features of tourism in the Caribbean include: Island Diversity: The Caribbean
comprises numerous islands, each with its own distinct culture, history, and attractions.
Popular destinations include Jamaica, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Barbados, and many
more.

Cruise Tourism: The Caribbean is a major hub for cruise tourism, with numerous
cruise lines offering itineraries that visit multiple islands. Water Sports: The clear blue
waters of the Caribbean provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving,
sailing, and other water-based activities.

Cultural Festivals: Many Caribbean islands have vibrant cultural festivals that
showcase local traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. Luxury Resorts: The Caribbean
features luxury resorts that cater to travelers seeking relaxation and upscale experiences.
Marine Conservation: The Caribbean's coral reefs and marine ecosystems are valuable
resources, leading to efforts for sustainable tourism and marine conservation.

It's important to note that while tourism brings economic benefits, it also poses
challenges such as environmental impacts, strain on local resources, and cultural
preservation concerns. Sustainable tourism practices are increasingly being promoted to
address these challenges and ensure that the industry benefits both the local communities
and the environment in the long term. Overall, the Dominican Republic's tourism
industry has experienced significant growth due to its natural attractions, historical sites,
and efforts to cater to a wide range of traveler interests.

In conclusion, tourism in the Dominican Republic occupies a significant position

within the economy and the cultural landscape of the country. With its stunning beaches,
lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and historical sites, the Dominican Republic has
successfully established itself as a desirable tourist destination. The tourism sector has
contributed substantially to economic growth, generating income, creating jobs and
promoting infrastructure development.

However, the Dominican Republic also faces challenges related to the development
of sustainable tourism. Balancing the influx of visitors with environmental preservation,
local community involvement, and cultural preservation is imperative to ensure the long-
term viability of the industry and addressing issues such as overdevelopment.