Tourism Minister Ramon Alfredo Bordas recognized Angel Miolan as the ‘father of Dominican tourism’. Miolan was appointed Director of Tourism in 1967 and remained in the post until August 1974, working under former President Balaguer. When he was named to the position, 27,948 tourists visited the country annually. People at the time would make fun of his efforts to promote tourism. By 1974, there were 249,550 travelers. Today, travel has again increased tenfold. (1 May 2001)
