In spite of thousands of laid off workers in the hospitality industry, an average hotel occupancy of only 50% and reduced flights into the country, a group of hotel executives is optimistic about the future. Eight hotel executives from the Bavaro area told El Siglo that they predict an increase in tourism in November as many North American travelers have made reservations for the months of November to February. Amil Maleck, rooms manager at Paradisus Punta Cana hotel, said “Last month, we saw some massive cancellations, but now things are recovering and we believe that if things continue like this, the month of December will end with a high occupancy.”
Meanwhile, there’s another sign of optimism in the industry. Spanish investors are planning to build three new hotels in the DR. El Siglo says the projects are slated for the East, North and Southwest of the country and will cost US$150 million. (15 October 2001)
