The Association of British Travel agents (ABTA) members have cited Dominican Republic as being ‘Hot for 2005’ and reported a 9% growth in bookings for the island this year.
Frances Tuke, PR Manager, ABTA says “The Dominican Republic has been a fantastic introduction to the Caribbean for many, who would otherwise consider the region just too expensive. The all-inclusive packages in particular have been a massive hit for families who know they have to stick to a budget as everything is paid for upfront, but the destination also offers so much more for the British holidaymaker. Not only are there fantastic beaches and water sports on offer, but if you want to get away from the crowds, there is breathtaking scenery in the form of rainforests, mountains and waterfalls. The cities also offer a vibrant culture that has a Spanish colonial past.”
ABTA also report a growth in luxury and designer holidays with the Caribbean continuing to be a popular destination. Dominican Republic native and Fashion designer Oscar de la Renta has designed the Villas of Casa De Campo, one of the most luxurious resorts of the Caribbean, which is located in La Romana on the Dominican Republic’s south coast. Its also a favorite with well known UK psychiatrist and broadcaster Dr Raj Persaud who recently (Sunday Times May 05) said that with “two small children we try to make everything as stress-free as possible, it’s (Casa de Campo) not well known here but very popular with Americans which is a good thing – Americans demand a certain level of service”.
The Caribbean attracts over three quarters of a million UK visitors a year. The top five Caribbean countries for UK visitors are Barbados, Dominican Republic, Cancun in Mexico, Jamaica, and Cuba.
See http://www.abtamembers.org/press/kit/trends.htm