The Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic invited around 250 travel agents, tour operators and allies from New York’s tourism sector to “Taste the Paradise” in an immersive and experiential dinner that celebrated and paid homage to the flavors of Dominican cuisine at Hall des Lumières in New York. The event featured a four-course meal curated by chef Saverio Stassi of Ajualä restaurant in Santo Domingo, showcasing the authentic flavors and rich culinary traditions of the Dominican Republic.
The event is part of a new campaign unfolded by the Ministry of Tourism throughout the United States to reach out to tourism vendors through their gustatory senses. The DR’s new tourism campaign “Taste the Paradise” is rolling out in cities in Canada, the U.S., Latin America and Europe.
The initiative invites the world to discover and enjoy the diversity the country has to offer and seeks to consolidate the DR’s positioning as a world-class tourist destination, said David Collado, Minister of Tourism of the Dominican Republic.
During the presentation in NY, Collado highlighted that the Dominican “flavor” goes beyond gastronomy. He added noted that people can experience the mix of the warmth and hospitality of its people, the richness of its culture and the diversity of the landscapes.
The campaign stories take place in three settings: Punta Cana, Samana and Puerto Plata.
“With this campaign, we reaffirm our commitment to present the authentic essence of the Dominican Republic, inviting everyone to experience a destination that stimulates the senses and offers unparalleled experiences that are enjoyed with each visit,” said Collado.
The campaign was launched simultaneously in New York and Los Angeles in the United States and in Canada and Colombia. Canada occupies second place in sending tourists to the Dominican Republic. From January to June 2024, 19% of non-resident arrivals to the country came from Canada, representing an increase of 14% compared to the same period in 2023.
The New York event provided a sensory journey through the various regions of the Dominican Republic. Guests enjoyed an exclusive dinner showcasing the best of Dominican cuisine, along with cocktails and a tasting of locally-sourced rums. The prestigious Dominican cigar brand, La Aurora, was also highlighted.
During the presentation in New York, among the standout dishes was the cassava paired with traditional cheese, and short ribs served with sweet potato puree and a jam prepared with Dominican ingredients. For dessert, guests enjoyed a delicious corn-based majarete, presented in an avant-garde style with creative elements to enhance the tasting experience.
“We were thrilled to bring the authentic flavors of the Dominican Republic to New York,” said host, Tourism Minister David Collado. “Food has a unique power to connect us and we are proud to share the flavor of our country through this unforgettable culinary experience. This event was a testament to the links that food can create between cultures.”
The Ministry of Tourism press release on the event highlights that New York is of great importance for Dominican tourism, with more tourists coming to the Dominican Republic from the state than any other. In 2023, 13% of the total number of tourists who arrived in the country came from New York, totaling 1,049,216 people. In the first six months of 2024, there was an 8% increase in the number of tourists from New York, reaching 543,771 residents.
Hall des Lumières is Manhattan’s largest permanent center for custom-curated immersive experiences, located in the landmarked former Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank.
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Ministry of Tourism
Travel Week Canada
13 August 2024