Non-resident incoming air travel in September was up by 7.97%, reports the Central Bank. A total of 258,810 people visited in September, 19,104 more than the same month last year. From January to September 2012, 3,519,987 non-resident visits were recorded, including the 239,630 additional travelers so far this year. The Central Bank attributes the increase to sustained promotional efforts by the Ministry of Tourism and the private sector. Total incoming air travel for January to September is at 3,884,704, up 6.99% this year.
The Central Bank points to increases in incoming travel from the United States, with 146,852 more travelers this year. Some 27,011 more travelers have come from Canada. Other countries reported increases in travel this year compared to 2011 are Russia (32,526 more), Venezuela (16,768+), France (7,189+), Chile (7,101+) Argentina (6,818+), Brazil (5,866+), Peru (5,258+) and Colombia (4,836+).
Punta Cana International (PUJ) continues to be the main port of entry with 61.33% of arrivals, mainly tourists. Next is Las Americas with 20.57%, Puerto Plata 9.17%, Cibao (Santiago) 4.34%, La Romana 2.73%. La Isabela in Santo Domingo and El Catey in Samana received 1.86% of arrivals from January-September 2012.
The Central Bank reports that most non-resident visitors (93.17%) came for leisure, and 88.5% stayed at hotels. 64% of tourists visiting the Dominican Republic are in the 21-49 age bracket.