Punta Cana – The prestigious Paradisus Palma Real hosted the 24th edition of the renowned Dominica Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE) Fair, a flagship event on the Caribbean tourism calendar, bringing together industry players from all sectors.
The opening ceremony was attended by notable figures including Asonahores President David Libre, Asonahores Executive Vice President Aguier Lendl and Deputy Minister of Tourism Promotion and Development Tammy Reynoso, who was represented by Meliá Hotels International CEO Gabriel Escolar, who highlighted the hotel chain’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and environmental protection.
Mr. Escalar commended Asonahores for its efforts in organizing this pivotal event, essential to showcasing Dominica’s tourism product and its diverse attractions. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to host the event at the newly renovated Paradisus Palma Real, emphasizing Meliá’s ongoing support for the success of the entire tourism sector.
Highlighting Meliá’s luxury strategy, Escalar highlighted Punta Cana’s quintessential role as a premier destination boasting a diverse portfolio of exceptional hotels catering to a variety of clientele. He highlighted the recent $50 million renovation of the Paradisus Palma Real, positioning it as a hub for prestigious events such as DATE and the 2023 World Tourism Organization General Assembly.
In line with Punta Cana’s emergence as a hub for experiential tourism, Paradisus Palma Real is also hosting gastronomic events featuring celebrity chefs through its “The Epicure” program, an initiative aimed at elevating Dominican and global gastronomy by showcasing elevated culinary experiences at restaurants such as Mascalzone and Flora by Leandro Diaz.
Escaler also highlighted Meliá Caribe Beach as a family-friendly resort and Meliá Punta Cana Beach’s innovative “wellness inclusive” concept, specializing in the wellness travel segment. Additionally, he outlined the rebranding of Paradisus Grand Cana and announced upcoming projects that reflect Meliá’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, including the ZEL Punta Cana hotel and the rebuild of Paradisus Punta Cana.
Amid the Dominican Republic’s vibrant tourism industry, Mr. Escarrer stressed the need for a sustainable and quality tourism model that fosters growth while maintaining economic, social and environmental sustainability.
The opening ceremony was attended by Francisco Camps, Managing Director of Melia Hotels International in the Dominican Republic, as well as national and international travel agents, tourism industry representatives and other dignitaries.
