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This Dominican Republic City Near Haiti Aims To Become Tourist Hotspot With New Hotels And Cruise Port

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The Dominican Republic is continuously investing in new tourism hotspots that will secure the country’s position as one of the fastest-growing destinations among international travelers. One such area is Pedernales, a thus far relatively undeveloped region in the country’s southwestern corner, home to some of the most magnificent white-sand beaches as well as the island’s largest protected natural area. Now, officials are rushing to build new massive resorts and a state-of-the-art cruise ship port that aims to become the biggest in the Caribbean.

A new resort with an infinity pool and green tropical nature

This week, Dominican President Luis Abinader took part in a ceremony to mark the construction of the first major resorts to be built in Pedernales, the country’s newest tourism hotspot. Situated in the southernmost part of the Dominican Republic, the region, which borders Haiti, is poised to become a hit among travelers. With record numbers of tourists visiting the popular tropical country, visitors are increasingly seeking new destinations to explore.

Large vessel in the Dominican Republic in tropical water

For the time being, Pedernales is a rather undeveloped province, home to just some 54,000 residents. Things are set to change over the coming years as a growing number of hospitality firms announce massive investment packages to build new all-inclusive resorts. Meanwhile, officials are laying the groundwork for a new airport to be built, and the construction of the new flagship port, Port Cabo Rojo, is well underway.

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Tropical water on a stunning white sand beach with blue skies

Despite Pedernales’ proximity to bordering Haiti, a country plagued by growing civil and political unrest, Dominican authorities are confident in their ability to keep violence from spiraling across the border. 

Hyatt And Iberostar To Build First Resorts In Pedernales 

Although several firms have announced plans to erect new properties in the area, Hyatt and Iberostar are the first to lay out concrete investments. The two industry-leading giants are currently developing over 1,100 new hotel rooms, with Iberostar’s resort having some 580 suites. Meanwhile, Hyatt’s new property will be a part of the chain’s The Inclusive Collection, and the resort is promising to offer unmatched luxury for guests. 

Relaxing pool views with palm trees and water

Neither of the hospitality chains has yet to announce the name of their new resorts, but preliminary sketches show that Iberostar’s extensive new property will feature a range of world-class amenities. Guests traveling to the area in the distant future can look forward to a host of services, from shopping to several restaurants, as well as a pampering spa and plenty of outdoor pools. Pedernales is expected to become not only a tourism heavyweight but also a leading business and trade fair location, and new resorts in the area will come with huge conference halls and seminar venues. 

Massive cruise ship sailing in the Caribbean Sea

Port Cabo Rojo – The Dominican Republic’s Newest Flagship Port

The Dominican Republic is quickly growing in popularity as a cruise ship destination: from Puerto Plata to La Romana, the country is home to several large cruise ports. Authorities recently unveiled plans for a high-tech cruise ship complex that will house much more than just cruising infrastructure.

A traveler enjoying the calm tropical water

Travelers headed to Port Cabo Rojo, the country’s biggest cruising investment to date, will find everything from a water park to luxurious all-inclusive resorts and everything in between. The nearly $100 million dollar investment is expected to be complete by December this year, and its impressive facilities will be capable of handling over a million travelers per year. 

Tropical sunset from a hotel pool in the Caribbean

Aside from the massive new port, officials are hopeful that a new international airport will also be built in Pedernales. For the time being, the region will depend fully on the new cruise port, and travelers from other parts of the Dominican Republic will need to rent a car or take a bus to visit Pedernales. 

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