The Dominican Republic Is The Fastest Growing Destination In The Caribbean

Last Updated 2 months ago

The Dominican Republic is the fastest-growing destination in the Caribbean this fall, according to a new analysis published this week by ForwardKeys, a leading online travel analytics firm.

The sun-soaked Caribbean nation has shattered multiple travel records this year, with over 8 million travelers setting foot in the country in the first eight months of the year.

With travel numbers set to grow further towards the end of the year, here’s the latest on the Dominican Republic’s remarkable popularity among international travelers.

Dominican Republic Continues To Outperform Other Caribbean Competitors

More and more travelers are choosing the Dominican Republic over other Caribbean destinations such as Cancun or Jamaica. The country’s skyrocketing popularity has just been confirmed by a new study published by ForwardKeys, showing that booking numbers are up across the board.

The analysis, based on online flight searches and sales, reveals that interest in the Dominican Republic is set to grow by a whopping 54% this fall compared to last year.

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That number officially places the sun-soaked destination as the fastest-growing hotspot for international travel in the Caribbean. The country’s upward trend in popularity has remained steady since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic but has gained even more momentum in 2023.

The new report also sheds light on how travelers are choosing to visit the Dominican Republic. According to ForwardKeys, couples make up by far the most predominant demographic in terms of trips to sunny destinations. But group travel – be it with friends or colleagues – has risen sharply this year.

Travelers From These Countries Are Flocking To The Dominican Republic In Droves

North American travelers are more keen on the Dominican Republic than other key markets, according to ForwardKey’s latest analysis.

Canadians are especially interested in the warm destination, with demand from that country growing by nearly 200% among wealthy travelers.

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That number coincides with estimates published earlier this year, which indicate that well over a million Canadians could set foot in the Dominican Republic in 2023, setting a new all-time record.

Meanwhile, Americans remain by far the largest source of inbound travel in the Dominican Republic in absolute numbers, making up nearly 70% of the market share in Punta Cana.

@travel_withlexie Have you visited the DR? When did you go and how was the weather?! You can never guarantee perfect weather however, it is great to know what the averages are to plan ahead! #besttimetovisit #besttimetovisitpuntacana #explore #traveltips #puntacanatips ##dominicanrepublic##dominicanrepublictips##travelwithlexie ♬ original sound – travelw/lexie | tips&guides ✈️

What’s Behind The Dominican Republic’s Record-Shattering Growth?

According to ForwardKeys, the Dominican Republic has managed to improve its aerial connectivity more than any other Caribbean destination. With dozens of non-stop flights to major airports across the U.S. and Canada, flying to the Dominican Republic has never been easier.

Punta Cana International Airport is leading the way in terms of the number of international connections, with several dozen routes to major global hotspots. The airport’s recent expansion is set to further boost links to North American aerial hubs.

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Ongoing negotiations for an Open Skies Treaty with the United States are likely to conclude later this year or early next year, paving the way for cheaper and more flights to the U.S. A similar framework came into effect with Canada earlier this year and is already leading to more affordable airfare.

The Dominican Republic also enjoys an excellent reputation internationally. From excellent safety to a wide variety of destinations – offering everything from beach & sun to culture and eco-adventures – the Dominican Republic is a reliable choice for an unforgettable Caribbean getaway.

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Lastly, the country’s proximity to the United States means that travelers can reach major hotspots like Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, or La Romana in just several hours.