Dominican Republic pursues eco-tourism agenda

The Dominican Republic's (DR) government has said it is looking to increase eco-tourism on the island, something that may interest investors in property.

Speaking at the nation's annual tourism conference, minister for tourism Francisco Javier Garcia commented that the plan is to make the country the destination of choice for those wanting greener holidays.

He stated that along with the development of infrastructure such as new roads to serve holiday areas, there will be an "even deeper commitment to ensuring that the natural beauty of the DR is sustained for generations to come".

There will also be significant initiatives involving the establishment of well-lit urban spaces in the cities of Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo and Samana, he pledged.

Such moves may prompt some to consider investing in the tourist property sector in the country.

Last month the Dominican president Leonel Fernandez told a meeting in the country organised by the Economist Group that the island is coping well with the global financial downturn and that this year will see three per cent economic growth.

Such a trend could help boost the property sector in the Caribbean nation.