The third Conference on Accessible Tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean, held in Panama City, was the stage where representatives of the Hotel Association of La Romana-Bayahibe once again highlighted their commitment to accessible tourism and stressed the importance of accessibility in the La Romana destination.

According to Ana García Sotoca executive director for the Hotel Association and the La Romana Bayahíbe Tourist Cluster, the market of tourists over 50 years of age represents 31% of the total number of visitors, a fact that should be considered in the hotel sector and tourism both in La Romana as a destination and throughout the national territory.

According to the World Tourism Organization, by 2050 more than 20% of the population will be over 60 years old, so the number of people with specific access needs will increase significantly in the coming years.

Taking into account the current situation and the future stated by the UNWTO, the hotels of the La Romana have reconfirmed their commitment to accessibility, not only at the infrastructure level, but also training all employees with the program “Treating People With Disabilities” that since 2014 has been carried out with the National Disability Council.

La Romana, has as an added value the Blue Flag certification in all the beach segments of the hotel areas, which guarantees accessibility and sustainability standards at an international level. Accessibility in La Romana is not limited to hotels, also a large number of tour companies have spaces available and fully capable to receive all tourists visiting the destination, including those with special needs.

The touristic offer in the Dominican Republic is growing and becoming more and more inclusive and accessible. Hotel associations, tourist clusters and government institutions are constantly taking new measures to make sure the Dominican Republic as a destination is prepared to receive all guests no matter their needs and requirement, giving them the chance to discover the many wonders of the country and its people.