Search Results forCentral America
Delta adds St. Vincent and Grenada, expands Caribbean, Mexico and Central America leisure flying
Get ready to vacation under the warm Latin sun this winter as Delta launches its largest-ever schedule to Latin America and the Caribbean, including two new nonstop destinations from Atlanta: St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVD) and Grenada (GND). Delta customers can travel to over 52 nonstop destinations across the entire region from its global hub at ATL, inspiring travel to new escapes and longtime favorites. “With two brand-new destinations in the Eastern Caribbean, Delta is expanding its offering in the region, with even more seats to Latin America and the Caribbean this winter,” said Paul Baldoni, Senior Vice President of Network Planning at Delta. “Customers across the U.S. will also benefit from more flights to top destinations from hubs in the Midwest and Northeast, as well as new direct service from key cities like Austin, Nashville and Raleigh-Durham.” Chart your course to two new destinations Delta will become the only U.S. carrier to offer nonstop service to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVD) and Grenada (GND) from Atlanta. These new additions will make these previously hard-to-reach islands more accessible than ever. St. Vincent and the Grenadines offers stunning beaches on the many alluring islands waiting to be discovered. Those looking for adventure are in luck as the islands are one of the best places in the world for sailing and yachting, with countless islands and cays to explore. Regardless of your interests, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a haven for those looking to slow down and relax in the warm Caribbean sun. Grenada, known as the “Spice Island,” beckons travelers with its unmatched natural beauty, rich culture and incredible food offerings. A visit to St. George’s Market awakens the senses with the aroma of spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and cocoa, staples of Grenada’s authentic cuisine. Meanwhile, adventures await at Grand Etang National Park and atop Mount Qua Qua, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking island views and spot monkeys, tropical birds and lush rainforest flora. Both routes will be operated on Delta’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft equipped with First Class, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin. Increased flying from Midwest and northeast hubs Delta is the leading carrier to Latin America and the Caribbean from Detroit (DTW) and will continue to grow with new Saturday service to Grand Cayman (GCM) and expanded flight options to Nassau (NAS) and Cancun (CUN) this winter. Delta will expand on our #1 position in Minneapolis (MSP) with a new destination — Nassau (NAS). Detroit-Grand Cayman and Minneapolis-Nassau will be served seasonally on Saturdays from December 2025 – April 2026 and give customers direct access to a warm escape from the Midwest winter. In Boston, Delta will serve St. Thomas (STT) with daily nonstop service throughout the holiday season. This new service will provide customers with the unique opportunity to spend the holidays in the Caribbean with passport-free travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Delta will also add a second daily flight during the holiday season to Cancun, the most popular Mexico destination from Boston. These investments, together with our leading domestic U.S. and Trans-Atlantic network, expand on Delta’s position as the #1 carrier in Boston. More flights to Latin America from more U.S. cities Delta is also expanding nonstop access to top Latin and Caribbean destinations from several other U.S. cities this winter. In Austin, Delta is adding daily nonstop service to Cancun. For the holidays, nonstop service to Cabo (SJD) will operate daily from late December to early January. These additions provide Austin customers even more international options and makes travel to Mexico even more convenient. In Raleigh-Durham (RDU), Delta is adding Saturday service to San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU). This new flight provides RDU customers with direct access to the Caribbean in just a few hours. In addition to Raleigh and Austin, Delta is adding new Saturday service to Cancun (CUN) from Nashville (BNA), Kansas City (MCI) and Indianapolis (IND). These flights will allow residents of these cities to quickly and easily access Cancun, the most preferred Latin leisure destination. Details on these new flights, including start and end dates, are below: Destination U.S. City Flights Time Period Saint Vincent (SVD) ATL New: 1 daily Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Grenada (GND) ATL New: 1 daily Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Cancun (CUN) DTW 3→4 daily Jan 6-Apr 12, 2026 Cancun (CUN) JFK 2→3 daily Jan 6-Apr 12, 2026 Cancun (CUN) LAX 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Cancun (CUN) AUS New: 1 daily Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Cancun (CUN) BOS 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Cancun (CUN) BNA New: Saturday Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Cancun (CUN) IND New: Saturday Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Cancun (CUN) MCI New: Saturday Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 San Jose del Cabo (SJD) AUS New: 1 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 San Juan (SJU) RDU New: Saturday Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Punta Cana (PUJ) ATL 3→4 daily Jan 6-Apr 12, 2026 Puerto Vallarta (PVR) SLC 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Puerto Vallarta (PVR) LAX 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 St. Thomas (STT) ATL 2→3 daily Jan 6-Apr 12, 2026 St. Thomas (STT) BOS New: 1 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Nassau (NAS) DTW Saturday→1 daily Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Nassau (NAS) MSP New: Saturday Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Guatemala City (GUA) ATL 1→2 daily Jan 6-Apr 12, 2026 Turks and Caicos (PLS) ATL 1→2 daily Jan 6-Apr 12, 2026 San Salvador (SAL) ATL 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Panama City (PTY) ATL 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Grand Cayman (GCM) DTW New: Saturday Dec 20, 2025-Apr 12, 2026 Belize (BZE) ATL 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026 Guadalajara (GDL) ATL 1→2 daily Dec 20, 2025-Jan 5, 2026
Strong Bookings as Swan Hellenic opens new horizons in South and Central America
Swan Hellenic’s six early 2024 Americas cultural expedition cruises have met with an enthusiastic response. Offering in-depth exploration on SH Diana up the West Coast of South and Central America through the Panama Canal to the Bahamas, highlights include the Chilean Fjords, Atacama Desert, Moche culture, Darien Jungle, Panama, Cartagena and a Caribbean odyssey. Swan Hellenic has turned up the dial with an exclusive series of six cultural expedition cruises up the West Coast of South America and through the Panama Canal to the Caribbean between February and May 2024. As the pioneer of cultural expedition cruising, Swan Hellenic is the choice of adventurous minds across the generations seeking in-depth exploration of the Arctic, Antarctic and Rest of the World – from Brazil to the Bijagós Archipelago, Norway to Nova Scotia, Argentina to Africa, and Madagascar to the Mediterranean. SH Diana is the largest of its Scandi-design boutique ships, accommodating 192 guests in distinctive comfort and style, while differing from her sister ships in being outfitted with tender boats as well as expedition zodiacs. The first cruise in the series is the 13-night In the wake of the HMS Beagle through the Chilean Fjords which departs Ushuaia for Valparaiso on 25 February 2024, steering a historic northwest course to the Chilean Fjords with their unspoilt wilds and awe-inspiring glaciers, including the massive Garibaldi and Pio XI. Natural wonders of the Atacama and Paracas Desert follows, sailing from Valparaiso on 09 March 2024 for nine nights’ immersion in some of the driest places in the world, famed for their cool, almost lunar landscapes and mysterious Nazca Lines. Leaving Callao for Panama City on 18 March 2024, the nine-night Cultures of Northern Peru and Biodiversity combines exploration of pre-Incan Moche civilization’s famous adobe brick pyramids in Trujillo with opportunities to encounter indigenous tribes and experience the deep wilds and wildlife of the Utria and Darien Jungle National Parks. Central America Discovery follows on 10 April 24, sailing south from La Paz, Mexico, for Puntarenas, Costa Rica, on a 10-night voyage of whale watching and incredible archaeology. This includes the recently discovered La Joya del Ceren, the Pompeii of the Mayans, which was hidden buried under a volcanic eruption. The 10-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal Discovery leaves Puntarenas for Cartagena, Colombia on 20 April 2024, offering multiple discovery opportunities in Costa Rica’s national parks, on uninhabited islands and in the Darien Jungle National Park. Famous for its well-preserved colonial fortifications, colourful architecture, lively music and rich history, Cartagena itself is a bucket list choice for many, wholly deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage site status. The last cruise in the series Tropical Charms of the Caribbean and Beyond, sails from Cartagena on 30 April 2024 for a 10-night exploration of these fabled islands, from the whales and national parks of Samana to San Salvador, where Columbus landed, and Exuma’s exquisite Compass Cay with its charming swimming pigs. Offering exceptional personalisation and unrepeated itineraries, these cultural expedition cruises can be daisy-chained as desired to create unique custom voyages of exploration. Andrea Zito, CEO of Swan Hellenic, says: “We’re truly delighted with the fantastic America itineraries our experts have curated for 2024, enriched with exciting new destinations. Exploring history, culture and nature in equal depth, they’re proving quite a draw. So anyone with a passion for the region should book without delay”.
Central America and the Dominican Republic welcome ‘Digital Nomads’
Autumn marks a shift in temperature here in the UK, and naturally thoughts turn to what life could be like working in a warmer climate, and the personal satisfaction of merging tourism and work as a 'digital nomad'. Central America and the Dominican Republic are well-positioned to embrace this emerging trend. They have already initiated a promotional campaign in the target markets of Europe, and they aim for 2024 to be the year to embrace digital nomads from the United Kingdom. Digital nomads tend to stay for extended periods and contribute positively to the local economy. Honduras The Central America region has the advantage of possessing extensive tourism infrastructure and a quality telecommunications network to ensure digital connectivity in all countries, allowing it to meet accommodation and technical requirements. Central American and Dominican Republic also boast quite the natural assets – tropical climate, magnificent nature, enchanting cultures, and paradisiacal and sustainable beaches that exceed visitors' expectations. A year ago, the Central American Tourism Promotion Agency (CATA) launched a specific campaign, 'Live, Travel, and Connect', which it reinforced at FITUR 2023 in Spain. Currently, the countries of the region are developing policies to enable individuals to select these destinations as their new workplaces, including the introduction of a specific visa for this profile. This visa is already offered by Belize, Panama, and the Dominican Republic, and CATA aims to extend it to all member countries in Central America and the Dominican Republic. Corn Island, Nicaragua Digital nomads represent one of the many future career options and capture the attention of those who wish to work, yet do not want to forego the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures. According to data from the Inter-American Development Bank, there are more than 100 million digital nomads in the world, equivalent to 2% of the working population, and this figure is projected to reach 1 billion by 2050. According to various sources, digital nomads residing in Central America and the Dominican Republic predominantly engage in telework within industries such as e-commerce, virtual assistance, consulting, social media management, online teaching, content creation, and other similar roles. However, it is evident that anyone capable of teleworking, regardless of their profession, has a place in the region’s idyllic 'offices'. Chichicastenango,Guatemala Cities for digital nomads In this regard, CATA considers all destinations in Central America and the Dominican Republic as suitable for digital nomads. However, to assist individuals contemplating this option, CATA has compiled a list that can be expanded, depending on the profile of each traveler. In Belize, the Caribbean lifestyle blends with work, making destinations such as Placencia and San Pedro ideal for enjoying sun, sand, cuisine, sea, and diving. San Pedro, Belice In Guatemala, you can stay in La Antigua Guatemala, a colonial city surrounded by the majestic experience of volcanoes, or take advantage of the accommodation facilities in Sololá, located on the shores of Lake Atitlán La Antigua Guatemala El Salvador offers an escape to the Pacific with world-class waves at Surf City. If you prefer a city rich in culture and history, Suchitlán, located on the shores of a lake bearing the same name, is another excellent option. Suchitoto, El Salvador Honduras is home to the Bay Islands, boasting a wealth of coral reefs and dive sites, which can be enjoyed before or after a day's work. If you're seeking proximity to the country's main cities, Tegucigalpa is the optimal choice. Roatan, Honduras Nicaragua, the land of lakes and volcanoes, boasts two tourist centers offering easy access to a variety of adventure and community tourism options: San Juan del Sur, a stunning bay surrounded by tropical mountains, and Granada, situated on the shores of Lake Cocibolca. Granada, Nicaragua In Panama, the capital city of Panama City provides access to major tourist sites such as Panama Viejo, the old town, the Panama Canal, and various museums. Away from the hustle and bustle, Bocas del Toro offers the opportunity to alternate telecommuting days while enjoying its impressive biodiversity. Bocas del Toro, Panama Punta Cana, a highly sought-after destination in the Dominican Republic, boasting kilometres of white sandy beaches, blends its local rhythms and gastronomy to offer unparalleled experiences. If you are seeking less crowded destinations, Samaná is an excellent choice, providing access to Cayo Levantado, a locale surrounded by lush vegetation and freshwater rivers. Punta Cana, Republica Dominicana
Emerald Cruises’ new Caribbean & Central America offers with free flights and savings of up to GBP1,600 per couple
2023 is shaping up to be a huge year for Emerald Cruises. Their all-new custom-built luxury yachts, Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara – each carrying a maximum of 100 guests per journey – will visit over 15 Caribbean islands and Central American cities, allowing guests to experience pristine beaches, tropical relaxation, and explore the undiscovered coastlines of the Caribbean. Guests booking before 31 January 2023 can take advantage of Emerald Cruises New Year Sale, enjoying free Premium Economy flights and savings of up to £1,600 per couple. Highlights of the new Caribbean and Central America collection include: Guests can head back to a bygone era to experience the spectacular colonial architecture of the Eastern Caribbean on the 10-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Barths sailing. Beginning in St. Martin, the ship calls into Gustavia on St. Barths and Saint Pierre in Martinique. Spend days relaxing or snorkelling on an abundance of white-sand beaches, sample the delicious, sweet treats of Terre-de-Haut in Guadeloupe, experience the wonder of Soufrière’s natural hot springs, or botanical gardens and waterfalls while in St. Lucia, and visit the crystal-clear lagoon of Tobago Cay National Park. Prices start from £6,120 per person based on December 2023 departures, including free* Premium Economy flights and savings of up to £1,600 per couple, all with the Emerald Cruises New Year Sale. Sail along the west coast of Costa Rica, marvelling at the exotic birds of the Curú National Wildlife Refuge; swim and snorkel among the marine life of the secluded Isla Tortuga before transiting the Panama Canal, the ultimate navigational feat on the 21-day Discover Southern Caribbean and Central America sailing. Departing from San José, the cruise calls at Curú & Isla Tortuga, Quepos, Golfito, Isla Cebaco, Playa del Muerto, Panama City, San Blas Islands, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Cabo de la Vela, Oranjestad, Kralendijk, Mayreau Island and Bridgetown. Prices start from £9,835 per person based on February 2024 departures, , including free* Premium Economy flights and savings of up to £1,600 per couple, all with the Emerald Cruises New Year Sale. Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara feature an innovative infrared sauna for longer, relaxing guest experiences. More than 80 per cent of their 50 luxury suites boast balconies, with more space per guest than similar vessels of their size. The yachts also feature a large infinity-style Aqua Pool, Elements Spa , gym and Marina Platform , with SEABOBs, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment available for guests to enjoy. A fleet of the very latest in electronic bikes from Gocycle are also available on board – perfect for local shoreside trips and active explorations. Prices include return UK Premium Economy flights, airport transfers, the cruise as stated, on board meals, selected excursions, Wi-Fi and all gratuities.
Windstar Cruises reveals new Caribbean and Central America Cruises
Windstar Cruises has just the thing to shake off the winter blahs. The small ship cruise line has drawn up a new beach bum’s delight of an itinerary beginning winter of 2023. Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway has seven days on some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean including stops in St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Barts, Anguilla, Jost Van Dyke (overnight), Virgin Gorda, and Tortola. The November 4 sailing only will take place on Windstar’s all-suite Star Pride and the other eight departures are aboard the 342-guest classic sailing yacht Wind Surf. Both yachts’ Watersports Platforms (which allow guests to jump from the yacht into the sea) will be operational daily on these cruises, except for embarkation/disembarkation days, so the sailings will be very focused on beaches, swimming, watersports, and snorkeling – all the things we want to do in paradise. Current rates are from $2,599 per guest. Beach Fun & Sun can easily be combined with Windstar’s Classic Caribbean for a two-week cruise, as the itineraries alternate and both depart from St. Maarten. Classic Caribbean includes stops in Dominica, Guadeloupe, St. Kitts, and Nevis, as well as a repeat in St. Barts (and who could complain about that). “We created this itinerary specifically for people who like to spend time enjoying some of the best tropical beaches, swimming and watersports activities,” said Windstar Cruises’ President Christopher Prelog. Our small yachts visit scenic Caribbean islands for a peaceful, relaxing vacation away from crowds.” Also new in the Caribbean: Windstar will be sailing from Miami for the first time in December, 2022. The small ship cruise line just relocated its offices to Miami from Seattle, with a grand opening in June, which makes the sailings particularly meaningful to Windstar staff and crew. Jungles & Jewels of the Central American Coast stops in Key West before heading to Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras, then returning to Miami. The new Central America & the Panama Canal Revealed cruise brings guests from Miami to Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama. Starting winter 2023, Windstar is introducing a new, seven-day round trip Costa Rica cruise itinerary (from Puerto Caldera) called Naturally Costa Rica, including inaugural calls in San Juan del Sur and Corinto in Nicaragua. Current rates start at $2,699 per guest. The new option easily combines with a Windstar Panama Canal itinerary for a 14-day adventure in the region. Other returning Caribbean itineraries include Windward Island Surfs & Sunsets, a seven-day roundtrip San Juan sailing that’s a quick escape up and down the Windward Islands; Windward Ways & Tobago Cays, sailing through the Windward and ABC Islands; Yachtsman’s Caribbean, a classic voyage to the Caribbean’s private yachting scene; and more.
Six Senses to debut in Central America
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas brings its sustainable and ultra-luxury footprint to Central America as it teams up with The Canyon Group to announce the development of Six Senses Papagayo. It offers a new adventure for those seeking love of life and health in a private, eco-conscious and away-from-it-all destination. The breathtaking 2,300-acre (930-hectare) Papagayo Peninsula consistently ranks as one of the finest mixed-use luxury developments in the world. With 15 miles (24 kilometres) of pristine coastline and exotic beaches, the peninsula features discreetly-sprinkled hotels and residences. Perhaps the greatest attribute of Papagayo is that even when fully developed, 70% of the land mass will be preserved as nature intended. Six Senses Papagayo, when completed, will be unique on the peninsula. The site stretches from the highest point and 360-degree panorama of the Guanacaste archipelago to a forested beachfront dotted with 41 secluded and generously-sized pool villas. There are also 31 one-of-a-kind residences available for sale to owners interested in an exciting investment opportunity along with full access to a unique resort-life experience. "Our own values epitomise Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability." The highlight of the resort will be Six Senses wellness programming along with a beautiful spa and fitness centre and a myriad of activities and inactivities. There will be an organic farm located in the heart of the property including fruit, vegetable and herb gardens inspiring the chef’s menus and signature spa treatments. There is also an emphasis on community and celebration, whether that means a knees-up during a celebration on the beach or a lazy day spent with loved ones. Neil Jacobs, CEO, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas said, “Our own values epitomise Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability and the essence of Pura Vida (pure life) culture. Everything starts with the question of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Costa Rica while enhancing social and economic benefits.”
5 volcano adventures in Central America
Exploring volcanoes is a badge of honour for adrenaline junkies. The Central America Volcanic Arc (CAVA) is a chain of volcanoes that forms the spine of the isthmus. Although many are dormant, there are several that remain active spewing lava and ash into the atmosphere from time to time. Fortunately, with vast improvements in geological technology, experts are able to forecast when these phenomena take place and so active volcanoes provide visitors with the opportunity to see nature’s fury as lava bubbles away in their craters. Here are some of Central America’s most iconic volcanoes and the top adventures they provide to visitors. Cerro Negro Volcano – Nicaragua At just 160 years old, Cerro Negro is the youngest volcano in Central America, and one of the most active in the region. The volcano stands at 728 metres above sea level, relatively small in comparison to its neighbours. It has arid volcanic ash skirts giving it a distinctive black colour and also makes it an ideal place for volcano surfing. Latin Odyssey offers a 12-night ‘Volcanoes and Beaches’ itinerary featuring a day climbing to the top of Cerro Negro and time spent surfing its volcanic slopes. The tour is priced from GBP 2,580 per person and includes all transfers, excursions, and accommodation. Santa Ana Volcano – El Salvador The Santa Ana Volcano, also known as Ilamatepec, is the highest volcano in El Salvador standing at over 2000 metres above sea level. Visitors who climb to the summit can enjoy panoramas of the Pacific Ocean on one side and Lake Coatepeque on the other. The crater is one of the largest in the world and erupted just a few years ago meaning visitors can see the relatively fresh impact of the eruption together with some incredible views. Journey Latin America offers an 11-day ‘Signature El Salvador: Revolutionary Road Trip’ itinerary featuring a trek through Ilamatepec’s Cerro Verde National Park to the summit. The tour is priced from GBP 1,929 per person and includes all transfers, some meals, excursions, and accommodation. The Rincón de la Vieja – Costa Rica The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano can be found in the province of Guanacaste and thanks to its sheer size, allows visitors to enjoy both the Caribbean and Pacific sides of the region. According to legend, after his daughter fell in love with a rival tribe member, Chief Curubandé threw the love interest into the volcano’s crater. The now widowed and pregnant princess gave birth to a son who she also threw in the volcano to join his father, before spending the rest of her days living in its shadow. Explorers summiting the volcano are told to catch their breath and listen for the cries of the princess whose spirit still resides here. Aside from being steeped in folklore, the volcano’s surrounding forests boast an astounding variety of flora and fauna. G Adventures offers an eight-day ‘Wellness Costa Rica’ itinerary featuring a hike to a volcanic mud pool on the side of Rincón de la Vieja for a rejuvenating exfoliation. The tour is priced from GBP 1,310 per person and includes all internal transport, excursions, some meals, and accommodation. Barú Volcano – Panama Barú Volcano is the highest peak in Panama at 3,474 metres of height, where both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific can be observed at once. There are two routes to the volcano’s summit, one that leaves Boquete and the other from the town of Volcán, suitable only for experienced mountaineers. Visitors normally prefer to start the ascent at night in order to arrive at dawn and enjoy the stunning views at sunrise. The Barú Volcano National Park is also a hot spot for birdwatchers and offers the chance to see one of Central America’s most elusive birds, the quetzal. Wexas Travel offers an 11-day ‘Panama Journey’ itinerary featuring a visit to Barú National Park hiking, birdwatching, rafting, and more. The tour is priced from GBP 3,396 per person and includes international flights, internal transport, accommodation, and some meals. Pacaya Volcano – Guatemala Pacaya is an active complex volcano that rises to an elevation of 2,552 metres and first erupted 23,000 years ago. Pacaya can be found between Guatemala City and Antigua, making it easily accessible. Though the volcano has the title of one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, the eruptions are usually small bursts of ash that do not pose any threat to visitors. In fact, as a result of this, Pacaya is one of the best places in Central America to see the works of an active volcano with a smoking sulphur cone, small eruptions and bits of lava flow. Tourists hiking up the mountain even have the novelty of toasting marshmallows on the heat emanating off the volcanic rock. Jacada Travel offers a 16-day ‘The Best of Guatemala and Belize’ itinerary featuring an excursion to Pacaya volcano trekking through the pine forest and to the summit past the volcanic ash. The tour is priced from GBP 5,360 per person and includes accommodation, excursions, and all internal transport.
CATA’s outlook for Central America tourism initiatives in 2018
The Central American Tourism Agency (CATA) - the tourism promotional organization agency for the countries of Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama as well as the Dominican Republic) - has announced a spate of new projects and campaigns to boost tourism to the region. With the region experiencing a rise in visitor numbers in Q1 2018 - as well as new flight coverage between Central America and Europe and uptick in infrastructure investment - CATA members are keen to take advantage of this very positive period and drive travel to the region An increase in first quarter visitors 2018, investments in tourism infrastructure, new flight routes and more regular connections between Europe and Central America spur multi-centre travel to the region. Below are some of the tourism development highlights in Central America. El Salvador El Salvador has recently invested in a number of tourism development initiatives such as the reconstruction of the Hotel de Montaña Cerro Verde overlooking the Izalco Volcano in the Cerro Verde National Park, a remodelling of El Triunfo docks and the construction of Bosque Encantador Ecotourism Park in Jiquilisco. The destination welcomed 132,000 visitor arrivals during Easter 2018, a 17.2% year-on-year increase. Tourist taxes in this period contributed $85 million to the El Salvadorian economy. The last four years have also seen a 12% rise in the number of international cruise ship arrivals. MICE in Costa Rica The new minister of tourism for Costa Rica, María Amalia Revelo, has outlined her plan to boost the country’s tourism over the coming years by promoting smaller businesses, increasing transport to and from the country, and positioning Costa Rica as a leading MICE destination. Costa Rica is well placed to establish and implement collaborative strategies between the public and private sectors to boost incoming tourism, with much of the on implementing new products and services especially food cultural and authentic regional experiences. The Costa Rica Tourism Board has welcomed a total of 40,907 visitors from the UK between January and June 2018, representing a 2.5% year on year increase. The Irish market has also seen a dramatic increase with 2,400 visitors to the country in the same period illustrating a 17% year on year increase. Belize Belize has been praised for its ‘visionary’ steps in conservation after UNESCO removed the world’s second largest barrier reef from the list of threatened World Heritage Sites. This monumental achievement has direct implications for neighbouring countries Honduras, Mexico and Guatemala who share the submarine wonder. Belize has experienced a recent surge in international visitors thanks to the arrival of cruise ships throughout the year. Overnight European visitors alone have shown a 24.3% increase in Q1 and Q2 of 2018 compared to that of the same period in 2017. Dominican Republic The Dominican Health Tourism Association president, Alejandro Cambiaso, has announced that the Dominican Republic ranks fifth in the Medical Tourism Index for countries with most potential in development within the Health Tourism sector. The Dominican Republic has recorded 4.1 million tourist arrivals from January to July this year, 5.9% up year on year. Honduras The Honduran Institute of Tourism estimates that over the course of 2018, $350 million will be invested in public and private projects that could generate up to 23,000 new jobs. Investments include the construction of tourism properties such as the recently opened Hyatt Place San Pedro Sula, and the second phase of construction on the cruise port in Roatán. Honduras has seen a 5% increase in international tourist arrivals in 2017 and expects a 6% increase for 2018. Honduran authorities estimate that the spike in 2017 generated US$2.122 million for the national economy and are looking to exceed that figure for 2018. New flight routes Iberia Airlines has opened a new flight route to Managua, Nicaragua, from London via Madrid. Lufthansa has also launched direct flights between Frankfurt and San José, Costa Rica, operating five days a week. This will act as a direct gateway into Central America from Europe, working alongside the German airline’s flight route into Panama City. KLM and Air France also provide regular flights to Panama and Costa Rica.
Hilton Expands Presence in Central America with the Signing of Nine Hotels Across Five Countries
These nine projects will deliver approximately 1,300 Hilton guest rooms in Central America, representing more than 10 percent of the company's pipeline of approximately 11,300 rooms in Latin America - where Hilton has more than 70 properties under development. Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announces the expansion of its Latin American footprint with new deals signed in Central America. Now, Hilton has a pipeline of nine hotels across five countries in Central America, representing five of Hilton's brands: Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Curio Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn by Hilton. These nine projects will deliver approximately 1,300 Hilton guest rooms in Central America, representing more than 10 percent of the company's pipeline of approximately 11,300 rooms in Latin America - where Hilton has more than 70 properties under development. The addition of these hotels in Central America will also have a positive impact on employment, representing an estimated 1,000 jobs. "Our team's strategic focus on growing our presence in key Latin American markets and an increase in demand across Central America have contributed to our substantial growth in the region," said Juan Corvinos, managing director of development, Mexico, Central America, Andean region and Hispanic Caribbean, Hilton. "With more than 100 existing hotels and resorts, representing nine brands across all of Latin America, we are steadfast in our efforts to introduce the best-performing portfolio of brands in the industry to this part of the world." Most notably and the newest signing is Hilton Guatemala City, which is expected to open in Q4 2018. The hacienda-style property will feature 130 guest rooms, lavish décor and ample gardens. Located in the capital of Guatemala, the hotel will be situated alongside the Carretera a El Salvador, a major artery connecting the hotel to the main commercial and office districts of the city. The additional properties include: Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton: The first Hilton property in Belize, Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club is also one of the first luxury resorts from a global brand in the country. Slated to open by the end of this year, the rustic-chic resort will feature 205 cottage and villa-style rooms on a 60-acre property in San Pedro key with bay and beach clubs, private residences, spa, meeting spaces and "The Village," a vibrant public space. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton: Expected to open in Q1 2018, Gran Hotel Costa Rica is located in the heart of San Jose, Costa Rica. The 79-room property will feature a state-of-the-art fitness center, signature restaurant with international cuisine and local flavors, and a piano bar offering unparalleled views of the city as well as a specialty menu with whiskey and gin from around the world. Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton: Slated to open in 2020, Botanika Osa Peninsula sits in a Costa Rican tropical rainforest. The eco-friendly, 176-room resort will feature an outdoor natural pool, fitness center, luxury spa with more than 30 rainforest treatments, 1,550-square-foot conference center and several dining offerings. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Jose La Sabana: Expected to welcome guests in 2020, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Jose La Sabana in Costa Rica will feature 132 guest rooms and suites as well as a health club and spa. Situated in a mixed-use tower, the building will include retail outlets on the ground floor and residential units on the top floor. Hilton Garden Inn Santa Ana: Situated in Costa Rica's greater San Jose metropolitan area, Hilton Garden Inn Santa Ana will feature 138 guest rooms as well as 1,500 square feet of meeting space. Set to open in 2019, the property will offer guests a full-service restaurant and indoor pool. Hampton Inn by Hilton San Jose La Sabana: Slated to open in 2021, Hampton Inn by Hilton San Jose La Sabana in Costa Rica will serve as a hub for leisure and business travelers. The hotel will include 150 guest rooms with 12 suites and feature nearly 2,000 square feet of meeting space. Hilton Garden Inn Tegucigalpa: Marking the debut of the Hilton Garden Inn brand in Honduras, the 173-room hotel is set to open in 2021. The property will form part of the mixed-use complex that will be home to the Real de Minas Mall, boasting office space and entertainment options. Hilton Garden Inn Tegucigalpa will feature on-property dining options, an outdoor pool and fitness center, as well as nearly 13,000 square feet of flexible event space. Hampton Inn by Hilton David: Set to open in 2019 in Panama's Chiriqui province, Hampton Inn by Hilton David will feature 120 guest rooms, and entertainment and dining options, including a lobby bar, 24-hour market with snacks and sundries, and access to a casino. Hilton currently has a portfolio of more than 100 hotels and resorts open and welcoming travelers in Latin America, with 14 in Central America - including the most recently opened hotel in the region, Indura Beach & Golf Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Central America tourism agency reveals latest visitor numbers
The Central America Tourism Agency (CATA) gives an update from its members. Nicaragua has seen an increase in tourism numbers from the UK and Europe. In the first three months of this year (Jan-March), the country saw a 9% increase in tourism arrivals with the share of European visitors to Nicaragua increasing by 3.3%. From the UK specifically, 2016 welcomed a 16% increase in UK visitors compared to 2015 with top destinations including Managua, Granada, Leon and Ometepe. Meanwhile, Belize records a 5% increase in UK arrivals. The total number of arrivals into Belize from the UK was up 5.5% in 2016, contributing to the highest number of overnight visitors to the country in 20 years. The increase in arrivals shows the impact of Belize’s promotional efforts in both the UK and Europe. The Belize Tourism Board will host the first Belize Virtual Expo on June 29-30, 2017. The virtual platform will provide participants for the first time with the opportunity to easily learn and connect with 25 Belize tourism service providers from the comfort of their home locations. Starting in the lobby of the trade show, attendees will have the choice to select, enter and exit sessions of their choosing as well as browse the exhibition hall to network with others via live chat sessions. The Belize Virtual Expo offers participants a way to connect and learn more about Belize tourism outside of a traditional trade show environment and decide whether introducing Belize as a new destination is right for their business. Visitor numbers to Costa Rica increased in the first quarter of this year. There was a 12.7% rise in UK visitors during the first three months of 2017. January saw the biggest increase in visitors from the UK with 8,085 Brits travelling to the destination representing a year on year increase of 19.2%. Construction has begun on the National Congress and Convention Centre (CNCC) in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. The CNCC will feature a main building with an area of 15,600 square metres and will have a capacity of 4,600 people. The architecture and design of the centre will be sustainable and it will offer spaces for expos, services, convention rooms, parking and open air events. The new convention centre aims to strengthen Costa Rica’s position in the meetings industry. Tourism numbers soared in Guatemala during Semana Santa with a total of 115,295 tourists visiting the destination during Holy Week/Semana Santa, reflecting a 21.3% growth compared to the same time last year.
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