Mercedes Castillo Director of the Dominican Republic Tourist Office in France

How does the destination behave?

Mercedes Castilllo - It's going very well. In 2005, the number of visitors increased by 7.9 %; in 2006, we recorded an increase of 11 %, which represents around 4.4 million tourists. Tourism continues to be a key factor in the country's development, generating almost 200,000 jobs and around 3.75 billion dollars in revenue.

And the French market?

M. C. - It accounted for 30,000 visitors in 2006. It's Europe's biggest market, ahead of Spain, Great Britain and Germany.

What region are we talking about at the moment?

M. C. - Samana, without a doubt. The fact that it opened an international airport in November 2006 has, of course, accelerated the phenomenon. Until a few years ago, the destination was relatively secret. Known for the presence of its whales, the region is also protected for its terrestrial environment; we are in the territory of a national park. As a result, the infrastructure here has developed in a more controlled way, with the emphasis on small, top-of-the-range units... which changes the game completely.

What is the emerging region?

M. C. - The South West has a bright future ahead of it. This time we're talking about truly unspoilt land, known only to a few individual visitors keen to discover new things. The region, which encompasses several national parks, includes thermal springs and a lake 45 metres below sea level, one of the saltiest in the world. It is home to a large population of pink flamingos, iguanas and alligators. It is the only place in the country where temperatures can rise to 44°, but as it is located between the sea and the mountains, it has several microclimates. Its forests are no longer made up of coconut palms, but of cacti. It's a completely different facet of the country. Since the area has been classified by UNESCO as a "Biosphere Reserve", Max Puig, our Minister for the Environment, is keen to ensure that the projects to be developed there tend to be of the eco-lodges type.