Discover Dominica, the tourism office for the Caribbean island nation, has reported a significant increase in 2022 tourism arrival numbers, projecting even stronger growth in 2023.
Dominica welcomed 60,704 visitors in 2022 compared to 14,888 in 2021—an increase of over 308 percent. The growth in numbers can be attributed to a few key factors including increased demand for post-pandemic travel, relaxed COVID-19 protocols and the destination’s first direct flight from the U.S., besides being recognized by travel sources as a desirable Caribbean destination.
“We are thrilled to see the comeback of travel,” said Colin Piper, CEO of Discover Dominica. “We are still working toward recovery as we are not yet back to pre-pandemic numbers, but we are in a good place as we begin 2023 with strong bookings throughout the winter travel season. In 2023, Dominica remains focused on its sustainability efforts, which is becoming an increasingly popular selling point of the island.”
Overall, 2022 proved to be a momentous year for Dominica. Coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic when demand for new travel experiences and outdoor adventures were at an all-time high, the island had much to celebrate. From the opening of Coulibri Ridge, a luxury resort that is completely self-sufficient, to the record numbers of attendees at the first in-person “World Creole Music Festival” since the pandemic, the island saw a tremendous amount of interest among repeat and new visitors to the island.
December 2022 marked the first anniversary of American Airlines’ nonstop service to Dominica from Miami International Airport. The first commercial service to the island from the U.S., the addition of the flight has made the island more accessible than ever before. As of November 2022, The airline’s service contributed nearly 33 percent of all carrier contributions to the island. Service will continue throughout 2023 with changes to the schedule and frequency.
“The addition of the American Airlines flight had a significant impact on our tourism arrivals. It’s never been faster or easier for U.S. visitors to travel to and from Dominica. It’s also a valuable addition for the diaspora community,” added Piper.
For more information, visit www.discoverdominica.com.
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