Beaches are some of the most important elements of tourism in the Dominican Republic. They can be considered to be part of the tourism industry's bread and butter. Temperate weather, sandy beaches, and a lot of good-looking men and women are just some of the reasons why tourists prefer to stay here for the summer.
What is ironic, however, is that in this nation of beaches and summer fun, the capital, Santo Domingo, does not even have a single beach within its border, despite the fact that it is situated along the coast. It is disadvantageous not only for Santo Domingo but the entire country's tourism industry in its entirety. If this could only change, maybe Santo Domingo will be an important tourism center once again.
Thus the idea of setting up an artificial beach. Such proposals have been submitted during as early as the 80's, complete with amenities like resorts, lakes, hotels, and beach houses that can raise the level of tourism in the region. These plans had to be abandoned, however, because of the negative public opinion raised back then.
The only remaining remnant of a beach in the city is the Sans Souci Beach, which has been leased to a group of companies led by Vicini, creator of cruise ships. With a redeveloped beach and the construction of a port near the area, it would be possible to tap the influx of tourists coming in from the Punta Cana-Bavario areas.
Experts agree that it may be feasible to set up an agreement between the Santo Domingo Hotels Association and the Vicini to develop Sans Souci beach. It's a win-win situation for both parties. Vicini will have an additional use for the land it leased, while the hotels' association can pick up on the boom that will result out of this expansion. In the end, it is not only they who will win, but the entire Dominican economy as well.
