THEMAG Forum 2024 highlights the importance of sustainable and smart tourist destinations

The event brought together tourism and technology leaders to discuss innovation, sustainability and digital transformation in the Dominican Republic.

The 2nd THEMAG Forum concluded successfully at the Live Aqua Punta Cana Hotel, where more than 150 attendees, including businesspeople, authorities and experts, discussed the challenges and opportunities that shape the future of tourism in the region. Focused on sustainability, innovation and digitalization, the forum reaffirmed its mission of being a reference space to analyze the challenges of the sector.

Key discussion panels

During the event, several discussion panels led by experts were held, addressing sustainable mobility, land use planning, digital transformation and the development of smart tourist destinations.

1. Transport and tourism: The challenge of sustainable mobility
   This panel explored solutions to implement efficient and eco-friendly transport in growing destinations such as Punta Cana. The panelists were Oscar San Martín (CEPM and Evergo), Edwin Martínez (ASOMOEDO), Meriam Cabrera (Europcar) and Alexandra Cedeño (INTRANT). The moderation was in charge of Lourdes Peguero Alfonseca.
2. Building smart destinations: Territorial planning and urban resilience
   The importance of the efficient use of natural resources and the integration of technology to create sustainable destinations was discussed. Domingo Matías (MEPyD), Thomas Bafoil (EGIS), Aslyn Taveras Sánchez (Vermont) and Julio Cesar Barranco (ACUATUR) participated. Ernesto Veloz, president of ASOLESTE, moderated the panel.
3. AI, Big Data and data analysis in tourism
   The experts discussed how artificial intelligence and data analysis are improving the tourist experience and facilitating strategic decisions. Edwin Rodríguez (OGTIC), Aitor Palacio (Alerta) and Ramón Tejeda (Coral Hospitality) shared success stories. The panel was moderated by Marcelo Ballester, director-editor of THEMAG.
4. Challenges and opportunities for a smart tourist destination
   Actions were identified to consolidate Punta Cana as a benchmark in sustainable tourism. Jorge Subero (Cap Cana), Yamil Isaías (Pioneer), Ana García Sotoca (La Romana-Bayahibe) and José Rafael Miguel (Pro Pedernales) participated. Aguie Lendor, VP of ASONAHORES, moderated the discussion.

Closing conference: “From the current reality to the intelligent future”

The event closed with a conference by Andrés Rodríguez Conde, a specialist in intelligent destinations, who underlined the importance of Big Data, AI and digital transformation in tourism. Rodríguez Conde highlighted that technology should focus on improving the quality of life of local communities and the traveler experience, creating more connected and sustainable destinations.

Acknowledgements and sponsors

The success of the forum was possible thanks to the support of the Live Aqua Punta Cana Hotel and sponsors such as the Dominican Ministry of Tourism, Banreservas, CEPM, United Gas, Europcar, Vermont and Cap Cana, among others.

THEMAG 2024 Forum reaffirms its commitment to innovation and sustainability in tourism, consolidating the Dominican Republic as a benchmark in the region.