Paradise Lost? Las Terrenas' Hotel Boom Outpaces Infrastructure

Las Terrenas' Hotel Boom: A Paradise Imperiled by Infrastructure Gaps Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic – The picturesque coastal town of Las Terrenas is experiencing a surge in hotel development, transforming its landscape and economy. However, this rapid growth has created a significant imbalance, with essential public services struggling to keep pace. Pablo Ulloa, the Dominican Republic's Ombudsman, recently highlighted these concerns during a community dialogue event. "Se han ampliado los tipos de hoteles, pero no necesariamente ha habido una respuesta estructural desde el punto de vista del Estado," Ulloa stated, emphasizing the lack of adequate infrastructure to support the influx of tourists. He pointed to critical shortcomings in transportation, parking facilities, water supply, healthcare, and educational resources. Ulloa's observations are supported by anecdotal evidence from residents who describe challenges with traffic congestion, limited parking, and insufficient access to clean water and healthcare services. The lack of investment in education is also a concern, as the influx of tourists demands a skilled workforce to support the growing hospitality sector. The situation underscores the need for a more holistic approach to development, one that prioritizes the well-being of the community alongside economic growth. Addressing the infrastructural deficits is crucial to ensuring that Las Terrenas' tourism boom benefits all its residents and protects its natural beauty for future generations.