Q & A with Myrna JansenDirector General of the Aruba Tourism Association (ATA)
by Jose Carlos de Santiago
Last year, Aruba started out a hardworking promotional process in emerging markets, putting the main focus on a number of Latin American nations. The Caribbean island is also making great progress in the all-inclusive segment and in nature-oriented offers.
Caribbean News Digital talked exclusively with Myrna Jansen about these and other topics during the latest ITB Fair in Berlin.
Q.- There´s talk in Aruba about projections and advertisement in emerging markets, like Brazil. What´s the actual situation Aruba has in relation to this particular market?
A.- The Brazilian market is growing and that´s welcome news for us. We´re working with tour operators and we chalked up increases of approximately 40 percent last year. We believe the 2006-2007 period will provide far more growth. This is a very lucrative market for Aruba, tourists who are very familiar with our product, with the people of Aruba. We´re doing pretty good with that market right now.
Q.- What do you make of the opening of all-inclusive resorts in Aruba?
A.- It´s a part of the product we offer and there´s certain demand for that segment. It´s true that only some hotels on the island operate under that concept. However, we also have hotels and resorts that offer all-inclusive packages to guests willing to sign up for them. This gives tourists the opportunity of enjoying the hotel and eat out if they want to, or maybe do other activities outside the facilities and enjoy the island in full swing.
Q.- What can you say about Aruba in terms of ecology and environmental protection?
A.- As you know, around 17 percent of Aruba´s surface is comprised in a national park that´s mostly bankrolled with funds provided by the European Union. As we speak, we´re making improvements in the park. For instance, we´re building new trails for both bikers and trekkers. There´re lovely inside-the-park tours and an environment-friendly hotel is being built with a grand opening scheduled two years from now. This hotel will lodge guests eager to be in more direct contact with nature.
Q.- How´s the visa system working for Latin Americans who want to visit Aruba?
A.- Well, there´s only one restriction in place for Colombians. They are the only Latin American citizens who must apply for visas to enter Aruba. As a result of that, the number of Colombian holidaymakers has plunged somewhat in recent years. We´re working hard to improve the visa situation and be in a position to provide a far better services to Colombian visitors.
Q.- Have you considered the possibility of cutting a deal with the local Merchants Association to keep their outlets open on Sundays and holidays?
A.- That´s something we´ve been discussing with the merchants for quite some time. However, I believe that issue has to do with the Labor Department´s competence, so I´d rather stay away from it now.
