Central America is the new favorite destination for travelers for 2019, and here is a shortlist of where to go. Belize, Panama, the Dominican Republic and Honduras are among our recommendations.
Where to go in Central America
Belize
Belize will be a leading eco-tourism destination following the launch of campaigns in 2018. The country’s approach to sustainable practices was reinforced following the news that a legislation has been passed banning single-use plastic items as of April 22, 2019, coinciding with Earth Day.
Where to go in Central America
An influx of hotels and resorts greatly boosted Belize’s luxury offerings. Many new properties will open their doors in the next few years including Itz’ana Resort and Residences (spring 2019); Unscripted Belize (2019); Autograph Collection Hotel Alaia (2020); and the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel (2021).
Where to go in Central America
Panama
Panama is featured on Lonely Planet’s top 10 countries to visit in 2019. The country is predicted to be lively throughout the year thanks to the celebrations for the capital’s 500th anniversary since its founding. There’s an expectation of large visitor numbers as a result of the landmark event combined with continued development in tourism infrastructure. Plans include a children’s park, new visitor center, and an operational cable car to encourage visits to the canal. Panama has also seen investment in its inbound transportation links; Air Europa will launch a new flight route from Madrid Barajas airport to Panama’s Tocumen International in June 2019.
Where to go in Central America
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s top golf destinations of 2019; it received the award, “Best Golf Destination for Latin America and Caribbean 2019” at the International Association of Tour Operators of Golf (IAGTO). This is the fourth time the island nation received the prestigious title in a six year period, thus firmly securing its status as a top golfing retreat for 2019.
Where to go in Central America
Honduras
Honduras’ continued investment in its tourism infrastructure shows the country’s commitment to the industry. As such, the Honduran Tourism Board recently launched a new video campaign to highlight the beauty and diversity of Honduras; under the slogan “you can’t leave Honduras without really knowing Honduras.” Diversifying the tourism portfolio is strong on the priority list with the launch of the new Marina Copán Convention Centre. The new center will significantly boost Honduras’ MICE offering.
It is in a unique location minutes away from the Mayan Copan Ruins. And it will have the capacity of 800 people. Further infrastructural developments include the construction of the Aloft hotel in San Pedro Sula opening 2020; as well as the Hilton Garden Inn Tegucigalpa set to open in 2021, marking the debut of the brand in Honduras.
