Aruba endured its own hurricane last year in the wake of the
disappearance of Alabama teenager Natalee Holloway. Relentless
coverage on cable TV channels battered the island, often portraying
the government and island officials as corrupt and insensitive.
Q: What impact did the Holloway case have on your
business last year?
A: I think last year we did see a drop in the
increase compared to 2004. From July on it was either flat or no
growth at all.But I have to add that we don’t think it was all due
to Natalee Holloway. There were 400 rooms that were closed for
renovations. The hurricanes in the Caribbean and United States and
oil prices contribute to that. And we still had 82 percent
occupancy from January to December, which is wonderful and the
hotels had a rate increase of about 18 percent.
Q: Going forward, how do you counterattack any
negative perception tourists might have?
A: I think it’s very difficult, but I think the
most important thing is to continue our relationships with our
partners. We have a great relationship with tour operators and
travel agents and have a good database of consumers who plan to
continue to keep in touch. It’s really about the perception of
Aruba, because everybody knows Aruba is safe. We just want to
repeat it as many times as we can and also let them know about the
success story of tourism.
Q: Any special programs in the year ahead to help
achieve that goal?
A: Yes, we’re going to have media tours and special visits by tour
operators and airlines and [try to] book agents to meet with them.
Q: Anything in particular travel agents should
know about Aruba in the year ahead?
A: Yes, I think it is very important for them to
know we are moving forward. I think it is important for them to
know we have $200 million investment in the hotel industry, whether
it’s new projects or renovations. I think it really shows the
confidence that investors have in the island. And that we believe
we will continue to be successful in the marketplace and that they
know their clients are going to return satisfied.
Q: What are some of the other new developments
people should know about it?
A: One is the Wyndham, which is constructing 100
timeshare rooms. The Marriott is continuing with its investment
there in the third building. And the Hyatt is renovating their
rooms this year as we
