Grupo Piñero promotes local culture in each of its operations

• Grupo Piñero promotes the integration of cultural elements in its projects, enriching the visitors' experience and highlighting the richness of the local culture. 
• The company works closely with local communities and artists to reflect the cultural authenticity of each destination, from the design to the experiences offered. 

Santo Domingo, June 10th, 2024.- Grupo Piñero, a leading company in the tourism sector, goes beyond offering accommodation in its hotels; rather, as part of its commitment to sustainability, it emphasizes its dedication to the appreciation and preservation of local culture in each of its establishments. 

Grupo Piñero's sustainability actions include not only improving the management of natural resources, conserving biodiversity, moving toward decarbonization and implementing a circular economy model, but also promoting a deeper connection between the tourism offer and the destination's culture. This connection is reflected in the architecture, design and experiences offered to visitors, allowing for a more authentic and enriching experience that highlights the cultural richness and local heritage of the destination. 

In addition, the company's commitment is reflected in the promotion of the Dominican culinary richness by including local ingredients in its culinary and mixology offerings, as well as in the celebration of cultural markets and various festivals focused on gastronomy. 

“At Grupo Piñero, we are convinced that tourism acts as a catalyst for the revaluation and recovery of diverse cultural elements that characterize each community. It also contributes to raising public awareness of the importance of the recovery, conservation and preservation of cultural heritage," said Isabel Piñero, the Group’s Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO).  

In the hotels, one can appreciate elements that pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Such is the case of the Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda, where the entire refurbished structure is reborn with a Taino soul, showing a deep interest in the roots and essence of its local environment. These architectural and design details not only beautify the environment, but also offer guests an immersive experience that celebrates the history and cultural identity of the area. 

Entertainment also plays a crucial role in this cultural immersion. A great example of this is the MATUM show, a unique staging in the Dominican Republic, created by the entertainment team of Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, which tells the story of the Taino culture through a combination of lights, sound and mapping. More than 30 artists portray, through dance and movement, the evolution of this culture using the elements of fire, water, air and earth.

At the Bavaro Complex, which is home to several of the brand's hotels, the Dominican Fiesta is held, offering guests the opportunity to learn about and enjoy the best of the local culture through live shows and Dominican food. Something similar happens at the Bahia Principe Fantasia. The hotel, with a castle as its centerpiece, is inspired by the story of Papimber, a boy who creates a fantasy world with a larimar stone. This narrative is reflected in all the hotel's facilities and activities, transmitting the local culture in an entertaining and magical way. 

Another outstanding example of this vision is Cayo Levantado Resort, where the essence of Samaná is in every detail, highlighting cultural authenticity and local development. 

This resort integrates Dominican culture in all its facets, from architecture and decoration to gastronomy and local talent. Dominican designers, interior designers and architects, including Andrés Augusto Aybar, Ramón Emilio Jiménez and Johann Báez, have contributed to reflect the cultural richness of the region, capturing the beauty of the reefs and tropical vegetation in its 218 rooms. 

The furniture and decorative elements of the hotel rooms were created by the Paló Group, together with its team of artisans, using traditional Dominican wood and wicker. These pieces capture the distinctive essence of Caribbean architecture. 

It also features brushstrokes by artisan Nini Carela, a talented local painter, whose work reflects her Dominican heritage and pride. Her creations can be found in the hotel's Gift Shop with figures that empower the roots of this country. Each of Nini's brushstrokes carries with it the history and vibrant spirit of Samaná, turning each object into a unique piece of our culture. 

Enhancing the value of culture through local artisans  

A further example of the value placed on local culture is that for the last two years Grupo Piñero has been holding the “Most Ecocentric” award ceremony in Spain to recognize and highlight the work of the company's suppliers, employees, allies and national and international partners who actively work in the fight against climate change. In April, for the first time, it was held in the Dominican Republic, and on this occasion, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the National Crafts Center (Cenadarte), a contest was held in which a local artisan was selected to design the award for the winners of this edition. This initiative highlights the talent and skill of local artisans, promoting the recognition of their work both locally and internationally. 

Local talent  

In the country, Grupo Piñero has a total workforce of 8,000 employees, 98% of whom are local. This commitment to local talent not only strengthens the economy and social fabric of the communities in which it operates, but also ensures an authentic representation and preservation of local culture and traditions throughout its operations. By employing and training local talent, Grupo Piñero fosters a sense of belonging and pride, contributing to the sustainable development and well-being of the region.