Dominican Authorities Aid Tourists After Resort Fire

Dominican authorities are facilitating the return of foreign tourists affected by a major fire at a luxury resort in La Altagracia. The blaze at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort on the Dominican Republic’s southeastern coast led to the evacuation of nearly 1,700 tourists. Tragically, an Italian national lost their life in the incident.

Amanda Santana, a hotel executive, stated that many tourists lost essential identity documents like passports. Cooperation with embassies and governments is underway to aid their reentry into their home countries, ensuring a smooth process.

Hotel management is collaborating with police to speed up online filing of reports required by guests. Tourists have been relocated to nearby hotels in Punta Cana and Bayahibe. Despite the situation, tourism in the area remains unaffected, as confirmed by General Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Center.

The fire spread swiftly due to wind conditions and the thatch roofing of part of the resort.

At the time, the hotel maintained 84% occupancy. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the Italian national’s death, emphasizing ongoing safety measures to protect visitors.