With a degree with honours in Communication and Journalism from the University of Sagrado Corazón and a master’s degree in Public Relations and Integrated Communication, Davelyn is pure cordiality and empathy.
Her solid academic background is the foundation upon which he has built a highly successful career, leading and innovating new strategies in public relations.
He always has a smile on his face and his gaze shows that he is paying attention to the person he is talking to, as well as his undeniable professionalism.
Thus, with his characteristic approachability, he has implemented a different narrative to position Puerto Rico as a first-class tourist destination and lifestyle brand.
Q.- How has Puerto Rico’s tourism projection evolved?
A.- We have transitioned from being a “sun and beach” destination to positioning ourselves as a benchmark for cultural richness. Discover Puerto Rico’s focus has been to elevate the Island’s narrative, highlighting that we are a world-class destination that combines modern infrastructure with a vibrant local identity across the six regions of the Island. We have managed to make the world not just see Puerto Rico but feel it through authentic communication that has successfully diversified our source markets.
Q.- What is the most genuine essence of Puerto Rico?
A.- The heart of Puerto Rico is the people, us the Boricuas, that’s what we call ourselves. The island exudes warmth, joy, and deep-rooted pride in our heritage. The blend of Taíno, Spanish, and African ancestry is felt throughout the island, including our hospitality. Visitors to the Island are invited to become immersed into our culture, history and natural beauty.
Q.- Tell me about the values underpinning the short and medium-term promotional strategy.
A.- Our strategy is built on pillars such as authenticity, inclusion, and sustainability. We want visitors to have real experiences, ensuring that the positive economic impact of tourism reaches every community across the Island while protecting our resources for future generations.
Q.- What has Bad Bunny’s “declaration of love” meant for the Island?
A.- It has been a massive cultural catalyst. Benito is not just a global artist; he is an ambassador who carries Puerto Rico in his DNA. His “declaration of love,” has helped to spotlight Puerto Rico’s culture, heritage and vibrant identity to a global and diverse audience, positioning the Island as the epicentre of today’s urban and creative culture.
Q.- Is Puerto Rican gastronomy already a major tourism asset? What are the most significant moments or festivities?
A.- It is a fundamental pillar. Today, we are a top-tier culinary destination, from the mountain chinchorros (local roadside eateries) to fine dining in San Juan. Our Christmas season, the longest in the world, is a prime example of a milestone where food (lechón, pasteles or mofongo) takes centre stage.
Q.- Can we speak of rural, inland, and nature tourism as consolidated and sustainable products?
A.- Absolutely, rural and nature-based tourism are significant elements to Puerto Rico’s tourism offer. Alongside our coastal attractions, we’re actively promoting towns such as Utuado, as well as natural treasures like El Yunque National Forest, to encourage visitors to experience the Island’s extraordinary biodiversity. From tropical rainforests and limestone caves to dry forests and mountain landscapes, Puerto Rico offers a wide variety of ecosystems that are carefully protected and managed. As travellers increasingly look to reconnect with nature, these experiences provide a more sustainable and immersive way to explore the Island beyond the traditional beach holiday.
Q.- Let’s talk numbers: How much has the volume of tourists arriving on the Island grown in recent years?
A.- 4 Additionally, approximately 1.6 million cruise passengers arrived through the Port of San Juan, representing a 12% year-over-year increase. Lodging revenue and visitor spending have also reached historic highs.
Q.- Regarding intangible heritage, what would you highlight in terms of festivals and traditions?
A.- In terms of festivals, Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián, truly encapsulates Puerto Rican joy and tradition. Our music traditions, Bomba and Plena, tell the story of our heritage and creativity. Puerto Rico offers more than breathtaking scenery; it is a destination defined by its vibrant culture and soul.
Q.- The beaches are paradise… is there a sustainability plan?
A.- Sustainability is absolutely a priority. We actively promote programs such as Blue Flag, alongside visitor awareness campaigns that encourage responsible travel. Our approach goes beyond keeping beaches clean, it’s about protecting fragile ecosystems, from coral reefs to nesting sea turtles, while fostering a culture of low-impact tourism that ensures Puerto Rico’s natural beauty can be enjoyed for generations to come. We also have programs like The Green Path, where travellers can certify themselves as sustainable travellers before arriving on the Island.
Q.- Where do you see, or where would you like to see Puerto Rico in ten years?
A.- In ten years, I hope Puerto Rico will be seen as the undisputed leader in sustainable and cultural tourism within the Caribbean not just for leisure but for events and conventions as well. We want to drive economic growth while protecting identity, heritage, and natural resources. My hope is that Puerto Rico becomes a model for how innovation and tradition can evolve together, creating a tourism industry that benefits both our communities and future generations.
