Isabela Gathering Highlights Transportation as a Priority for the Northwest
The need for transportation alternatives that allow visitors to move easily, safely, and cost-effectively across the region was one of the main topics discussed by business owners during the Northwest Tourism Gathering, hosted by Discover Puerto Rico at Centro Comunal Medina in Isabela.
During the event, attendees were introduced to Discover Puerto Rico’s new advertising campaign, Awaken Your Senses, along with its creative rationale and the opportunities available for industry partners to align and showcase their offerings to potential visitors.
Relevant regional data and insights were also shared, including a preview of the upcoming Visitor Profile report—an annual study that helps the organization better understand visitor characteristics, motivations, and behaviors to guide its marketing strategies. The role of public relations in positioning the destination in international media was also addressed.
Beyond the presentations, these gatherings serve as a space for local businesses to exchange ideas, identify shared challenges, and explore potential solutions. In Isabela, one of the key concerns raised was the limited availability of transportation, both for accessing the area and for moving within the destination.
In response to this need, Gabino Rivera, Vice President of Operations at Step Consulting, shared an early look at TiMi, a Puerto Rican ride-sharing platform expected to operate between Arecibo and Mayagüez, impacting a dozen municipalities across the region.
“From Isabela, we will cover 12 towns between Arecibo and Mayagüez. Our philosophy is to create a circular economy system that allows businesses to expand their services without incurring additional costs,” Rivera explained, noting that the platform will integrate both transportation and delivery services.
This initiative aims to address a growing need as tourism continues expanding beyond the metropolitan area, driven in part by promotional efforts that encourage visitors to explore different regions of the Island.
As is typical of these gatherings, participants also highlighted the value of direct connections among businesses across sectors.
“I connected with people in real estate, lodging, and food businesses. We exchanged contact information and social media; the networking was complete. Building these connections is essential to create events and opportunities for us as entrepreneurs,” shared Omarilys Moya, an artisan specializing in jewelry inspired by Puerto Rico’s flora and fauna.
Discover Puerto Rico reiterated its commitment to continue providing tools and spaces that foster communication, collaboration, and the strengthening of the Island’s tourism ecosystem.