Underscoring the growing trend chalked up last year all around the world, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, this region is off to a good start in 2012. Business volumes and outcomes reaped in fairs like FITUR, ITB and MITT bear that out. The cruise industry set the tone around the globe with over 50 large vessels in operation. Modalities like MICE tourism and business travel made significant headway in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Panama, Cuba and Colombia. Investment in infrastructure and hotels remained on the rise. Inside-the-region airlift soared to new record highs with more routes, new flights and larger fleets. Local airlines ordered over $14 billion worth of new jetliners. South America rose as the world’s fastest-growing region, while the Caribbean and Central America kept chugging along at a pretty good pace. Regardless of unachieved goals and the long way to go, these are very encouraging realities that bring tremendous pride to each and every one of us who has worked for the sake of fostering and supporting travel and tourism in Latin America.

José Carlos de Santiago