I wrote this article from the beautiful resort area of Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, the #1 destination in the Caribbean.  I am here to take a look at some real estate developments here for possible investment. 

With so much going on in my various business activities this trip planned with dates committed to months ago crept up on me and I didn't do my usual research and preparation before taking an overseas trip. So here I am traveling to the Dominican Republic, a Spanish-speaking country with no clue as to what to expect and not knowing anyone here.  Yes, I was leaving the dreary, freezing cold of the New York/New Jersey area and going to the sunny Caribbean, but I had so much stuff on my mind regarding business at home that I really wasn't even excited about going to paradise. 

During the 4 hour flight I was catching up on business reading and dozing and planning what I needed to take care of when returning home.  I felt as if this trip was a nuisance and really bad timing since I am in the middle of the real estate transaction from hell.

Anyway, once the plane started its descent into Punta Cana, my spirits started to change.  The sunshine, beautiful sea and lush greenery caught my eyes.   As the plane landed I was looking for the concrete and glass airport building I was used to seeing in all the countries I have ever traveled to.  Alas, there was none!  Turns out that the airport in Punta Cana is a series of buildings with thatched roofs and landscaping with lush tropical greenery and flowers. 

As you step off the plane you immediately join a line where you are greeted by an army of beautiful women in native costume and FORCED to smile and have your picture taken.  You are put in a good mood whether you like it or not.  All the business stuff on my mind was forgotten and my blood pressure went down.  There is a band playing live music and big smiles from everyone that say WELCOME!  After my picture was taken with the greeters, I walked into the open air thatched roof airport and purchased my $10 tourist card and then walked 12 steps to Immigration. 

The environment was so open and inviting, unlike any other airport experience I have ever had.  THIS caught my attention!  My only other airport experience that came somewhat close to this was when I went to Hawaii and we were greeted with leis and big smiles.  But Punta Cana airport takes the cake.  From the surprising physical structure of the airport, to the friendly greeters, and the whole EXPERIENCE of getting off the plane and having a stress-free entrance into the country, I am getting good vibes.  Yes, I am in a buying mood.  Any country that takes care to greet their visitors like this is worth considering for investment.

I share this experience to point out that regardless of what business you are in, it is worth the effort to go to great pains to give prospective customers, clients, visitors or guests an initial pleasant experience.  GRAB their attention by BEING DIFFERENT and surprise them by doing something different from your competition!