(CaribPR Wire) In order to provide MasterCard cardholders with priceless experiences in the world’s most exciting destinations, MasterCard has announced the launch of its international Priceless Cities platform in Aruba, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and the Tourism Authority of Aruba. Aruba is the fifth city in the Caribbean that joins MasterCard’s Priceless Cities program, which was launched in 2011 by MasterCard to offer cardholders a special and unique way to enjoy and celebrate their favorite cities.

According to Lorena Holguin, Marketing Vice President for MasterCard in the Caribbean, the Caribbean is an excellent opportunity when it comes to destinations programs such as Priceless Cities, due to the high number of tourism arrivals and international spending volume. “Aruba meets the parameters that characterize the other destinations of the program, as it has everything to please all types of tourists, from the adventurous type, to the beach lover and even the gastronomy aficionado. At MasterCard, we are proud to bring the charms of Aruba closer to our customer’s reach,” concluded Holguin.

Through MasterCard’s innovative Priceless Aruba program, cardholders will receive offers and discounts on products and services in over 40 participating merchants when making a purchase with their MasterCard®. The complete list of offers is available to cardholders through printed guides distributed at high traffic areas like the Aruba airport, shops, restaurants and hotels.

“As one of the most revisited destinations in the Caribbean, Aruba prides itself on its loyal, happy returners,” said Aruba Tourism Authority CEO Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes. “Our visitors value the quality experiences they receive on island, just as MasterCard holders value the quality service they receive from the credit card provider. This is a natural partnership for us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to showcase the many differentiating features and hidden gems that make Aruba so priceless.”

Otmar E. Oduber, Aruba Minister of Tourism, highlighted “I applaud that the Aruba Tourism Association, in partnership with MasterCard and local merchants, is exploring new initiatives that will enhance the experience of our on-island visitors. I look forward to continually growing the program and having Aruba benefit even more from such an important partner as MasterCard. I encourage our local merchants to participate in new endeavors such as this one.”

According to Holguin, “Priceless Aruba aims to provide cardholders with unique offers and benefits that make every moment in Aruba a Priceless experience. The goal is not only attract tourists, but also to give them a unique experience so that they return.” Holguin highlighted that the program offers benefits designed based on consumers passion points, which are divided into three categories: activities, gastronomy and shopping. Cardholders can take advantage of over 40 offers including receiving a free gift with purchase, or a bottle of wine to add that special touch to a romantic dinner, or even a free diving trip to explore Aruba’s underwater world.

Sebastian Barletta, VP and Territory Head of the Eastern Caribbean for MasterCard, emphasized that “At MasterCard, we understand that the tourism industry is very competitive on a global level, which is why it is necessary for these destinations to differentiate themselves by providing value added service as well as high quality and memorable experiences for visitors “. According to the executive, the tourism industry account for close to 85% of Aruba’s GDP, which is why the company considers it a priority to support the development of this segment in the country.

“Our global acceptance and unified structure positions us as the ideal partner for the tourism industry and allows to provide a greater value to all parties associated with this segment. The consumer benefits from the offers and discounts, while merchants increase sales and retention thanks to the promotions associated with the platform, which in turn helps strengthen the local economy that depends on tourism.”