Orfila was the director of the Cruise Department at the Dominican Republic's Ministry of Tourism and had over 30 years of experience in the tourism sector, promoting the Dominican Republic as a cruise destination and trying to attract investment to this segment. She dedicated the last 15 years to promoting the cruise industry. A charming woman with a special charisma. We saw her, as we did every year, in Fort Lauderdale, and although we weren't particularly close, she was one of those people who never forget you.
Anyone familiar with the industry knows that you can have the most beautiful and even the most popular destination in the world and still not attract a single cruise ship. Orfila managed to establish a regular cruise destination where none existed before, and her work is recognized both internationally and in her country. In April 2015, she was recognized by Carnival Cruise Line for her unwavering support of the development of Amber Cove port in Puerto Plata.
“Orfila was unique and special, both personally and professionally. Personally, she was one of those rare people who brought a special joy to see. She was funny, intelligent, affectionate, and always in good spirits, no matter the circumstances. I have dozens of messages from her congratulating me on my birthday, Father's Day, Christmas, New Year's, etc. Honestly, one of the most spectacular and irreplaceable people I have ever known.
Professionally, I would say that, in my opinion, the success the Dominican Republic is having in the cruise industry is due exclusively to Orfila. The Dominican Republic couldn't have had a better ambassador than Orfila. Passionate, diligent, focused, and committed to her country. In my 15 years in the industry, I saw many ministers and directors of the Dominican Republic come and go, but Orfila was always there, in the bad times and the good. Always with a smile. We are all indebted to Orfila.”
(Federico Gonzalez-Denton, Designated General Manager, SAN JUAN CRUISE PORT)
“She loved the cruise industry. In her career working with the government of the Dominican Republic, she led the way, increasing cruise ship calls, opening new ports, and reaching new markets, all of which impacted the people in the destination and the economy. She was the largest Cruise Destination Promoter in the entire Dominican Republic.”
(Claudine Pohl – CEO, Lemoneight)
“I can honestly say I was fortunate to have known Orfila. Beyond being an expert in her field and always representing the Dominican Republic well, and growing the partnership between the destination and its people with the cruise industry and its benefits, Orfila exemplified what we at FCCA strive for: a family-like atmosphere.
I believe everyone who met her instantly and genuinely felt her warmth, passion, and authenticity. She radiated that, and her positivity and seemingly boundless love for everyone and everything were contagious. The world has lost someone who could make anyone around her feel better, but I know she will live on in the memories of so many in our cruise family.”
(Michele M Paige – CEO, FCCA)
