MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT:
It is my pleasure to present the December edition of The Voice of Tourism. I am pleased to provide you with an update on the work of your association.
Last week the tourism industry received devastating news when Bay Ferries announced that they will be ending their high-speed CAT ferry service between Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine. In a media release sent on Friday, December 18th, TIANS urged all involved to expedite efforts to find viable permanent solutions to the ferry service into Nova Scotia.
Thank you to those of you who were able to join us for the 2009 Tourism Summit - The Evolution of Tourism! The conference was attended by more than 550 delegates. If you would like a copy of the presentations they are now available at www.conferenceontourism.com
The 2009 Tourism Summit culminated with the Crystal Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner where we recognized tourism excellence. To view the winner’s please click here.
Please note that the TIANS office will close at noon on Thursday, December 24th and will reopen on Monday, January 4th, 2010.
On behalf of the TIANS Board of Directors and Staff we wish you a very happy holiday and prosperous New Year.
Thank you for your continued support of your Association! If I can be of assistance, please contact me at dgf@tourism.ca or call 902.496.7479
Regards,
Darlene Grant Fiander
President
ADVOCACY UPDATE:
NATIONAL ADVOCACY
TIANS Sees Opportunity in Approved Destination Status Announcement
On December 4th TIANS sent a media release acknowledging the importance of Canada’s agreement with China on Approved Destination Status (ADS) for Canada and the potential for our national and local tourism industry. Prior to this important development, Canada has not been able to market directly to Chinese travel consumers. To view this media release, please click here.
QUALITY - IMPROVING THE NOVA SCOTIA PRODUCT
Nova Scotia Approved - Quality Standards Pilot Program 2009
During 2009 TIANS piloted the Nova Scotia Quality Standards Program. These benchmarks of quality standards were developed after extensive collaboration with representatives of fixed-roof accommodations and campgrounds. Over 400 properties participated in 2009. When your property meets the benchmarks of quality standards it will then be designated as a Nova Scotia Approved accommodation. For more information please visit www.nsapproved.ca
FINANCIAL ADVOCACY
Feedback Requested - Stop Sticking it to Us Coalition
On November 24th TIANS sent a campaign to members requesting feedback regarding the unregulated fees charged by credit card companies. TIANS has shared these concerns with TIAC who is representing the tourism industry on the "Stop Sticking it to Us Coalition". This coalition represents all the major retail and business groups in Canada. As a result of effective lobbying, the Federal Department of Finance has announced a proposed Code of Conduct for the Credit and Debit Card Industry in Canada. The draft code of conduct can be found at: http://www.fin.gc.ca/n08/data/09-109_1-eng.asp This is an important issue affecting all tourism businesses and your opinion is vital. TIANS urges you to review the information in the link and provide your feedback by January 19th to: codeconsult@fin.gc.ca
Make sure your voice is heard on this issue - give your feedback today!
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY
Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Area and Surrounding Development
TIANS has sent a letter to Mayor Peter Kelly expressing concern about the impact of potential development of land adjacent to the Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes designated Wilderness Area. To view this letter, please click here.
Budget Announcement on Land Acquisition – Good News for Tourism
On September 29th TIANS wrote a letter to Premier Darrell Dexter recognizing the province’s budget declaration to invest $81 million this fiscal year to land acquisition that will further support the protection of the province’s wilderness and coastline areas. This follows the September 15th announcement to legally protect the Ship Harbour Long Lake Wilderness Area under the Wilderness Areas Protection Act. To view this letter, please click here.
TIANS also wrote a Letter to the Editor regarding the Protected Areas. To view, please click here.
TRANSPORTATION ADVOCACY
Tourism Jeopardized by Ferry Cancellation
On Friday, December 18th TIANS sent a media release expressing our extreme concern about the announcement by Bay Ferries to end their high-speed CAT ferry service between Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine. From a tourism perspective, access into the province remains a critical issue. A comprehensive transportation strategy which addresses the needs of tourism and trade is crucial to the province’s success. To view the media release, please click here.
TIANS has also sent a letter to the Premier on this issue. To view please click here.
Destination Southwest Nova Association urges all of its partners to make their comments heard. Please visit www.destinationsouthwestnova.com and click on the "Keep the Cat Ferry" button at bottom to provide your valuable input.
Canada Will Sign its Most Comprehensive Air Agreement Ever
On Thursday, December 17th Canada’s Transport Minister John Baird announced that Canada’s air transport agreement with all 27 European Union (EU) member states will be signed and finalized on Friday, December 18th in Canada. This agreement is the largest and most comprehensive that Canada has ever negotiated and concludes the process first launched by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. To view the media release, please click here
Submission to the Marine Atlantic Inc. Stakeholders Meeting
On October 15, 2009 TIANS was invited to make a submission to the Honourable Rob Merrifield, Minister of State (Transport) regarding investment in Marine Atlantic. TIANS acknowledged the role of this service as an integral part of the transportation network of Canada. To view this submission, please click here.
Signage - Billboards on the 100 Series Highways
In October 2009, TIANS formally requested that Minister Bill Estabrooks addess the signage issues in the province. TIANS is waiting for a formal response. To view this letter, please click here.
HUMAN RESOURCE ISSUES AND ADVOCACY
Tourism Labour Supply/Demand Study 2009/10 Update
The Canadian Tourism Human Resources Council, the Nova Scotia Tourism Human Resource Council and The Conference Board of Canada are updating their tourism labour supply and demand projections model. We need the help of tourism operators across Canada to understand the effects of the economic downturn on the tourism sector in Canada.
To that end, we invite tourism operators to participate in this year’s Tourism Labour Supply and Demand Survey. It will only take about 5 minutes and your feedback will help us identify potential solutions.
All participants will receive a summary of the survey results in February, allowing you to see where your business stands compared with similar businesses across Canada. The survey is available at the following web site. Please click on this link, or cut and paste the link into your browser: www.cthrc.ca/survey
This survey is part of a tourism labour study by the CTHRC, our Provincial Partners and The Conference Board of Canada. The study will identify current and future labour shortages, by tourism occupation and by Canadian region, and present potential solutions.
RESEARCH:
October, Estimated Year-end Tourism Statistics Available
Nova Scotia’s tourism industry expects to end the year with about 2,102,000 visitors, a projected increase of one per cent compared to 2008. The province welcomed 1,865,300 visitors from January to October, up one per cent compared with this time last year. To view the media release, please click here.
Canadian Tourism Commission - Tourism Intelligence Bulletin - November 2009
The November 2009 Tourism Intelligence Bulletin is now available. This bi-monthly report provides an overview of economic conditions and other factors affecting Canada as a travel destination, travel trade and consumer trends, industry developments along with a summary table of the tourism leading indicator index.
Research Available to Industry
The Atlantic Canada Tourism Partnership (ACTP) is a nine-member pan-Atlantic partnership consisting of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the four tourism industry associations in Atlantic Canada and the four provincial departments responsible for tourism in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Many research pieces have been developed and are available at www.actp-ptca.ca/research.html
INDUSTRY NEWS:
Theodore Tugboat off to Boston!
On November 18th Theodore Tugboat departed to visit Boston from November 27th-November 29th. He docked in Boston Harbour as part of the annual Christmas tree lighting. To view the media release, please click here.
Nova Scotia Association of Chefs and Cooks Gala Dinner and Awards
On November 19, 2009 the Nova Scotia Association of Chefs and Cooks celebrated their annual Gala Dinner at the Delta Halifax Hotel. The night was presented by Culinary Team Nova Scotia where a four course meal was enjoyed by 180 guests from the culinary and food service industry. To view the media release, please click here
Trout Point Lodge a new accommodation for the prestigious Paris-based association
Relais & Châteaux, a collection of the world’s finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants, announced its newest members at its annual Congress in Biarritz, France. A total of 31 properties have been accepted, bringing the total membership in the travel association to 475 members in 57 countries. Trout Point Lodge of Nova Scotia and the Sonora Resort in British Columbia were the sole new Canadian members. To view the media release, please click here.
Nova Scotia Communities in Bloom recognized at TIANS Awards Breakfast
On December 1st TIANS honoured the 2009 Communities in Bloom Program participants at an Awards Presentation during their annual Tourism Conference. The awards were presented to recognize the ongoing commitment to beautification, environmental awareness, volunteer involvement and heritage conservation. Communities spend the spring and summer months preparing for late summer judging. Judges evaluate the communities on several criteria and award up to 5 “Bloom” ratings to each community. To view the media release, please click here.
Funding Announced for Community Internet Development
Communities will be better able to develop Internet-based programs and services, thanks to a program launched by the province on Sept. 25. Economic and Rural Development Minister Percy Paris announced $100,000 in funding for the Building a High Speed Future program to help communities develop new Internet-based services. To view the media release, please click here
MEMBERSHIP
Thank you to all of the TIANS members who have renewed your membership with TIANS for 2009/10.
It is very important that the industry stay strong and committed during these difficult times. Together we can influence a positive future for tourism. Your support allows us to ensure tourism is on the political and economic agenda for Nova Scotia.
WELCOME TO NEW TIANS MEMBERS:
|
|
|
|
|
Halifax
|
|
|
North Sydney
|
|
|
Halifax
|
|
|
Halifax
|
|
|
Elmsdale
|
|
|
Port George
|
|
|
Louisbourg
|
|
|
Halifax
|
|
|
Baddeck
|
|
|
Windsor
|
|
|
Halifax
|
|
|
Sydney
|
|
|
Neil’s Harbour
|
|
|
Yarmouth
|
|
|
Halifax
|
|
|
Halifax
|
MEMBER BENEFITS UPDATE:
Johnson Insurance
As a member of TIANS, you may qualify for special discounts on a home and auto insurance plan.
Now you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you have the coverage you need and the service you deserve. As one of Canada’s leading providers of home and auto insurance, Johnson Inc. understands insurance
is all about putting your mind at ease. Because you’re a part of TIANS, you may receive great benefits
and savings. For more information Contact: 1-877-674-4040, www.johnson.ca
P.S. Get closer to the AIR MILES rewards you’ve been saving for! With Johnson, you’ll receive one reward mile for every $20 in home and auto insurance premiums*.
MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES:
Marquee Tourism Events Program - Call for applications for 2010-11 funding!
Deadline: January 8, 2010! Canada’s Economic Action Plan unveiled in Budget 2009 was designed to provide timely economic stimulus when it is needed most. The Marquee Tourism Events Program (MTEP) has been established to provide targeted, time-limited support to assist existing marquee tourism events to enhance their offering and deliver world-class programs and experiences. The program will assist marquee events attract international audiences, which may have been impacted by the global economic downturn. For more information, please click here
Frito Lay Canada wants to make traveling, exploring and enjoying Canada next summer affordable and fun for all!
In the summer of 2010, the Lay’s® brand will be running a multi-million dollar campaign called LAY’S® CHIP TRIPS. It is a simple program where consumers collect and redeem points found on specially-marked Lay’s® products for compelling offers, such as 2 for 1 or free entry, to local attractions, experiences and hotels. For more information, please click here.
Get Involved in Communities in Bloom
Communities in Bloom is a program designed for you and your community to come together to work on year round projects that will enhance community pride, appearance and the environment. Find out how you can engage your community in this, province-wide program. Contact: 1-800-948-4267. Email: cib@tians.org or visit our websites national program and provincial program. If you are interested in judging for the 2009 CIB Program, please contact Tanice Mundle at (902) 422-5853.
TourismTalent.com
TourismTalent is the recruitment solution for the Tourism Industry. The website provides an effective vehicle for recruiting tourism professionals. As a TIANS member, you are entitled to a special offer when posting a job listing on the website. Purchase a one time ad, at $59.95 plus tax, and receive a second ad at no extra charge - to be used at any future date. Visit www.tourismtalent.com or call (902) 422-5853. Be sure to ask for the TIANS Member Special.
INDUSTRY EVENTS:
Atlantic Canada Showcase 2010: Dates TBA
Atlantic Canada Showcase is a buyer seated marketplace designed especially for the
motorcoach, group, F.I.T. and speciality travel industry. Travel Trade operators and travel professionals meet with representatives of the Atlantic Canada travel industry during pre-scheduled appointments. Participants experience the culture and history of the Atlantic region in exciting venues, rich in entertainment, cuisine, seminars, pre and post familiarization tours. Dates and Location will be released in early 2010.
ApEX: April 18th–19th, 2010 at Exhibition Park
ApEx attracts everyone from corporate executives to owner / operators and chefs and their staff from across all four Atlantic Provinces. Connect with over 3,000 industry professionals who are looking for solutions and the next big trend. In addition to a full line up of exhibits, ApEx also features industry specific seminars and demonstrations to attract qualified buyers. For more information please visit http://www.crfa.ca/tradeshows/apex/
Saltscapes East Coast Expo: April 23rd–25th, 2010 at Exhibition Park
With more than 300 unique exhibitors providing an unforgettable opportunity for eager consumers to experience the tastes, the aromas, the sounds, the character and just about everything else this marvelous part of the world has to offer! The Saltscapes East Coast Expo provides you with an unduplicated opportunity to showcase and sell your products and services to a quality audience in a show specifically designed for that purpose. For more information please visit http://www.saltscapesexpo.com/
TOURISM WORKSHOPS:
Did you know that?
- Approximately 9 out of 10 people (88%) use the internet
- Canadians perform more than 90 million searches a day
- 63% of Canadians make travel arrangements online
With more and more people doing business online, the opportunity to increase your sales through your business website has never been greater - or more vital. Potential customers must be able to find you online and when they arrive on your website, they need to be able to easily access information, view quality pictures of your product and have the ability to make reservations and/or purchase your products. Please click here to download the information and registration form.
For training programs such as SuperHost, Its Good Business and many more in your area visit www.tourismhrc.com
Industry Links
|
