We just delivered the latest Boondockers Snowmobile Film to Jim Parsons, the mayor of Corner Brook. This is the video’s birthplace, so its pretty exciting stuff. But get this, we arrived on the doorstep of City Hall driving a “Side by Side” ATV!
Not kidding guys. We’ve always said that Corner Brook is the most spectacular town on the planet, but suddenly its also the “Hippest”.
“… arrived on the door step of City Hall…”
In fact, Corner Brook is one of the most exciting, innovative, and dedicated travel destinations in Newfoundland right now – with a host of fun projects that are breathing new life into the region.
Some may remember the post we made last year about Corner Brook’s new STAR program and the inventory of tourism products they’ve created in Newfoundland’s Humber Valley area. This has not only opened many new doors for the industry, but more importantly, it also introduced a real sense of community among the operators and a willingness to share ideas, form strong alliances, and create better packaging opportunities.
This has been especially helpful for tour operators who are seeing more bookings from Western Canada and foreign countries. Given the number of flight connections required to get here, these guests tend to arrive a day before their tour starts, leaving them with more time to explore the community and its services.
On this year’s spring’s reconnaissance trip, Craig Borden (owner operator of Rugged Edge) introduced us to several excellent new partners / products that were especially well received by our McCarthy’s Party Tours guests. But in the short time since our visit, a couple of truly significant developments have become major ‘Disrupters’, that seem to have inspired the entire community to entirely new heights
“… progressive concept…”
These include the very cool and progressive concept of “Shared Usage” Trailways, that provide snowmobile and ATV access to many of the city’s hotels, restaurants, fuel stations, attractions and amenity. Corner Brook is a true oasis in a wilderness frontier, so “All Terrain Vehicles” provide greater accessibility to every age group, regardless of any mobility challenges. Brilliant
They also introduced a “Miniature Train” service that operates like a “hop on hop off” bus and a supplement to the local transit system. Riding the train is indeed an attraction in itself, but the ability to move guests throughout the downtown core certainly increases the likelihood that they will see a far greater portion of the city and its many wonderful offerings.
And let’s not kid ourselves, the new craft brewery and luxury hotel on West Street is truly inspiring.
“… miniature train service…”
While response is difficult to measure at such an early stage– there is no denying the effect this is having on the community’s mindset. First and foremost, we haven’t seen Corner Brook look so good since the early 80’s. Everything in the downtown core is freshly painted with quality signage and great shop fronts. The number of new business ventures that have opened is staggering – from the revitalized and legendary ‘Rock Garden’ on Broadway to the very cool and chique boutiques on West Street – things are really happening in Corner Brook
“… chique boutiques…”
These are extraordinary developments that will generate further economic opportunities in and about the community. This is the leverage point that can funnel more guests to the southern corner of the island and thus restore Corner Brook’s position as the true tourism hub of western Newfoundland.
Congratulations to everyone in the city. You’re doing us proud.
Of course, it would be terribly remiss if we didn’t make special acknowledgement to our Mayor Jim Parsons and our dear friend Craig Borden from Rugged Edge. These are men of great vision, an extraordinary work ethic, and a true sense of community. They really believe in this town, working tirelessly to help achieve the success and glory it deserves.
What exceptional leaders, and influencers.
Seriously, how in the name of God did they make this work? Unbelievable. Far more than politicians, these boys are good governors.
Many thanks gentlemen!
“… tourism hub of western Newfoundland…”
