For many years McCarthy’s Party Tour guests would often introduce themselves at our welcome reception with a disclaimer; suggesting they’d seen every other province in the country, and this was their final foray in Canada.
To which our Mother would respond;
“Well you certainly saved the best for last!”
“… last foray into Canada…”
These days guests arrive with an elevated sense of anticipation, instead marveling at how we managed to contain the secret for so long.
We didn’t. This is an island after all, and without a decent comparable, there was no way for us to recognize our tourism potential; the beauty of our coastal scenery, the brilliant attributes of the culture, the wondrous effects of icebergs and whales. Successful vacation destinations boasted sandy beaches, theme parks, and lots of hot, sunny weather – not exactly the kind of attractions you’ll find in Newfoundland & Labrador.
“… more sophisticated…”
As times changed and tastes became more sophisticated, the want for “unique” travel experiences positioned Newfoundland & Labrador as a premiere tourism destination. As such, our province and it’s private sector “pioneers” teamed up to develop an especially effective television advertising campaign that has resonated with our target markets for nearly 20 years. (Remember those red headed youngsters are now university age). The ads are beautiful, meaningful and truly inspiring. They’ve won many awards, and most all our guests will attest to the influence they made on their travel decision. They’ve served us well.
Additionally, several significant “influencers” brought even further attention to Newfoundland & Labrador. These days you’ll find dozens of articles in the finest magazines, reels of film recordings on respected travel sites, and beautiful fulfillment pieces from the most exclusive destination management groups. Much of which is attributed to a collusion of events that has added another element of mystery to this magical place we call home.
“… community revitalization…”
The first major development was Fogo Island Inn. An architectural wonder, it was established as the cornerstone for a community revitalization project. A brilliant philanthropic gift that embraces every aspect of the environment, its people, and the island’s economic potential. Applauded by the rich and famous – it’s been featured in hundreds of celebrity publications and media outlets.
Next came the ‘Foodie Craze’ and a surging demand for content. We’ve come a long way since ‘Wok with Yan’ – now there’s entire channels to populate. When this group discovered a new, culturally identifiable entity in Newfoundland & Labrador, we became the latest “Darling of the foodie world” and sent media outlets clamouring. We’ve seen at least half a dozen magazine articles so far this year – and we’re only two months into the decade.
“… foodie craze…”
Finally, we must also recognize the success of the Broadway musical ‘Come From Away’ and the touching story about Newfoundland’s role in the 911 tragedy when we housed and fed thousands of passengers who were stranded in the small Town of Gander for 5 days. It portrays a beautiful message about human kindness, so powerful that it inspired an entirely new genre of travelers who have bumped Newfoundland & Labrador to the very top of their ‘Bucket List’
“The last shall be first” takes on a whole new meaning in Newfoundland & Labrador
