Ontario Launches New Plan For Tourism

June 24, 2004

Ontario Launches New Plan For Tourism
June 24, 2004 – Ontario revealed a new tourism strategy this week as part of the Canadian National Tourism Week.

"The Ontario Tourism Strategy charts a new course to revitalize and grow our tourism industry, to bring more economic prosperity and improve the quality of life in communities across Ontario,’ said the province’s Minister of Tourism and Recreation, Jim Bradley.

The combined efforts of the government and industry comprise five key elements. These include:

• Embracing a visitor first philosophy, including a rating system to help visitors make informed choices
• Developing destinations and experiences, with more focus on "icon" destinations
• Recognizing the importance of tourism, including promoting training and career opportunities
• Strengthening strategic marketing to ensure effective campaigns and promotions
• An "all of government" approach, including the use of information technology to enable visitors to look and book online.

"For the first time in many years, and despite the challenges of the past year, the province and its tourism industry finally have a plan for the future of tourism in Ontario," observed Gary Clarke of the Tourism Federation of Ontario.

For more, go to http://www.tourism.gov.on.ca/.