Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation
December 5, 2017

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation:

Acknowledging Labrador as Best of the World Destination

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House today to acknowledge Labrador being chosen by National Geographic Traveler magazine as a Best of the World destination.

Mr. Speaker, each year National Geographic Traveler magazine produces an eagerly anticipated annual list that highlights must-see destinations to visit throughout the world.

Standing shoulder to shoulder with exotic and world-class destinations like Dublin, Sydney and Vienna, Labrador was chosen because of its Aboriginal peoples’ involvement in Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve.

Mr. Speaker, as the only Canadian location chosen, this is a prestigious honour for both our province and the country.

A place of incredible scenery, people and spirit, the Big Land is truly a breathtaking destination. From awe-inspiring valleys and snow-covered peaks of the Torngat and Mealy Mountains, to the unique multi-generational gathering and sharing space in Nain, Labrador offers travellers an array of culturally-rich and incredible scenic experiences.

More and more travellers are experiencing what Labrador has to offer, and with this recent designation, Labrador will surely play an even bigger role as we strive to increase visitor spending to $1.6 billion annually by 2020.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud all those involved in this industry for their ongoing hard work and commitment to making tourism in our province such a success, and I encourage everyone to visit the Big Land.

Mr. Speaker, Labrador is a dream itinerary for intrepid travellers who want to discover a land with 9,000 years of history. It truly is one of the last untamed places left on earth. I invite all Honourable members to join me in celebrating Labrador as one of the world's must see destinations. 

Thank you.

 

2017 12 05                                                    1:50 p.m.