Using short, simple visuals and sounds in a playful and friendly manner, the 2007 No Place Like Home campaign reminds Newfoundlanders and Labradorians of the wonderful things to do and places to visit in their home province.

No Place Like Home, the in-province campaign now in its second year, is designed to encourage residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to explore their own province, which is gaining recognition as a world-class travel destination.

Tourism, Culture and Recreation Minister, the Honourable Tom Hedderson, launched the 2007 No Place Like Home campaign this morning at The Rooms, St. John�s. Minister Hedderson was joined by Bruce Sparkes, president of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, and Judy Sparkes-Giannou, chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism Marketing Council.

"The tourism industry plays a vital role in the success of Newfoundland and Labrador, and residents travelling throughout the province generate significant economic benefit," said Minister Hedderson. "There are a rich assortment of natural and cultural attractions, festivals and events and activities to discover and appreciate. This campaign is designed to remind people that we have everything one could ever possibly want in a vacation experience � from rest and relaxation to cultural exploration and high adventure. These unique and enriching vacation experiences are all right here, waiting for us to enjoy."

The campaign includes television, print and radio advertising that direct people to the website www.noplacelikehome.travel, which features getaway packages and value coupons for travel and activities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Packages include everything from kayaking, hiking and picnic excursions to hotel and golf getaways. This year�s campaign also features a brochure packaged as a six-month calendar with vacation ideas, which will be mailed to all Newfoundland and Labrador homes.

"This campaign is designed to bring Newfoundland and Labrador to the forefront of travel intentions for residents," said Ms. Sparkes-Giannou. "It will create interest in travel and encourage residents to participate in outdoor and leisure activities, attractions and accommodations throughout the province."

"With tourism awareness week beginning June 4, this campaign complements our ongoing efforts to encourage resident travel and also highlights the importance of the tourism industry to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Mr. Sparkes.

Generating $820 million in annual revenue and employing 47,000 people directly and indirectly, Newfoundland and Labrador�s tourism industry is a force for economic development throughout the province. Government continues to invest in the tourism sector and is aggressively marketing Newfoundland and Labrador as a world-class tourism destination. Budget 2007 provided an additional $1 million for tourism marketing, bringing the marketing budget to $11 million � nearly doubling the annual marketing since 2003.

"Our tourism industry continues to grow and increased marketing efforts are having a great impact," said Minister Hedderson. "Indicators for 2007 are very encouraging. Our tourism inquiries are up some 15 per cent and visits to the redesigned tourism Web site www.newfoundlandlabrador.com are up 150 per cent from last year, indicating sustained high interest in this province as a tourist destination."

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