Tourism Talk - April 2018

PresidentPresident and CEO farewell Letter
 
Though it's been 5 years since I joined TIANB, it seems my joining the association was a yesterday thing. And today, I find myself here sending you my farewell note. There's a big difference between the time I joined and today when I am leaving. It has been my pleasure to serve as the President and CEO of TIANB. What a journey it has been! I have learned so much and I sincerely thank all of you colleagues, members and partners for teaching and inspiring me.
 
This association has gone through many changes since my arrival but the fundamental principle that "Your prosperity is our business" has motivated all of our activities during my time with the association. The strategy we have generated is working and TIANB is now centered on good governance, stronger financial position and programs, and services relevant to today's business environment.
 
TIANB is an amazing place. I love this association. I love the way we contribute towards defending, representing and supporting the tourism industry in New Brunswick. I love the bigness and boldness of our efforts. I love our team and their talent. I love the way we embrace and work with other partners to change the face of tourism in New Brunswick and succeed together. I love the breadth and diversity of our members.
 
I am proud of what we have achieved. Much still remains to be done. That said, nevertheless, we have grown and solidified TIANB overall. I feel good about having played a role in that success and having committed 100 percent emotionally all the way. I am particularly pleased with our efforts linked to the newly established New Brunswick Hotel Association and the Indigenous Tourism Association of New Brunswick. I've managed with the philosophy that change makes us stronger, better and every change brings with it the opportunity to grow. I have had the privilege to work with individuals that see change as a catalyst for reaching new levels. TIANB really has its best days ahead. Know you are part of something strong and worthwhile. I encourage you to rally around your association... your ally... your voice!
 
I am honored that you have put your trust in me these past five years.
 
I will continue to support TIANB in every way possible. If you ever want to get in touch, you can call or text me at 506- 862-9237.
 
With the best of regards, Ron Drisdelle

TechnologyTTourism Technology
UpcomingeventUpcoming Events
Free to all Members
!

Please note  date change for the TIANB AGM! 
Now being held on May 31, 2018 and register below.



membershipMembership News!

"Roads To Sea" Guided Tours is happy to announce that we are now officially open 7 days a week for the 2018 season! If your guests are looking to experience a one-of-a-kind tour in the world tomorrow - we have our first signature "Hopewell Rocks & Bay of Fundy Coastal Tour" going! The tourtime is 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., in accordance with the tide times and there are still seats left that can be booked directly online at our website www.roadstosea.com . Also attached is our 2018 tour brochure outlining our signature tour and our NEW "Mi'kmaq Basket Making & Heritage Path Tour" as well as our tour information pamphlet listed below, both are for your perusal and sharing.  Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any further questions about our tours! Private tours are also available by reservation via phone. Happy trails to all and to all a great tourism season!

newsupdatesNews/Updates
ACAT
The Brighter Group Attends UK Media Event on Behalf of ACAT

The Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT)'s UK program includes a robust media relations plan to generate media interest and coverage of the region in the UK. Based in London, the Brighter Group has been contracted to deliver the program, which includes media events, press releases, press trips, and more. Resulting coverage in travel and lifestyle magazines, national and regional newspapers, digital and social channels builds awareness of Atlantic Canada as a premier travel destination, enticing UK travellers to make the journey.  

The Brighter Group's Emily Olsen and April Cernuschi attended TravMedia's annual International Media Marketplace in Westminster, London on behalf of ACAT. TravMedia's International Media Marketplace is the world's leading event connecting journalists with the global travel and tourism industry. The ACAT table was situated adjacent to the Destination Canada table and several other Canadian Provinces and Destination Marketing Organizations. The format consisted of 15-minute meeting slots whereby media could meet with their chosen exhibitors. Brighter Group secured 28 appointments with consumer, trade and blogging media such as Express Newspapers, Travel Bulletin, Family Traveller, Rough Guides, Along Dusty Roads and Culture Trip to name a few.
 
The TravMedia International Media Marketplace provided Brighter Group representatives an opportunity to meet one-on-one with UK media, present 2018 story ideas for general coverage, and generate interest in press trips for the upcoming year. Feedback from media appointments was quite positive and progress is being made to secure press trips and coverage in 2018.




getyourbusinessready
Get  your business ready
China is the world's largest tourism source market and Chinese nationals are the largest spenders in international tourism. In 2016, 610,100 Chinese tourists visited Canada and spent approximately $1.5 billion (an average of $2,438 per visitor). China is now Canada's third-largest tourism source market (behind the United States and the United Kingdom).
The Chinese tourist market is growing and represents an opportunity for Canadian businesses. Below, you will find a few key tips on how you can attract Chinese tourists.
Since 2010, when Canada received approved destination status in China, the number of Chinese visitors coming to Canada has more than tripled. This means new opportunities for Canadian tourism businesses.
To celebrate Canada-China Year of Tourism 2018, Tourism HR Canada is working with the Government of Canada to offer a special edition of "Welcoming International Visitors," its series of occupation-specific fact sheets that help businesses in the industry better serve Chinese visitors. In celebration of this special year, Tourism HR Canada is making this helpful resource free of charge to all Canadian businesses.
Please use group code ATCC2018CCYT when checking out.

Consider Chinese payment options
There are several Chinese-based credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment applications that are used to pay for goods and services in China. Mobile payment applications are digital wallets that allow users to make purchases by scanning their phones. They are very popular in China. When travelling within China, the majority of Chinese tourists use mobile payments to pay for hotels and tourist attractions. Having mobile payment options available can make Chinese tourists feel more comfortable and facilitate spending at your business.
As with most payment systems, there are several Chinese credit/debit card options and mobile payment applications to choose from. Some examples include: UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. There are also third parties in Canada that offer mobile application payment onboarding services.

Provide information in Mandarin
Although many Chinese tourists understand other languages, communicating in their standard language can make them feel more comfortable and welcome. Having a Chinese-language website, information and signage at your business (e.g. brochures, welcome letter to Chinese guests) could also go a long way in attracting Chinese tourists.
Market your business on Chinese social media and online platforms
The Chinese population is very active on social media. Given that some popular Western-based online platforms are not available in China, Canadian businesses could consider establishing an online presence through Chinese-based platforms such as Weibo, WeChat or Baidu (as compared to Facebook, Instagram or Google) in order to reach their target audience. In 2016, 58% of Chinese travelers to Canada booked their trip through online travel agencies. Marketing your business on Chinese social media and online platforms can help you attract Chinese tourists. Given the level of Internet use by the Chinese population, having WiFi readily available at your location can help you attract Chinese tourists and even allow them to share their tourism experiences through social media.
 

Highlight safety and security

Chinese tourists value safety and security when travelling. Highlighting the safety and security of your business could make it stand out.

Diversify your offerings

The Chinese tourist market is diverse. The majority of millennials often prefer customized and individual experiences, while most baby boomers generally prefer group tours. At the same time, we know that Chinese tourists look for a diverse offering of products and services, including a wide variety of food and beverage choices. In order to attract Chinese tourists, it would be important to know your target market and ensure that you offer many choices for your guests.

Use the Canada-China Year of Tourism logo

If you're a tourism provider or you operate a business, you can use the free Canada-China Year of Tourism logo to publicize your CCYT events and promotions.
 
Contact: Mehmet Yunli for details
 

trainingandprogramsTraining and Programs




Transform your staff from average to high performance.
Extreme temperature, pressure, and time measured on a geological time scale can slowly turn a lump of coal into a diamond. The conditions need to be near perfect-that's why diamonds are so rare in the world, while coal is abundant.
Coal was the fuel responsible for the industrial revolution, but today we live in a knowledge based society. We need people with sharp, well-trained minds and exceptional skills-we have evolved beyond coal to fuel our businesses, we need diamonds.
Pressure and time-we know that when a staff member is put under "just enough" stress, they can achieve peak performance. What happens if we can elevate the position where they begin-and then when pressure and time is applied, how far ahead will they be?
You likely have some diamonds on your team, and you may have some lumps of coal. Most employees are likely somewhere in the middle. Now, imagine if you could shift your average so it's closer to your best staff members?
Enter 
emerit; a skills training program designed to create high performance staff by elevating their starting skills and knowledge base. You can use it with new staff or industry veterans. Reset their knowledge and boost them-and your business-to higher performance.

Food Safety 




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New Brunswick