454. What Makes Atlantic Canada's Tourism Scene Unique, Atlantic Canada Roadshow 2025 Part 2

We're taking you on a road trip through the future of tourism in Atlantic Canada. You'll hear firsthand from tourism leaders on how the region captivates new generations of travelers while staying true to its maritime roots. We also spotlight the rise of Indigenous-led travel experiences and the wave of creativity from local artisans. From group travel trends to the power of regional collaboration, each story underscores how Atlantic Canada's tourism pros aren't just adapting—they're shaping what meaningful travel looks like for the years ahead.

In this episode, you'll hear from these knowledgeable tourism leaders:

• Molly Vail: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-vail/
• Nancy Petrie: https://www.oakislandresort.ca/
• Natalie Kaftan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliekaftan/
• Katherine Verreault: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-verreault
• Kelley Keefe: linkedin.com/in/kelley-keefe-07841a1a6
• Robert Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-thomas-225165161/
• Desirea Goodyear: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desirea-goodyear-77294a26b/
• Tasha Robitaille: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tasha-robitaille-0a790029/
• Wahab Khan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wahab-khan-b809862ab/
• Jacob Sheehan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-sheehan-71ba578b/
• Jen Silliphant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-silliphant/

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

• How Atlantic Canadian tourism leaders are embracing innovation and sustainable growth to shape the future of travel in the region
• Why collaboration and partnership is essential for delivering impactful guest experiences
• What trends are emerging in traveler interests, including immersive cultural experiences, wellness tourism, and eco-friendly adventures
• How the region is adapting to the rising interest from younger travelers, families, and international visitors
• Why authenticity, local culture, and culinary experiences are setting Atlantic Canada apart as a travel destination
• How Indigenous tourism and wellness-focused offerings are growing and diversifying the visitor experience
• What successful creative collaborations look like in practice

Innovation Rooted in Community Collaboration

Community lies at the heart of Atlantic Canada's tourism ethos. This spirit of partnership, as showcased at the Atlantic Canada Showcase event, has made the region a model for collaborative success. Provinces, cities, and businesses work hand-in-hand to offer amazing visitor experiences and nurture economic growth.

Four provinces unite to market the region, develop meaningful partnerships, and promote the Maritimes. These collaborations aren't just behind the scenes—they tangibly widen access for visitors and amplify the region's reach in international markets.

Authenticity is the Maritime Edge

If there's one word repeated by tourism leaders throughout the episode, it's "authenticity." Atlantic Canada isn't about cookie-cutter vacations; it's about experiences crafted by the local communities. Molly Vail from Discover Halifax highlights how the city blends youthful energy with maritime charm, offering guests handcrafted itineraries that range from vineyards to vibrant nightlife.

Natalie Kaftan of Tauck emphasizes the enduring appeal of the Maritimes' local character and color. Visitors are drawn to real people, unique food, and meaningful cultural exchanges, not just passive sightseeing. As travel trends shift worldwide, immersive itineraries and authentic local engagement are increasingly in demand. Whether it's an Acadian caviar tasting in New Brunswick or a craft-making workshop in Mahone Bay, guests are eager for stories and experiences that go beyond the surface.

Growing Demand for Indigenous and Wellness Experiences

Indigenous-led tourism is gaining extraordinary momentum in Atlantic Canada. Robert Thomas from the Newfoundland and Labrador Indigenous Tourism Association shares how guests now seek engagement with indigenous cultures—culinary experiences, guided hikes with elders, and artistic workshops are just the beginning. Tasha Robitaille's La Belle Cabane healing sanctuary offers a blend of wellness and indigenous knowledge, where visitors can participate in breathwork sessions, explore Métis traditions, and join healing retreats that are as restorative as they are educational.

This surge in interest reflects a broader travel trend: visitors crave deeper connection, healing, and learning as much as recreation. Ultimately, Atlantic Canada Showcase itself, described as "intimate," "impactful," and "powerful" by my guests, epitomizes the region's strengths. Small size becomes an advantage, enabling tight-knit partnerships, genuine hospitality, and real dialogue among industry leaders. Whether partnering across cities or developing cross-province itineraries, success is shared and multiplied.

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