The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed May 24-30 as Saskatchewan Tourism Week.聽 The week coincides with Tourism Week in Canada, which brings attention to the importance of a vibrant tourism sector and the economic benefits generated through travel and tourism.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought tourism, worldwide, to an abrupt halt, causing severe, long-term effects and an uncertain future.聽 Saskatchewan鈥檚 tourism sector has experienced serious setbacks and faces a lengthy road to recovery.
Randy Goulden with Tourism Yorkton said they have adapted to the situation as best as possible.
鈥淔or everyone鈥檚 safety and health, Tourism Yorkton has been providing curbside tourism services since May 11, including:聽 information and literature along with RV services of sani-dump and water,鈥� she said.
The timing of Saskatchewan Tourism Week coincides with the gradual re-opening of some of the province鈥檚 tourism businesses and resources, including parks and campgrounds.聽 The week is an opportunity to showcase stories of creativity and resilience, acknowledge support among communities and broaden understanding of the diverse nature and important contributions of Saskatchewan鈥檚 tourism sector.
鈥淭he Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to proclaim Saskatchewan Tourism Week and acknowledge the people and experiences that make our province an inviting destination,鈥� Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Gene Makowsky said in a release.聽 鈥淎s we move through the phases of re-opening the province, I encourage residents to support local tourism businesses while continuing safe social distancing.鈥�
Goulden said the nod has to go to businesses in the sector.
鈥淲e salute all the tourism businesses for their commitment to the provinces鈥檚 economic recovery and serving the public,鈥� she told Yorkton This Week Monday. 鈥淚ndeed, this is the best place to visit, plan your Saskatchewan stay-cation today.鈥�
The week does focus on the opportunities in the province.聽
鈥淓ach year, Saskatchewan Tourism Week highlights why tourism matters and how our industry contributes significantly to our province鈥檚 economy and quality of life,鈥� Tourism Saskatchewan CEO Mary Taylor-Ash said in the release.聽 鈥淭ourism Saskatchewan is eager to convey these important messages during this challenging time for tourism.聽 The week will continue to be an occasion that unites our industry and brings attention to the innovative, hardworking and resilient people who make tourism happen.聽 It is an opportunity to share their stories, and remind everyone of the incredible tourism experiences available right here in Saskatchewan.鈥�
Tourism Saskatchewan will take full advantage of digital marketing to share tourism stories that highlight the creativity of the tourism industry as well as community support during the COVID-19 pandemic.聽 A series of videos will be posted on Tourism Saskatchewan鈥檚 consumer and industry social media channels, beginning on May 25.
Industry operators are invited to post videos and images of their own operations/customers, using the hashtag #SKTourismWeek.聽 The content will shed light on how tourism operators are navigating current circumstances and adjusting their services.
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