453. News from the Atlantic Canada Roadshow 2025 Part 1

This week on Destination on the Left, we bring you the first special roadshow installment from the Atlantic Canada Showcase 2025 in beautiful Saint John, New Brunswick. In this episode, we dive into the deep-rooted community spirit and storytelling tradition that make Atlantic Canada such a fantastic destination.

You’ll hear firsthand from passionate tourism professionals across the region, who will share powerful insights on how authenticity, connection, and collaboration are shaping travel experiences in Atlantic Canada—offering everything from local cuisine and hands-on adventures to heritage attractions and indigenous-led hospitality.

Get ready to discover why Atlantic Canada continues to redefine what it means to experience genuine hospitality.

In this episode, you’ll hear from these extraordinary leaders:

• Aubrey Reine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-reine-30913062/
• Annick Robichaud-Butland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annick-robichaud-butland-bb436b68/
• Christy Elliott: https://balsamridgeforestdomes.ca/
• Melissa Lansing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-lansing/
• Chelsey Gould: linkedin.com/in/chelsey-gould
• Olivia Morley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-morley-0a2627171/
• Judith LaBrie: ca.linkedin.com/in/judith-labrie-49a46315
• Lois Whitlock: https://wolastoqcasino.com/
• Rebecca Whiffen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-whiffen-a89934320/
• Xavier Gauvin: https://tourismepeninsuleacadienne.ca/en/
• Jordan Jamison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-jamison-nb/
• Marcy Barnes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-barnes-8b98092b/

Authenticity is the Bedrock of Atlantic Canada’s Appeal

More and more, travelers crave experiences that feel genuine; not manufactured or packaged, but rooted in the real culture and history of a place. As our guests point out, Atlantic Canada captures the essence of what travelers are seeking in 2025, authenticity, connection, and a sense of place. Whether it’s coastal escapes, heritage attractions, or culinary adventures, guests find themselves meeting people with deep roots and big hearts, engaged in traditions that tie them to the land and sea.

This sense of authenticity isn’t just a surface feature, it’s immersive and personal. As travelers become savvier, the human warmth and raw natural beauty of Atlantic Canada offer lasting impressions that go far beyond the typical tourist checklist.

Creating a Sense of Belonging

The region’s defining feature isn’t just its scenery—it’s the spirit of its people. “Family,” “welcome,” “authentic,” and “wonderful” were the most common words repeated by various tourism professionals when asked to sum up the Atlantic Canada Showcase experience. For Annick Robichaud-Butland, the laid-back lifestyle and genuine friendliness are irresistible for those looking to escape the rushed pace of everyday life.

This communal sense goes deeper, too. Leaders like Christy Elliott from Balsam Ridge Forest Domes emphasize personal attention and the importance of treating every guest like family. At King’s Landing Historical Settlement, the experience isn’t just about history—it’s about making personal connections that make visitors feel it’s “their King’s Landing, not just ours,” as Melissa Lansing shares.

Across properties and attractions, the trend is clear: travelers want to feel like locals, supported by genuine interactions, community-driven partnerships, and experiences that foster a true sense of belonging.

A Cooperative Spirit Elevates the Guest Experience

Atlantic Canada’s tourism boom is built on a foundation of cooperation. Tour operators and destinations frequently cross-sell one another’s products and services, ensuring that visitors enjoy fully-rounded itineraries and seamless transitions between provinces. For Annick Robichaud-Butland, collaborating with other receptive tour operators means providing a well-rounded itinerary and boosting economic potential for all partners.

Organizations like Explore New Brunswick also highlight region-wide cooperative marketing efforts, such as the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism—a pitch that unites Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island under one friendly umbrella. This collaborative approach allows the region to punch above its weight, attracting record numbers of buyers and making Atlantic Canada a must-watch destination on the travel map.

Sustainability, Seasonality, and Personalization

As travel recovers post-pandemic, Atlantic Canada is seeing dynamic changes in visitor interests. Regenerative travel, off-season exploration, culinary journeys, heritage tourism, and multi-generational trips are all on the rise. Local experts are adapting by introducing winter offerings, hands-on activities, food-and-beverage experiences, and expanding digital storytelling platforms to reach both Canadian and international audiences.

Repeat guests are increasing, with many super fans returning year after year to deepen their exploration. New partnerships, enhanced seasonal operations, and innovations—like Nordic spas and astro-tourism—are key drivers keeping the region vibrant and relevant.

Above all, Atlantic Canada consistently inspires, welcomes, and connects with travelers in ways that are both meaningful and memorable. Atlantic Canada isn’t just a destination—it’s a way to feel at home, no matter where you’re from.

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