Newfoundland and Labrador Product Development Strategy

- 195 -practise categories to be emphasized in the accreditation program, such as authenticity,cultural/environmental sustainability and level of service.Given that Labrador is a destination distinct from Newfoundland, there would be obviousadvantage in promoting a “Made in Labrador” brand to the travel trade. However, while somestandards might vary somewhat between Newfoundland and Labrador, eg, in environmentalsustainability, we would see areas such as occupational standards being adopted province-wide.Other standards, such as in accommodations and cuisine could also be accommodated withinprovince-wide programs (ie, in "Canada Select" and "Taste of Newfoundland and Labrador"respectively).The recent addition by Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador of a staff person in Labradorextends its ability to assess needs and deliver training programs in the region.Gateway CentresGateway Centres are envisioned as high profile entrances to Labrador, planned to a high quality(signage, landscaping, etc) and a building design that is easily recognized and reflects theheritage of Labrador. They would introduce the visitor to Labrador and provide opportunities forinterpretation and retail. The Plan proposes three centres:" Labrador West," Central (Happy Valley-Goose Bay), and" Labrador Straits (L’Anse au Clair).The Labrador West facility has been established since the Plan was completed.The Happy Valley-Goose Bay facility is proposed as a unique, Adventure Centre. Its purposewould be to bring alive the excitement offered by adventure in Central and Northern Labrador.It should be a place for story telling, orientation and travel information. The over-riding focuswould be on the protection and enhancement of cultural and natural resources.The Labrador Straits facility would be an expansion to the Visitor Centre located in the formerSt. Andrews Church in L’Anse au Clair. It should specialize in bringing alive the history andexcitement of Southern Labrador.Labrador Cultural Heritage Tourism PlanThe Plan recommends that Destination Labrador take the lead in preparation of a CulturalHeritage Tourism Plan for Labrador. The Heritage Plan should address a number of aspects ofheritage preservation and celebration, including:" A comprehensive inventory of cultural heritage resources that can be developed/interpreted and shared with tourists,THE ECONOMIC PLANNING GROUP of Canada Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism Product DevelopmentD. W. Knight Associates Strategy and Accommodation Needs Study