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Tourism Yorkton continues to serve needs

As province marks Tourism Week
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The annual Thresherman's Show may not happen in 2020, but there are still tourism opportunities in Saskatchewan.

The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed May 24-30 as Saskatchewan Tourism Week.  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.  Saskatchewan’s 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.

“For everyone’s safety and health, Tourism Yorkton has been providing curbside tourism services since May 11, including:  information and literature along with RV services of sani-dump and water,” she said.

The timing of Saskatchewan Tourism Week coincides with the gradual re-opening of some of the province’s tourism businesses and resources, including parks and campgrounds.  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’s tourism sector.

“The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to proclaim Saskatchewan Tourism Week and acknowledge the people and experiences that make our province an inviting destination,” Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Gene Makowsky said in a release.  “As we move through the phases of re-opening the province, I encourage residents to support local tourism businesses while continuing safe social distancing.”

Goulden said the nod has to go to businesses in the sector.

“We salute all the tourism businesses for their commitment to the provinces’s economic recovery and serving the public,” she told Yorkton This Week Monday. “Indeed, this is the best place to visit, plan your Saskatchewan stay-cation today.”

The week does focus on the opportunities in the province. 

“Each year, Saskatchewan Tourism Week highlights why tourism matters and how our industry contributes significantly to our province’s economy and quality of life,” Tourism Saskatchewan CEO Mary Taylor-Ash said in the release.  “Tourism Saskatchewan is eager to convey these important messages during this challenging time for tourism.  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.  It is an opportunity to share their stories, and remind everyone of the incredible tourism experiences available right here in Saskatchewan.”

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.  A series of videos will be posted on Tourism Saskatchewan’s 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.  The content will shed light on how tourism operators are navigating current circumstances and adjusting their services.

For more information, visit http://industry.tourismsaskatchewan.com/.