The new year brings change for Discover Saint John with a mandatory tourism levy kicking in that hotels, bed and breakfasts and campgrounds will have to charge their customers.
A voluntary three per cent levy has been in place for a decade to help fund Discover Saint John.
Executive Director Victoria Clarke says the change is now the levy is mandated and includes more organizations.
“Now even small b & b’s and campsites are collecting the accommodation tax as well. There will be more people around the table and we just have to make sure we keep that positive and with a growth mindset. I look forward to that,” Clarke said.
Discover Saint John’s ‘Discover the Wins’ advocacy promo is being used by the Destinations International in their presentations around the world.
MMGY NEXTFactor completed a destination review which resulted in them using Saint John events like Sean Yoro and Hula as examples of success.
Clarke says they are thrilled they are using four Saint John best practices as examples to the world.
“There could be things that our small destination, our small organization could be being doing so right that could be held up as an international best practice. That is a testament to my incredible team, to the municipality, the hotel association and our board members,” Clarke said.
The uber5000 mural in uptown Saint John is considered another area of success.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3M6asjA_d_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
