N.S. Gears Up for National Contest

Six of Nova Scotia's best tourist attractions have been nominated for a national contest designed to promote travel within the country. Attractions Canada is gathering submissions from each province and territory and will choose the top six Canadian attractions at a gala award dinner in Montreal in April.

Nova Scotia's nominees were chosen from 21 entries by a committee of industry and government representatives.

"The committee had a great challenge," said Judith Cabrita, managing director of the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia. "We have so many superb festivals, events and venues in this province. I am confident all the Nova Scotia selections have a good opportunity for national prominence."

The Nova Scotia nominees in their respective categories are:

Indoor site - Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Outdoor site - Town of Annapolis Royal New attraction - Cape Chignecto Provincial Park Cultural event - Privateer Days Sports event - Cabot Trail Relay National/international attraction - Grand Pr‚ National Historic Site

"We are extremely proud of Nova Scotia's participation and collaboration in the first edition of the Attractions Canada Awards," said St‚phane Cherpit, vice-president of business development with Attractions Canada.

The provincial nominees have been sent to Attractions Canada, where they will be reviewed by a national panel. A total of 72 entries will receive Attractions Canada recognition, and six of these will be presented with the Attractions Canada grand prize. The six final winners will receive extensive national exposure from Attractions Canada's media campaigns.

"The six Nova Scotia nominees showcase the province's unique natural, historical and cultural heritage," said David Oxner, executive director with Tourism Nova Scotia. "An event of this stature provides a great opportunity to increase our visibility of the many diverse attractions that are part of Nova Scotia's tourism experience."

Attractions Canada is a national organization that showcases Canada's many points of interest to encourage all Canadians to discover their country.