CNN Site Calls Nova Scotia a Perfect Vacation Destination

TOURISM/CULTURE--CNN Site Calls Nova Scotia a Perfect Vacation Destination

Nova Scotia is one of 12 perfect places in North America to spend a summer holiday, according to the editors of CNNmoney.com, a Web site created by CNN and Money Magazine.

"This is another example of Nova Scotia's standing as a world- class destination," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "We have a lot to offer visitors and that is being recognized again and again."

Nova Scotia appears on the list with other famous getaway spots, like the Virgin Islands and the Shenandoah Valley. In selecting their top 12 destinations, CNNmoney.com established extensive criteria to determine the best places for a summer vacation. The destination had to be worth spending a week or two, including side trips, and it had to offer a wide range of attractions, from outdoor adventure to cultural events and fine dining. Winners also had to be of great value and well worth the dollars spent.

"Nova Scotia has found itself on an impressive list of vacation destinations," said Paul Stackhouse, chair of the Tourism Partnership Council. "Everyone involved in the tourism industry in this province should be proud."

The site described Nova Scotia as "an even more picturesque version of northern New England." It said the province offers "a wonderful mixture of coastal villages, vast tracts of forested wilderness, Old World traditions and even a bit of hip sophistication -- all at 15 to 20 percent off, thanks to the strong U.S. dollar."

"This is a great recognition for Nova Scotia," said Judith Cabrita, managing director of the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia. "Being listed as a destination of choice on CNN's high-volume site brings Nova Scotia into millions of homes and will certainly influence visitation and increase Internet bookings."

The CNNmoney Web site is located at http://money.cnn.com/best/bpvac/.