View of Richmond

July has been an incredible month for recognition and accolades for Cape Breton Island. This is great news for Destination Cape Breton Association and the island's tourism industry. Not only did the Bras d'Or Lake receive recognition by the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a Biosphere reserve, but Cape Breton has received top grades by Travel + Leisure magazine, which names Cape Breton #1 Island Destination in Continental US and Canada; #3 in the World! This is the third time the island has received this special award, beating out Vancouver Island and Nantucket this year for the coveted spot. That makes it even more meaningful, as it is not just a flash in the pan, because the island has been able to maintain the requirements necessary to qualify for this award. Mary Tulle, CEO of DCBA, will travel to Los Angeles to accept the award.

Also this month, Ms. Tulle and tourism representatives of Destination Cape Breton Association, attended an open house at DCBA’s new information kiosk located on the Halifax Waterfront. The open house offered guests a glimpse at the experiences that await them on the island, where every turn in the road leads to a new adventure. This is another first for Cape Breton as it is the first regional destination in Nova Scotia to have a presence on the Halifax Waterfront. DCBA, in partnership with Ambassatours, now has an information outlet which will give staff the capability of reaching thousands of visitors at the Halifax waterfront. It has been estimated as many as 58% of tourists to Nova Scotia go through the Halifax waterfront area. Members from DCBA were on hand to speak with members of the industry as well about their 2011 plans for attracting visitors to the island with the introduction of the Cape Breton themed motor coach fleets. The motor coaches will travel in Canada and along the entire Eastern seaboard showcasing Cape Breton on beautifully designed murals which are sure to draw lots of positive attention.

On the local scene: a Sandcastle Competition takes place at Point Michaud on July 16th from 1-5pm. July 21st JP Cormier and the Elliot Brothers takes the stage at the St. Peter’s Lions Hall at 8pm, tickets are $15.00. July 21st the Bras d’Or Lakes Inn Ceilidh, featuring excellent entertainers will take place from 7-9pm followed by the Kitchen Racket until 11pm.