The Doers & Dreamers Travel Guide is moving from a print guide to a digital guide in 2021. The guide will be produced as a downloadable PDF with the ability for readers to click through to tourism operator websites and other trip-inspiring content. The guide will be available at NovaScotia.com and users will be able to download and view it offline. This one-year pilot will be evaluated in 2021 to consider a permanent transition to digital-only in future years.

Traveller requests for the print version of the Doers & Dreamers Guide have declined significantly in recent years as people plan their trips online, with a drastic drop in 2020 reflecting the impact of COVID-19 on travel. Demand for print materials is expected to continue to decline as COVID-19 public health protocols recommend reducing touch points.

A digital format also offers more flexibility at a time when the tourism industry is facing a lot of uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With a printed guide, we have a set quantity and a deadline to finalize the information. We have heard from many businesses that it is difficult right now to say what they might be offering next year or what their hours might be. The digital format allows operators and organizations to update listings at any time throughout the year to reflect changes in hours of operation, cancellations etc.

Recognizing the financial constraints facing the tourism industry, the 2021 guide will not offer paid advertising opportunities; as conditions improve, this option will be re-introduced.

The digital guide will be produced in English and French, and Tourism Nova Scotia will continue to print Nova Scotia road maps. Eligible tourism businesses will still be able to list their business in the guide at no cost. Complimentary business, package, experience, and event listings will also continue to be available on NovaScotia.com. Regional guides, road maps, and individual business brochures will also continue to be available if visitors require printed materials.

We are currently developing the new digital guide and look forward to sharing more information through the inTouch newsletter and on tourismns.ca.