With support provided by the federal and provincial government, the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI) announced today the Arts and Heritage Trail – a unique tourism product which will guide Prince Edward Island visitors and residents through true Island cultural experiences.
“Our Government is pleased to support initiatives such as the Arts and Heritage Trail,” said the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue on behalf of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and for La Francophonie. “Working with partners on initiatives like this will not only strengthen the Island’s economy and tourism industry but also give visitors a deep-rooted experience of our culture.”
Prince Edward Island’s Arts and Heritage Trail will recognize the significant importance of the Island’s culture to the tourism sector. The trail will enable both visitors and residents to design customized itineraries for their ideal vacation. Visitors will be able to choose from heritage elements such as museums and historic sites, performing arts venues including festivals, special events, theatre and music or visual arts with galleries, craft shops and artisan studios.
“The Prince Edward Island government recognizes the important role culture plays in growing our tourism industry and strengthening our Island economy,” said Tourism and Culture Minister Robert Vessey. “The Arts and Heritage Trail will guide visitors to communities across Prince Edward Island, from tip to tip, and promote the Island as a year-round cultural destination.”
The Government of Canada, through ACOA, has invested $180,000 to help give visitors and residents of Prince Edward Island a full Island visit. The Government of Prince Edward Island has invested $170,000 in this initiative, through the Department of Tourism and Culture, and TIAPEI has also invested $50,000.
Thom MacMillan, President of TIAPEI says, “This project is a culmination of research and a number of years of dedication to providing comprehensive information to our visitors to PEI. This guide provides a detailed listing and description of a wide variety of authentic arts and heritage properties across PEI and allows visitors to experience the rich culture and history of our Province as they follow the scenic coastal drives. Visitors to PEI will be able to choose from experiences in the visual or performing arts and enjoy the architecture and human and natural heritage that we have to offer.”
The Arts and Heritage Trail is also using new signage which will showcase the Island’s quilting history. These “quilt boards” will use new innovative technology to help visitors have the best possible tourist experience. Quick Response (QR) barcodes will be attached to the signs and visitors will be able to scan the code into their smartphone and be instantly connected to the Arts & Heritage Trail website. They will be able to retrieve information on the operation they are visiting, other operators on the Arts and Heritage Trail, as well as information on historical landmarks and local cultural tourism products.