Message from the Chair

This has been a very active time for members of the board of Destination D&G. Much effort has been expended in talking with potential new board members, the results of this can be seen elsewhere on the site. Two of our board, Angela and Fiona, have been on the steering group, alongside D&G Council and VisitScotland, to develop and refresh the Area Tourism Strategy. For those of you who 'glaze over' at the mention of the word 'strategy', this is a vital document that will inform the progress and development of tourism in D&G. The signs are good that there will be buy in from all the public agencies as well as private business operators.

Board members have also engaged with local businesses through presentations at the ADGAP Spring Meeting and The Federation of Small Businesses recent conference. The new board met on Monday 14 June and were handed the reigns by a retiring ATP (Area Tourism Partnership) on June 29 2010.

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Newsflash

Web site Updates

www.createscape.co.uk - the Dumfries & Galloway website has been refreshed with an autumn feel, check out the wonderfully evocative photographs from the region. If you know of any events coming up please let us know or if you are a business and would like to be listed please contact info@destinationdg.co.uk for details. As part of the Autumn promotions a selection of bookmarks have been placed in Waterstones, Dumfries and other locations across the region; an advert will appear in the Gaelforce brochure which will be distributed shortly. We've launched a Facebook page and you can join us by signing up on http://www.facebook.com/createscape1

Area Tourism Strategy

A refreshed Area Tourism Strategy is currently being formulated by Tourism Resources Company (TRC), following a series of focus group meeting with public and private sector stakeholders. A draft is in circulation for comment from various bodies; the board of DD&G met last week with members of our Strategic Advisory Group (Alasdair Houston, Douglas McMillan, Wilma Finlay and Joan Mitchell) to discuss the document and draft a detailed response. It is a very clear and well-constructed document, led by the Council with VisitScotland in support. DD&G has a vital supporting role too, as the voice of industry.

Search for Tourism Champion

DD&G are delighted to announce their sponsorship of Dumfries & Galloway Life’s Tourism Champion in the new ‘People of the Year’ awards. From the most chic B&B, to the best attraction for children on a rainy afternoon, name the place in Dumfries & Galloway that all visitors should head for. Please nominate online at www.dumfriesandgallowaylife.co.uk

Research has identified key drivers in the appeal of Dumfries and Galloway and activity will focus on the works of internationally renowned artists; world standout cultural projects and events; as well as our world class landscapes, nature and wildlife.

A new website will form part of the Spring to Summer campaign alongside creatively inspired PR, media advertising in Glasgow and Newcastle and web marketing. The new Spring into Summer campaign website will feature a range of creatively inspired activity and accommodation packages. For example' a three night stay incorporating a Striding Arches Land Rover tour, or a stay in a theme town and a visit to the Dark Skies forest and we invite you to consider a personalised package for your business.
We would like to invite you to a meeting to discuss your website entry.
Date: Tuesday 2nd March

Workshop 1

10.30am – 12.30pm at Cream o’ Galloway Visitor Centre, Gatehouse of Fleet

Workshop 2

2.00pm – 4.00pm at Kings Arms, Castle Douglas
Could you please confirm if you are able to attend either of the meetings by email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 07851 013245. If neither of the sessions suit please contact Stacey and we can arrange a convenient time to discuss your entry. The new website is to be created for the end of March, time is of the essence and it is crucial we recognise your support by including your entry on the website.

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Survey Results

ADGAP Research

In a very brief survey recently conducted amongst accommodation providers, we found a rather depressing 40% of respondents reporting worse bookings for both Spring and Summer compared to 2009 (not a great year itself!) The pattern was consistent across all types of accommodation. Anecdotally, however, things have really picked up over the late summer—perhaps the lovely September sunshine has helped.

Flavour Fortnight September 4 - 19

The first ever Flavour Fortnight is taking place. Hosted by Savour the Flavour members, each event has locally produced food and drink at its heart. There are 47 venues across the region; visitors will have the opportunity to indulge in the produce of Dumfries & Galloway’s larder, from a Taste of the Rhins, Thistle ‘B’ Tasty!!! in Castle Douglas, Artisan Chocolate Experience in Moniaive, 15 Million Bees and One Beekeeper in Auldgirth, Moorland Fungi Foray in Langholm or a Taste of Sunnyside in Sanquhar, whatever your taste - ENJOY! You will find a link to the Savour the Flavours programme of events on the www.createscape.co.uk website.