Tourism season is Drumheller is picking up steam, but area businesses and attractions are learning there is really no offseason.
The Royal Tyrrell Museum shared with inSide Drumheller the comments it received from a Scottish visitor. These were posted on its Facebook page and describe an international visitor’s experience in the valley. In fact, the commenter said they were ‘blown away’ by what the Tyrrell has achieved.
“It’s wonderful to see a collection of international significance based in the place where it all started, rather than some impersonal urban setting. Sure, the footfall may be a lot less, but life isn’t all about statistics and visitor numbers, it is about vision and conviction,” stated the visitor.
The commenter also had positive reviews of their time away from the Museum.
“And by the way, you have a great little Vietnamese restaurant and some friendly locals, which add to the experience and sense of place,” states the comment
Leanna Mohan of the Royal Tyrrell Museum said she expects it will be a busy summer season for the valley with interest from journalists and the film industry. The packed May long weekend also points to a potentially robust summer. These comments however serve to remind the valley that visitors are coming from all over the world and at all times of the year.
Mike Todor, whose business has evolved from a photography studio to a full art gallery and gift shop, says businesses need to be ready to serve residents and visitors throughout the entire year.
“That is one of the challenges we really face, we are going to get people any day from anywhere,” he said.
“In the last five years we have been listed as one of the best places to live in Canada, we are presently listed as one of the top three places in Canada to visit… For 10 years, I have been hearing people coming to our downtown and say how much they love it here and we sometimes don’t buy it ourselves.”
The Economic Development Officer for the Town of Drumheller agrees we have to be prepared.
“We are never off duty,” he said. “You have to assume that everybody need your help, have a smile on your face and a friendly tone,” said Bob Cromwell.
He said Alberta Tourism held a number of workshops this month, including one on partnering, packaging and programming, one on marketing and communications and one on media relations, to teach businesses and attractions how to prepare and promote themselves.
Delivery is also important and the comment shows the power of social media. Before, a good or bad experience was shared with family and friends. Today, it could be sent to a worldwide audience, often before they even leave the establishment.
“You don’t know when you are polite to someone, or rude to someone, how far that experience can be transmitted,” said Mohan.
