Tourism Assurance Plan
The Tourism Assurance Plan (TAP) was first implemented in 2015 as a voluntary program to elevate the quality of tourism services and attractions in the province. Partners have been working with operators to promote the program and to provide assistance in meeting the program’s minimum standards. Operators that choose to participate in the program will be eligible for participation in provincial marketing and promotions and/or for membership/partnership opportunities with Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador (Hospitality NL) and/or the provincial Destination Management Organizations (DMOs).
Operators may update their Tourism Operator Profile at anytime by contacting the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation: Tel: (709) 729-5599;
Traveller’s Guide and Website Listings – Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation (gov.nl.ca)
Operators that are concerned they may not meet the standards are encouraged to contact one of organizations listed below for further direction on where to access resources to meet these standards.
For more information on TAP please contact one of the following:
Hospitality NL: 709-722-2000
Destination Labrador: 709-896-6507
Go Western Newfoundland: 709-639-4787
Adventure Central Newfoundland: 709-486-9558
Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland: 709-466-7992
Destination St. John’s: 709-739-8876
Backgrounder
The Tourism Assurance Plan (TAP) will ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador’s tourism industry is able to remain competitive with other national and international destinations. TAP involves common minimum standards that are aimed at promoting tourism organizations that provide quality travel experiences and assist tourism services and attractions improve the way they operate.
1. Maintain consistent hours of operation and, if closed or seasonal, respond to inquiries within 48 hours and booking requests within 24 hours, whether received by telephone message, email, or online.
2. At a minimum, accept one form of electronic payment.
3. Maintain consistent hours of operation and, if closed or seasonal, respond to inquiries within 48 hours and booking requests within 24 hours, whether received by telephone message, email, or online.
4. Digital presence, with a secure website and minimally either a Facebook or Instagram business page.
5. The tourism business/service being promoted must meet all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws, regulations, by-laws and business requirements (i.e. licenses, certifications).
6. Maintain sufficient levels of liability insurance. Proof of insurance to be provided upon request.
7. Must deliver actual experiences or services being promoted and/or offered to the guest.
8. Must be in good standing with Tourism Assurance Plan’s complaints procedure.
The Tourism Assurance Plan is a significant step forward for the tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. It will increase consumer/traveller confidence in the services and attractions we offer and contribute to the overall sustainability of our industry.