Tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador plays a huge role in our daily lives and impacts more than you might think. As we emerge from the pandemic, there are numerous employment opportunities readily available in tourism. Keep reading to discover how the industry supports our communities across the province. Tourism is an industry that fosters life-long careers.

Q1. Can I work in tourism?

Tourism can provide flexible, fast-paced, part time / seasonal or permanent year-round jobs. It’s professionally rewarding, and a friendly place to build a lifelong career in a challenging and interesting work environment. You could be your own boss! Workplaces are diverse and welcoming.

Q2. How many people are employed by the tourism industry?

More than 20,000 hardworking Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are employed by tourism – many of whom are your aunts, uncles, nephews, cousins, and neighbours. From gas station attendants to ferry workers, musicians to shop keepers and chefs, tourism helps employ many people in communities right across the province.

Q3. How does the tourism industry help the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador?

Our industry contributes $1.14 billion annually to the local economy. Over the last decade, the tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador has grown substantially – and there’s still plenty of room for future growth. Tourism is helping many people earn a living, and creating a great place to live, visit, and invest in our future.

Q4.What types of business make up tourism?

The tourism industry is made up of many sectors of our economy: Accommodations, Food & Beverage, Transportation, Adventure & Recreation, Attractions, Events & Conferences, and more.

Q5. How many tourism businesses are there?

There are more than 2,700 tourism businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Q6. Does tourism help preserve our natural environment?

Absolutely. Members of the industry and businesses work hard to protect and preserve the scenic views that residents and travellers hold so dear. And many do so on a volunteer basis. They help maintain wildlife resources and important natural areas. The natural environment is a brand pillar for Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism – it’s one of the reasons this place is so special. Conservation plays a huge role.

Q7. How is tourism revitalizing rural communities?

Once a province very reliant on the fishery, the people of Newfoundland and Labrador have had to find new ways to succeed and to diversify. Tourism employs more than 20,000 people in this province, and many of them live in rural communities. From your favourite restaurants to historic sites and exciting attractions, the tourism industry may very well be the largest employer in your town.

Q8. How is tourism helping to keep our history and culture alive?

History and culture are everywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador. They help define who we are as a people and a province. It’s easily seen and felt in cultural centres such as The Rooms in St. Johns; the many provincial and national historic sites sprinkled throughout the province; the fishing stages dotting our coastline; the many artist galleries and studios. Tourism helps share our culture and our storied past with the rest of the world. It shines a positive and well-deserved light on this place, the people, and our traditions.

Contact Hospitality NL for more information about joining the industry.