Despite economic woes, Hospitality N.L. chair bullish on summer tourist season

After a tough few months for the Newfoundland and Labrador economy, there might be at least one bright spot on thehorizon.

Despite fee increases and a new gas tax, Hospitality N.L. ChairDionFinlaysays the tourism sector isexpecting a big summer.

He said he's hearing from many business operators in his industrythat they're booked through the season.

"Some people are booked or almost at capacity for June, July, and August, which is typically our high tourist season," he said.

Finlaysaid he believes the province is a bucket list destination, and that tourists will come despite high fuel prices, and sometimes frigid temperatures.

"Last year we had the cold weather, they still came," he said.

"This year is the price of oil or increased fees. We really think they'llstill come."

Finlaysaid many visitors to Newfoundland and Labrador in the summer come from the United States, and he believes the relative low value of the Canadian dollar will offset the high price of fuel.

"We have a great product and a lot of great experiences to deliver," he said.

"They are still coming."