Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island Awarded Worldwide Travel Designation

Today, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island announced they have received top designation globally in the travel industry. To amplify their commitment to the industry, Windsor, Essex County and Pelee Island sought accreditation through Destinations International – the global trade association for more than 600 destination organizations in 13 countries – to receive the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) seal.

This designation calls out to our organization’s commitment to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination organizations around the world.

“Through achieving DMAP accreditation, our Destination Marketing Organization has demonstrated their value in adhering to industry standards by developing strategic and transparent initiatives for management and marketing including governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development and research” said Gordon Orr, CEO Tourism Windsor Essex. “We are thrilled to join the elite group of 18 other DMOs in Canada who are DMAP-accredited.”

As part of DMAP, Tourism Windsor Essex is now part of an elite group of 225 DMOs globally that have met the rigorous standards of industry accreditation. There are only 18 other Destination Marketing Organizations accredited in Canada, with Tourism Windsor Essex now being only 1 of 4 within the province of Ontario.

“We are pleased to have Tourism Windsor Essex join our distinguished group of professionals,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “The industry distinction defines quality and performance standards for destination organizations and I look forward to welcoming them to the DMAP community.”

The accreditation program requires a destination organization to successfully comply with a multitude of mandatory and voluntary standards that span a variety of performance areas to gain this momentous achievement. The standards cover nearly all aspects related to the management and marketing of destination organizations including governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development and research.

Additional Quotes:

Mayor Nelson Santos, Town of Kingsville
Chair, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island Board of Directors
“Achieving this elite designation through each critical standard demonstrates the dedication from Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island staff in going above and beyond defining quality, accountability and professionalism. It is a source of pride to be recognized as the official Destination Marketing Organization in Windsor Essex.”

Mayor Drew Dilkens, City of Windsor
“Much like the numerous industry awards they have received, this is another fine example of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island showcasing their leadership, industry skillset and mindset to achieve the prestigious DMAP status. Tourism matters, and Tourism Windsor Essex prides itself on showcasing our unforgettable, truly local and unique experiences that make our community a sought-after place to live, work, play, visit and invest.”

Warden Gary McNamara, County of Essex
“The DMAP designation calls out to Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island’s commitment to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination organizations around the world.”

About Destinations International:

Destinations International is the world’s largest resource for official destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and tourism boards. Destinations International is about serving destination marketing professionals first and foremost. Together with more than 4,700 members and partners from nearly 600 destinations in approximately 15 countries, Destinations International represents a powerful forward-thinking, collaborative association; exchanging bold ideas, connecting innovative people and elevating tourism to its highest potential. For more information, visit www.destinationsinternational.org.