Highlighting all kinds of attractions unique to the region, Tourism Red Deer launched the 2011 Red Deer and Area Official Visitors Guide recently.

“The Red Deer and Area Visitors Guide is an excellent destination marketing tool for Red Deer and area,” said Darren Kuz, executive director of Tourism Red Deer. The launch was held at Heritage Ranch.

“Again, the Guide this year has a new design that we are very pleased with,” said Kuz.

“It has a brand new lay-out and design – sophisticated with a modern look. It really appeals to travellers and visitors.”

The Guide is also produced annually by Tourism Red Deer. There are 45,000 copies which are delivered across Canada and internationally. Kuz said copies are sent to locations to the U.S. but the bulk of them are shipped to spots around western Canada.

“We also try and have a strong presence in Edmonton and Calgary as well,” said Kuz.

One of the highlights of the guide is that it can also be viewed through interactive software on the Tourism Red Deer web site at www.tourismreddeer.net.

“One of the best features of the online software is the ability to click on an ad and a direct link to the advertiser’s web site appears.”

This year’s feature stories in the Visitors Guide are Heritage Ranch and the 2012 Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Kuz said it was vital to focus on such a key event for the City.

“We are so lucky to have Heritage Ranch right within our City limits and to be able to host the 2012 Scotties helps to reconfirm that we are the Sports Capital of Alberta. We want to build on our sporting legacy.”

mweber@reddeerexpress.com