SAULT STE. MARIE -- A Sault Ste. Marie hotel staple is teaming up with tourism businesses throughout the region to support and promote the struggling industry.
The Water Tower Inn has struggled in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic financially and is hoping the "Ultimate Algoma Adventure" contest will help give a needed boost.
"We thought this was the perfect time to capitalize on a venture with our partners like this," said Jamie Hilsinger, marketing coordinator with the hotel. "The Sault area is rich with nature and things to do and now more than ever, people are paying attention to what it is they can do in these types of environments."
Hilsinger said the hotel has no plans to reopen its amenities, like its restaurant and patio right now. However, she says the goal is to make the city and hotel a visitor hub this summer.
"We and our partners have COVID-19 measures to keep people safe, to keep ourselves safe, to keep you safe and it's time to get out and explore, we can't be cooped up forever, we have to find a balance."
The contest gives winners a $4,000 trip to the Sault, with a full itinerary of things for them to enjoy, courtesy of the hotel's partners.
One of those is Tyler Dunn Guiding, which is offering a half-day fishing guide to contest recipients.
"It's a great way to network, get your name out and let people who aren't familiar with the Sault, know who you are," Dunn said. "We really expect a busy summer as well, with a skyrocket in RVs from in province for sure."
Dunn says he's taken a bit of a hit, like so many other businesses during the pandemic.
Dunn points to the border shutdown as a big component of that, but says he intends to keep marketing to the United States.
"When I speak with them, they tell me they want to come up and are ready," he said. "Americans aren't afraid, as soon as that border opens, they're coming."
Those wanting to enter the contest, can do so on the Water Tower Inn's website.
The contest runs until July 12.
