“My dream is to help people see and appreciate this beautiful country and expand Canada's tourism map. I wanted to make the selection wider, choices easier, and make it simple to access and book from Newfoundland to Yukon and points in between, for travel hot spots as well as out of the way little gems. That's what Domestika is about. And that was before staycation really entered the travel vocabulary,” says Renée, a former travel agent. “I hope those who service the tourism sector and those who'd like to—from accommodations to golf courses to spas and theaters—will step up and sign up for our free updateable listings to get the ball rolling.” Domestika is in pre-launch mode and now pulling together the listings, which will give one-stop-one-click-browsing and booking access to tourism-related businesses across the country. Listings, including company profiles, services, rates, and photos will be free of charge. Domestika targets travelers who like to know where they're going and what they're doing before they get there. Because consumers will be able to browse what's on in Whitehorse in July, film festivals nationwide any time, or restaurants within easy reach of Whistler, Domestika is also designed to capture the undecided. Variety is the keyword. Travelers (from singles to groups) will have the option of booking accommodation, amenities and services as a one off and last minute, custom à la carte package, or components. With a single click, consumers will browse by destination, activity, area, and travel date. They'll book in real-time, review, pay via a secure online system or call center, file their automatic confirmation—and then relax in the knowledge that their plans are guaranteed. To boost early signups, Domestika offers no-charge inclusion in its component theme packages. Companies that link to Domestika on their sites receive an automatic upgrade to platinum listing, with free logo display and web link on Domestika's directory. Encouraging Canadian residents and international visitors alike to choose more Canada more often can only be a good thing, and it will help promote Canada as a four-season destination, says Renée. “I hope those in tourism will accept this invitation to call or email so that we can start drafting your free listing.” For an information kit or to sign up, contact info@domestika.ca or call 613 424 1157. From Davies Slate-Editorial/Kathleen @ 905 478 4984 kathleendavies@bellnet.ca (TICO pending)