"This is my first time in Edmonton. Where can I find a good place to eat?" says the guest at the hotel's front desk after checking in. She's in the city visiting a new client for her consulting firm. The front desk agent smiles politely and says, "Give me a moment, let me go talk to my supervisor; they'll be able to assist you." The agent disappears but does not find a supervisor. Instead, he comes back to the front desk two minutes later with a large binder that has a label on it that says "local restaurants" It's full of photocopied brochures and printouts from 2007. He thumbs through it awkwardly, and when he realizes there is no relevant information in this binder, he says, "We have a Mall..."

Cringeworthy, I know. I've seen it; maybe you have as well. So let's imagine another setting. This time, we're watching a zoom call where a new contract worker is connecting with his friends back home in Toronto. "When we come to visit you, what should we do?" asks his cousin as they plan her first visit to western Canada. He only shrugs his shoulders and says, "There's nothing to do here." Yes, you have probably have heard this story too.

In both cases, we've missed out on opportunities to celebrate what we have in the city. We've also missed out on a chance to improve the quality of life in Edmonton. Making people feel welcome in Edmonton is not just the hospitality industry's responsibility. If this is your home, you can help in improving the overall quality of life here. If you're a leader of any kind, being hospitable in our community is critical. When you hear someone say, "There's nothing to do here; Edmonton is nothing like Vancouver," that kind of response lacks vision and imagination. In a post-pandemic world, we need leaders in all sectors who have both qualities. You and I can all play a role in creating awareness on having a great stay in Alberta's capital city.

You don't need to take a masterclass in all things Edmonton to help people discover the city. Start small. In the hotels that I've managed, I've encouraged my teams to have three independent restaurants or experiences they can recommend. You can grow from there but start with three that you can recommend.

A place for coffee or after-work beverage

A place for dinner

Something to see

But Jordan, what if I don't know where to start myself? I have good news for you! Let me recommend two great resources. Both are fantastic and kept up to date.

Explore Edmonton. Your one-stop-shop for great experiences in Edmonton. They are Edmonton’s destination management and marketing organization. Essentially, they reach out to the world on behalf of our community to let them know that we're here to serve.

Linda Hoang. A favorite local blogger of mine. Her blog is full of local secrets and recommendations for those willing to go off the beaten path and uncover life here in the city. I highly recommend you subscribe to her newsletter.

Trust me; you'll enjoy becoming a better guide in the city. But, that being said, It's just as important for you to enjoy your home as well. Our city is rich in diversity and unique experiences; enjoy it!