August 22, 2023
Whitecap, Saskatchewan – Dakota Dunes Resort, nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Whitecap Dakota Territory in Saskatchewan, is proud to announce its receipt of the distinguished ‘The Original Original Accreditation’ from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). This prestigious mark of excellence underscores Dakota Dunes Resort’s commitment to providing visitors with an authentic and exceptional Indigenous tourism experience.
Positioned as an emblem of distinction, ‘The Original Original’ mark signifies that businesses accredited by ITAC offer products and services that are truly authentic and aligned with Indigenous values. These businesses have undergone rigorous evaluation which assesses recommended practices in six crucial areas:
- Community engagement and support
- Visitor experience
- Health, safety, and comfort
- Sustainable Indigenous tourism
- Marketing and visitor services
- Business acumen/practices
The Original Original mark ensures that they are not only at least 51% Indigenous-owned but also dedicated to delivering experiences rooted in Indigenous values. Dakota Dunes Resort proudly boasts an over 70% Indigenous team from the Whitecap community and Saskatoon region.
Dakota Dunes Resort blends history with a contemporary setting, evoking an environment of warmth and hospitality reminiscent of the First Nations’ ancestral traditions.
The 155-room resort stands as a tribute to its Indigenous heritage with angular window trims and exterior wood panels echoing the traditional tipi. This thoughtful nod to the Whitecap Dakota Nation culture carries through to the resort’s guest rooms by way of art and design with soothing neutral tones, rich wood furnishings, and an artistic representation of traditional Whitecap Dakota culture in every room. Moreover, each thoughtfully appointed guest room offers spectacular floor-to-ceiling views of the surrounding landscape as well as ultra-comfortable beds and deluxe amenities.
“Receiving The Original Original Accreditation underpins our steadfast commitment to delivering an authentic and unparalleled experience,” said Chief Darcy Bear, Whitecap Dakota First Nation. “We are honoured to contribute to the economic independence and cultural rejuvenation of Indigenous communities through our hospitality offerings and welcome everyone to see what makes our resort and our region so special.”
Discover more about Dakota Dunes Resort’s dedicated pursuit of Indigenous tourism excellence by visiting www.dakotadunesresort.com or follow us on social media @dakotadunesresort.
About Atlific Hotels
Atlific Hotels is one of the leading hotel management companies in Canada operating over 40 hotels with offices in Montreal, Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver. Atlific Hotels has over 60 yearsof experience managing well-known Canadian hotels, resorts, and extended stay properties. The company has built a reputation for offering comprehensive accounting reporting, information technology solutions and support, strategic revenue-generating sales and marketing plans, and award-winning revenue management programs. Atlific Hotels’ parent company, Ocean Properties Ltd., owns and operates over 100 hotels throughout the United States. Together they make up the fifth largest privately-owned hotel management company in North America, operating independent hotels and resorts as well as internationally recognized hotel brands such as Marriott, IHG and Hilton. For more information, please visit www.atlifichotels.com.