The record-setting blizzard that paralyzed parts of eastern Newfoundland for more than a week may have given the tourism industry a boost. Some tourism operations are reporting an increase in calls and inquiries following the eight-day State of Emergency in the St. John’s region.

Cathy Duke of Destination St. John’s says she believes national exposure of the way Newfoundlanders rallied together in the wake of the storm led to more bookings by people who’d been considering a visit to the province for a while.

Duke says many tourists come to Newfoundland and Labrador for the scenery, wildlife and history but a growing number are coming for the culture and people.