POINT OF VIEW
Postcard From…
Postcard From…
Tamara Littlelight, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Here, Tamara Littlelight reveals a few of her favorite places, experiences, and meaningful connections that celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage throughout Canada.
Is there anything that travelers should know before visiting?
Indigenous Peoples in Canada are incredibly diverse, with over 1.8 million individuals representing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. There are more than 630 distinct First Nations and over 50 Indigenous languages spoken today, each carrying unique histories, teachings, and cultural practices. From the Arctic to the plains to coastal regions, Indigenous cultures reflect deep connections to land, community, and tradition.
What is the best way to support these local communities?
Choosing Indigenous owned and led experiences not only supports local communities, it offers a richer, more meaningful connection to the land and its people. The “Original Original” mark of excellence is a symbol that identifies businesses that are truly Indigenous owned, where the experience is created and delivered by Indigenous Peoples.
“Choosing Indigenous owned and led experiences not only supports local communities, it offers a richer, more meaningful connection to the land and its people.”
Can you recommend any local arts, crafts, and gifts?
Whether it’s a cozy pair of moccasins from Bastien Industries or a bold painting from Kamamak, each purchase supports culture, history, and Indigenous economic growth. Personally, I never pass up a stunning pair of earrings, whether they are beaded, made from moose hide, or feature caribou tufting. They’re handcrafted with incredible care and creativity, and are always great conversation starters and meaningful keepsakes.
Do you have a favorite local meal?
A recent visit to Bernadette’s, the new Indigenous-owned restaurant in Edmonton, Alberta co-created by Chef Scott Iserhoff and Svitlana Kravchuk, left my taste buds wanting more. From the rich, fall-off-the-bone bison short rib to the unexpectedly delightful Spam gnocchi, and the beautifully subtle sweetgrass ice cream, every dish told a story, rooted in tradition, creativity, and heart.
How do you like to spend your free time in your homeland?
I love exploring Canada from coast to coast to coast. A recent visit to Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours on Vancouver Island left me in awe of Canada’s natural beauty, especially when seen through an Indigenous lens. It sparked a deeper connection within me and filled me with a strong sense of pride. Tourism is so much more than travel, it is a powerful way to share who we are and what we stand for with the world.
Indigenous stories aren’t just told—they’re lived, shared, and celebrated every day.
POINT OF VIEW
Postcard From…
Postcard From…
Tamara Littlelight, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Here, Tamara Littlelight reveals a few of her favorite places, experiences, and meaningful connections that celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage throughout Canada.
Is there anything that travelers should know before visiting?
Indigenous Peoples in Canada are incredibly diverse, with over 1.8 million individuals representing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. There are more than 630 distinct First Nations and over 50 Indigenous languages spoken today, each carrying unique histories, teachings, and cultural practices. From the Arctic to the plains to coastal regions, Indigenous cultures reflect deep connections to land, community, and tradition.
What is the best way to support these local communities?
Choosing Indigenous owned and led experiences not only supports local communities, it offers a richer, more meaningful connection to the land and its people. The “Original Original” mark of excellence is a symbol that identifies businesses that are truly Indigenous owned, where the experience is created and delivered by Indigenous Peoples.
“Choosing Indigenous owned and led experiences not only supports local communities, it offers a richer, more meaningful connection to the land and its people.”
Can you recommend any local arts, crafts, and gifts?
Whether it’s a cozy pair of moccasins from Bastien Industries or a bold painting from Kamamak, each purchase supports culture, history, and Indigenous economic growth. Personally, I never pass up a stunning pair of earrings, whether they are beaded, made from moose hide, or feature caribou tufting. They’re handcrafted with incredible care and creativity, and are always great conversation starters and meaningful keepsakes.
Do you have a favorite local meal?
A recent visit to Bernadette’s, the new Indigenous-owned restaurant in Edmonton, Alberta co-created by Chef Scott Iserhoff and Svitlana Kravchuk, left my taste buds wanting more. From the rich, fall-off-the-bone bison short rib to the unexpectedly delightful Spam gnocchi, and the beautifully subtle sweetgrass ice cream, every dish told a story, rooted in tradition, creativity, and heart.
How do you like to spend your free time in your homeland?
I love exploring Canada from coast to coast to coast. A recent visit to Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours on Vancouver Island left me in awe of Canada’s natural beauty, especially when seen through an Indigenous lens. It sparked a deeper connection within me and filled me with a strong sense of pride. Tourism is so much more than travel, it is a powerful way to share who we are and what we stand for with the world.
Indigenous stories aren’t just told—they’re lived, shared, and celebrated every day.
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