Meet Colleen Dalton: Newfoundland’s Voice in Culture and Travel Writing

Colleen Dalton is a St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador-based writer specializing in the culture, food, and travel of Atlantic Canada, with a particular focus on her home province. She offers a unique perspective, prioritizing authentic experiences and the stories of those who choose to stay in Newfoundland, rather than those who leave. Her work appears in publications like Downhome Magazine and The Overcast, and she as well contributes to social media and event copy for The Rooms.

A Newfoundland Native

Growing up in Conception Bay South, Colleen developed a deep connection to Newfoundland and a perspective distinct from both “townies” and those who left for opportunities elsewhere. She holds an English degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN), a common path for those who remain in the province. She deliberately chose to build a life in Newfoundland, observing friends depart for western Canada and larger urban centers while remaining rooted in the local culture.

Expertise and Focus

Colleen’s expertise encompasses a wide range of Newfoundland-specific topics, including:

• Newfoundland Culture
• St. John’s Dining
• The East Coast Trail
• Atlantic Canada Travel
• Arts & Music
• George Street
• Provincial Events
• Local Food

She distinguishes herself by focusing on the vibrant present of Newfoundland, highlighting the restaurants, musicians, and natural landscapes that continue to thrive. She is particularly known for her strong opinions on local cuisine, notably fish and chips.

What Colleen Doesn’t Cover

Colleen maintains a clear focus in her writing. She does not cover:

• Gambling or betting
• Topics outside of Atlantic Canada (unless she has personally visited the location)
• Generic “things to do in Canada” listicles

Personal Interests

Outside of her writing, Colleen enjoys activities that embody the Newfoundland lifestyle:

• Hiking the East Coast Trail (particularly the Sugarloaf to Spout Path)
• Attending live music performances on George Street (at venues like The Ship and Erin’s Pub)
• Baking traditional toutons

Industry Pet Peeves

Colleen expresses frustration with common misconceptions and shortcomings in travel writing about Newfoundland:

• Travel writers who base their opinions on brief visits
• The assumption that nothing significant happens east of Halifax
• Restaurants in St. John’s that prioritize cruise ship tourists over local patrons
• Incorrect pronunciation of “Newfoundland” (she prefers “New-FOUND-land”)

Contacting Colleen

For inquiries about Newfoundland culture, food, or travel, Colleen can be contacted through the contact page of her publishing platforms.

Key Contacts at Memorial University of Newfoundland

For inquiries related to graduate programs at Memorial University of Newfoundland, the following contacts are available:

• Colleen Dalton, Program Officer (thesis-based graduate programs): colleen.dalton@mun.ca, (709) 864-6464
• Bipul Hawlader, Acting Associate Dean: engrdoffice@mun.ca, (709) 864-8901
• Jannatul Alam Shifa, Intermediate Secretary to the Associate Dean: jashifa@mun.ca, (709) 864-8901