Big bump for BC tourism

Tourism operators in B.C. are likely all smiles so far this year.

The provincial government says the latest international visitor numbers show that visitors are up nearly 17 per cent during the first three months of 2016 – with 121,306 more visitors to B.C, compared to the same period last year.

“Tourism in British Columbia is going from strength to strength,” said Marsha Walden, CEO Destination British Columbia. 

“We are coming off one of the best ski seasons in years, hotel occupancy rates and room revenues are on the rise, provincial restaurant receipts are up, and tourism businesses are reporting stronger bookings as we head into summer. By all accounts, 2016 is off to a fantastic start.”

The province has seen big increases from France (up 51.6 per cent), Mexico (up 45.2 per cent) and the U.S. (up 20.1 per cent).

The low Canadian dollar, international marketing, more direct flights to B.C. and outstanding conditions at the province’s ski resorts are all factors says the province.

Tourism provides a job for roughly one out of every 15 people employed in B.C.

In 2015, 4.9 million international visitors came to B.C. – a 7.9 per cent increase compared to 2014.

Photo: City of Vernon