- Canadian tourism increased by 30% as U.S. travel declined.
- Political tensions influenced Canadians to explore domestic travel.
- Interprovincial spending rose, benefiting local economies and businesses.
Domestic Travel on the Rise
A recent survey highlights a significant rise in Canadian tourism, with a 30% increase in domestic travel as Canadians opted to explore their own country rather than travel to the United States. This shift occurs amid ongoing political tensions between Canada and the U.S., which have been influenced by tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.
Impact of Political Tensions
The survey, conducted by Angus Reid and commissioned by Moneris, revealed that 26% of Canadians altered their U.S. travel plans, choosing instead to travel within Canada. This trend marks the seventh consecutive month of declining cross-border travel, both by air and by car.
Boost to Local Economies
The change in travel patterns has been beneficial for Canadian hotels, restaurants, and other businesses, as domestic tourism has become a significant economic driver. Sean McCormick of Moneris emphasized the importance of domestic tourism in supporting local businesses.
Interprovincial Travel Trends
Among those who changed their travel plans, 30% traveled to other provinces, while 44% stayed within their own province. This shift resulted in a 5% increase in interprovincial spending, with notable increases in the territories (10%), Alberta (9%), and Saskatchewan (6%).
Skilled Workforce Demand
Moira A. McDonald from Royal Roads University noted the thriving state of the Canadian tourism industry, highlighting the demand for skilled workers. The decline in American tourism, encompassing individual travel and events such as conferences and school trips, contrasts with the robust domestic market.
Future Outlook
As political tensions with the U.S. persist, it is expected that Canadians will continue to explore their own country, supporting local economies. Despite the focus on domestic travel, there has also been an increase in travel to Mexico, South America, and Europe.
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