New figures show that Scotland experienced a record-breaking influx of international visitors in 2023, welcoming 3.9 million tourists, marking a 15% increase from 2019. The 2023 International Passenger Survey by the Office of National Statistics showed a significant 23% increase from 2022, which saw 3.2 million visitors, and the previous record was set in 2018 with 3.7 million visitors. Notably, Scotland was the only UK nation to surpass its 2019 international tourism levels. North American and European visits rose by 16% and 19%, respectively, while visits from other countries, including Australia and China, surged by 53% compared to 2022. The Read more
Record-Breaking International Visits to Scotland Last Year + Lost Airline Bag Incidents Down Sharply
Think outside the proverbial gift box this Father’s Day and share with dear old dad an experience not soon forgotten. Giving the gift of an experience gives dad something they cherish — quality time with family. And you don’t have to worry about it being the proper fit or the right colour. “City Cruises in Canada has three amazing and unique cruise experiences in Ontario to share this Father’s Day,” says Mory DiMaurizio, Chief Operating Officer of City Cruises Canada. “From the rush of Niagara Falls to the tranquility of the 1000 Islands to the full dining experience along the Read more
Inflation remains a problem for many Canadians. And it’s definitely an issue when it comes to travel. A new report from Flight Centre Travel Group shows that flight fares to major Canadian cities have increased by an average of 14%. The report shows flights between Edmonton and Vancouver are 82% more expensive than a year ago, while flights from Montreal to Toronto cost 36% more than they did at this time in 2023. On the other hand, at least one route – Vancouver to Toronto – showed a slight decrease in price. Here’s Flight Centre’s top Canada Read more
Visitors to Toronto spent a record $8.4 billion last year, money that helped provide jobs for hotel workers, entertainers, restaurant wait staff and so many more. The report on the Economic Impact of Visitors in Toronto, found that 26.5 million visitors arrived in the city of Toronto in 2023, and spent $8.4 billion across a wide range of sectors, including accommodations (26 per cent), local and air transport (26 per cent), dining (24 per cent), shopping (13 per cent), and entertainment (11 per cent). Beyond this direct spending, the effects of induced and indirect spending reach even further into the broader Read more
Flying on Canada’s largest airline is about to become that much nicer. Air Canada says economy passengers on all its flights can now enjoy free premium snacks. It’s also expanding its free wine and beer program (and $5 spirits) to flights within Canada and to the U.S. “We’re thrilled to continue elevating the Economy travel experience in North America, and we’re proud to spotlight Canadian brands with this thoughtfully curated lineup of complimentary snacks and beverages in time for your summer travels,” said Scott O’Leary, VP of Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. “This builds on our recent industry-leading food Read more
Air Canada is giving its India service a significant boost, a move that will no doubt be welcomed by the Indian diaspora in Canada. Air Canada today announced the strategic expansion of its international network to India, adding 40% more seat capacity beginning late October for the Winter 2024-25 season. Highlights of the carrier’s new services include the only non-stop flights from Canada to India’s financial capital, Mumbai, improved service from Western Canada to Delhi with the introduction of new seasonal daily flights via London Heathrow, and daily flights from Montreal to Delhi. In total, Air Canada will operate 25 Read more
Air Canada has renewed its partnership with the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Committees until 2030. It also has unveiled a special new Boeing 777 with special decorations and Go Canada Go message. Air Canada will transport more than 1,000 Team Canada athletes and delegation members to the upcoming Games, showcasing the airline’s ongoing commitment to connecting the best of Canada with the world. The new agreement extends through the 2030 Winter Games, including Paris 2024, Cortina d’Ampezzo-Milan for the 2026 Winter Games and the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, and also the 2030 Winter Olympics. Air Canada has been the Official Airline Read more