It could take another three years for Ontario’s tourism industry to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, a major new study says. A report from The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, released today, calls for sweeping changes, including keeping the Ontario staycation tax credit, boosting cannabis tourism, providing better train and rapid transit service, giving indigenous tourism a push, and boosting affordable housing for workers. The study says tourism businesses in Canada’s most populous province are generating less than two-thirds (64%) of the revenues they saw in 2019, and that 70% have taken on debt Read more
Indigenous Tourism
Demand for travel shows no signs of slowing, and there are positive signs for business travel and travel to Asia, a new study says. Expedia’s Traveler Insights report for the third quarter of 2022 paints a far rosier picture for the industry than would’ve been the case a year ago. Almost one-half of consumers surveyed said they have plans to travel internationally, and they’re also more willing to book a year or more in advance. Expedia said interest in Thailand and Hong Kong is on the rise, and that online searches for trips to Japanese cities rose 60% in the Read more
Air Canada is getting into the electric airplane business. Canada’s largest airline today announced a purchase agreement for 30 ES-30 electric-hybrid aircraft under development by Heart Aerospace of Sweden. The revolutionary regional aircraft, expected to enter service in 2028, will generate zero emissions flying on battery power and yield significant operational savings and benefits. Under the agreement, Air Canada has also acquired a US$5 million equity stake in Heart Aerospace. Saab also is buying a stake, according to published reports. “Air Canada has taken a leadership position in the industry to address climate change. The introduction into our fleet of Read more
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, and June 21st honours National Indigenous Peoples Day. Recognizing and celebrating the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Indigenous peoples of Canada, National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to support Indigenous businesses while getting out and exploring all corners of the country in a meaningful and enriching way. Indigenous activities are happening across the country from now until the end of June, giving everyone ample opportunity to participate no matter where they’re located. A few examples include: · Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival, June 9-12 in Toronto · Read more
As one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors in Canada, here are 22 Indigenous tourism experiences to look forward to in 2022. More than opportunities to experience great cuisine, explore the landscape, or learn about plants and animals; these 22 new and highlighted experiences give locals and visitors the opportunity to immerse in traditional cultural teachings with skilled Indigenous guides. 1. Stay in the new 40-room boutique lodge on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River and discover the rich history of the Métis People in Smoky Lake, Alberta. Visitors to Métis Crossing can also tour the new wildlife park called Read more
