VANCOUVER — To mark National Tourism Week from May 23 to May 30, Destination Canada has launched two new initiatives to inspire Canadians to travel domestically as restrictions allow.
First, the Heartbeat of Canada: Tourism Anthem video is produced by Mark Zibert and spotlights the makers, performers, business owners and staff who make up Canada’s tourism sector. Canadian drummer Sharon Rose Ransom is featured in the video and delivers a drum solo that symbolizes hope and re-birth in an industry that, despite facing economic uncertainty, remains optimistic.
Second, Canadians are encouraged to send postcards to family and friends who have been missed during the pandemic. According to Destination Canada’s research, 39 per cent of Canadians expect their first trip will be to visit family and friends, prompting the initiative. The postcards can be accessed online and sent in both English and French.
“We’ve seen strength and resilience of the tourism sector shine through in what has been an incredibly challenging 14 months. Tourism is central to our quality of life offering rich social, economic, and cultural benefits to all Canadians,” says Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages. “The Government of Canada is proud to have invested $15 billion towards tourism, culture and arts, since the onset of the pandemic with an additional $1 billion announced for tourism in the 2021 federal budget. In recognition of tourism week, I encourage all Canadians to embrace our magnificent country and consider the endless potential of the new and familiar destinations waiting to be discovered.”
“From baristas and brewers to designers and festival directors to historians and hotel owners, the richness of our diversity — and the heartbeat of this country — can all be found in Canada’s tourism industry. Tourism week is a great opportunity to remind Canadians about the impact of our industry — supporting tourism means enhancing the quality of life for all Canadians,” says Marsha Walden, president and CEO, Destination Canada. “Despite the enormous challenges faced by the sector, we have a resilient industry that is ready to welcome Canadians back into our hotels, airplanes, tour buses, museums, restaurants, and beyond, once restrictions are lifted.”
Destination Canada believes tourism plays an important role in enhancing the quality of life of Canadians and visitors. Its mission is to promote and encourage travel within Canada to benefit communities and businesses in the tourism sector.
