Record wildfire season affects BC tourism

KAMLOOPS (NEWS 1130) – This year’s wildfire season in BC is being blamed for a slight drop in foreign tourism this summer.

The latest numbers from Stats Canada show a decrease of 0.2 per cent in July compared to the same month last year.

That drop works out to nearly 1,600 people, but year-to-date international visits are up three per cent, or almost 95,000 people.

Researchers suggest fewer Asian visitors to Seattle and many overnight travelers crossed the border to BC from the United States.

A breakdown of where everyone’s coming from also indicates more tourists from Mexico, Germany, Australia and France, with fewer coming from South Korea, the United Kingdom, Japan, China and India.

More than half a billion dollars has been spent fighting fires this season.

The latest total is $548-million which blew the last record set in 2009 when $382-million was spent.

Related Article: BC Tourism takes a hit as wildfires continue to burn

Province encourages tourism over Thanksgiving long-weekend

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture is encouraging British Columbians to get out and explore the province this long weekend as part of a million dollar investment to help areas affected by the wildfire season.

“British Columbia boasts an amazing array of tourist experiences,” said Minister Lisa Beare in a release. “This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to #exploreBC – and especially the areas hit by this summer’s terrible wildfires. Supporting our local economies has never been more important. Many of the hotels, restaurants and attractions in regions impacted by the fires will appreciate your support.”

The province is providing $1.1-million in support funding.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today