Promising Forecast For Southern Alberta Toruism

“Waterton saw a 13.1 per cent increase from Nov. 2015 to Nov. 2016 which takes them over 500,000 visitors. This shows us that Waterton is getting a little more recognition and provides a different experience than Jasper or Banff.”

While local the number of travelers accessing accommodations are falling from a few years ago by four to seven per cent depending on the property, accommodation numbers have remained steady over the 2015 and 2016 season.

Wyslouzil says that those numbers could see a slight increase with recent changes to air travel and visas.

“As of June 2016 there is direct air access from Beijing, China to Calgary three times a week. Also, last week we started seeing direct flights from Mexico City to Calgary and since the Canadian government has lifted visa restrictions for travel to Canada from Mexico we anticipate larger numbers from China and Mexico to visit our attractions.”
Wyslouzil adds that the strong interest from Chinese travelers in First Nations culture will pair well with the numerous Aboriginal attractions such as Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park.

In April 2017 the City of Lethbridge and local tourism agencies will turn back to the Destination Management Plan which has already outlined some actions and strategies.

Wyslouzil says that organizers of the manageable plan want city administration to work towards a one-stop all things tourism organization.

by Charlotte Morritt-Jacobs - (@morrittjacobs on Twitter)

Promising Forecast For Southern Alberta Toruism

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