May 14 - 20 is Tourism Week in Canada, coinciding with the launch of Travel Manitoba’s near market campaign that entices visitors from Saskatchewan, Northwest Ontario, Alberta, North Dakota and Minnesota, and encourages Manitobans to visit their own province first.

Globally, tourism has become increasingly competitive and is one of the fastest growing sectors. In Manitoba, tourism increased by 5.8% from 2009 to $1.26 billion in 2010, accounting for 2.92% of Manitoba’s GDP and $492 million in export revenue.

“Although there are certainly challenges facing the global tourism industry, the overall stability of Manitoba’s economy and the strength of our tourism attractions and products continue to create demand for tourism in the province,” said Travel Manitoba President and CEO, Colin Ferguson. The Conference Board of Canada recently revised Manitoba’s 2012 tourism growth forecast for 2012, from 3.5% to 3.7% in total overnight expenditures.

Much of Manitoba’s tourism industry is comprised of small or medium-sized businesses which play a vital role in the communities in which they are located. In 2010 the total number of tourism and hospitality related businesses in Manitoba was over 5200, meaning jobs and investment in local communities.

In Manitoba, the tourism sector sustains in excess of 24,800 direct, indirect and induced jobs, across all economic levels.

“Visitors bring new dollars to our communities and province, generating business, jobs and taxes,” said Ferguson. “A strong tourism industry enhances the quality of life for all Manitobans by providing access to exciting attractions, arts and culture, festivals and events and outdoor leisure activities.”

To attract those visitors, Travel Manitoba has distributed 230,000 copies of its Summer Vacation Guide to households in the near provinces and US states. This will be followed by an extensive print campaign which partners with industry operators and highlights attractions throughout the province, from the Gimli Icelandic Festival to kayaking with beluga whales in Churchill, to tubing in the Asessippi Parkland. A campaign directed at US visitors will involve a chance for them to win one of two Grand Prize packages for a weekend in Winnipeg.

The total number of visitors to Manitoba in 2010 was 8.5 million, with Manitobans travelling throughout the province accounting for 85%, other Canadian provinces for 10%, the United States for 4% and 1% from overseas.

Research shows that visitors are often surprised by what they find in Manitoba, highlighting the fact that our province is a diverse and exciting destination. New attractions, such as the future Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the re-development of Assiniboine Park will lead to Manitoba becoming a more competitive, quality tourism destination.

“Knowing that the places and events in Manitoba that give you great joy also have that same effect on visitors from around the world instils in all of us a sense of pride for our home,” said Ferguson.

Beginning May 14, visitors and residents alike can visit Travel Manitoba’s Facebook page to share their favourite place to take visitors and have a chance to win a Gimli Getaway Package.

Tourism Week is a national celebration that highlights the economic impact and social benefits of tourism in Canada. It is led by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). To join the celebration and become a Tourism Champion in your community, visit the TIAC website.

2012 National Tourism Week Release