28 MAY 2019: Tourism is a difference maker for Alberta’s economy—standing out as a growth industry, job creator, economic diversifier, and community builder. And it all starts with the businesses and experiences that inspire the world to visit Alberta, and Albertans to explore the adventures and hidden gems at their doorstep.
Experiential travel is more than a catchphrase. Today’s travellers prioritize authentic experiences. They want to do more than just observe. They want to be actively involved in transformational experiences they can’t find anywhere else and connect with locals to learn more about the destinations they are visiting.
“Alberta is open for business, and that includes tourism. Our government knows that a strong tourism industry creates jobs and economic growth in Alberta. Together with our industry partners, we will develop a 10-year tourism strategy to bring more travellers, jobs and investment back to our province. We want to continue to develop unique Alberta experiences for people from all over the world to discover,” said Economic Development, Trade and Tourism Minister Tanya Fir.
“Alberta’s experiences are as much about Albertans as they are about the travellers who enjoy them. Our pride of place shines through—from the tourism operators and hard-working Albertans who deliver a multitude of ‘goose bump’ moments, to residents and communities that know we have something special going on here,” said Travel Alberta CEO, Royce Chwin.
Fully 75 percent of the $8.5 billion generated annually by provincial tourism is thanks to Albertans enjoying ‘staycations’ in their home province.
The ongoing development of new tourism products is critical to the growth of Alberta’s visitor economy, making it a key focus for the Government of Alberta.
At Travel Alberta, a team of experience development managers works with industry partners around the province to support the enhancement and development of new tourism experiences that can accommodate international demand. The Travel Alberta team also provides innovative tools, educational opportunities, marketing expertise and co-operative funding to help Alberta tourism businesses promote their experience offerings. Some areas of focus include Indigenous, culinary, rural and inclusive tourism. Explore what’s new in all regions of the province!
About Tourism Week and Alberta’s tourism industry
Tourism Week is a national grassroots initiative that brings attention to the economic opportunities available through travel and tourism.
Tourism is one of the key industries in Alberta, with clear economic and social benefits:
· $8.5 billion to the economy
- 35 million visits
- 19,000 businesses
- 127,000 jobs
- $9.3 billion to Alberta’s GDP
· $4.1 billion in tax revenue