Tourism boom sees Vancouver's hottest attraction thriving

Dec 20 2017, 12:33 am

Metro Vancouver is in the midst of an historic tourism boom, thanks in part to an expanding number of airline carriers offering flights to YVR, the city playing host to several major international events in 2015, and a lower trading loonie attracting our neighbours south of the border. Top attractions like FlyOver Canada are witnessing this boom first hand and welcoming the opportunity to impress visitors from far and wide.

According to Tourism Vancouver, the volume of overnight visitors to Metro Vancouver has climbed steadily over the past two years, reaching a record 8.97 million in 2014.

While 2015’s stats have yet to be confirmed, based on the previous trend of growth, Tourism Vancouver projects the number of overnight visitors will jump 2.9 per cent, reaching a staggering 9.3 million by year-end.

FlyOver Canada has enjoyed the spurt in tourism since the ‘ultimate flying ride’ first opened its doors in 2013. The must-see attraction, which takes riders soaring over the country’s most extraordinary landscapes in a fully-immersive experience complete with refreshing breezes, scents and mists, appeals to visitors looking to see Canada like never before.

“As a hit among international travellers and locals who love to come back with their out of town guests, we continue to enjoy high traffic and can vouch for Tourism Vancouver’s estimate for 2015,” says Lisa Adams, Director of Operations and Sales of FlyOver Canada.

“We see a steady influx of foreign visitors joining us, particularly from the US, who appear to be taking full advantage of the favourable exchange rate,” says Adams. According to the Canada’s Border Services agency, the number of U.S. visitors into B.C. reached 222,000 this past May, up from 171,000 in 2012.

Thanks to its position at Canada Place, Port Metro Vancouver’s cruise ship terminal, a large percentage of FlyOver Canada’s patrons include passengers looking for excitement during the short time their ship is docked. An estimated 800,000 cruise ship visitors will pass through the city in 2015 alone according to Port Metro Vancouver.

In addition to Vancouver International Airport’s aggressive strategy to bring more flights to Vancouver, the city’s burgeoning tourist market can also be credited to large international events that have been drawing foreign crowds, most notably the FIFA Women’s World Cup, which brought in more than 36,000 fans.

“Whether guests hail from other regions of the country, across the border, or overseas, our goal has been to offer them a thrilling adventure as they discover the sights and sounds of Vancouver’s vibrant downtown,” says Adams. “The experience ignites for many, and for others rekindles, a deep affection for our magnificent country and we hope it will inspire them to keep returning.”

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