Québec City has been announced as the host of Canada’s tourism marketplace, Rendez-vous Canada 2023. Québec City was set to host the event in 2020, however it was deferred due to the pandemic. “In 2020, we indicated that the cancellation of Rendez-vous Canada in our destination was only a postponement. So, we are happy to welcome this grandiose and major event for the tourism industry in 2023,” says Robert Mercure, general manager of Destination Québec cité. The city is ready…
The countdown is on until Canada’s federal election — the first-ever held during a pandemic. Where do the parties stand on key issues that may affect meetings and events professionals? Here’s a breakdown (as of Sept. 7) of each platform, as it relates to the industry. Canadians can cast their vote Sept. 20. Advancing polling begins Sept. 10. Bloc Québécois The Bloc has called for a study of the impact of bankruptcies on small and medium-sized businesses, and would like…
A hotel in Canmore, Alta., is Travelers’ Choice ‘Best of the Best’ in the category of worldwide hotels. The Malcolm Hotel by Clique is the only hotel in the province to ever receive the prestigious award. “This is a true testament to our incredible team that consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our guests are provided with legendary service,” says the hotel’s general manager, Andrew Shepherd. “Despite the challenging times we have faced, our team has continued to provide welcoming,…
Liza Frulla is the new board chair of Destination Canada. The CEO and director of Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ) was appointed to the position following an open, transparent and merit-based selection process. “Ms. Frulla has an excellent track record in the hospitality industry and in the tourism sector as a whole,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, on the day of the announcement. “Her wealth of experience will truly be an asset…
Ottawa’s Shaw Centre will receive up to $2 million this year to support its continued operation and maintenance. The funding injection is part of $8 million in newly announced tourism support from the Ontario government. “This funding will enable the Shaw Centre to continue to adapt and respond to the new realities facing tourism businesses — ensuring that, when it is safe to do so, they are prepared for a renewed travel interest in Canada’s capital,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister…
Canadian tourism businesses and organizations can now apply for support to welcome back visitors. The federal government made the announcement July 12, as part of the launch of its new $500-million Tourism Relief Fund. “Our government has been there for the tourism sector since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis and (this adds) another tool to the suite of COVID supports that will help it recover and prepare for future growth and create jobs,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic…
The Liberal government delivered its long-awaited budget last month, unveiling $101.4 billion in new spending. Supports were specifically promised to aid the recovery of Canada’s hard-hit tourism industry, which includes meetings and business events. It outlines $1 billion over three years for tourism, starting in 2021/2022; a $500-million Tourism Relief Fund to support investments by local tourism businesses in adapting to the pandemic; a $595-million Recovery Hiring Program to make it easier for businesses to hire back laid-off workers or…
Edmonton will soon be the first Canadian destination with a health and safety designation. Explore Edmonton is collaborating with its tourism and hospitality industries to pursue a city-wide Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Star accreditation. “Edmonton’s tourism, hospitality and events industries will play an important role in our region’s post-COVID recovery, getting people back to work, welcoming travellers back to the city and delivering important economic and social benefits to our region,” says Maggie Davison, acting CEO of Explore Edmonton.…
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) has found its new leader in Beth Potter following an intensive search. “I’m excited to be taking on this new challenge. This is a critical time for the tourism industry,” says Potter. “The decisions the government takes in the coming weeks and months will have a significant impact on our ability to bring back the jobs and economic growth that tourism contributed to the Canadian economy before the COVID-19 pandemic.” Potter will officially…
A former cereal factory is getting a sweet-looking makeover. Hard Rock has announced plans to transform the historic Kellogg’s Canada site in London, Ont., into a 353-room hotel and entertainment venue. “This property will provide a multitude of local attractions and unique on-property activities sure to create lasting memories for all who visit,” says Todd Hricko, senior vice-president of hotel development at Hard Rock International. The hotel will be completed in two phases, with an initial 163-room opening planned for…
