“From mountain highs to rolling plains, lakes, forests and parks, Alberta has much to see, discover and experience. Our visitor economy is an important pillar in Alberta’s Recovery Plan and in our efforts to further diversify our economy.
“While the past couple of years have been difficult, once again the industry and its operators have proven their resilience. Because of this, like the rest of our economy, the tourism industry is on the rebound.
“The first five months of 2022 have seen increases in air passenger and highway traffic across the board. Another encouraging sign is that employment in accommodation and food services is up 32 per cent over the same period last year. At this time, total tourism spending is expected to return to 2019 levels in 2024.
“Alberta’s government is committed to the recovery of the province’s visitor economy. In conversations I have had with individuals and businesses working in the tourism sector, I have heard the struggles they have been facing and received input about how the government can help.
“As a result of those conversations and meetings, we have expanded the mandate and increased the funding of Travel Alberta. Working with them, we have developed a plan to support recovery and sustainable investment in tourism. This plan incudes investing in enhancing existing visitor experiences, developing new ones and building shovel-ready tourism development projects.
“As we move into the summer months, I am confident that Alberta’s visitor economy will continue to recover. We look forward to welcoming Albertans, Canadians and international travellers to the many attractions found in every corner of the province.
“Our province provides opportunities to take part in Indigenous tourism experiences, visit locations used in filming big and small screen productions, and camp in one of hundreds of Alberta campgrounds. For these reasons and more, local businesses are looking forward to serving visitors this week and every week.”