August 20, 2015
Province Notes Tourism Visits From United States on the Rise
– – –FIFA Women's World Cup Proves to be Huge Draw: Minister Lemieux
Visits to Manitoba from the United States in June increased nearly 60 per cent over the same period last year, Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux announced today.
“We know there are many great reasons to visit Manitoba, and Americans love our hospitality, but events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup gave many more people the incentive to experience Manitoba,” Minister Lemieux said. “We hope they remember what a good time they had, and we’re ready to welcome them back anytime because Manitoba is where Canada’s Heart Beats.”
The minister said recent statistics show 68,128 visitors entered Manitoba from the United States in June, up 57.6 per cent from June 2014. The minister noted this marks the largest increase of any province for the same timeframe, and is twice as large as the next closest province, Prince Edward Island, with a 28.8 per cent increase in visits.
“The great thing about hosting an event like FIFA is that it opens visitors’ eyes to everything else we have to offer,” said Colin Ferguson, president and CEO, Travel Manitoba, which is the Crown corporation charged with growing the tourism industry. “By all reports, our festivals and museums, our fishing operators, beluga whale operators and many of our other attractions have had terrific seasons as well.”
“I’m also excited for Cavalia’s opening in Winnipeg this September and the people it will draw to our province,” Minister Lemieux added. “I hope to see this trend continue as more events, tournaments and festivals come to Manitoba.”
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