British Columbia is a province in Canada that is well-known for its diverse tourism attractions. From the stunning natural landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, there is no shortage of things to see and do in BC.
But just how much of BC’s economy is driven by tourism? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Tourism?
Tourism refers to the activities of visitors who travel to and stay in places outside their usual environment for leisure, business, or other purposes. This includes everything from visiting tourist attractions and landmarks to participating in outdoor activities and attending events.
The Importance of Tourism in BC
Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of British Columbia. According to Destination British Columbia, the province’s tourism industry generated $20.4 billion in revenue in 2019, up from $18.4 billion in 2018. This represents a 10.9% increase year over year.
Furthermore, tourism directly employs approximately 160,000 people in BC, making it one of the largest employers in the province. In addition to providing jobs and income, tourism also supports many other industries such as transportation, accommodation, food and beverage services, retail trade, and more.
Top Tourism Activities in BC
There are countless things for tourists to see and do in British Columbia. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Hiking and camping
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Visiting national parks
- Whale watching
- Exploring cultural attractions like museums and art galleries
- Tasting local food and wine
The Impact of COVID-19 on BC’s Tourism Industry
Like many other places around the world, British Columbia’s tourism industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. With travel restrictions and border closures in place, the number of visitors to BC has plummeted.
According to Destination BC, the province saw a 51% decrease in international visitor arrivals in 2020 compared to the previous year. Domestic visitation also dropped by 25%. This has had a significant impact on businesses and individuals who rely on tourism for their livelihoods.
Looking Ahead
While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on British Columbia’s tourism industry, there is hope for the future. As vaccines become more widely available and travel restrictions are lifted, it is expected that tourism will begin to rebound.
In the meantime, efforts are being made to support businesses and workers who have been affected by the pandemic. The BC government has introduced a number of measures such as grants and training programs to help those in the tourism industry weather this difficult time.
The Bottom Line
Tourism is an important part of British Columbia’s economy. It generates billions of dollars in revenue each year and provides employment for thousands of people.
While COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the industry, there are signs that things will eventually improve. As BC continues to offer its unique attractions and experiences, tourists from around the world will continue to flock to this beautiful province.