1st March 2016

Canada reveals UK Arrival Figures for 2016

The numbers are in: in 2016, Canada welcomed 19,979,334 travellers - the highest  number since 2002 and the second highest ever.

International arrivals increased by 16% in Destination Canada's overseas markets, 10% from the US Market and 17% from the UK.

"Congratulations to the Canadian tourism industry on an incredible 2016 - so excited to work together to ensure this growth continues!", said the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, "As we celebrate Canada's 150th birthday this year, let's also celebrate our tourism operators and industry leaders, and recognize their role in supporting economic growth for middle class Canadians."

"This is great news," said David F. Goldstein, Destination Canada's CEO and President "Canada is open, welcoming and has something  for everyone - and people are seeing that. Together with our industry partners, we are encouraging travellers to explore Canada and experience a life less ordinary. I couldn't think of a better time to visit than right now."

Key Highlights:

• 2016 was the best year for Canadian tourism in 14 years, only 0.4% below the record set in 2002.
• Arrivals from Desitnation Canada's 10 overseas markets increased by 16% over 2015 levels
• A record breaking number of US travellers arrived by air to Canada, an increase of over 17% over 2015
• The UK showed a 17% increase in arrivals to Canada at a total of 833,329 visit

You can view the full press release online here: https://www.destinationcanada.com/en/news/tourism-arrivals-hit-14-year-high

For more media information about Canada please contact:
Miss Nim Singh

Media and PR Manager

Destination Canada

0207 389 9983 (not for publication)

singh.nim@destinationcanada.com (not for publication)