The tourism sector is having an excellent year and it’s not surprising that many British Columbians are choosing to staycation and enjoy the spectacular tourism experiences in their own backyards.

Staycations can give British Columbians a chance to enjoy the province’s world-class travel experiences first-hand. The low Canadian dollar adds incentive for British Columbians to get out and explore their community, region and province. Staycations are also a good way to keep your vacation dollars circulating in B.C.’s economy. By visiting regional events and venues, you’re not only supporting local businesses, you're also helping sustain important jobs in the tourism sector.

Tourism is a key sector in the BC Jobs Plan and an important economic driver in the province. B.C.’s tourism sector is strong and growing. In 2014, 4.65 million international travellers came to B.C., a 5.3% increase and nearly a quarter million more visitors than we welcomed in 2013. As well, the tourism sector employed 132,000 British Columbians, almost 1 in every 15 jobs in B.C. in 2013. The sector has more than 19,200 tourism-related businesses and paid out $4.5 billion in wages and salaries to tourism workers in 2013 – an increase of 3.8% over the year before.

If a Northern BC staycation is on your radar, here are some fun activities you can enjoy:

• Prince George Farmers' Market, Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Take a fishing charter with First Nations guides in Haida Gwaii.
• Valemount Farmers Market, Thursdays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Summer)
• Visit the Museum of Northern BC in the Northwest Coast longhouse in Prince Rupert.
• 96th Annual Bulkley Valley Exhibition in Smithers, Aug. 27-30.
• Visit the coastal village of Klemtu north of Bella Bella and explore the Big House and learn about First Nations culture.
• Pineview Summer Festival, Aug. 22-23 at Pineview Community Hall. Featuring a slow-pitch tournament, kids games and bike tournament among other activities.
• Prince George Yoga Festival, Aug. 22-23, at Chinook Yoga Centre.
• Take a BC Ferries cruise through the Inside Passage.
• Hiking in Vanderhoof. Enjoy the Greer Creek Falls and Waterlily Bay Trails.

Quotes:

Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour –

“We are lucky to live in “Supernatural” British Columbia where there is an endless variety of ways to vacation. Why not consider a staycation and explore this fantastic place we call home. Whether you want to hike or camp in our beautiful parks, eat at world-class restaurants, take a step back in time at a museum, learn about First Nations culture or just enjoy the views – our province has it all. I encourage everyone to visit any one of the six diverse regions that make our province so special.”

Mike Morris, MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie –

“If you want adventure, you don’t have to go far. Stay, play and discover new sites and activities here at home with the entire family.”

John Rustad, MLA for Nechako Lakes –

“With an abundance of beauty and culture in our region, there are many unique local attractions and activities for British Columbians to enjoy right here in our backyard.”

Quick Facts:

• The Province invests about $90 million annually in the tourism sector.
• British Columbia posted a 5.3% increase in international overnight visitors for 2014, surpassing the 3.2% increase in arrivals to Canada as a whole.
• International tourist visits to B.C. climbed again in May 2015, marking a fifth gain in six months.
• These gains support the more than 19,200 tourism-related businesses in B.C.
• 2013, the tourism industry generated $13.9 billion in revenue, an increase of 3.6% from 2012 and a 44% increase since 2003.

Learn More:

For more info on Northern B.C. tourism: http://www.hellobc.com/northern-british-columbia.aspx