Victoria, B.C. sees tourism surge due to U.S. tensions

Victoria, B.C. is experiencing a surge in tourism this spring. Many Canadians are choosing to stay within their country instead of traveling to the United States. This is largely due to growing tensions with the U.S. and a weak Canadian dollar. Tourists visiting from places like Ontario are voicing their concerns about traveling to the U.S. "We’re just not comfortable right now,” said Lorie Hyatt. Her husband, Roger, added that they plan to avoid U.S. travel for at least the next four years. These sentiments are common among visitors enjoying Victoria's attractions. Local businesses in Victoria are benefiting from this trend. Nik Coutinho, who works for a whale watching company, noted an increase in Canadian tourists. He mentioned that business was bustling even before the official start of the tourism season. The weak Canadian dollar is another factor boosting local tourism. Bill Lewis from the Greater Victoria Hotel Association pointed out that hotel bookings for March have exceeded expectations. He described this month as typically slow but noted it is much busier this year. Data supports these observations. Flight Centre reported a 40% drop in leisure bookings to the U.S. compared to last year. Additionally, Statistics Canada stated there was a 23% drop in Canadians returning from the U.S. BC Ferries is also seeing high traffic levels, as many families travel during the school holidays. It is uncertain how long this trend will last. Both currency values and U.S. political situations are unpredictable. Some Canadians, like Ruth Ward from Ontario, express strong reluctance to travel to the U.S. again due to the current climate. "I don’t care if I ever go again," she stated.