| August 20, 2010 Valemount Benefits From Approved Destination Status VALEMOUNT – One of the first organized Chinese tour groups to arrive B.C. this week will be making an overnight stop in Valemount tomorrow, the first results of China granting Canada Approved Destination Status (ADS). “As the MLA for Prince George-Valemount, I want to welcome our Chinese guests to the region. The Robson Valley is one of the most beautiful and diverse parts of British Columbia. I can understand why this first group of Chinese tourists has chosen to make a stop in Valemount,” says Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. “From Mount Robson to the abundant wildlife, our guests will experience British Columbia at its very best and I know they will want to share the stories and photos with their friends. “Thanks to our work with the federal government in getting Approved Destination Status with China, the local tourism sector can expect a boost.” “We are thrilled to welcome the first of the Chinese visitors,” says Valemount Mayor Bob Smith. “I’m sure that once they tell their friends what a great place Valemount is, we’ll see many more.” The agreement is expected to increase Chinese visitors to B.C. by 10 per cent in 2010, 15 per cent in 2011 and an additional 15 per cent for 2012. Last year, 160,833 Chinese visitors came to Canada, with more than half visiting B.C. Today’s inaugural group of 300 to 350 tour operators and tourists puts the agreement into operational status. With the ADS designation, Canadian tourism businesses and destination marketing organizations can market Canadian tourism products and experiences within China, and Chinese tour operators are now able to organize, promote and advertise group travel packages to Canada. -30- | |
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