Destination Canada has launched a national campaign running from mid-July to the end of August to give Canadians the confidence to travel within their country. The Canadian travel sector is slowly recovering from the crisis, but there is still room for improvement. According to a recent research, many Canadians – thought willing to go on holiday – are not booking their vacations due to safety uncertainty and confusion caused by too many regulations.
The campaign of Destination Canada is based on two key points: (1) Instill Pride & Confidence and (2) Motivate & Inspire.
Last week, as provinces and territories gradually set up their reopening plans, Destination Canada released a new video about travelling with confidence.
The aim of the video is to help visitors enjoy exploring Canada, by giving travelers tips and information. The video focuses on five main topics: Be Safe, Be Ready, Be Focused, Be Free, and Be Nice. Those five tips are relevant for all tourists, whether they are travelling locally or intra-provincially. Below you find some tips for a safe trip proposed by Destination Canada.
1. Be Safe
Wherever you go, remember to bring masks, gloves, a thermometer, and hand sanitizer. If you are planning to visit a remote community, make sure to stock up on groceries and other essentials before the departure. In this way, your impact on the local community will be softer.
2. Be Ready
Before you leave, make sure to plan your trip carefully as things will be different depending on your destination. Take your time to constantly revise reopenings’ rules, new protocols and safety requirements. Wherever you go, expect different travel regulations, revised schedules and reduced capacity; thus, make sure to book attractions and visits in advance.
The situation changes constantly. Visit territorial government websites for fresh updates and information.
3. Be Focused
When traveling, do not stop in too many different places. Make day trips from one or two home bases. Organize less activities and in big spaces. In other words, prepare for a more contactless journey.
4. Be Free
You can book a vacation rental, hotel or B&B with no worries thanks to the new safety protocols that ensure cleaned and disinfected environments. If you want, you can bring your own cleaning products and decline daily housekeeping to reduce interactions with strangers.
The risk of infection is lower in the open air; however, do not forget to maintain social distancing on trails.
Many Canadian campgrounds are starting to reopen. Be sure to research your destination beforehand as camping reservations might be required. Make sure to pack your own hygiene products and minimize the time you spend in public restrooms.
Canadian airlines are working hard to keep high hygiene standards and make the journey as safe as possible. All passengers are required to wear a mask during the flight, while the airlines are improving their sanitation practices.
5. Be Nice
Bear in mind that any trip or journey can contribute to the spread of the virus, and the chances to catch the virus when travelling are higher. Thus, be respectful, follow safety protocols, wash your hands frequently, travel with fewer people, wear a mask in crowded areas, and, most importantly, if you have symptoms, stay home.
