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“The Province recognizes the significant role Visitor Centres play in our tourism economy”, said Bennett. “These centres are often the first point of contact for B.C.’s visitors. The friendly faces, helpful travel information and great vacation tips can directly influence a visitor’s decision to stay longer, to travel to other regions and to return to B.C. in the future.”
Out of the $400,000 being given to Visitor Centres, the Province is providing $250,000 and $150,000 is from Tourism BC. British Columbia's Visitor Centres serve the primary role of offering visitor information, assistance and advice to individuals visiting the province.
“Visitor Centres are essential to ensuring positive tourism experiences for our travellers,” said Rod Harris, president and CEO of Tourism BC. “Our research also shows that these centres can help extend travellers’ visits and also increase their spending by providing useful trustworthy counselling.”
“Visitor Centres are focused on making sure visitors are aware of everything B.C. has to offer so they are encouraged to stay here longer and to come back again,” said John Winter, president and CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce. “This additional funding is an important part of supporting a key aspect of business that is instrumental in fuelling the tourism industry.”
There are 109 community-based visitor centres throughout British Columbia that are owned and operated by sponsor organizations such as economic development offices, chambers of commerce, tourism associations, convention bureaus and historical societies. In 2007, more than three million visitors were served with a wide range of personalized travel services from visitor information counsellors.
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Communications Manager 250 387-2799 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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