April Tourism Stats Available

The number of visitors to Nova Scotia was down seven per cent in April, about 10,000 fewer visitors, over the same month last year while room nights sold were up four per cent.

"Year to date, we're holding fairly steady and we're eager to see how the whole season develops as we continue to roll out our new marketing campaign," said Len Goucher, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "This month, we went to Boston to promote our shared genealogical connections to bring more visitors to Nova Scotia this year, and we're in Ottawa right now using our cuisine and wine as the draw."

Room nights sold varied in the regions in April, with a 29 per cent increase in Cape Breton and a 12 per cent decrease on the Northumberland Shore.

There were one per cent fewer American visitors, which represents just under less than 100 fewer people over April 2006. There were 37 per cent more visitors from other countries, which is about 700 more people. The number of people traveling to Nova Scotia by road decreased 11 per cent, while air visitation was up two per cent.

An increased focus on targeting cities like Ottawa and Boston that have direct air access to Nova Scotia is a key part of the new tourism plan developed through the Tourism Partnership Council. Visitors continue to be encouraged to visit by road and ferry as well.

Nova Scotia's comprehensive system for reporting tourism statistics includes counting overnight visitors -- excluding Nova Scotia residents -- at all entry points to the province and gathering the number of room nights sold from all licensed accommodation operators.

Detailed tourism statistics can be found on the Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage website at www.gov.ns.ca/dtc/pubs/insights . Statistics for May are expected to be released in early July.