August Tourism Stats Available

There were four per cent more visitors to Nova Scotia and two per cent more room nights sold in August over the same month last year.

Room nights sold varied in the regions with a 26 per cent increase on the Northumberland Shore and an 11 per cent decrease in the Annapolis Valley compared with August 2006.

"We're a little ahead of 2006 with nearly 1.5 million visitors so far this year and although some areas are having difficulties, overall we're seeing growth in accommodations activity," said Len Goucher, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "We're looking forward to a strong fall. With great events like Celtic Colours, Nova Scotia will be a busy destination again this year, especially after our recent promotions at Celtic music festivals in Milwaukee and Chicago."

There were five per cent or 2,800 fewer American visitors over August 2006. This decrease is in line with the national trend. Statistics Canada recently reported that U.S. visitation to Canada is at its second lowest level since recording began in 1972.

There were 11 per cent or 1,500 fewer visitors from other countries.

These decreases were offset by a 19 per cent increase in Canadian visitors. That's 48,400 more Canadians visiting Nova Scotia in August compared with the same month last year.

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 September are expected to be released in late October.