January and February Tourism Statistics Available

Nova Scotia welcomed 191,400 visitors between January and February, nine per cent fewer than the same period in 2008.

"As we expected, the tourism industry continues to face challenges as a result of the economic downturn," said Bill Dooks, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

"It is very early in the season to speculate on what the year will bring, but it is important for us to focus on providing the best experience possible to all visitors. We are well-positioned to do exactly that with a solid strategy and strong relationships with industry partners."

Room nights sold for January and February were down five per cent compared to the same months in 2008. Results varied in regions across the province, however, the Eastern Shore and Yarmouth and Acadian Shore regions saw increases in the month of February 2009 compared to 2008.

The number of people travelling to Nova Scotia by road during the two months decreased by four per cent, while air visitation was down 17 per cent compared to 2008.

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 licensed accommodations 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 March are expected to be released in early May.