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Six tips for anyone travelling within the Atlantic Bubble and looking to visit the Halifax Regional Municipality.

July 2, 2020 – Halifax, Nova Scotia: Atlantic Canadians can officially travel anywhere in the four Atlantic provinces without having to self-isolate beginning tomorrow, July 3, 2020. The Halifax region, which offers a variety of historical, cultural, retail, and outdoor experiences, is excited to welcome friends and family back to a city on the edge of nature and are offering Atlantic Canadians advice on what they may expect to keep them safe.

“The Atlantic bubble will create new opportunities for tourism operators and travellers to promote and embrace the special qualities that set our slice of Canada apart,” said Mayor Mike Savage. “Summer is waiting for you here in Halifax, across Nova Scotia and throughout the entire Atlantic region, so please make plans to visit and support all of the local businesses that contribute to the character and vibrancy of our communities.”

The Halifax Regional Municipality has approximately 4,000 businesses that serve visitors, each from a different sector, such as retail, restaurant and hospitality, hotel and accommodations as well as attractions. Each sector has taken measures and implemented changes to adhere to public health and safety protocol, which has helped the region flatten the curve.

“Halifax continues to be a safe destination because we took swift action and followed public health advice,” said Ross Jefferson, president and CEO of Discover Halifax. “This is still our focus as we get ready to welcome people back to rediscover the heart and soul of Halifax, and when you visit Halifax today, you’re going to find that some things have changed, but a lot has stayed the same.”

Discover Halifax offers the following advice for anyone getting ready to visit, as well as information to help make your vacation in Halifax safe and enjoyable:

  • What to pack – in addition to the usual summer essentials like sunscreen and bug spray, travellers may want to pack disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, and facial masks. Some venues, due to their size, or for added safety, may ask you to wear a mask, if you can. These items are also available for purchase at many retailers and venues.
  • Facial coverings – Travellers coming through the Halifax Stanfield International Airport will be required to wear a mask or face covering at all times and it is also strongly encouraged when you take public transportation. Servers will now be wearing smiles as well as facial coverings to protect patrons.
  • Book online – many businesses have adapted their model and offer online reservations and / or payment. This is a great option to reduce contact and reserve your spot.
  • Confirm ahead – before you visit a business or attraction you may want to call ahead to confirm their hours or any special safety requirements. They would be happy to tell you what they are doing to keep you safe.
  • If you’re feeling unwell – if travellers are feeling unwell, they should remain home and come to visit when they can better enjoy the region. If they start to feel sick while they are visiting, they can contact 811 for health assistance.
  • Find inspiration and support local – make the most of your trip to the Halifax region by visiting HeartSoulHalifax.com for vacation ideas, and listings of local restaurants and shops that are open for business.

Quick Facts:

  • Based on testing as of July 1, 2020, Nova Scotia has two active cases of COVID-19.
  • With an area of 5,500 km2 and 150 kms of stunning coastline, the Halifax region has something for everyone to experience.
  • The Halifax region consists of nine district regions, each offering a variety of unique experiences – from urban nightlight and craft breweries to white-sand beaches and epic lobster dinners.
  • Halifax is the culinary capital of Atlantic Canada and takes pride in using locally-sourced produce and ingredients.
  • In 2018, Halifax was named Destination on the Rise in TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards.

Additional Resources:

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About Discover Halifax

Discover Halifax is non-profit, membership-based marketing and sales organization in partnership with the Halifax regional government, the Hotel Association of Nova Scotia and participating industry members. Since its inception in 2002, Discover Halifax’s goal is to promote Halifax as a destination of choice for leisure and business travellers.

Halifax welcomes 5.3 million overnight stays each year, who spend over $1 billion. Halifax alone represents over 54% of all visitation to Nova Scotia, and 34,000 people are employed in the tourism industry.

Media Contact:

Monica MacLean, Communications Director
Discover Halifax
902-401-2308