HRM tourism bounces back in 2022, passing the record set in 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 12, 2023
HALIFAX, NS – After experiencing a slow start due to the spread of the COVID-19 Omicron variant earlier in the year, 2022 proved to be a record-breaker for tourism in the Halifax Regional Municipality, according to details released today by Discover Halifax.
The total number of rooms sold in traditional hotels in 2022 reached nearly 1,532,000, up five per cent from the previous high in 2019. The new record was set despite the impact of the Omicron variant on first quarter results. With 2019 as the benchmark, 2022 Q1 was down 17 per cent before growing seven per cent in both Q2 and Q3. And with Q4 finishing strong at 15 per cent higher, the future is looking bright for a sector that greatly felt the impact of COVID-19 restrictions.
“After a few difficult years, we’re very happy to see visitors returning to the Halifax region, and our tourism and hospitality industry vibrant once again,” said Discover Halifax President and CEO, Ross Jefferson. “Whether you were taking in a community festival or one of the world-class sporting events in our region, I think you could feel the energy was back. Although some businesses are still facing challenges, such as staffing shortages, we're committed to working with our members and partners to find solutions, and I can’t wait to see what 2023 brings.”
With unique experiences in both urban and rural areas of the region, there is truly something for everyone. Strategic investments in marketing created opportunities to share the Halifax region as a safe, vibrant destination for visitors. And leveraging funds from partners allowed Discover Halifax to amplify into markets outside Atlantic Canada, spreading the word about all our region has to offer via 16 different campaigns.
“When we launched the Integrated Tourism Master Plan in 2021, the goal was to lead with a community-first approach to maximize tourism benefits for the 210 communities in the Halifax region,” said Jefferson. “Discover Halifax remains committed to those goals and continues to shine the spotlight on the diversity of the region.”
In addition to leisure visitors, 2022 also saw the return of events, conventions, and cruise ships to Halifax. In a typical year, all these visitors combined spend an estimated $1.3 billion in the Halifax region.
-30-
Looking for a reason to plan a trip? If you know Halifax, you know that there are hundreds of reasons to visit, but we’ve made it easy with a list of 10 amazing experiences in our region this year.