Visit California brings its message of appreciation to Canada

Visit California is extending a hand of friendship to people in this country, with officials from the tourism body saying that tensions between Ottawa and Washington won’t curtail a warm welcome those of us who choose California for a vacation destination can expect.

Ryan Becker of Visit California’s head office acknowledged those tensions during a Nov 4 Toronto Visit California presentation.

“We’re essentially on a diplomatic mission,” he said. “The core of this message is that Canadians are greatly appreciated. At the end of the day, we think we can break through this complicated environment.”

Last year saw Canadian tourists inject $3.7 billion into the state economy, with that figure expected to drop to $3 billion this year amid a decline in travel to the United States.

But Becker said revenues from Canadian visitations are expected to reach $3.2 billion next year and $3.6 billion in 2027, adding he believes the “passion around the rhetoric is starting to wane.”

Canada continues to be a “vital market,” he continued.

Becker also acknowledged that the currency exchange is cutting into the number of Canadians wanting to visit the U.S.

He said California’s appeal is heightened in part by an “embarrassment of riches” on the sporting front that will culminate in Los Angeles again hosting the Summer Olympics in 2028.

Becker — who labelled California the “ultimate playground” — reported that it’s the No. 1 travel destination in the United States.

He said tourism authorities are also promoting the state as a great family travel destination, and also said visitors will find plenty of available road trips, with road trips being “iconic” of the state.