CELEBRATE SUMMER IN ONTARIO

It’s Tourism Week in Ontario and celebrations are taking place across the province. Tourism Week in Ontario also highlights the economic and social value of tourism. Throughout the week, each Ontario Travel Information Centre will feature travel-related displays and a series of special events in partnership with their local tourism industry partners. The displays and events are designed to help promote the destinations and all that Ontario has to offer travellers this summer and all year round. Ontarians can visit an Ontario Travel Information Centre to plan their ideal summer vacation. When Ontarians visit a travel centre from May 17 to September 2, 2013, they can also enter to win more than $6,000 in prizes, as well as free passes and attractions coupons. The province’s minister of tourism, culture and sport, Michael Chan said: “From our beautiful provincial parks to exciting festivals and events, Ontario is a premier summer destination for people of all ages to explore and experience. I encourage everyone to get out and discover the wealth of unique tourism experiences our province has to offer, allowing families to create memories that will last a lifetime while also helping to support local economies.” Tourism in Ontario generates more than $23 billion in economic activity and supports over 300,000 direct and indirect jobs. The province welcomes almost 18 million out-of-province visitors annually. For more, go to http://www.ontariotravel.net or http://www.ontariotravel.net/mobile .