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Ontario government exempts farmers' markets and community groups from rigid regulations
Public Education to Support Food Safety
TORONTO The McGuinty government is ensuring that
farmers' markets and community groups will be able to operate as they have for
decades, while at the same time protecting the public's health, Health and
Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced June 15.
The government has exempted farmers' markets from rules that apply to
restaurants and other commercial establishments through amendments to
Regulation 562 (Food Premises) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act
(HPPA). This will ensure that farmers' markets are not held to unrealistic
standards developed for very different types of retail establishments like
grocery stores and restaurants.
"We know Ontarians grow, sell and enjoy eating locally produced foods,"
said Smitherman. "We have heard the concerns raised by people who operate
farmers' markets and run community events. The exemption we're creating allows
them the freedom to continue their proud tradition of providing a wide range
of high quality goods to the public."
The government has also expanded the exemption in the existing Food
Premises Regulation to include religious organizations, service clubs and
fraternal organizations where events such as picnics, fairs and church suppers
are open to the public.
The exemption does not apply to laws prohibiting the sale of uninspected
meats, unpasteurized milk or ungraded eggs.
"We know that farm market vendors and organizers of community events
believe in food safety and want to provide food that is wholesome and safe,"
Smitherman said. "That's why we will be working with these groups to promote
food safety. At the same time we will ensure that public health officials have
the authority they need to safeguard the public's health."
Beginning this summer the ministry will undertake a $1.5 million
education campaign to widely promote safe food handling and preparation
practices at farmers' markets and community-based events.
Local public health officials will continue to investigate complaints,
and take appropriate measures if a health hazard is identified. Public health
inspectors will also be working with farmers' markets and local community
groups to provide outreach and advice on food safety.
This is just the latest example of how the McGuinty government is on the
side of Ontario families concerned about their health. Other initiatives
include:
<<
- The creation of 150 Family Health Teams which will improve access to
primary care for more than 2.5 million Ontarians in 112 communities
- An additional $110 million in funding for public health mandatory
and related programs as part of our commitment of covering 75% of
public health funding by 2007
- Providing $75 million over three years to create an additional 22
Community Health Centres and 17 satellites to improve access to the
full range of primary care services, including health promotion and
disease prevention
- The Ontario Universal Influenza Immunization Program, which
provides free influenza vaccine to all individuals aged 6 months or
older who live, work or attend school in Ontario.
>>
This initiative is part of the McGuinty government's plan to build a
health care system that reflects the needs of patients and communities, and
will keep Ontarians healthy for generations to come.
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Waterloo Regional Councillors to explore Region’s downtown cores
Waterloo Region – Members of Regional Council will take the Grand by Design: Urban Experience Tour through the Region’s downtown cores on June 14, 2006 to explore various aspects of urban design and their relationship to thriving and livable cities.
Regional and City staff will guide Councillors through uptown Waterloo, downtown Kitchener and downtown Cambridge in an effort to raise their awareness about the specific characteristics, opportunities and challenges of the Region’s urban centres. As the Province moves forward with its Places to Grow Proposed Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the Region’s cores will evolve to include further downtown developments that are compact and transit-supportive.
The tour was first developed for members of the Regional Growth Management Strategy/Rapid Transit Public Advisory Committee to update them on the many issues being considered as part of the Regional Growth Management Strategy (RGMS). The Committee is chaired by Councillor Jean Haalboom.
“The public advisory committee is eager to share their experiences and observations with the Councillors,” Councillor Haalboom says. “Walking the downtown can be a real wake-up call to see the opportunities and obstacles influencing the health of our downtown cores.”
Councillors, equipped with digital cameras and measuring tapes, will tour the downtown areas from 1 to 6 p.m. The tour will highlight examples of good urban design as well as areas that represent opportunities for future improvement.
This Urban Experience Tour is the kick-off event for the Region’s summer tour series beginning in July. These tours will highlight the goals of the RGMS – building vibrant urban places, enhancing our environment, protecting our countryside and providing greater transportation choice. Councillor Haalboom invites residents to participate in the summer tour series and have their say.
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TEN REASONS WHY TRAVEL AGENTS SHOULD SELL VIA RAIL CANADA
VIA Rail provides a picture-perfect prelude: Travelling to your
destination aboard VIA Rail provides a refreshing introduction to
that region’s natural beauty. Is there a better mood-setter for the
majestic mountains of Jasper National Park than gazing out – and up –
at them through a 360-degree domed viewing car aboard the Canadian,
VIA’s western transcontinental train? Or the rolling hills and lush
countryside of the Maritimes from VIA’s eastern Ocean service from
Montreal to Halifax?
Train travel is classically romantic: There’s just something magical
about riding the rails. Gazing out the window at ever changing
landscape; clinking wine glasses and enjoying a delicious meal as the
world rolls by; or snuggling up under a duvet in your cozy sleeping
compartment and being gently rocked to sleep by the rhythmic swaying
of the train. Journeys on board VIA’s trains offer an opportunity to
explore Canada like no other.
VIA Rail is convenient: Along the heavily-populated swath of Ontario
and Quebec provinces known as Canada’s Corridor, VIA’s
downtown-to-downtown services make sense for leisure travellers and
maximizes time for those travelling on business. Stations are centrally
located and easily accessible, and travel times are less than you
might think: From Montreal, travel to Ottawa in less then two hours,
and to Quebec City in less than three. Travel between Toronto and
Montreal in just over four hours.
VIA Rail is an economical use of travellers’ time: No travel time to
airports in the suburbs. No hour-long, hassling security lines. And
once on board, no need to stop doing what you’re doing. Keep
listening to your iPod, watching your portable DVD player, or even
surfing the Internet – that’s right: wireless Internet access is now
available during your journey in all premier-class trips in the
Ontario-Quebec Corridor. In all, VIA Rail allows passengers to make
the most of their travel time.
VIA Rail offers serious savings: From children, to seniors to
families, there always seems to be a great deal to be had when
travelling aboard VIA Rail Canada – and we’re not talking about a
couple of bucks here and there. From late October and well into the
spring, VIA’s off-peak fares offer savings of 35-40% to passengers
travelling in most sleeper class services. And year-round, VIA’s
Senior’s Companion Fare allows passengers age 60 and over who
purchase a ticket in Comfort class (Economy) at the regular senior’s
fare, to bring along a companion of any age for free. For VIA 1 and
sleeper classes, your travel companion receives a 75% discount off
the regular adult fare. There are no restrictions on the age of the
companion; be they spouse, friend or grandchild.
VIA Rail offers excellent meals: Dining aboard any of VIA Rail
Canada’s services is always a pleasurable experience. On featured
services such as the Vancouver-Jasper-Toronto Canadian and the
Montreal-Moncton-Halifax Ocean trains, the premium fare on board
includes all meals. Delicious regional cuisine is featured and to
complement meals a selection of award-winning, all-Canadian wines are
available for purchase. Travelling between cities in the
Ontario-Quebec Corridor? VIA 1 Class provides delicious meals and
impeccable at-your-seat service, ensuring that passengers arrive at
their destination relaxed and refreshed.
VIA Rail’s Ontario-Quebec Corridor services are ideal for daytrips:
You’ve been asked that question countless times: “What are my options
for a daytrip from _____?” If your client’s destination is any place
in the Ontario-Quebec Corridor, VIA Rail gives you a great answer.
Close destination proximity, centrally located stations and
early-morning/late evening departures make for a relaxing, unrushed
daytrip. VIA Rail daytrips allow travelers to sit back, relax and
enjoy the journey at the same time they’d otherwise be picking up
rental cars and unfolding roadmaps.
Train travel is an intriguingly sociable experience: Especially on
longer journeys, the relaxing experience of having no immediate
obligations or place to be tends to put people into a pleasantly
chatty mood. One minute, passengers are gazing out at Canada’s
beautiful wilderness from one of VIA’s signature domed viewing cars;
the next, they’re exchanging life stories, forging new friendships
with folks from all walks of life.
VIA Rail can accommodate all travelers, including those with special
needs: No matter the special need – from special dietary
requirements to medical and mobility needs, VIA’s well-trained staff
are ready to welcome all passengers on board and to treat them
professionally with dignity and respect. In fact, many travelers find
that train travel best suits their wants and needs.
And of course, the 10th reason:
VIA Rail is commissionable to travel agents: VIA Rail Canada cares
about building healthy, mutually beneficial relationships with travel
agents and agencies. That’s why VIA offers a 5% commission for travel
agents for any VIA product.
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itravel2000 Helps Consumers Connect With Unique Accommodations
Toronto - itravel2000 announced June 12 the launch of its Travel Inventory Manager (TIM) system on its itravelcanada.ca portal featuring small and medium-sized Canadian travel product providers. This revolutionary software system will allow even the smallest suppliers to transact live bookings online with consumers worldwide.
"This levels the playing field for the little guys and gives Canadian consumers the ability to search and book unique accommodations in Canada." stated Jonathan Carroll, President of itravel2000. "This is not a request-by-email system. It is fully live, bookable inventory. Now even the smallest or remotest Canadian B&B, country inn, lodge or motel can be booked by customers worldwide - just like the big chains."
A variety of Ontario accommodations are currently being offered as "Featured Accommodations" on the itravelcanada.ca portal. These include a six-room bed & breakfast with uniquely named and furnished rooms which reflect aspects of local history. A Victorian mansion in the heart of downtown Toronto offers reasonably priced housekeeping units within walking distance of the city's major attractions. Two cottage resorts provide the perfect locations for family getaways and reunions. In Muskoka, a waterfront country inn offers state-of-the-art spa facilities. There's even a motel and secluded cabin that are located on picturesque walking trails beside a provincial park. By highlighting these one-of-a-kind accommodations in an easy-to-book online format, consumers can now access Canada's most unique and interesting properties and create their own vacation getaways.
Background:
itravel2000.com is Canada's largest online travel retailer and operates itravelcanada.ca, a web portal dedicated to the promotion and sales of Canadian destinations and travel products. itravelcanada.ca is supported by a customer care centre staffed by 25 Canadian product specialists.
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Tourism Week promotes the benefits of the tourism industry
Tourism Week is being celebrated from June 5 to 11, 2006 in regions across Canada including Guelph and Wellington to promote the economic benefits that the tourism industry. In Guelph and Wellington County, tourism is a 252.6 million dollar industry that drives economic prosperity. Business growth was supported thorough the 2,511 people that the tourism industry kept working. Tourism generated $109 million in taxes for all levels of government to help fund a variety of public priorities.
The promotion of Tourism Week in Guelph and Wellington County has been co-ordinated by City of Guelph Tourism Services using a print ad campaign in news media throughout the region. The focus of the campaign has been to inform residents about the benefits of tourism, to promote the availability of the 2006 Visiting Guelph and Wellington visitor guide, and to highlight the many events and attractions that people can see and do in their own community this summer.
Tourism Week was launched with a Tourism display at Stone Road Mall where free visitor guides with attraction, outdoor, shopping, restaurant, accommodation and event information were distributed to shoppers for the day. The 2006 guide has received a complete makeover from previous years and now highlights a new magazine size, a modern layout and design, new reader features and more photos. Additional copies of the 2006 Visiting Guelph and Wellington visitor guide are available by calling the Guelph Visitor Information Centre at 1-800-334-4519.
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2006 Tapestry Celebrations Kick Off Friday, June 9
Kitchener - Tapestry, Kitchener's popular annual Celebration of Diversity, is back this year with more than two weeks of exciting programs, festivals and events from around the world. The festival begins on Friday, June 9.
This year's activities span June 9-25, and include more than 12 events - with additional displays and exciting information - anchored by the 39th annual KW Multicultural Festival.
Some events are free and some require tickets. Highlights of the 2006 Tapestry celebrations include:
Our World Festival of Music Premiere Concerts
Friday, June 9 (featuring Autorickshaw) and Friday, June 15, 7:30 p.m. (featuring Muna Mingole, Blue Flame of Cameroon), Registry Theatre; Thursday, June 22, (featuring Sashar Zarif and Maryem Tollar), 7:30 p.m., King Street Theatre, tickets available at Centre in the Square box office.
Free mid-day concerts are also scheduled for June 12, 13 and 14 and June 19, 20 and 21 for Civic Square in front of Kitchener City Hall.
Latitudes Storytelling Festival
Saturday, June 10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
Trinity United Church, 74 Frederick St.
Children's area, short-story-in-a-day contest, the Persian Project, Global Coffee house, workshops and Literary Marketplace. Admission is free.
South Asian Cooking With Flair Demonstration
June 10, 11a.m.-1 p.m., Your Kitchener Market (Upper Level)
A free demonstration of South Asian Cuisine featuring dishes from India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Ceylon.
The Arpillera Project
Monday, June 12 - Sunday, June 25, Kitchener City Hall
On a piece of burlap, women who have recently arrived in Canada sew colorful fabric scraps which are arranged to tell a story. Admission is free.
Citizenship Court/Seniors' Multicultural Day
Wednesday, June 14, Your Kitchener Market
Join New Canadians as they take the oath of citizenship. Enjoy the Lion Dance and Tai Chi demonstrations. Admission is free.
A Dance Through Arabia Bellydance Gala
Thursday, June 15, 8 p.m., Victoria Park Pavilion
Follow the dancers of Haft Vadi Bellydance Studio as they perform ancient dances of the cities and villages of the Middle East. For tickets, call 519-568-7139.
Legion of Memory
June 16-18 and June 23-25, 8 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays)
Former Legion building on Ontario Street.
The MT Space and the University of Waterloo Canadian Centre for Art and Technology presents stories of war refugees who have come to live in the area from the former Yugoslavia. Tickets available at the door for $10.
Cafe Cabaret
Saturday, June 17, 7 p.m., Victoria Park
A ticketed gala evening under a big top tent featuring the music of Grupo Taller, Chilean Marcelo Puente and the 11-piece Cuban band, Son Ache. Tickets available at Casa Salsa and Northern Roast at Your Kitchener Market, Earthwinds and 10,000 Village in Waterloo, or by calling
519-886-6150.
Nharo! From Kitchener to the Kalahari: Adventures in the Desert
Tuesday, June 20, 7:30 p.m., Kitchener City Hall, Council Chambers
Nharo! Founder Paul Wellhauser will share some of the challenges and triumphs of working with Africa's Kalahari bushmen. Free admission.
National Aboriginal Day: Children's Gathering
Wednesday, June 21, 4-7 p.m., Victoria Park Island
Celebrate with our local First Nations' people with storytelling by Aaron Bell, demonstrations by the White Pines dancers, food and much more. Free admission.
Silk Road Bazaar & Marilyn Batte Art Exhibit
Friday, June 23, Saturday, June 24, Your Kitchener Market
This year's free bazaar focuses on alternative therapies from various cultures across the historic Silk Road trade route from the Middle East to China. Free admission.
39th Annual Multicultural Festival
Saturday, June 24, Noon-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 25, Noon-8p.m.
Victoria Park
This much-anticipated event wraps up Tapestry 2006 with two days of artisans' handiwork, food and music from across the community. Free admission.
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Province of Ontario and City of Toronto Partner to Promote Ontario Tourism
Government Support Enhances Tourism Information for Visitors
TORONTO - Ontario Tourism Minister Jim Bradley today joined Toronto Mayor David Miller and representatives of Tourism Toronto and the CN Tower at the Ontario Travel Information Centre at Dundas and Yonge to launch three new initiatives to encourage more visitors to discover the city and the province.
As part of Canadian Tourism Week, they unveiled a mobile travel unit, a
permanent Toronto City Desk at the downtown Toronto Ontario Travel Information
Centre, and Toronto tourism maps to be distributed at information kiosks and
concierge desks in city hotels. They also celebrated the first anniversary of
TAPintoTO!, Toronto's volunteer greeter program.
"Toronto is one of Ontario's main tourism destinations and an important
gateway to the rest of the province for many visitors," said Bradley. "There
is a huge potential for more tourism activity. These new initiatives that
increase the amount of tourism information available will help get our
visitors to do more and spend more." More than half of Toronto's overnight
visitors come to see friends and relatives and go shopping. But only 10 to 20
per cent go to a park, see a historic site, visit a museum or art gallery.
"This is a great city and the 19 million visitors to it each year confirm
that fact," said Miller. "I am delighted that so many people, other orders of
government and private businesses are working together this summer to help
these visitors discover all that Toronto offers. We will send them back home
feeling that their money was well spent, and their visit here was far too
short!"
Support for this Toronto initiative is the latest way the McGuinty
government is working to help Ontario families that look to the tourism
industry for other jobs and opportunities. Other initiatives include:
- Arranging the North American premiere of the Chinese Lantern Festival
at Ontario Place, expected to attract more than 300,000 visitors this
summer
- Supporting the new musical production The Lord of the Rings, expected
to bring $700 million a year in tourism benefits to Ontario
- Maintaining a province-wide system of Ontario Travel Information
Centres that provided tourism information to 1.8 million visitors
last year
- A $4 million multi-media advertising campaign in U.S. border states,
Quebec and Ontario to promote the summer tourism season.
www.tourism.gov.on.ca
www.ontariotravel.net
Backgrounder
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TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTRES
WELCOME VISITORS TO ONTARIO
Eighteen Ontario Travel Information Centres (OTICs) provide one-stop
travel services to visitors while supporting regional tourism by marketing and
promoting local tourism attractions and services. They are strategically
located around the province.
In 2005, 1.8 million tourists visited the OTICs, where knowledgeable,
bilingual staff provide practical information on what to see and do in Ontario
and offer customized trip plans for visitors.
Operated by the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation
(OTMPC), each Travel Information Centre builds alliances with local industry
operators to enhance consumers' choice of Ontario products and encourage them
to extend their holiday experience.
All Ontario Travel Centres provide information on accommodation,
attractions, maps and guides, destination brochures, shopping, touring, and
festivals and events. In addition, they sell souvenirs and merchandise; some
of the centres sell theatre tickets. There are 11 centres that provide
currency exchange. The Barrie Travel Information Centre has a broadcast
facility used to promote events and activities throughout the year.
The Toronto Ontario Travel Information Centre in the Atrium on Bay, which
has a currency exchange, sells theatre tickets, souvenirs and merchandise. It
will permanently house a City of Toronto desk designed to promote the city's
activities, events and programs. This desk is operated in partnership with the
City of Toronto.
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IMPROVED INFRASTRUCTURE AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION NEEDED TO ENSURE UK TOURISM MAINTAINS GLOBAL POSITION AND BENEFITS FROM LONDON 2012 GAMES, ACCORDING TO WTTC AND ACCENTURE RESEARCH
WTTC research shows United Kingdom is the world’s sixth largest Travel & Tourism economy – accounting for £182 billion in 2006
LONDON, UK - 2 June 2006 – At a special meeting convened by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today, industry leaders discussed the need to capture the considerable growth opportunities which have emerged for UK Travel & Tourism. According to research by WTTC and Accenture, Travel & Tourism represents 9.4 per cent of the UK’s gross domestic product and accounts for 2.6 million jobs.
In 2006, global Travel & Tourism is expected to grow by 4.6 per cent, continuing at a rate of 4.2 per cent per annum over the next ten years. Globalization and increasingly strong economies in many developed and developing countries, including China and India, along with improved accessibility and information for travellers continue to stimulate tourism growth. UK Travel & Tourism Demand, currently sixth largest in the world, is expected to grow at 3.1 per cent per annum over the next ten years.
Jean-Claude Baumgarten, WTTC President said, “Our research shows UK Travel & Tourism is in a strong position and is poised to do well over the coming decade. However, there is no room for complacency. As more and more governments appreciate Travel & Tourism as a key social and economic driver, competitive stakes will rise.”
WTTC’s Tourism Satellite Accounting (TSA) research is undertaken annually for 174 countries with research partner Oxford Economic Forecasting (OEF). Since 2006, the research has been sponsored by Accenture.
According to WTTC, the UK’s ability to take advantage of the upcoming 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games depends on immediate and synchronized action by the private and public sectors to address key issues.
Mr Baumgarten highlighted the fact that the UK, particularly London, is perceived by many travellers to be an expensive destination, and he called for a coordinated and well-funded marketing effort to assure visitors that they will receive value for their money. He also emphasized that better regulation, intelligent taxation and a wider understanding of Travel & Tourism’s economic value amongst ministries and Regional Development Agencies would further support the industry’s growth.
“Most importantly, if the full potential of Travel & Tourism growth in the UK is to be realized over the coming years, it is crucial that infrastructure is developed accordingly. This includes airport capacity, accommodation stock and transport infrastructure,” continued Mr Baumgarten.
Talking about the impact of the 2012 Games on UK Travel & Tourism, Mr Baumgarten said, “It is clear that the Olympics will provide a huge opportunity for the UK. Nevertheless, clear planning and resource allocation are necessary to ensure that an Olympic legacy for tourism is created.”
Paul Deighton, Chief Executive of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) said “Hosting the Games in 2012 is a huge opportunity for the UK tourism trade. It will be a catalyst for the industry as a worldwide global event, with millions of visitors expected to the UK. The event will showcase London and the UK and we will provide a fantastic welcome for the world. Hosting the Games is a once in a lifetime opportunity that should not pass us by.”
“Insight into how and where the Travel & Tourism industry is growing is critical for companies that want to improve their performance and take advantage of that growth,” said Alex Cruz, Managing Partner, Accenture’s European Travel Services practice. “As all segments – airlines, lodging companies and tour operators – work to improve their bottom lines, having usable data about both the industry and their own business is essential. The travel industry’s high performers will be those that can use industry and customer data to make meaningful decisions.”
Held on board the Silver Cloud cruise ship, today’s special WTTC meeting signified the growing stake of cruise lines in the UK’s Travel & Tourism economy. Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Chairman, Silversea Cruises, commented, “Silversea Cruises is delighted to host this prestigious event. Cruising is one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors offering a diverse, high-quality and innovative experience for more than 15 million passengers a year. The United Kingdom is now the world’s second largest cruise market, with more than 1 million passengers in 2005.”
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LAST CHANCE TO BOOK WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT PACKAGE INCLUDING FREE DINING
~ Must be booked by June 4th! ~
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Guests eager to experience a Disney magical vacation later this summer at Walt Disney World Resort can take advantage of a specially discounted Walt Disney World Resort package. It features great savings for guests arriving most nights August 13 through Sept. 30, 2006.
For a limited time only, guests can purchase this 5-night, 6-day Magic Your Way Package including hotel and Theme Park tickets and get a free Disney Dining Plan included for US$435 per adult and US$175 per child (based on adult double occupancy at a Disney Value Resort in a standard room). That works out to a savings of more than US$190 per adult.
This offer includes select Disney Value Resort accommodations, a Magic Your Way Base ticket and the Disney Dining Plan. With Disney's Dining Plan, guests can choose from more than 100 participating restaurants. For each night of their package, guests will enjoy:
One (1) table-service meal including appetizer, entrée, dessert (except at breakfast), non-alcoholic beverage and gratuity/service charge
One (1) quick-service meal including entrée and non-alcoholic beverage
One (1) snack such as frozen ice-cream novelty, box of popcorn, piece of whole fruit or a medium soft drink
In addition to all the benefits and convenience of staying on property at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, Disney resort guests will enjoy exclusive Extra Magic Hours at all four Walt Disney World theme parks (daily rotating schedule) and Disney's Magical Express service -- complimentary round-trip motor coach transportation and luggage delivery from Orlando International Airport to Disney resort hotels.
The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings is based on the non-discounted price for the same package. Child rate applies only when occupying room with an adult. Tickets are for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. No group rates or other discounts apply. This offer excludes alcoholic beverages. Children ages 3-9 must choose from a children's menu when available. *The offer must be booked no later than June 4, 2006.
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Waterloo Region Tourism Industry Stakeholders
There is consensus within the tourism industry and municipal administration in Waterloo Region that a need exists to improve the delivery of tourism services in Waterloo Region in the form of a Regional Destination Marketing Organization.
Industry feedback is critical! Based on your input during the following sessions, a report will be brought back to the Municipal Councils in late June including recommendations regarding establishing a new Tourism Organization.
Discussion Paper
UPDATE: Moving forward,the CAO's have set two dates to meet with representatives from the tourism industry.
Your attendance is requested at either of the following meetings:
a) Wednesday, June 7th in Kitchener
Location: City of Kitchener Council Chambers, 200 King Street West
Time: 7pm to 9 p.m.
Note: Beverages will be served.
b) Thursday, June 8th in Cambridge:
Location: Cambridge Holiday Inn, Halls B & C
Time: 3pm to 5 p.m.
Note: Beverages will be served.
Focus groups will be formed to initiate discussions resulting from the recommendations in the attached discussion paper.
Focus Group Categories:
#1 Accommodation (Hotels, motels, B&B's, Conference Centres)
#2 Shopping
#3 Dining
#4 Services ( Relocation, Specialty, Media, Transportation)
#5 Things To Do: Profit
#6 Things To do - Not for Profit
Please email your RSVP directly to Brenda Grimm @ brenda.grimm@city.kitchener.on.ca: <mailto:brenda.grimm@city.kitchener.on.ca> by Friday May 26 indicating the following:
1) which meeting you are able to attend
2) which focus group you wish to participate in.
Feel free to pass this invitation along to any businesses that would benefit from attending these meetings.
Any questions regarding the meetings should be directed to the Chief Administrator Officer in your municipality. Their contact information is available if needed.
Contact:
Brenda Grimm
City of Kitchener
Email: brenda.grimm@city.kitchener.on.ca: <mailto:brenda.grimm@city.kitchener.on.ca>
B: 519-745-3536; CELL: 616-3246; FAX: 519-745-3218 |
Restaurants, caterers and taverns March 2006
Total estimated sales of the restaurants, caterers and taverns industry reached $3.3 billion in March, an 8.0% increase over March 2005. (Data are neither seasonally adjusted, nor adjusted for inflation). Favourable economic conditions and particularly mild weather in March are amongst the factors that have contributed to this result.
The largest year-over-year increases, at the provincial level, were recorded in Saskatchewan (+15.3%), Alberta (+11.8%), British Columbia (+10.8%) and Quebec (+9.2%). Ontario, which has the largest provincial share of the industry in Canada with 39% of the food service industry sales in March 2006, recorded a year-over-year increase of 5.2%.
The year-over-year increase in sales, at the national level, was due to higher sales at limited service (+10.0%) and full service restaurants (+9.8%). These two sectors accounted for 86% of industry sales in March. Food service contractors also did well (+13.7%) and accounted for 6.4% of the industry sales in March 2006.
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OPENING WEEKEND Bingemans All Acitivites open for its 46th Season on Saturday
All of Bingemans activities are open this weekend to begin their 46th season of fun This weekend June 3 and June 4 activities include the wavepool, waterslides, Spray N Play, Mini-golf, Go Karts, Glenridge Golf, Bumper Boats, Batting Cages, Jumpai, Chaos, Water Wars, Midway Games.
Please check out www.bigsplash.ca website for additional details and hours of operation.
Need to Read Program â Bingemans participated with THE RECORD to encourage children to read with the Olympic Education Reading Program in the local classrooms and all of students received free BIG TICKET passes for use this Saturday and Sunday for their participation in the program. Congratulations to all of the students who participated and enjoy the weekend.
Emergency Services Appreciations Day Sunday June 4
A salute to our local Emergency Services including Fire, Police, Emergency Medial Professionals, Community Crisis Support Agencies and a free special display of emergency vehicles and services will be on display from 10 am to 4 pm. This is a fund raiser for the Victim Services of Waterloo Region. http://www.vswr.ca/
FUNWORX FIRST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
June 3 FUNWORX First Anniversary Celebrations - Great Gerard at 12:00pm (magic, face painting, clowns, balloon art for the kids) Chipper (meet and greet) at 1:00pm Plays and drama workshop at 7 pm
June 4 FUNWORX First Anniversary Celebrations - Great Gerard at 12:00pm (magic, face painting, clowns, balloon art for the kids) Chipper (meet and greet) at 1 pm, BIRTHDAY CAKE at 1 pm
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Canadian Travel Brands Couple for Long Term Partnership
Toronto - itravel2000 and MyTravel Group Canada which operates the Sunquest Vacations, Alba Tours and Holiday House wholesale travel brands announced the signing of a long term sales and marketing agreement that will see these two prominent travel providers within the Canadian industry offer consumers access to the latest travel offers and content.
Within the partnership itravel2000 will increase its content of Sunquest, Alba Tours and Holiday House travel products on its travel portal, itravel2000.com and through its marketing channels so Canadian consumers have access to all the latest offerings.
'By working closely with the well respected MyTravel Brands, we will be able to give the Canadian consumer greater information and confidence in booking their travel and vacations with itravel2000' stated Jonathan Carroll, president of itravel2000.
This partnership will include vacation packages, cruises and airfares for departures right across Canada. 'itravel2000's continued growth and position in the market gives MyTravel Canada a strategic distribution communication and sales channel to get our product to the consumer' stated Flemmimg Friisdahl, VP National sales MyTravel Canada.
This timely strategic partnership is in an effort to capitalize on Canadians who are utilizing the internet and web portals like itravel2000.com at record numbers to plan their travel.
About itravel2000
travel2000 is Canada's largest independent travel company and operates one of Canada's busy travel web portals www.itravel2000.com which is supported by over 100 sales agents in their call center located in Mississauga Ontario.
About MyTravel Group Canada
MyTravel Group plc is headquartered in the U.K. and operates the travel wholesale brands Sunquest, Alba Tours and Holiday House. MyTravel Group is Canada's number one travel provider, and Sunquest has been voted by the public as the winner of the Consumer's Choice Award for Excellence, for the fourth year in a row.
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MISSISSAUGA TOURISM LAUNCHES PILOT PROGRAM TO DRIVE TOURISM SPENDING
MISSISSAUGA – On May 30, Mississauga Tourism launched a ground breaking program that encourages visitors to explore the Mississauga area with a new SmartCard called the See More Mississauga card. Valued at $200 Canadian, the card gives the visitor the choice on how they wish to spend their $200 by providing a list of offers from participating attractions, spas and restaurants. The card is issued at no cost to visitors, and redemption is fully tracked through the card’s technology.
“We want to make it easier for visitors to get to know Mississauga, have them stay longer, and plan a return visit,” said Mississauga Tourism CEO Suzan Trabert McKay. “The See More Mississauga program is another reason why it just makes sense to choose Mississauga as your next destination for business or pleasure.”
Trabert McKay says the pilot phase of the program will distribute 20,000 See More Mississauga Cards to visitors attending trade shows, meetings and conventions, and sporting events. This program is the first of its kind in Canada and is made possible through partnerships with the City of Mississauga, Tourism Toronto and the Ontario Ministry of Tourism’s Investment and Development Office.
Mississauga Tourism is a membership-based association representing more than 300 tourism partners and affiliates located in Mississauga and in West Toronto. Offering over 10,000 competitively priced hotel rooms and over 1.5 million square feet in meeting and trade show space, Mississauga is accessible by car, plane and boat and is only 90 minutes from the U.S. border. As Toronto’s largest neighbour, Mississauga is Ontario’s shopping capital, home to Toronto Pearson International Airport and contains the best in class dining, theatre, gaming, and cultural attractions.
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Ontario Government Invests In Expanded Stratford Season Funding For First French-language Theatre Production In 50 Years
STRATFORD - The government of Ontario is supporting cultural tourism in the province by providing $105,000 to the Stratford Festival's Don Juan Project, Ontario's Culture Minister Caroline Di Cocco today announced at the Festival's season opening.
"The Stratford Festival has traditionally presented 12 to 14 productions
per season. This year, the festival will feature a fifteenth theatrical
production," said Di Cocco. "This grant will result in English- and
French-language productions of Molière's Don Juan, the Festival's first
French-language production in half a century."
The Ontario government's investment is through the Ontario Cultural
Attractions Fund (OCAF), a $20 million initiative to increase cultural tourism
by assisting Ontario's arts, cultural and heritage organizations to capitalize
on the potential of new and expanded events and activities, including
exhibitions, festivals and performances. The grant will foster a new creative
partnership between the Stratford Festival and Montreal's Théatre du Nouveau
Monde. At the end of Stratford's 2006 season, the French-language production
of Don Juan will move to the Théatre du Nouveau Monde's presentation facility
in Montreal.
"While the Stratford Festival itself is a major cultural tourism driver
for Ontario, the OCAF board is convinced that the addition of Don Juan in 2006
will attract new audience goers, and encourage the existing audience to stay
in town longer," commented Dr. Murray Frum, Chair of the OCAF Board.
The Stratford Festival creates, directly and indirectly, almost 3,300
jobs and $96 million in wages and salaries, and contributes an estimated
$125 million to the regional economy. Overall, the Festival has a $145 million
impact on Ontario's gross domestic product.
"We are grateful for this support and hope that this innovation between
the Stratford Festival and Montreal's Théatre du Nouveau Monde will continue
in the future," said Richard Monette, the Festival's artistic director. "It
will be very exciting for our patrons to hear Molière's play in its original
language."
"This year marks the 20th anniversary of the French Language Services
Act," said Madeleine Meilleur, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs.
"This grant reflects the McGuinty government's ongoing commitment to the
province's French-language communities, while also recognizing their social,
economic and cultural contributions."
|
Characteristics of international travellers Fourth quarter and annual 2005
Canadians went globe-trotting at a record pace last year, taking an all-time high 6.2 million overnight trips to destinations other than the United States, and spending a record high $9.4 billion in the process.
Nearly half of all Canadians going overseas, around 3.8 million, visited Europe. The United Kingdom was the most popular overseas destination as Canadian travellers made an estimated 899,000 visits there, up 19.1% from 2004.
However, the biggest increase, 49.6%, was to Italy. An estimated 382,000 tourists visited Italy, possibly to witness the events related to the death of Pope John Paul II and the subsequent installation of Pope Benedict XVI.
The Caribbean remained a strong second, although travel to the region fell 3.5% from 2004. It was the only region to which Canadian travel declined. Overnight visits to Cuba tumbled 8.9%, while they were down 4.2% to the Dominican Republic. More than a million Canadians made overnight visits to these two nations last year.
| Top 12 overseas countries visited by Canadian residents |
| |
2004r |
2005p |
2004 to 2005 |
| |
Overnight visits |
|
| |
thousands |
% change |
| United Kingdom |
754 |
899 |
19.1 |
| Mexico |
705 |
792 |
12.2 |
| France |
590 |
617 |
4.5 |
| Cuba |
570 |
519 |
-8.9 |
| Dominican Republic |
527 |
505 |
-4.2 |
| Italy |
255 |
382 |
49.6 |
| Germany |
328 |
317 |
-3.2 |
| Netherlands |
188 |
197 |
4.9 |
| Spain |
166 |
168 |
1.5 |
| China |
162 |
161 |
-0.6 |
| Hong Kong |
149 |
152 |
1.4 |
| Switzerland |
142 |
139 |
-2.0 |
Canadian travel to Asia continued to rebound from the decline in 2003 when concerns about SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) peaked. Overnight travel to Asia hit 1.1 million visits. Although this was up only 7.9% from 2004, travel to Asia has surged 60.1% since 2000.
In total, Canadians made nearly 21.1 million overnight trips abroad, both to overseas nations and the United States. It was the highest year on record since 1992 and the third highest ever for travel outside the country. Canadians spent nearly $19.0 billion on their overnight travel outside the country, up 8.6%.
Overseas travel to Canada continues to rise
Travel from overseas nations into Canada rose for the second straight year, following three consecutive years of declines.
The number of overnight trips to Canada from countries other than the United States increased 7.1% to more than 4.2 million. Overseas tourists spent $5.7 billion in Canada in 2005, up 6.5% from 2004.
The United Kingdom retained its status as the most important overseas market to Canada. The number of trips to Canada reached 888,000, a 10.8% gain from 2004.
All top 12 overseas markets recorded year-over-year increases in the number of trips to Canada, except for Hong Kong (-5.3%), and Taiwan (-7.7%). China (+18.8%) registered the largest annual increase as 113,000 residents visited Canada in 2005.
Travel to the United States up, but fewer Americans coming here
Overnight travel by Canadians to the United States rose 7.3% to nearly 14.9 million trips last year, perhaps reflecting a 7.4% gain in the value of the Canadian dollar against the US greenback. Canadian tourists spent $9.5 billion south of the border, up 10.1% from 2004.
New York State remained the most popular overnight destination for Canadians as more than 2.3 million visited the state, up 3.9%. Canadians spent nearly $660 million in New York State, a 4.0% increase from the year previous.
Canadians continued to spend more in Florida than any other state, spending about $2.3 billion there last year, up 11.9% from 2004. Although Florida was the second most popular state in terms of the number of overnight visits, Canadians spent almost 39 million nights in Florida, more than five times the number of nights spent in New York State.
Overnight travel to the United States rose in every major trip purpose and transportation mode category in 2005. Travel by car remained the most popular method to visit the United States, and pleasure travel was the primary purpose for about 55% of all overnight trips by Canadians south of the border.
In the opposite direction, Americans not only made fewer trips to Canada but spent less as well. The number of overnight trips from the United States fell 4.6% to only 14.4 million, and US tourists spent about $7.5 billion here, down 8.6% compared to 2004.
Among the top 10 states of origin, 8 recorded declines in overnight trips to Canada, the largest from Massachusetts (-12.9%) and Ohio (-11.8%). The only two increases were from Florida (+10.5%) and Minnesota (+2.9%). New York, Michigan and Washington remained the top three states for overnight visitors to Canada. All top 10 states recorded declines in spending in Canada.
Overnight travel from the United States fell by both automobile (-6.7%) and air (-0.4%).
Business trips by American residents to Canada declined 1.3% in 2005. Pleasure trips, which accounted for 57% of all overnight travel from the United States, fell 7.6%. The only trip purpose that recorded an increase was the number of overnight trips for visiting friends and relatives, which rose 1.3% to 2.8 million.
Fourth quarter 2005: Record Canadian travel overseas
On a quarterly basis, Canadian residents took 1.2 million overnight trips to overseas countries in the fourth quarter of 2005, a record for the last three months of any year. This was up 4.3% from the fourth quarter of 2004, and the third consecutive year in which a fourth-quarter record was set.
Overnight trips by overseas residents to Canada increased 5.6% from the fourth quarter of 2004 to 781,000. They spent an estimated $958 million in Canada.
Nearly 3.1 million Canadians made overnight trips south of the border in the final three months of the year, up 2.4% from the same period in 2004. Their spending surged 13.0%.
American residents took 7.1% fewer overnight trips to Canada than in the fourth quarter of 2004 as fewer than 2.5 million made the trek north. Their spending also declined 14.8% to $1.2 billion.
| Person-trips, person-nights and expenditures of selected market segments |
| |
Non-residents travelling to Canada, 2005 |
| |
Overnight person-trips |
Person-nights |
Average number of nights |
Spending |
Spending/trip |
Spending/night |
2004 to 2005 Person-trips |
| |
thousands |
|
$ millions |
$ |
% change |
| From the United States |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Total |
14,390 |
57,316 |
4.0 |
7,462 |
519 |
130 |
-4.6 |
| Auto |
8,774 |
34,033 |
3.9 |
3,371 |
384 |
99 |
-6.7 |
| Plane |
3,915 |
18,240 |
4.7 |
3,382 |
864 |
185 |
-0.4 |
| Business |
1,964 |
6,065 |
3.1 |
1,523 |
776 |
251 |
-1.3 |
| Pleasure |
8,140 |
33,424 |
4.1 |
4,435 |
545 |
133 |
-7.6 |
| Visiting friends and relatives |
2,824 |
12,818 |
4.5 |
813 |
288 |
63 |
1.3 |
| From Overseas |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Total |
4,221 |
67,392 |
16.0 |
5,738 |
1,359 |
85 |
7.0 |
| Overnight travel between Canada and other countries |
| |
Trips |
Expenditures |
| |
Fourth quarter 2004r |
Third quarter 2005r |
Fourth quarter 2005p |
2004 to 2005 |
Fourth quarter 2004r |
Third quarter 2005r |
Fourth quarter 2005p |
2004 to 2005 |
| |
thousands |
% change |
$ millions |
% change |
| Canadian trips abroad |
4,155 |
6,261 |
4,277 |
2.9 |
3,520 |
4,520 |
3,931 |
11.7 |
| To the United States |
2,987 |
4,803 |
3,059 |
2.4 |
1,722 |
2,051 |
1,946 |
13.0 |
| To other countries |
1,168 |
1,458 |
1,217 |
4.3 |
1,798 |
2,469 |
1,984 |
10.3 |
| Travel to Canada |
3,395 |
7,826 |
3,248 |
-4.3 |
2,352 |
5,678 |
2,156 |
-8.3 |
| From the United States |
2,656 |
6,100 |
2,466 |
-7.1 |
1,406 |
3,259 |
1,198 |
-14.8 |
| From other countries |
740 |
1,726 |
781 |
5.6 |
946 |
2,419 |
958 |
1.3 |
|
| Overnight travel between Canada and other countries |
| |
Trips |
Expenditures |
| |
2004r |
2005p |
2004 to 2005 |
2004r |
2005p |
2004 to 2005 |
| |
thousands |
% change |
$ millions |
% change |
| Canadian trips abroad |
19,595 |
21,091 |
7.6 |
17,475 |
18,973 |
8.6 |
| To the United States |
13,856 |
14,862 |
7.3 |
8,664 |
9,539 |
10.1 |
| To other countries |
5,739 |
6,229 |
8.5 |
8,811 |
9,434 |
7.1 |
| Travel to Canada |
19,031 |
18,612 |
-2.2 |
13,557 |
13,200 |
-2.6 |
| From the United States |
15,088 |
14,390 |
-4.6 |
8,168 |
7,462 |
-8.6 |
| From other countries |
3,944 |
4,221 |
7.0 |
5,389 |
5,738 |
6.5 |
|
|
First quarter 2006 International travel account
Record spending by Canadians in both the United States and in overseas nations pushed Canada's international travel deficit to a 14-year high during the first three months of 2006.
The deficit (the difference between spending by Canadian residents abroad and spending by foreigners in the country) climbed to an estimated $1.8 billion, $158 million higher than in the fourth quarter of 2005 and the largest since the end of 1991.
Spending abroad between January and March hit an unprecedented $5.8 billion, up 1.7% from the fourth quarter last year.
Lower travel spending by foreigners in Canada, which fell for the fifth consecutive quarter, also contributed to the higher deficit. Foreigners spent just under $4.0 billion, a 1.6% decline and the lowest level since the fourth quarter of 2003.
Travel deficit with United States highest in 12 years
A prolonged downswing in spending by American residents in Canada widened Canada's travel deficit with the United States to just over $1.1 billion during the first quarter of 2006. This was a $101 million increase from the previous quarter and the highest level since the end of 1993.
American residents spent an estimated $2.1 billion in Canada, down 1.2% and the fifth consecutive quarterly decline. The decline was fuelled by a 0.4% slide in overnight travel to Canada, which reached 3.4 million trips between January and March.
Meanwhile, spending by Canadian residents in the United States climbed to an all-time high of $3.2 billion, up 2.4% from the end of 2005. A 5.2% increase in overnight travel to the United States contributed to the higher spending.
The Canadian dollar averaged $0.87 US cents in the first quarter of 2006, up 1.6% from the previous three-month period and the highest level since the end of 1991.
Deficit with overseas countries third highest ever
Canada's travel deficit with overseas countries hit its third highest level ever, increasing by $57 million to $720 million in the first quarter. The deficit was higher only in the third and fourth quarters of 2003.
Record spending overseas, which increased for the sixth consecutive quarter, contributed to the jump in the deficit. Canadians spent nearly $2.6 billion in overseas countries, up 0.8% from the fourth quarter last year.
An increase in travel contributed to the record spending, as over 1.6 million Canadians visited overseas countries in the first quarter, up 5.0% from the fourth quarter of 2005.
Meanwhile, spending by residents of overseas countries fell for a second consecutive quarter, down 2.0% from the previous quarter to $1.8 billion. The drop in spending came despite a 1.5% increase in overnight travel to Canada, which reached 1.1 million trips.
During the first quarter of 2006, the value of the Canadian dollar improved against major overseas currencies such as the British pound sterling, the Japanese yen and the euro.
| International travel account receipts and payments |
| |
First quarter 2005r |
Fourth quarter 2005r |
First quarter 2006p |
Fourth quarter 2005 to first quarter 2006 |
| |
Seasonally adjusted1 |
|
| |
$ millions |
% change |
| United States |
|
|
|
|
| Receipts |
2,385 |
2,155 |
2,130 |
-1.2 |
| Payments |
3,092 |
3,174 |
3,250 |
2.4 |
| Balance |
- 707 |
-1,019 |
-1,120 |
|
| All other countries |
|
|
|
|
| Receipts |
1,833 |
1,880 |
1,843 |
-2.0 |
| Payments |
2,405 |
2,542 |
2,563 |
0.8 |
| Balance |
- 572 |
- 663 |
- 720 |
|
| Total |
|
|
|
|
| Receipts |
4,218 |
4,035 |
3,972 |
-1.6 |
| Payments |
5,497 |
5,717 |
5,812 |
1.7 |
| Balance |
-1,279 |
-1,682 |
-1,840 |
|
| r | revised |
| p | preliminary |
| 1. | Data may not add to totals due to rounding. |
|
Note to readers
This international travel account analysis is based on preliminary quarterly data, seasonally adjusted unless otherwise stated. Amounts are in Canadian dollars and are not adjusted for inflation.
Receipts represent spending by foreigners travelling in Canada, including education spending and medical spending. Payments represent spending by Canadian residents travelling abroad, including education spending and medical spending.
Overseas countries are those other than the United States.
|
Government of Canada Supports Mariposa Folk Foundation
ORILLIA - On behalf of Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, Bruce Stanton, Member of Parliament (Simcoe North), today announced $28,000 in funding for the Mariposa Folk Foundation's Folk Festival and Concert Series project.
"Organizations like the Mariposa Folk Foundation make a significant
contribution to the vitality of our communities," said Minister Oda. "This
Festival offers the Canadian public a great opportunity to appreciate and
celebrate the rich diversity of folk and traditional music in Canada."
"The Government of Canada is committed to supporting access to the arts
for all Canadians and to fostering creativity, diversity and excellence," said
Mr. Stanton. "This festival is an example of the artistic excellence which
results from a community working together."
This festival, launched in 1961 in Orillia, is Canada's oldest folk music
festival. The Mariposa Folk Foundation will hold the 46th annual folk music
festival in Tudhope Park from July 7 to 9, 2006. It will also present a year
round folk music series to be held at various venues in Orillia and Toronto.
This summer festival, one of the major arts events in the region, offers
music and dance presentations, as well as workshops and a program for
children. There are also craft exhibits and an emporium.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage
through its Arts Presentation Canada program. This program seeks to give
Canadians more access to direct experiences of the diversity and richness of
Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentation of live
professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Funding announced was built into the existing fiscal framework.
|
Making Railway History in May and June
May is Locomotive 6167 month in California. A reproduction of Larry Fisher’s painting, "Guelph Welcomes 6167", is featured for May in the 2006 calendar by the Orchard Supply Hardware (OSH) company of California. Each year for the past 32 years, the company has published a calendar featuring railway scenes, recently from the paintings of Larry Fisher. Over 500,000 calendars are distributed free of charge to the customers of its approximately 80 stores throughout the state. As a result of the decision of the small Locomotive 6167 Restoration Committee of the City of Guelph to commission the painting by Larry Fisher to raise funds for the locomotive’s restoration, many thousands of Californians now know that Guelph exists and that our historic locomotive is situated near its impressive railway passenger station.
June is also an important month for railway history in Guelph as June 14, 2006 is the 150th anniversary of rail service to Guelph. That is the day in 1856 when several provincial dignitaries and officials of the Grand Trunk Railway travelled from Toronto to Guelph on the newly constructed railway to officially open the line for service.
With Father’s Day on June 18, giving Dad a print of Larry Fisher’s painting would be a great way to remember the opening of the railway which led to Guelph’s development and to support the restoration of Locomotive 6167. Information on purchasing a print is available from the Gift Shop of the Guelph Civic Museum by calling 836-1221. The Museum is open daily from 1 to 5 pm.
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New Global Sales Director For Boutique Hotels & Resorts International®
MIAMI BEACH, FL - Boutique Hotels & Resorts International® announces the appointment of Ms. Stacy Dreyfus to Global Sales Director. With the constant growth of authentic member hotels and the continued need to introduce travel professionals of these genuine hotels, Boutique appointed a new Chicago based Global Sales Director. Boutique Hotels & Resorts International® provides the only trademarked collection of hand-selected genuine boutique hotels and resorts around the world.
“The decision to add new sales director and Chicago office reaffirms our position in bringing international business and leisure travelers the very best of boutique hotels throughout the world. Travelers and Travel Professionals worldwide have powerfully embraced the boutique concept and our goal is to ensure our independent member hotels receive the best resources from Boutique to compete with the industry giants. For member hotels, having a Chicago based seasoned Boutique sales director emphasizes our commitment to the Boutique brand and membership value,” commented EVP & COO, John Sears.
Ms. Dreyfus’ strong Boutique sales background was developed from assignments that include launching the New York Global Sales Office for Ian Schrager Hotels and senior leadership with HK Hotels, Hotel Gansevoort and Le Parker Meridien Hotels in New York. Over the past ten years Stacy has led the sales efforts with the most recognized Boutique hotel companies noted worldwide for leading services, quality, and style.
“Stacy brings a very rich base of industry knowledge, experience and professionalism to Boutique Hotels & Resorts International® that our hotels, travel planners and competition envy. We are very pleased to have Stacy leading our sales efforts in Chicago. Her experience in the Boutique segment with Schrager Hotels and Gansevoort are an exceptional fit and couldn’t have been better prepared. The long term relationship Stacy has with corporate, leisure, and agency travel professionals requiring high quality genuine Boutique Hotels are a certain benefit for those travel planner’s clients and will also contribute to the continued success of our boutique hotel member’s”. Sears continued, “In addition to the Chicago based sales activities Stacy will also introduce the new Boutique GDS booking code BT to the Chicago agencies.” Stacy can be contacted at stacy.dreyfus@boutiquemail.com or 800-577-9449.
Boutique Hotels & Resorts International® awards a distinct identity to boutique hotels around the world that is recognized by travelers and travel professionals for a genuine boutique lodging experience. To member hotels Boutique is a full service strategic alliance featuring inventive marketing and the very latest in reservation and global distribution technology that gives independent boutique hotels the ability to compete with the major hotel giants. These unique, individual boutique hotels and resorts are showcased in three distinctive Collections: The Diamond Collection (discreet world class service) such as L’Auberge Del Mar in Del Mar California and The Tsitouras Collection in Santorini, Greece; The Emerald Collection (the very best in their destination) like The Colony Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Florida and Les Suites Da An in Taipei, Taiwan; and The Sapphire Collection (distinctive style and décor of locale) which include Villa Graziadio in Malibu, California and City Hotel in Shanghai, China.
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Waterloo Regional Children's Museum - A Big Adventure for Kids
On International Museums Day, Thursday, May 18, the Waterloo Regional Children’s Museum opened a new exhibit entitled The Big Adventure!
Children’s Museum Members were provided with a sneak peak on May 17 and loved it! They climbed to the top of Adventure Mountain, crawled through “dark and scary” tunnels, and ambitiously steered the kid-sized virtual flyer. Not only were our visitors challenged mentally and physically but they learned valuable problem-solving skills and real world lessons.
The Big Adventure continues at the Children’s Museum until September 3.
|
Domestic travel Second quarter 2005 (preliminary)
Canadian residents made 50 million visits within the country during the second quarter of 2005. About 42.2 million of them were to visit friends or relatives and for pleasure. Together, these two categories accounted for 84.4% of all visits in Canada by Canadian residents. Of the remaining visits, 2.7 million were for business reasons and 5.1 million for other reasons such as bringing someone to the hospital.
In the spring of 2005, the majority of visits made by Canadians in Canada were same-day, accounting for 60.4% of the total. Overnight visits reached 19.8 million.
When Canadians travelled in Canada during the second quarter of 2005, most of their visits, about 93%, were made by car or truck. Visits they made by bus or aircraft accounted for 4.5% of all domestic visits completed during this period.
For overnight visits, residents of Canada spent 51 million nights away from home. Of these nights, 51.9 % were spent in private homes, while 17.0 % were spent in hotels and motels.
These results represent some of the preliminary estimates of domestic travel for the second quarter of 2005 that are now available from the Travel Survey of Residents of Canada.
Note: In order to be considered a domestic visit, visits have to originate and take place in Canada; end during the reference period; be less than 365 days/nights in duration; and be outside of the respondent's "usual" environment.
|
EagleRider Revolutionizes Motorcycle Travel
LOS ANGELES, CA - EagleRider, already the world's leading motorcycle rental company, is now paving the way for a revolution in the way enthusiasts travel. EagleRider's world-renowned self-drive tours are now better than ever and experiencing an explosion in popularity.
Companies like EagleRider are springing up everywhere and are more than just motorcycle rental or tour organizations. They are complete travel and concierge service companies tailored for the motorcycle market. EagleRider offers the personal service of your own in-house trip planner with customized itineraries focusing on the most majestic motorcycle touring routes.
Joe Ricketts, Chairman and founder of Ameritrade, said, "Being able to leave a blustery winter in Omaha, go to Southern California and rent a motorcycle for a ride to Cabo is absolutely wonderful. EagleRider provides truly great service."
EagleRider self-drive tour customers rent a late model motorcycle, stay at first-rate accommodations, and receive a personalized Road Book designed with everything a rider would need including all mapped routing, suggestions for excellent restaurants, and interesting stops along the way. Round the clock roadside assistance and motorcycle concierge services come standard with your EagleRider rental, and customers can even choose to have a TomTom GPS navigation system installed with their personal trip routing for the ultimate in ease of travel.
EagleRider does all the planning and provides all the gear, leaving travelers the freedom to marvel at the scenery and experience the thrill of adventure on the road alone, or with the company of their own friends and family. Over a hundred self-drive tours are available out of every EagleRider location.
|
Travel Price Index First quarter 2006
The Travel Price Index (TPI) showed that prices Canadians paid to travel inside the country between the first quarters of 2005 and 2006 increased at a slower pace than the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index.
The TPI reached 141.7 (1992=100) in the first quarter of 2006, up 1.4% compared to the first quarter of 2005. In comparison, the Consumer Price Index increased 2.4%.
The components which contributed the most to the growth in the Travel Price Index were the costs related to the operation of automotive vehicles and costs associated to the purchase of food from restaurant and served alcoholic beverages.
Costs related to operating automotive vehicles climbed 4.9% between the first quarters of 2005 and 2006. This growth was mainly due to the continuous rise in the price of gasoline during this period (+11.2%).
Between the first quarters of 2005 and 2006, both the costs of food purchased from restaurants and of served alcoholic beverages rose 3.1%.
Despite the 5.2% increase, costs incurred from using local and commuter transportation has only slightly influenced the TPI. The increase resulted from an 8.7% rise in taxi prices.
However, the growth in the TPI in the first quarter of 2006 compared to the first quarter of 2005 was mitigated by a 5.5% decline in the price of traveller accommodation.
Three of the remaining components of the TPI fell, namely clothing (-2.6%), footwear (-1.9%) and rental of automotive vehicles (-1.7%). The other components posted increases between 1.0% and 2.7%.
On a quarter-over-quarter basis, the TPI edged down 0.6% between the fourth quarter of 2005 and the first quarter of 2006.
Four components contributed to the slight quarterly decrease in the TPI. The price paid for traveller accommodation fell 3.6%, continuing the downward trend of last quarter.
Lower costs related to the purchase of footwear (-2.6%) and clothing (-1.1%) also negatively affected the index.
Finally, the 1.9% reduction in costs related to the use of inter-city transportation also contributed to the quarterly decrease of the TPI. A 2.5% drop in airplane ticket prices was responsible for the decrease in this component.
Two other components of the TPI declined between the fourth quarter of 2005 and the first quarter of 2006: rental of automotive vehicles (-1.9%) and operating automotive vehicles (-0.3%). The remaining components registered increases ranging between 0.4% and 2.3%.
| Selected components of the Travel Price Index (1992=100) |
| Components |
First quarter 2006 |
Fourth quarter 2005 |
First quarter 2005 |
Fourth quarter 2005 to first quarter 2006 |
First quarter 2005 to first quarter 2006 |
| |
Unadjusted |
| |
|
|
|
% change |
| Inter-city transportation |
197.2 |
201.1 |
194.9 |
-1.9 |
1.2 |
| Local and commuter transportation |
158.3 |
154.7 |
150.5 |
2.3 |
5.2 |
| Rental of automotive vehicles |
125.1 |
127.5 |
127.3 |
-1.9 |
-1.7 |
| Operation of automotive vehicles |
166.8 |
167.3 |
159.0 |
-0.3 |
4.9 |
| Traveller accommodation |
91.6 |
95.0 |
96.9 |
-3.6 |
-5.5 |
| Food purchased from stores |
128.8 |
126.7 |
125.5 |
1.7 |
2.6 |
| Food purchased from restaurants |
134.6 |
133.5 |
130.6 |
0.8 |
3.1 |
| Served alcoholic beverages |
131.5 |
130.4 |
127.6 |
0.8 |
3.1 |
| Alcoholic beverages purchased from stores |
127.1 |
126.3 |
125.8 |
0.6 |
1.0 |
| Spectator entertainment |
169.2 |
168.6 |
164.8 |
0.4 |
2.7 |
| Clothing |
97.4 |
98.5 |
100.0 |
-1.1 |
-2.6 |
| Footwear |
100.7 |
103.4 |
102.6 |
-2.6 |
-1.9 |
| Travel Price Index |
141.7 |
142.6 |
139.7 |
-0.6 |
1.4 |
| Consumer Price Index |
128.9 |
128.3 |
125.9 |
0.5 |
2.4 |
|
Travel between Canada and other countries March 2006
Same-day car travel from the United States increased only slightly in March after falling to its lowest monthly level on record the month before.
Over 1.2 million Americans took same-day car trips to Canada in March, up a marginal 0.4% from February. (Unless otherwise specified, monthly data are seasonally adjusted.)
Despite steady declines in recent years, the number of same-day car trips from the United States has remained somewhat stable in the last six months, hovering around the 1.2 million mark.
Overnight car travel from the United States also increased in March, up 2.8% to 706,000 trips. As a result, total overnight travel by Americans to Canada rose 1.6% to just over 1.1 million trips.
Overall, 2.5 million Americans visited Canada in March, a 0.9% increase from February.
Meanwhile, Canadian travel to the United States hit 3.3 million trips in March, up 5.3% from the previous month. This was the second highest level since August 2001.
Both same-day travel and overnight travel recorded gains. Almost 2.0 million Canadians took same-day car trips to the United States in March, up 6.4% from February.
Overnight travel to the United States climbed to its second highest level in a decade, reaching 1.3 million trips. The 3.9% jump was fuelled by gains in all modes of transportation.
In terms of overseas travel, an estimated 395,000 foreign visitors came to Canada in March, up 6.9% from the previous month. This was the highest level since October 2004.
The biggest gains occurred in travel from the Netherlands (+37.5%), Germany (+11.8%) and the United Kingdom (+10.0%). Only 2 of Canada's top 12 overseas markets recorded declines — South Korea and Hong Kong.
In the opposite direction, Canadian travel to overseas countries continued its upward trend in March, increasing for the fourth consecutive month. A record 548,000 Canadian residents visited overseas countries, slightly more than in February.
The Canadian dollar slipped to 86.4 cents US on average in March, down 0.7% from February. The loonie also fell against other major international currencies such as the Japanese yen, the British pound sterling and the euro.
| Travel between Canada and other countries |
| |
February 2006r |
March 2006p |
February to March 2006 |
March 2006 |
March 2005 to March 2006 |
| |
Seasonally adjusted |
Unadjusted |
| |
'000 |
% change |
'000 |
% change |
| Canadian trips abroad1 |
3,715 |
3,883 |
4.5 |
4,273 |
4.2 |
| To the United States |
3,167 |
3,335 |
5.3 |
3,483 |
3.2 |
| To other countries |
547 |
548 |
0.1 |
790 |
9.0 |
| Same-day car trips to the United States |
1,848 |
1,965 |
6.4 |
1,921 |
5.1 |
| Total trips, one or more nights |
1,813 |
1,862 |
2.7 |
2,286 |
3.4 |
| United States2 |
1,265 |
1,314 |
3.9 |
1,496 |
0.7 |
| Car |
729 |
761 |
4.4 |
800 |
-3.1 |
| Plane |
444 |
458 |
3.2 |
637 |
8.6 |
| Other modes of transportation |
93 |
95 |
3.1 |
60 |
-19.9 |
| Other countries3 |
547 |
548 |
0.1 |
790 |
9.0 |
| Travel to Canada1 |
2,814 |
2,861 |
1.7 |
2,077 |
-9.7 |
| From the United States |
2,444 |
2,466 |
0.9 |
1,841 |
-10.3 |
| From other countries |
370 |
395 |
6.9 |
235 |
-3.9 |
| Same-day car trips from the United States |
1,202 |
1,207 |
0.4 |
1,058 |
-11.7 |
| Total trips, one or more nights |
1,480 |
1,524 |
2.9 |
953 |
-7.4 |
| United States2 |
1,119 |
1,137 |
1.6 |
722 |
-8.5 |
| Car |
687 |
706 |
2.8 |
429 |
-10.1 |
| Plane |
307 |
306 |
-0.3 |
247 |
-4.4 |
| Other modes of transportation |
125 |
125 |
0.2 |
46 |
-15.0 |
| Other countries3 |
361 |
386 |
6.9 |
231 |
-3.5 |
| Most important overseas markets4 |
|
|
|
|
|
| United Kingdom |
69 |
76 |
10.0 |
50 |
-13.4 |
| Japan |
37 |
39 |
3.4 |
28 |
0.1 |
| France |
29 |
31 |
6.9 |
17 |
3.8 |
| Germany |
27 |
31 |
11.8 |
13 |
-5.7 |
| Mexico |
18 |
19 |
4.9 |
11 |
-31.3 |
| South Korea |
17 |
17 |
-1.7 |
11 |
2.1 |
| Australia |
| | |
