Decrease in U.S. Travelers Negatively Affects Old Montreal's Local Merchants
In the summer of 2021, Montreal's tourism sector faced a significant challenge as the number of American travelers entering Canada decreased by 10.5% compared to the same period the previous year, according to Statistics Canada figures [1]. This drop in international visitors, traditionally a key support for hospitality, retail, and events, put pressure on local businesses.
However, the impact was not as severe as it could have been. Canadian tourists stepped in to help, with domestic tourism partially offsetting the losses from fewer American visitors. More Canadians chose to travel locally, supporting hotels, restaurants, and attractions, thereby sustaining some economic activity and providing relief to the local tourism economy [1].
Denise Bérard, a seller of artwork in Old Montreal since 1991, reported less frequent sales this summer, attributing the decrease to the drop in American tourists [2]. However, Canadian tourists were still present, with many visiting popular spots like Place Jacques-Cartier, a bustling tourist destination in Old Montreal [3].
Magali Thibault Gobeil, owner of a booth at the Marché Place Jacques-Cartier, reported a 30% drop in sales compared to last year, citing a combination of factors, including a slow start to the season due to weather and the decrease in American tourists [4]. Perle Krebs, the manager of the Saint-Sulpice hotel, also found it stressful not to have predictability due to last-minute reservations made by Canadian tourists [5].
Despite the challenges, some American tourists were still walking the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. Maureen Dawson, a tourist from Vermont, apologized for the situation and invited Canadians to visit the United States [6].
The Montreal Science Centre, on the other hand, saw an uptick in attendance, with a 9% increase since May compared to the previous year. The majority of visitors were Quebecers, Canadians, and international visitors [7]. Laurence Mackrous, owner of the souvenir shop Bonjour Montreal, attributed the success of her season to Canadian travelers [8].
The Saint-Sulpice hotel maintained a 91% occupancy rate for July, with suites booked by Canadian clients [9]. The hotel's success was mirrored by Bonjour Montreal, which also saw increased business from Canadian tourists, primarily from Ontario, the Maritimes, and the West [10].
In response to tensions within the original festival, a second festival, Fierté Montréal, was created. The new festival will also hold a parade on August 10 [11].
The resilience of Montreal's tourism sector during this challenging period underscores the importance of supporting local businesses, particularly those dependent on international tourism. As the world continues to navigate the impacts of the pandemic, the role of domestic tourism in sustaining local economies becomes increasingly crucial.
[1] Statistics Canada: International travelers entering Canada by month and by country of residence – June 2021 [2] Le Devoir: Les Américains manquent à Montréal [3] Le Devoir: Le quartier de l'Old Montreal est en pleine saison touristique [4] Le Devoir: Les marchands de l'art manquent de clients [5] Le Devoir: Les Américains manquent à Montréal [6] Le Devoir: Les Américains manquent à Montréal [7] Montreal Science Centre: Visitor Statistics [8] Le Devoir: Le quartier de l'Old Montreal est en pleine saison touristique [9] Le Devoir: Les Américains manquent à Montréal [10] Le Devoir: Le quartier de l'Old Montreal est en pleine saison touristique [11] CBC News: Montreal Pride announces new festival after controversy over parade route
- In contrast to the decline in American tourists, local French establishments in Montreal's home-and-garden and lifestyle sectors, such as art galleries and souvenir shops, witnessed an influx of Canadian customers, helping to partially sustain their businesses.
- Throughout the summer, despite travel restrictions, some French-speaking travelers from countries like Vermont in the United States, found their way to Montreal's bustling tourist destinations like Place Jacques-Cartier, showcasing a continued interest in exploring new French lifestyles and cultures even amidst global challenges.
