Six months after beginning the application process, Canada has received ‘Approved Destination Status’ from China and Chinese nationals are now permitted to travel to Canada for leisure purposes in addition to business, study, or to visit friends and relatives.

Effective immediately, travel to Canada has become easier and Chinese travel agents can begin promoting and organizing group tours to Canada.

Banff Lake Louise Tourism and its members have been actively engaged in laying groundwork for this market by conducting educational China workshops, attending in-market events and developing key relationships with Chinese travel trade and Chinese tour operators. Furthermore, in partnership with Dragon Trail Social Media & Digital Marketing Services, Banff Lake Louise Tourism today launched a Chinese consumer website – china.banfflakelouise.com.

This is part of an innovative and comprehensive e-strategy program in China to engage consumers by leveraging digital campaigns, influencer marketing, and social media to increase brand awareness.

“Banff Lake Louise Tourism has been preparing for the emergence of the Chinese travel market for several years and even more so as ADS discussions advanced last December” says Julie Canning, president and CEO of Banff Lake Louise Tourism. “Today’s announcement officially opens the doors of Canada to leisure travelers and Banff National Park is ready to welcome Chinese visitors.”

www.banfflakelouise.com/china