Times Colonist, December 9, 2011
Border Accord Touted as Boon to Tourism
Tourism industry officials on both sides of the border are cheering new measures to make travelling easier, but caution that their sector's health also hinges on other factors.
Bruce Carter, chief executive of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, said the new Canada-U.S. border accord announced this week will boost U.S. tourism to Canada.
The U.S. recognition of Canada as more than just a trading partner and as a country integrated into its economy is important, Carter said Thursday. "The ease of flow of people is a key to success for both Canada and the U.S."
Robert Gialloreto, president and CEO of Tourism Victoria, welcomes plans to create a more seamless border. If it is less cumbersome to cross the border, Americans will be more likely to visit, he said.
