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This past week, I was honored to speak at the 1000 Islands Binational Tourism Summit alongside Mark Dorr, President of the New York State Hospitality and Tourism Association, and Krista Leclair, Executive Director of Kingston Accommodation Partners.

Hosted by the 1000 Islands International Tourism Council, this essential binational event fostered discussions around innovative, collaborative opportunities to advance destination development across borders. A highlight for me was a data-driven session that compared visitor profiles and sales performance on both sides of the border. By sharing insights, partners can identify new markets, enhance awareness, and elevate the entire destination as a cohesive, attractive option for travelers.

As we move forward following last week’s U.S. election, TIAO remains steadfast in its commitment to bolstering these alliances and advocating for trade policies that drive tourism growth. We are committed to strengthening our economic relationships with the United States, ensuring that Ontario’s tourism industry remains competitive, resilient, and well-supported across borders.

Sincerely,

ONTARIO TOURISM STRATEGY SURVEY

We had greater than expected participation from across the province to our Ontario Tourism Strategy Survey. THANK YOU to each and every one of you who took the time to give us your thoughts. Your insights are crucial for shaping the future of Ontario tourism. We are now looking to announce our focus groups and online panel plans as the next step in the process. Please stay tuned for more details...

MEMBER ENGAGEMENT  

TIAO’s President and CEO Andrew Siegwart spoke with the Ontario Motor Coach Association’s (OMCA) Board of Directors in advance of their 2024 Marketplace in Windsor, earlier this week. OMCA is a valued member – motor coach travel plays a vital role in the Ontario tourism industry.

This week, Andrew had a chance to speak at the RTO12 2024 Regional Tourism Summit held in Muskoka this week. This was an opportunity to delve further into the importance of the tourism strategy work that TIAO is undertaking, and the significance of participation from all regions across the province.

I had a chance to visit the official opening of the pop-up of Ontario Science Centre at Sherway Gardens – featuring some extraordinary exhibitions. The Centre is holding pop-ups and events at different locations – the newest being Harbourfront Centre starting December 2024.

TASTE OF ONTARIO RECEPTION – DECEMBER 10

A favoured reception has returned. Tourism Day at Queen’s Park ends with a special Taste of Ontario Reception. Please join us and meet tourism delegates from across the province. Register here.

Thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to send me an email at msimmons@tiaontario.ca.

Sincerely,