Published on April 15, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
In 2025, the global travel landscape is being reshaped by politics, economics, and shifting traveler priorities. Nowhere is this transformation more evident than in Canada, where a surge in tourism is drawing global attention. As the United States engages in a renewed tariff trade war under President Donald Trump, international visitors are turning away from its borders and looking north. The result? A booming Canadian tourism sector that is benefiting from a perfect storm of favorable conditions—including the launch of the Canada Strong Pass by Liberal Leader Mark Carney.
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This article explores how Canada is uniquely positioned to thrive in this moment, examining the impact of the Canada Strong Pass, the draw of major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Hamilton, Kitchener, Halifax, London, Victoria, Mississauga, Saskatoon, Regina, St. John’s, Windsor, Burnaby, Gatineau, Longueuil, Sherbrooke, Sudbury, Laval, Thunder Bay, Brampton, Markham, Richmond, Oakville, Burlington and the broader implications of a shifting international travel economy.
At the heart of Canada’s 2025 tourism boom is a bold new initiative: the Canada Strong Pass to Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Hamilton, Kitchener, Halifax, London, Victoria, Mississauga, Saskatoon, Regina, St. John’s, Windsor, Burnaby, Gatineau, Longueuil, Sherbrooke, Sudbury, Laval, Thunder Bay, Brampton, Markham, Richmond, Oakville, Burlington. Announced by Liberal Leader Mark Carney, this multifaceted policy package is designed to stimulate domestic tourism while reinforcing national unity. Its impact, however, extends well beyond Canadian borders.
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These benefits make Canada an especially attractive destination for families and cost-conscious travelers, travelling to Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Hamilton, Kitchener, Halifax, London, Victoria, Mississauga, Saskatoon, Regina, St. John’s, Windsor, Burnaby, Gatineau, Longueuil, Sherbrooke, Sudbury, Laval, Thunder Bay, Brampton, Markham, Richmond, Oakville, Burlington. The initiative also promotes environmentally responsible travel and cultural enrichment, aligning with global tourism trends focused on sustainability and experiential learning.
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Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is experiencing a dramatic rise in visitor numbers. Known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class entertainment, Toronto is benefiting from both domestic travel promotions and diverted international traffic. Tourists from Europe and Asia, in particular, are drawn to its multicultural festivals, museums, and proximity to natural wonders like Niagara Falls.
Vancouver’s scenic beauty, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, makes it a natural draw. But in 2025, the city is also leveraging its global reputation for sustainability, tech innovation, and Asian cultural ties to attract tourists avoiding U.S. West Coast destinations like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
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As the heart of French-speaking Canada, Montreal offers a European experience without crossing the Atlantic. The city’s architecture, culinary scene, and summer festivals are attracting record numbers of tourists, especially from France and Francophone African nations.
Calgary and Edmonton, traditionally known for oil and agriculture, are rebranding in 2025. With expanded cultural offerings, Indigenous tourism experiences, and proximity to the Rockies, these cities are drawing new attention from adventure seekers and eco-tourists.
As the nation’s capital, Ottawa is seeing increased visitation thanks to the Canada Strong Pass. Free entry to the Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery is boosting family travel and educational tourism.
Quebec City’s Old Town remains one of Canada’s most iconic sites. The city’s inclusion in Canada Strong Pass marketing is helping position it as a top destination for both domestic and international travelers.
Hamilton, once overshadowed by Toronto, is now enjoying a renaissance. With a booming arts scene, accessible natural parks, and revitalized downtown, the city is becoming a favorite among younger travelers and urban explorers.
Halifax represents the best of Canada’s East Coast charm. Its harbor views, seafood, and historic sites are now more accessible than ever with reduced VIA Rail costs and national park incentives.
Victoria’s old-world architecture, gardens, and coastal beauty make it a magnet for visitors, especially those seeking a slower pace. The city’s walkability and rich Indigenous heritage are gaining new attention in 2025.
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The re-election of Donald Trump and the revival of protectionist policies have intensified economic friction between the U.S. and key global markets like China, France, India, Germany, the UK, and Japan. These tensions have had a ripple effect on tourism. With tariffs making travel and commerce more expensive, and with strained diplomatic relations casting a shadow on international travel to the U.S., tourists from around the world are seeking alternatives.
Canada has emerged as a top choice. Politically stable, culturally rich, and geographically diverse, Canada offers everything from vibrant cities to serene wilderness. It also carries a global reputation for inclusiveness, safety, and hospitality—qualities that have become more valuable to travelers navigating a turbulent world.
The Canada Strong Pass arrives at a time of international turbulence. With ongoing U.S. trade tensions triggered by the Trump administration’s tariff war, global tourism patterns are shifting. Travelers from major source markets like China, the UK, France, India, Germany, and Japan are re-evaluating their traditional travel routes, increasingly seeking safe, welcoming, and cost-effective destinations. Canada, with its reputation for stability, multiculturalism, and natural beauty, fits the bill perfectly.
This shift presented a unique opportunity—and Liberal Leader Mark Carney seized it.
Carney’s announcement of the Canada Strong Pass is more than just a campaign promise. It’s a carefully timed, economically strategic initiative that blends politics, patriotism, and practical support for families. With a summer of inflationary pressures and international uncertainties looming, the policy is designed to keep Canadians traveling within their own borders—while also appealing to international tourists looking for new experiences beyond the U.S.
The tourism industry is responding enthusiastically to these developments. Tour operators, hoteliers, airlines, restaurants, and cultural institutions report surging bookings, increased revenues, and heightened interest from both domestic and foreign travelers.
VIA Rail has seen a significant increase in youth ridership due to the Canada Strong Pass. Museums report record attendance levels during peak months. National parks, once struggling with underutilization outside of hotspots like Banff and Jasper, are now experiencing broader visitation.
Moreover, businesses in secondary cities and rural areas are thriving as travelers seek more affordable, less crowded alternatives. The pass is helping to spread tourism dollars more evenly across the country.
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Imagine a family from Toronto planning a cross-country trip to Halifax. With two teenagers in tow, they could enjoy significant savings on train travel, accommodation, museum tickets, and park visits—all thanks to the Canada Strong Pass. What might have been an expensive, once-in-a-lifetime trip becomes a realistic, affordable, and enriching summer experience.
This is especially impactful for working-class and immigrant families who may not have previously considered domestic travel a viable option. It levels the playing field, turning Canadian tourism into a more inclusive experience—one where every family, regardless of income, can participate in discovering the country’s vast heritage and natural beauty.
Canada’s rise as a tourism leader in 2025 is also strengthening its soft power on the world stage. As the U.S. faces criticism for aggressive trade policies and isolationist rhetoric, Canada is stepping into the void with a message of openness, sustainability, and cultural richness.
Through the Canada Strong Pass and savvy international marketing, Canada is branding itself not just as a destination, but as a symbol of modern global values—inclusive, environmentally conscious, and historically aware.
The Canada Strong Pass is not just a gift to travelers—it’s a stimulus for the entire tourism sector. By increasing demand for domestic travel, the policy injects momentum into industries that have struggled since the pandemic: transportation, accommodation, hospitality, local tours, and heritage sites.
Smaller towns and rural destinations stand to gain significantly. Increased foot traffic in national parks, lesser-known museums, and eco-lodges can revive local economies, support Indigenous tourism operators, and reduce regional inequalities in travel demand.
Airlines, travel bloggers, VIA Rail, national and provincial parks, Indigenous tour providers, and boutique hotel owners all benefit from this renewed focus on traveling at home. It’s a bottom-up economic strategy that boosts employment and encourages sustainable growth.
The Canada Strong Pass is more than a domestic initiative—it’s a geopolitical statement. While the United States engages in aggressive trade policies that strain global relationships, Canada is sending a message of openness, resilience, and unity.
By offering international travelers from countries affected by U.S. tariffs a welcoming, stable, and culturally rich alternative, Canada is positioning itself as not just the friendlier neighbor—but a global leader in ethical and accessible travel.
This soft power approach enhances Canada’s global image and strengthens its brand as a country of values, inclusion, and adventure.
Beyond economics and politics, the Canada Strong Pass nurtures something deeper: a love for the land and the stories it holds.
By offering access to museums, national parks, and historical sites, the program is subtly reweaving the fabric of national identity. Young Canadians—especially those from urban centers—are given the chance to learn about Indigenous heritage, biodiversity, Canadian innovation, and regional histories firsthand.
At a time when screen time dominates and environmental disconnect is a real concern, the Canada Strong Pass brings youth back into nature and back into history—building the next generation of conscious travelers and civic-minded citizens.
Although introduced as a summer 2025 initiative, there is growing momentum to make the Canada Strong Pass a permanent fixture. Tourism boards, environmental groups, and educational institutions are pushing for year-round access, deeper integration with provincial programs, and expansions into other sectors—like local festivals, public transit, and eco-volunteering programs.
If embraced fully, the pass could become a cornerstone of Canada’s national tourism strategy—a living legacy of a summer when the country turned inward not out of fear, but out of pride.
In 2025, Canada’s domestic tourism industry is witnessing a powerful revival. With global instability, rising airfare, and shifting economic realities, more Canadians are turning their attention inward—rediscovering the beauty and diversity of their own backyard.
Canadians across provinces are increasingly opting for local travel experiences, choosing national parks, heritage towns, and hidden lakeside retreats over international trips. The trend has led to a boom in cottage rentals, road trips, and eco-tourism, particularly in regions like the Okanagan Valley, Gaspé Peninsula, and Cape Breton Island.
One of the most influential drivers behind this surge is the introduction of the Canada Strong Pass. The government-backed initiative offers youth under 18 free access to museums and galleries, reduced national park camping fees, and complimentary VIA Rail travel when accompanied by a parent. This move has made domestic travel more accessible to families and budget-conscious travelers, opening up cross-country adventures to a wider demographic.
Local economies are feeling the benefits. Restaurants, lodges, tour operators, and Indigenous-run cultural experiences are enjoying increased bookings and foot traffic. Even lesser-known towns are seeing a spike in visitors as Canadians seek authentic, off-the-beaten-path escapes.
What sets Canada’s domestic tourism apart in 2025 is not just the affordability or convenience—it’s a renewed sense of pride. Exploring Canada has become more than a vacation; it’s a way to connect with national identity, culture, and community.
As travel habits evolve, Canada is proving that sometimes the best adventures are right at home.
Tour Operators are anticipating a significant uptick in bookings for guided tours, particularly those centered on cultural and heritage sites. With free access for youth under 18 to national museums and galleries, families are more likely to incorporate educational and historical attractions into their itineraries. This surge in interest not only boosts revenue but also encourages deeper engagement with Canada’s rich cultural landscape.
Campgrounds and Eco Lodges are also preparing for a surge in demand. The reduction in national park camping fees, along with proposed waivers of entry fees, makes outdoor experiences more accessible to middle-class families who may have previously viewed such trips as a luxury. Operators in areas such as Banff, Fundy, and Gros Morne are reporting higher-than-average reservation rates for the upcoming summer, signaling a strong seasonal rebound.
Rail and Transit Services, especially VIA Rail, stand to benefit enormously from the policy. The offer of free train travel for youth traveling with a parent is forecasted to increase family ridership by up to 20% on key corridors like the Toronto–Montreal–Halifax route. This not only supports sustainable travel alternatives but also introduces a new generation of Canadians to rail-based tourism—a traditionally underutilized sector in domestic travel planning.
Museums and Galleries are another major beneficiary. With free entry for youth, institutions are expecting a rise in foot traffic, particularly during summer months. This increased visitation could translate into secondary gains through gift shop purchases, food and beverage sales, and charitable donations. It also allows cultural centers across Canada to reach new, younger audiences and fulfill their educational missions more effectively.
Overall, the Canada Strong Pass serves as a unifying stimulus plan for Canada’s entire tourism sector. From independent tour guides and travel bloggers to provincial parks and national transit authorities, the ripple effects of this policy are vast and multifaceted. By focusing on affordability, accessibility, and cultural engagement, the Canada Strong Pass positions domestic travel not only as a vacation option—but as a patriotic choice in a time of global uncertainty.
In short, the initiative underscores the power of travel to heal economies, connect communities, and reinvigorate national pride—all while showcasing the best of what Canada has to offer.
This policy has implications across all provinces and territories, each with unique destinations that will benefit from increased local exploration.
Families in British Columbia and Alberta are likely to embrace the opportunity to explore Banff, Jasper, and Pacific Rim National Parks with reduced costs. VIA Rail’s presence also links Vancouver and the Rockies to central Canada affordably.
With major institutions like the National Gallery in Ottawa and the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, families in Ontario and Quebec will benefit most from free museum access. VIA Rail’s Québec-Windsor corridor will likely see a surge in ridership.
As a popular summer destination, reduced travel costs could help regions like Nova Scotia and Newfoundland capture more domestic tourists—boosting regional economies that often depend on seasonal income.
Access remains a challenge, but Parks Canada’s effort to subsidize fees in Yukon, Nunavut, and NWT could encourage more adventurous Canadians to explore Canada’s Arctic treasures.
Canada, a country of captivating contrasts and breathtaking diversity, offers travelers a chance to explore buzzing metropolitan centers, serene coastal towns, and nature-rich frontiers. From the skyscraper-studded skyline of Toronto to the historic cobbled streets of Quebec City, Canada is not just a destination—it’s a collection of unique experiences. This comprehensive destination guide dives deep into ten of the most visited Canadian cities—Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Quebec City, Hamilton, Halifax, and Victoria—featuring insights into air travel, accommodation, and iconic attractions.
Airlines & Airport:
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is Canada’s busiest and most connected air hub. Serving as a gateway to North America and the world, it’s a major hub for Air Canada and WestJet. International airlines like Emirates, KLM, British Airways, and Lufthansa ensure global reach.
Where to Stay:
Luxury seekers will find elegance at The Ritz-Carlton, Hotel X Toronto, and the historic Fairmont Royal York. For mid-range and budget travelers, options include Chelsea Hotel, The Anndore House, and The Rex Hotel.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a key trans-Pacific hub with flights from Asia, Europe, and the U.S. It’s served by Air Canada, WestJet, and regional players like Pacific Coastal Airlines.
Where to Stay:
Upscale experiences await at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and Shangri-La Vancouver. Budget travelers might consider The Burrard or YWCA Hotel.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL) connects to Europe, the U.S., and Canadian destinations. Air Transat, Air Canada, and Porter Airlines operate frequent services.
Where to Stay:
Le Mount Stephen, Auberge du Vieux-Port, and the Ritz-Carlton Montreal lead luxury offerings. Chic budget picks include Hotel Zero 1 and M Montreal Hostel.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is a key hub for WestJet and also serves Air Canada, Flair Airlines, and Lynx Air.
Where to Stay:
Fairmont Palliser, Hotel Arts, and Le Germain offer high-end luxury. Budget accommodations include Best Western Plus and Econo Lodge South.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW) serves major cities via Air Canada and Porter Airlines.
Where to Stay:
Historic Fairmont Château Laurier, Alt Hotel Ottawa, and Andaz Ottawa are popular picks. Novotel and The Business Inn cater to budget-conscious travelers.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Edmonton International Airport (YEG) connects Alberta to U.S. and domestic destinations, with WestJet and Air Canada as primary carriers.
Where to Stay:
JW Marriott ICE District, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, and Matrix Hotel offer downtown luxury. Value options include Coast Edmonton Plaza and Sandman Signature.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) serves eastern Canada and seasonal flights to Europe and the Caribbean.
Where to Stay:
Stay in the iconic Château Frontenac or the charming Auberge Saint-Antoine. Mid-range choices include Hôtel Manoir Victoria and Hotel PUR.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) is popular for domestic travel via low-cost carriers like Flair and Swoop.
Where to Stay:
The Barracks Inn and Sheraton Hamilton are local favorites. Staybridge Suites and Visitor’s Inn provide practical stays.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) links eastern Canada with Europe, the U.S., and Caribbean destinations. Major carriers include Air Canada, WestJet, and PAL Airlines.
Where to Stay:
Top picks include The Prince George Hotel, The Halliburton, and Muir Hotel. Budget travelers enjoy HI Halifax Hostel or Coastal Inn.
What to Do:
Airlines & Airport:
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is well-served by Pacific Coastal, Air Canada, WestJet, and Alaska Airlines. Seaplane and ferry access add scenic transit options.
Where to Stay:
Experience Victorian luxury at Fairmont Empress, Magnolia Hotel & Spa, or Hotel Grand Pacific. Try The Oswego Hotel or James Bay Inn for cozy alternatives.
What to Do:
The program’s focus on youth access positions it not just as a short-term economic tool, but also as an investment in long-term civic engagement.
Travel is a proven educational tool, offering young people exposure to history, biodiversity, and cultural pluralism. By removing financial barriers, the Canada Strong Pass opens doors to formative experiences that may have previously been inaccessible to working-class families.
Furthermore, integrating train travel emphasizes environmental sustainability and climate-conscious travel—key priorities for Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
The convergence of global trade disruption, shifting traveler priorities, and innovative government policy has created a unique moment for Canada. The launch of the Canada Strong Pass under Liberal Leader Mark Carney is proving to be more than just a domestic tourism incentive—it’s a blueprint for sustainable, inclusive, and resilient travel growth.
As cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Quebec City, Hamilton, Halifax, and Victoria continue to welcome waves of new visitors, Canada is redefining what it means to travel in the 21st century. Amid uncertainty and division elsewhere, Canada stands strong, open, and ready to be explored.
Canada’s vast landscape makes air travel an essential and convenient way to explore the country, from bustling cities to remote northern communities. The Canadian airline network is diverse and well-developed, offering travelers an impressive range of options for both domestic and international journeys.
Flagship carriers like Air Canada, WestJet, and Air Transat connect major cities and global destinations with reliability and comfort. Vacation-focused travelers can enjoy all-inclusive routes through Sunwing Airlines or Flair Airlines, while Porter Airlines offers premium short-haul service from downtown Toronto.
Regional airlines play a vital role in connecting smaller communities. Canadian North, Air North, Air Inuit, Air Creebec, and Wasaya Airways provide essential service to northern and Indigenous regions. Meanwhile, Air Canada Rouge, Jazz Aviation, and Air Canada Express handle regional routes across provinces.
For scenic and specialized flights, operators like Harbour Air, Helijet, and Skyservice Business Aviation offer seaplane, helicopter, and charter experiences. Other trusted names include Bearskin Airlines, Pacific Coastal Airlines, Pascan Aviation, Chrono Aviation, and PAL Airlines.
Whether flying to the Rockies or the Arctic Circle, Canada’s airline network—featuring over 35 carriers like Nolinor Aviation, Exact Air, and Iskwew Air—ensures every corner of the country is within reach.
Carney’s rollout of this initiative appears timed for maximum campaign leverage, days ahead of the French and English televised debates.
The Canada Strong Pass allows Carney to pitch a unifying, feel-good policy with clear economic and cultural benefits—providing a tangible example of how a Liberal government would operate post-election.
Although currently positioned as a summer 2025 initiative, the program’s scalability suggests it could evolve into a long-term fixture. If successful, it may inspire future governments to adopt and expand the model, potentially including:
The Canada Strong Pass is more than a tourism perk—it’s a statement of values and vision. As Canada navigates uncertain international waters, Carney’s domestic-first travel strategy doubles as economic insulation, cultural celebration, and political savvy.
This initiative repositions Canada not just as a destination for international tourists, but as a living, learning playground for its own people. And in doing so, it charts a new course for what travel can mean in an era of economic nationalism and shifting alliances.
For Canadian families and the travel sector alike, summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of rediscovery, reconnection, and renaissance.
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