Many tourism organizations across Canada were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic as travel restrictions hindered the tourism sector. But in Nelson, destination officials are beginning to see things turnaround.

Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism told KCR News that the first half of 2022 has brought with it a 39 per cent increase in tourism dollars coming in. The numbers are in part based on the three per cent tax revenue that the organization sees from area accommodations.

"Typically, we are looking at a seven per cent increase per year with inflation and changes and shifts in the kind of accommodations that are out there, so 39 per cent is really incredible," said Executive Director Dianna Dukes of Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism.

The heavy increase is in part due to inflation which has forced accommodators to raise their rates, as well as the 2021 tourism income, which was down 15 per cent from the year before, amid heavy drops due to widespread travel restrictions and spread of COVID-19. But Dukes said they are a sign of the industry inching back.

In the coming winter months, a number of area events are expected to bring more movement to Nelson and area, as seasonal ski destinations are getting ready to open up the hills, and smaller festival- and food events will be kicking off.

KCR News reports on the latest trend in Nelson tourism–listen here: