Guests photographing a polar bear from the viewing platform at Seal River Heritage Lodge on the Arctic Safari. Jad Davenport photo.
It’s National Tourism Week (NTW) and the weather is warming up just in time! Now in its 14th year, National Tourism Week takes place from April 15-19 and is highlighted by a week-long social media campaign led by the Tourism Association of Canada (TIAC). The theme for 2024?
Tourism is a major force in the Canadian economy, accounting for 1 in 10 jobs and generating over $100 billion. But tourism is about much more than economics. Its far-reaching impact connects and blends the rich cultural range of peoples, ideals, communities, and wild places across the country.
For Churchill Wild, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the economic and cultural significance of tourism in the province of Manitoba, which is in the heartful center of the country. Tourism plays a huge role in Manitoba’s economy, accounting for billions of dollars in economic activity annually, and supporting thousands of jobs across various sectors including hospitality, transportation, and retail.
Guests viewing a polar bear at ground level on the Arctic Safari at Seal River Heritage Lodge. Robert Postma photo.
Churchill Wild, with our rare ground-level polar bear tours and safaris, contributes to this economic vitality by attracting travelers from around the globe to Manitoba’s northern regions. These visitors not only partake in Churchill Wild’s immersive polar bear experiences, which are regarded as the Gold Standard among polar bear safaris around the world, but also contribute to the local economy by supporting accommodations, dining establishments, and local businesses.
Beyond its economic impact, tourism in Manitoba plays a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating the province’s diverse cultural heritage. From Indigenous traditions to settler history, Manitoba past and present is alive with tales of resilience, innovation, and collaboration.
Guide Albert Saunders photographing polar bears at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge.
Churchill Wild embraces Manitoba, Canada’s cultural heritage by offering intimate, immersive experiences that connect travelers with the land, its people, and the wild creatures that call us home.
Through encounters with Indigenous guides, guests gain insights into traditional knowledge, storytelling, and conservation practices that have sustained communities for generations. Churchill Wild’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that these cultural connections are nurtured responsibly to create a mutual respect and understanding among visitors and hosts alike.
Churchill Wild’s commitment to environmental stewardship also aligns with Manitoba’s vision for sustainable tourism development, minimizing our ecological footprint and supporting conservation initiatives to ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy Manitoba’s natural splendor.
Churchill Wild serves as an ambassador for Manitoba’s tourism industry, showcasing the province’s pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife to the world. With unrivaled access to wild polar bears, wolves, black bears, beluga whales, Arctic foxes, and more, Churchill Wild offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.
The look says everything. Guests observing polar bears at ground level with Churchill Wild. Build Films photo.
As we celebrate National Tourism Week, let us recognize the invaluable contributions of tourism to Manitoba. Through experiences offered by organizations like Travel Manitoba and their many partners, which include Churchill Wild, visitors are heartily welcomed to explore Manitoba’s natural wonders, and embark on a journey of discovery, connection, and appreciation.
Polar bears sparring at Seal River Heritage Lodge. Jad Davenport photo.
