Welcoming US visitors in Today’s Political Climate

This workshop focusses on the importance of the US visitor to Northern Ontario overall and particularly in these politically charged times. It will provide current information on trends and market expectations of this important tourism sector. With Canadian patriotism at a high, along side frustration and concerns in relation to US policy making that directly impacts Canada, how do we ensure that the spirit of hospitality is strong and consistent? We will explore ways to professionally diffuse potentially, highly charged viewpoints and engage with openness and how to show continual gratitude for our US visitors. We will also explore leveraging Canada’s openness and commitment to diversity and the safe space provided for all our visitors. The workshop will consist of a 1-hour live, online session with a open discussion and Q&A session. Participants Will: • Trends and forecasts of the US market in the short term • Dealing with different political viewpoints • Engaging with openness • Northern hospitality – standards of excellence • Leveraging Canada’s position on diversity and inclusion Workshop Facilitator: Eva Gutsche – Facilitator, Workshop Designer, Speaker Eva works across Canada helping tourism operators maximize their business potential through expanding markets, understanding emerging trends, creating strategic plans and enhancing overall communication with new and existing customers. The realistic, hands-on approach provides workshop participants with strategies and tactics they can implement immediately. The workshop is suitable for all sizes of tourism related businesses, from smaller entrepreneurial businesses to large international brands and organizations.