Canada’s love for Germany just keeps growing
Anja Brokjans, Director of the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) here in Canada came right to the pointing during an event in Toronto yesterday (April 16), stating that Canada’s love for Germany just keeps growing.
And Brokjans has the numbers to prove it, pointing to a stunning 32.6% increase in Canadian overnight stays in 2023.
That growth, she noted, totals 643,662 overnight stays compared to 2022’s 485,348, and showcases the strong bond between Canadian travellers and the vibrant destinations that Germany offers.
The GNTO’s Canadian director also pointed out that the recovery rate for overnight stays from 2023 to 2019 stands at an impressive 87.7%, signalling a resilient bounce-back in tourism after the challenges faced in recent years.
Also of note is the fact that Germany has risen to become a popular destination for Canadian travellers, ranking fourth after France, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
During the Toronto event – which included a ‘foosball’ tournament – Brokjans pointed to Germany’s commitment to sustainability as one of the reasons driving its growing popularity with Canadian travellers.
Said Brokjans: “As we strive for environmentally friendly tourism, Germany boasts more than 3,000 certified hotels and catering providers, placing a strong emphasis on sustainable management.”
And as it continues to set the standard for responsible travel, Germany’s commitment to sustainability is further highlighted with 58,000 e-charging stations for electric vehicles, catering to the preferences of Canadian families keen on exploring routes like the coastal route, and UNESCO family route, and venturing off the beaten path to discover palaces and castles.
The Green Cities initiative showcases Germany’s dedication to climate-friendly urban spaces, with 17 cities boasting green spaces covering 80% or more of their land areas.
And to encourage exploration, Germany offers the Germany-Train-Ticket extended for €49 a month on public transport, providing an affordable and eco-friendly way to travel within the country.
Both Canada and Germany demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and addressing climate change. A study conducted by IPK International in September 2023 reveals that 85% of Canadians consider sustainability and climate action to be very important or important factors when travelling to Germany.
As for what visitors can do while travelling sustainably in Germany, there are no end of things.
Consider the following:
Arts & Culture, UNESCO & Feel Good – In 2024, Germany beckons Canadians with a focus on Arts & Culture, UNESCO & Feel Good experiences. The campaigns in 2024 will focus on Arts & Culture in Germany, celebrating the nation’s rich artistic tapestry with over 500 theatres, 80 opera houses, 6,000 opera and operetta performances, 6,750 museums, and more than 300 Michelin-starred restaurants.
With 52 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Germany takes the third spot globally, with the newest addition being the Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt. This addition underscores Germany’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its diverse historical legacy.
As part of the immersive experience, enthusiasts can embark on a journey through these exceptional sites using the 8 UNESCO Routes highlighted on https://www.germany.travel/en/campaign/world-heritage/home.html.
Feel Good about Travel: Well-kept natural landscapes, regional and fresh cuisine, responsible hosts: these are the hallmarks of sustainable tourism, and all form an important part of the German travel experience. The appeal extends to an opportunity to stay longer through “workation” and working from a ‘home away from home,’ made more attractive by lower room rates averaging EUR 106. The extensive train infrastructure with 33,300 kilometres and 5,700 passenger train stations ensures convenient travel, offering direct connections from 150 European cities.
2024 is set to be a year of celebrations: Football enthusiasts will have a reason to cheer as Germany hosts the EURO 2024 from June 14 to July 14, 2024, across 10 host cities, including Berlin, Munich, Dortmund, and more. Live public viewing zones in every town will offer a festive atmosphere with traditional German street food.
For art enthusiasts, 2024 marks the 250th anniversary of Caspar David Friedrich, a master of Romantic painting. Exhibitions in cities like Berlin, Dresden, Greifswald, and Hamburg will celebrate his legacy.
History buffs will find November 2024 in Berlin particularly significant as the city celebrates 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. The anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall will be celebrated throughout 2024 with diverse and exciting events.
Also, Chemnitz being named the European Capital of Culture 2025 means there will be many cultural events to look forward to. This vibrant German city, nestled in the heart of Saxony, has long been a bastion of rich history and artistic expression. The designation promises an exciting array of cultural events that will captivate and celebrate the diversity of European heritage.
TOP PHOTO
Seen here, from l to r, are Anja Brokjans, Director of the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) in Canada and Andrea Frankiss, Account Coordinator, German National Tourist Office.
