Muskoka Tourism is extending its reach next year thanks to a 15 per cent funding bump from the District of Muskoka.
Executive Director Val Hamilton says they’ve put together their biggest plan yet, with 10 times more marketing and a renewed focus on international visitors.
“We will have more marketing exposure to the rest of the province, and internationally,” says Hamilton. “We’re looking at U.S. drive markets, pockets in the U.K. and Germany. By doing that we will ultimately drive more tourists to Muskoka throughout the year, not just in July and August. Everyone needs to experience Muskoka, because it is a world-class destination.”
As for the funding, Hamilton says the 15 per cent increase is “historic” as the organization normally gets 1.8 per cent.
“This increase in funding from the district is so important for our success next year,” says Hamilton. “We are so grateful, because that money is going to go towards more marketing for us. Closing the visitors centre, we’re able to reallocate those funds into additional marketing, and we’re putting every possible dollar we can into in-market activity.”
Hamilton adds that will mean working closely with their 235 members, including chambers of commerce, BIAs, and municipalities. “We’re always trying to get the word out to support our tourism operators in Muskoka,” she says.
