On March 11th, 2020 the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic is having a dramatic impact on the Atlantic Canada economies, and the challenge for the tourism sector has been amplified by closures and travel restrictions. Social distancing, capacity limitations, and traveller sentiment will continue to impact the tourism industry into the future even as travel restrictions slowly begin to ease.

The aim of this research is to provide early insights into what will almost certainly be an evolving and enduring existential shift in the consumer mindset. This Travel Study will also contribute to the foundation for a go-forward plan to advance through a recovery phase.

The study is divided into two phases. The first phase was focused on Atlantic Canadian intentions and attitudes toward intra-provincial and intra-regional travel. The second phase provides updated data on Atlantic Canadians and expands to gauge Central Canadian sentiment, specifically in southern Ontario and Quebec. Future research may expand Canada-wide.

This report highlights the results of the Phase 2 and comparisons with Phase 1 results.