The Study of Chinese Tourists' Motivations to Canada

Abstract

China has emerged as an important inbound tourist market for Canada, especially after the United States implemented new border crossing regulations between Canada and the United States. Though Canada was granted approved destination status (ADS) just recently by the Chinese government, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Canada has increased significantly in recent years. To better understand why Chinese tourists choose Canada as a tourist destination, the study focused on the motivations of Chinese tourists who visit Canada by applying the concept model of push and pull factors. The results show that Chinese tourists are attracted by the unique attractions, high quality of Canadian life, appealing travel ads, shopping opportunities, and Canadian cosmopolitan city life. The reasons for visiting Canada include prestige, family ties, exploration, and escape/leisure.