Despite the rising cost of living and tensions between Canada and the United States, several construction workers met in Stanstead did not hesitate to head south of the border for their vacation.
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At the start of the construction holiday, traffic is heavy at the Stanstead border crossing, where many vacationers are heading to the beaches of Old Orchard, Maine. Because although some Quebecers are favoring destinations closer to home this year in order to limit spending, the United States continues to attract some vacationers.
The Eastern Townships well positioned
However, this reality does not seem to be slowing down the regional tourism industry. The outlook remains positive for the summer season, and the construction holidays, which take place this year from July 19 to August 1, traditionally lead to a significant increase in travel throughout Quebec.
Construction vacationers are on their way to the United States, despite trade tensions.
Screenshot / LCN
Eastern Townships Tourism indicates that the region’s accommodations, attractions and activities also benefit from the busy construction holidays, one of the most important times of the year for tourism. “It was a difficult start to the season due to the weather in June, but people tend to wait until the last minute to get the best prices,” explains Shanny Hallé, spokesperson for the organization.
Call for caution
The Sûreté du Québec reminds that this period is one of the busiest on the road network.
Last year, the construction holidays resulted in 38 deaths in the territory served by the SQ, the worst toll in the last ten years. The police also invite vacationers to be extra careful on bodies of water.
See the full report in the video above.
