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As Memorial Day weekend approaches, businesses at the New Jersey Shore are preparing for the summer season amid cancellations by Canadian tourists. The tourism industry in New Jersey, led by Atlantic and Cape May Counties, broke records last year in both visitor numbers and spending. However, concerns are rising over a potential drop in Canadian tourists due to a weak Canadian dollar and trade tensions with the United States.
The Canadian Automobile Association has decided not to accept advertisements from U.S. vacation destinations, including Cape May, further impacting tourism. According to NBC New York, the Ocean View Resort Campground in Dennis Township has already seen a 13% drop in Canadian visitors by the end of March, although this has improved to an 8% drop by April's end.
Canadian tourists typically make up between 8% and 10% of summer visitors to Cape May County, with most coming from Quebec and Ontario. Ben Rose, spokesman for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority, noted that the exchange rate of 70 cents on the dollar is a significant factor influencing travel decisions. If the rate drops further, more Canadians may cancel their trips. Rose emphasized that the Wildwoods are still welcoming and have launched a campaign to reassure Canadian tourists of this.
Despite these challenges, there is optimism as businesses adapt by offering midweek specials to attract more visitors.