Frank Bourree, a hospitality industry consultant, said a visit by Prince William and Kate Middleton next month will have a major impact on the local economy and tourism.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit seven communities from Sept. 24 to Oct. 1, including Victoria.
“It will be a tremendous boost for tourism,” he said. There are going to be people from all over Canada and the U.S. coming.”
Bouree said the Queen’s 2002 visit to Victoria, “had a huge impact on the hotel occupancy.”
He said international media will be in Victoria to cover the visit, which is likely to include stops at the best local scenery as a backdrop.
“We’re going to blow them away,” he said, noting whale watching and the Gulf Islands as highlights. “It will be fantastic international press for the region.”
Tourism Victoria president Paul Nursey agreed the visit will help raise awareness about Victoria as a tourist destination.
“Will and Kate’s visit to the Calgary Stampede in 2011 was definitely helpful to tourism in Alberta,” Nursey said.
Bruce Hallsor from the local branch of the Monarchist League of Canada said the visit will likely draw royals fans from across the country and the U.S.
“Americans don’t get as many chances to see the royal family as we do up here,” he said.
Hallsor said he’s heard Prince George and Princess Charlotte are likely to come with their parents to Victoria.
“If so, it will be their first overseas trip,” he said. “They would stay here in Victoria for the week with a nanny ... it would be neat to see them play with local kids.”
Hallsor said he hasn’t heard where the royal family will visit in Victoria but other members have visited Royal Jubilee Hospital, Christ Church Cathedral, the Cridge Centre and homeless shelters.
“I understand the focus [of the trip] is on environmental issues and aboriginal reconciliation,” he said.
Songhees chief Ron Sam said he has not been contacted by anyone representing the royals about connecting with local First Nations but hopes that is part of the plan.
