Cape Breton tourism continues to soar after post-election ‘Trump Bump’

CTV Atlantic: Cape Breton tourism continues to soar Tourism numbers on Cape Breton Island hit an record high last year due to the so-called Trump bump. Now, they’re even higher.

The so-called “Trump Bump” that led to record tourism numbers in Cape Breton last year seems to be maintaining its pace.

Destination Cape Breton CEO Mary Tulle says this fall’s figures are at an all-time high.

"Over last year, we are up triple digits,” says Tulle. “One hundred per cent in our inquiries coming from the Ontario and Quebec regions in looking at Cape Breton for a fall visit."

The “Trump Bump” was ignited by a Cape Breton radio station that encouraged Americans to move to the island in the event of President Donald Trump winning the 2016 election. The website garnered international attention, with tourism numbers reaching record highs as a result.

At historic Cossit House in Sydney, N.S., 18th century interpreter Diane Melnick says the numbers have nearly tripled.

"(Tourists) are coming back. They'll say, 'We're going to come back and maybe drive around the area to see the island.' They are that impressed with Cape Breton," says Melnick.

While 2016 and 2017 have been banner years, Tulle says they are now faced with figuring out how to keep all of that momentum going into 2018 and beyond.

“What we have the opportunity of doing is showcasing those experiences as it pertains to culture,” says Tulle. “Those experiences as it pertains to culinary, as it pertains to hiking, as it pertains to cycling."

Tulle feels the surface has only been scratched when it comes to Cape Breton's potential as a world-class tourist spot.

"Cape Breton, I think it's her time. It's her time as a tourism destination, where everything seems to be aligning," says Tulle.

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Ryan MacDonald.