Seattle eager to welcome Canadians back as COVID travel restrictions ease

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – With news Canada wants to ease travel restrictions on COVID-19 As early as mid-August for fully vaccinated Americans, the Seattle tourism sector is looking forward to finally opening the border to non-essential travel in both directions.

“We miss Canadian visitors at our venues, restaurants and hotels as much as they miss us. Travel and tourism are a cornerstone of Seattle’s economy, and we need the return of pedestrian traffic – visiting Pike Place Market, exploring the waterfront, and even to and from a rival Mariners and Blue Jays baseball game – for our region to recover from the pandemic combat in vibrant and inclusive ways, “said Rachel Smith, President and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.

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The Emerald City’s other professional sports teams – the Seahawks of the NFL and the Sounders of the MLS – are also looking forward to welcoming the Canadian audience back.

“We’re excited to see so many Canadians come to the Games, they will be missed very much,” said Beth Knox, president of the Seattle Sports Commission.

“We share such a great relationship with our Canadian friends who come to Seattle and the region. It’s a special relationship we have here in the Pacific Northwest. They not only come to our games and cheer on their teams, but of course they also spend time in our hotels and restaurants and simply contribute to the quality of life here. We are pleased that you are visiting us again. “

The U.S. land border is restricted to essential travel until at least July 21, although air travel is allowed for Canadians into the country.

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On July 5, Canada relaxed restrictions on returning citizens, landed immigrants, and other authorized international travelers who are fully vaccinated, removing the need for a two-week quarantine.

During a phone call with the country’s prime ministers on Thursday evening, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed plans to re-allow fully vaccinated Americans to enter Canada by the middle of next month.

He also told them that fully vaccinated travelers from around the world could arrive by early September if the current vaccination rate continues to rise.

– With files from Lasia Kretzel and The Canadian Press