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British Columbia has emerged as a top travel destination this fall, with new data from Airbnb showing a sharp rise in domestic travel searches across the province. Searches for B.C. destinations have climbed 40 per cent over the past year, reflecting a growing preference among travellers to explore closer to home.
Rural communities are driving much of this interest. Haida Gwaii, Powell River on the Sunshine Coast, and Colwood on Vancouver Island are among the destinations gaining the most attention. Travellers appear drawn to the province’s natural scenery and quieter settings.
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Families Eye Beach Towns and Lake Destinations
Families are showing particular interest in smaller communities with outdoor appeal. Parksville, a beach town on Vancouver Island, has attracted strong search interest. Meanwhile, Invermere — a lakeside town on Lake Windermere — is also proving popular. The area offers warm-water swimming and access to hot springs near Kootenay National Park.
These destinations reflect a broader shift in how Canadians are choosing to travel. Instead of heading abroad, many are opting for rural villages and lake towns within their own country.
Canada-Wide Trend Points to Rural Growth
The trend extends well beyond British Columbia. Across Canada, Airbnb reports that stays in rural communities and small towns are gaining momentum this year. Searches for domestic stays in Canada this season are up 25 per cent compared to 2025. In addition, searches specifically for rural destinations have risen 30 per cent.
Airbnb notes that this shift also benefits small and local businesses in these communities. As more travellers choose rural destinations, spending flows into areas that may otherwise see limited tourism activity.
Together, these figures suggest that Canadians are increasingly embracing domestic travel. B.C., in particular, continues to stand out as a leading choice. Its combination of coastal towns, mountain lakes and scenic landscapes makes it well-positioned to attract travellers throughout the fall season.
