Edmonton not at the top of the list for tourists

While more tourists are expected to come to Canada this summer, Edmonton will not be at the top of their list, a report says.

"A favourable exchange rate coupled with low gas prices will make Canada an attractive destination for both Canadian and international travellers in 2016," said Greg Hermus, who wrote the report for The Conference Board of Canada.

While the nine Canadian cities covered in the report should see growth in tourism for 2016, Edmonton will see the lowest increase at 0.8 per cent.

"Tourism in Edmonton is in for another difficult year," the report stated. "The local and provincial economic woes have taken a toll on corporate profitability and lowered consumer confidence in the province."

However, the weaker economic conditions should benefit domestic travel within Alberta's, encouraging Albertans to travel closer to home, the report said.

Tourism is expected to improve with the opening of Rogers Place for the 2016-17 season and the Royal Alberta Museum after that, the report predicted.

Vancouver will see the highest increase, with overnight visits expected to grow by 4.1 per cent in 2016.