The spokesperson noted that in some months, the sector witnessed occupancy rates exceeding those in 2019, a year that serves as a reference because after that year, the pandemic turned everything upside down.

The average hotel booking rate in Greater Montreal last month was 77%, compared to 74% at the same time last year. For comparison, this rate was 84% in June 2019.

"We are getting closer to pre-pandemic levels," said the president of the hotels, happily noting the popularity of the old neighborhoods of Montreal in the heart of the city. He attributes this, in part, to the ongoing summer offerings of the global "Cirque du Soleil" and other artistic performances, most of which are presented for free, attracting visitors and tourists from everywhere.

"Certainly, the price of hotel rooms is rising because costs have increased across the entire supply chain," Boudreau said. "You have to consider that a whole army of hotel staff is providing you with all the services for more enjoyment and comfort during your stay."

He added, "Salaries in the hotel sector have increased, which is good for people to earn a decent living." He confirms that the labor shortage, which was severely felt last year, has somewhat eased.

Under the new forecasts announced this week, the Montreal Ministry of Tourism stated that it expects to welcome 10 million visitors to the city by the end of the year, an increase from the estimates provided at the beginning of the year.

Decline in Business Tourism:

Boudreau expressed his regret that business tourism has not reached its peak in his city.

The 24 to 48-hour stay in Montreal is no longer favored by specialists and employees from Toronto or New York, as they now rely on virtual communication applications like Zoom and FaceTime for their work.

"It is undoubtedly a smart choice considering climate change and environmental conditions on the planet," Boudreau commented, believing that to attract business travelers, clients must be persuaded to spend more time in the city to enjoy its tourist attractions.