The budget today will spend millions more to brand Canada as exciting destination according to Kathleen Harris in The Toronto Sun.

The Conservative government will nearly double its tourism spending to keep domestic travelers at home and attract foreign visitors seeking outdoor adventure and Canadian culture, Sun Media has learned.

“It’s a global industry, so the global recession has really impacted it,” Tourism Minister Diane Ablonczy said. “A lot of people don’t really know how much tourism contributes to Canada’s economy and it’s fiercely competitive.”

Ablonczy said tourism brings as much into Canada’s economy as forestry, fisheries and agriculture, but doesn’t get the same attention because it is so diverse.

“This is one of the economic drivers of our country, and I’m pleased that tourism is getting the recognition and support it very much deserves,” she said. “It’s really a bright light in our economic future.”

This is welcome news – what are you doing about your brand to get the message out?