TORONTO — “West Hollywood isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to belong,” says Visit West Hollywood’s President & CEO, Tom Kiely.

Itʻs that spirit of welcome that Kiely wants to communicate to Canadaʻs travel advisors, and their clients, in these unprecedented times for Canada-U.S. relations.

The destination is putting its money where its mouth is. This year alone, West Hollywood will have activated in the Canadian market four separate times.

Any U.S. tourism board that can cut through the cross-border political noise has a chance to make an impact, and staying in front of Canadian travellers with a genuine sense of hospitality is essential.

Whatʻs the impact of Visit West Hollywoodʻs Canadian market activations so far? “Whether our impact is received immediately or investing further in our longstanding relationships, West Hollywood is committed to building and strengthening relationships with our Canadian friends and clients,” says Kiely in an interview with Travelweek.

The iconic Hollywood sign (photo courtesy Maverick Helicopters California)

“AN ELEVATED, CREATIVE VIBE”

Not only has West Hollywood stood the test of time as a beacon for living authentically, “but our 4.9 square kilometre city has been a pioneer for openness and inclusivity, baked into our DNA,” Kiely tells Travelweek.

“Unlike anywhere else, West Hollywood, California celebrates diversity — and we want more of it. From entertainment icons taking a stand in West Hollywood, like Elton John and Liza Minnelli, to LGBTQ+ pioneers like Harry Hay and Chaz Bono. When you visit West Hollywood, you’re stepping into a community that thrives because of its diversity, creativity, and openness.”

Kiely adds: “While we can’t speak for what’s happening at the federal level, West Hollywood continues as a welcoming haven, when you and your clients are ready to travel.”

Travelweek asked Kiely what makes West Hollywood a compelling vacation option – maybe even an important vacation option – for Canadian travellers right now.

Petit Ermitage Rooftop Restaurant Garden

“Travel decisions today are influenced by far more than cost — they’re shaped by values, ease of access, and unique experiences. West Hollywood offers a one-stop-shop, as California’s most walkable city with an elevated, creative vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Los Angeles. From world-class hotels to cutting-edge public art and an unmatched dining scene, West Hollywood offers a spirit that’s impossible to replicate,” he says.

He adds that the “travel industry connects people in ways that few other industries can – satisfying our curiosity and openness for shared experiences.”

Despite its compact size, West Hollywood has plenty to offer when it comes to one-of-a-kind hotels, culinary excellence and more.

Hereʻs a look …

HOTELS: Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel will soon open in the original Standard Hotel space on West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip. The Sun Rose West Hollywood Hotel, formerly Pendry West Hollywood, is entering a new entertainment era with Creative Director Adam Blackstone, committing to the intimate Sun Rose music venue and continued presence of famed Chef Wolfgang Puck, who operates the rooftop restaurant, Merois.

CULINARY: Home to each of Los Angeles’ three Michelin 3-star chefs, West Hollywood boasts Somni, and Providence’s sister restaurant Connie & Ted’s. New openings from culinary stars like James Beard winning chef Sean Brock, Alba and LA’s best new restaurant Ladyhawk, complement culinary icons like Catch LA, Craigs or Tower Bar.

SHOPPING: From celebrity-owned boutiques (Julianne Hough’s Kinrgy fitness; Kim Kardashian’s Skims; Mark Wahlberg’s Municipal) to major openings like Jacquemus, Staud, and Saks’ new personal shopping suite at The London, West Hollywood boutiques “remain unmatched,” says Kiely.

EVENTS: Mind + Body Month shines a light on pioneering wellness each September in West Hollywood. Next month, the legendary Halloween Carnaval coaxes the most extreme costuming and makeup artists to Santa Monica Blvd. each Halloween night. And every spring some 40 days of WeHo Pride are honoured from May 22 through Pride Month. West Hollywood’s culinary cocktail scene is also in the spotlight every spring with Eat + Drink West Hollywood, offering a special program with favourite venues.

“WEʻLL CONTINUE TO INVEST IN OUR CANADIAN RELATIONSHIPS”

Air access from Canada to Los Angeles remains strong with positive signs — in June 2025, Canadian travel to the U.S. rose by about 14%, indicating renewed confidence in demand, says Kiely. “This stability keeps West Hollywood a competitive, convenient option for Canadian travellers when visiting Los Angeles.”

Canada is consistently one of West Hollywood’s top three international markets, representing about 2% of the destinationʻs total visitation.

What do we love about West Hollywood? “Canadians have long been drawn to West Hollywood’s accessibility, walkability, sunshine, wellness scene and creative culture. We’ll continue to invest in our Canadian relationships, as evidenced in two upcoming Canadian missions and conferences, connecting directly with clients and media,” says Kiely.

He wants travel advisors to know just how crucial they are in getting West Hollywoodʻs message out to vacationers. “Travel advisors are essential in helping Canadians see the value of West Hollywood by providing a personal and customized touch that travellers can’t get from AI tools or booking on their own. Many advisors bring first-hand experience, making them true experts in creating tailored itineraries for their clients.”

The tourism boardʻs West Hollywood University remains active, he adds, offering travel advisors the opportunity to learn more, earn incentives, and confidently recommend West Hollywood as the heart of LA.

“When the time is right, West Hollywood is ready to welcome Canadians back to our unique proximity to the Hollywood Hills, lifting our city up as the penthouse of L.A.,” says Kiely.

For more destination information check out agent resource site West Hollywood University or see VisitWestHollywood.com. Visit West Hollywood is represented in Canada by Reach Global.

The historic Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026 (photo courtesy Visit West Hollywood)