The recently-released results of Expedia Canada’s second annual report on the friendliest communities within the country revealed some good news for Airdrie – the city was named the number two friendliest municipality in Canada. According to an article posted to expedia.ca, the report was based on hotel review data collected in 2017 – specifically, the highest-rated service scores recorded throughout the year. “These ratings indicate the most helpful, dutiful and welcoming experiences across the country,” the article states. “Out of a list of over 750 destinations, the towns and communities below all had at least 100 reviews and an impressive four-star rating or higher.” While Airdrie may not initially seem like a bustling tourism destination, Expedia noted the community’s access to an “abundance of nearby attractions” is a draw for visitors – particularly since the city maintains “a strong sense of community.” The article also noted Airdrie is an especially ideal location for families. “We have a lot of people that come to different events throughout the year from many different communities, and our residents also come out in waves to support all our events and fundraisers,” said Mayor Peter Brown. “I’ve lived in a lot of communities, and I think you can find caring and compassion anywhere, but here in Airdrie, it really is all over.” Brown said he wasn’t surprised to see Airdrie near the top of Expedia’s list – based on his own experiences, he said, there isn’t a time when someone says “Hello,” on a local street and doesn’t get a “Hello” back. “In the ‘80s, we were known for being the friendliest city in Alberta – obviously, we’ve stuck to our roots,” he said. “There isn’t a neighbourhood, an individual or a community organization that doesn’t showcase that effort to make people happy in our community, and outside of it.” Not only are Airdrie residents eager to support each other, Brown said, but they’re also always looking for opportunities to extend that kindness to others in need. “Whenever there’s a disaster or anything that occurs outside of our community – or in it – people here will do whatever they can to support these people,” he said. “That’s just the way we are.” Brown added he’s not disappointed Airdrie didn’t earn the honour of being named Canada’s friendliest city. Rather, he said he’s happy to see the community so high up on a list that contains a significant amount of stiff competition. “There’s a lot of municipalities in Canada, so this sure says a lot about our community,” he said. “I think it bodes well for a lot of our current initiatives around economic development, and around the health opportunities that are in front of us. "It just goes to show that with any healthy, vibrant community, there is a huge social component to that. The people who live here really care about one another and they care about our visitors, and I think that’s exceptional.”
