December 6, 2024

CEO MESSAGE

Even though I wasn’t able to secure tickets to any of the three concerts, the Taylor Swift Eras tour is still costing me a lot of money. Because my daughter was already travelling from Regina to attend tonight’s show, my wife and I decided to fly our son-in-law and grandkids in as well to celebrate an early Christmas. With our sons, a daughter-in-law, a friend, and a big dog also visiting from Kelowna, our house is bursting at the seams which means spending a small fortune on food, transportation, retail, and holiday related activities...not to mention fixing all the broken stuff after they leave.

The link between the Eras tour and a last-minute family reunion is but a small example of what spectacles like this and events of all kinds do for BC communities. According to Destination Vancouver and PavCo, the Eras Tour will generate an estimated $157 million in economic impact for the province, 70% of which is export revenue.

Taylor Swift’s performances this weekend follow a Billie Eilish concert on Tuesday and a record 495 tourism industry professionals from across Canada in Vancouver for the TIAC Congress that concluded last night. Next week, some 16,000 delegates will descend on the city for a major convention that bolsters the local visitor economy yet again.

At the TIAC Congress, I had the pleasure of moderating a workshop where two of the panelists spoke about the value of the business meeting and sport sectors. Conferences and conventions represent some $47 billion in revenues nationwide while Sport Tourism is estimated to contribute close to $7 billion to Canada’s economy.

It makes for a strong argument that as a province and country we should not only continue to attract and host events, but we also need to compel all levels of government to partner and invest in arenas, stadiums, convention centres or similar infrastructure to spur growth and incremental spending by users. In BC alone, communities like Kelowna, Victoria and Vancouver could all benefit from new or expanded meeting venues but there are other BC cities too…some with ideas or proposals that haven’t gained any traction due to funding constraints.

I recently spoke with the mayor of Richmond about the Olympic Oval (ROO), which, I've said before, is among the best facilities in North America. Although primarily a community amenity subsidized by the city, a 2010 games operating trust fund and Tourism Richmond, the multi-purpose venue attracts tens of thousands of visitors and locals and hosts dozens of events each year. It also houses an attraction called the Richmond Olympic Experience which is a legacy from the winter games.

To be sure, most communities can’t afford an amenity like the ROO but it doesn’t preclude local governments from developing stronger partnerships with the province and federal government to advance plans for facilities that can ultimately benefit residents, attract new visitors and build business for their respective cities, towns and regions.

Conference delegates heard this week that host destinations and tourism leaders need to form strategic partnerships with communities that have previously hosted similar conferences, competitions or events. Borrowing ideas or learning lessons on what to do or not to do is vital. British Columbia learned from colleagues in Torino, Park City and Beijing in the lead-up to the Winter Olympics, and the host cities that followed 2010 learned valuable lessons from us.

With Invictus Games and the World Cup on the horizon, the opportunity is ripe for DMOs, tourism businesses and all levels of government to work together to create a sense of community spirit, advance opportunities for visitors and locals to have fun, and importantly, build long-lasting legacies such as new venues that generate social, economic, and cultural benefits for years to come through the business meetings and sport sectors, not only for larger centres but also for smaller communities throughout BC.

December is always an expensive month with events, hosting guests, buying gifts and other incidentals. This Christmas was supposed to be an off-year for my wife and I since our kids are scheduled to be with their in-laws over the holidays. However, the Eras Tour superseded those plans and we find ourselves celebrating Christmas early with our entire family. When my exorbitant Visa bill arrives at the end of the month, I’ll blame it all on Taylor Swift.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Register Today! TIABC AGM

New BC Tourism Minister Will Offer Opening Remarks

Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Location: Virtual

Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am (PST)

Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert will offer opening remarks at TIABC's upcoming annual general meeting. Minister Chandra Herbert was recently appointed the new Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport. We look forward to hearing from the Minister and to working with his ministry in the days ahead.

IMPORTANT - Voting Authorization:

One individual at the AGM, who will have been granted authority to be the voting representative of the relevant member, will represent each TIABC member business, sector association or Destination Management/Marketing Organization (DMO). The member must be in good standing with the organization.

Learn more including how to register, review the Notice of Motions and the nominees for the 2024-2026 TIABC Board.

Chris Tait, Klahoose Wilderness Resort Tourism Manager (second from left) and Klahoose First Nations Chief Steven Brown on stage with Keith Henry, president & CEO, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (middle), as well as resort staff and representatives from event sponsor WestJet.

Trina Notman VP Marketing, Communications & Sales for Accent Inns accepting the award for Tourism Employer of the Year.

Canadian Tourism Awards

TIABC is extending our heartfelt congratulations to two outstanding TIABC members who have been honoured with a prestigious Canadian Tourism Award! This remarkable accolade, presented by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), was awarded to 12 exceptional recipients during an awards ceremony held on December 5th at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. This event not only celebrates the remarkable achievements within Canada’s tourism sector but also serves to elevate the profile of our industry on a national stage.

• Accent Inns - Winner of the Tourism Employer of the Year Award; a business who has made a commitment to foster equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. 

• Klahoose Wilderness Resort - Winner of the Indigenous Tourism Award; recognizing an Indigenous tourism business that has demonstrated a commitment to the development, promotion, and delivery of an authentic, innovative, and enriched Indigenous tourism visitor experience.

TIABC extends congratulations to all the deserving nominees and recipients of this year's Canadian Tourism Awards.

Federal Government Launches Short-Term Rental Enforcement Fund

The Government of Canada has launched its $50 million Short-Term Rental Enforcement Fund (STREF) for municipalities.

The STREF aims to limit short-term rentals that take away units from the long-term housing market across the country. The program provides grant funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities with existing strict regulatory regimes to support the local enforcement of short-term rental restrictions in an effort to make more long-term housing units available in Canada.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the Applicant Guide, which provides detailed information on the application process, applicant and activity eligibility requirements, application assessment criteria, and other conditions of funding.

Applications will be accepted from December 16 at 9:00 am [ET] through January 24, 2025 at 4:00 pm [ET]. Learn more about the STREF HERE.

Update on Bill C-78: Tax Break

for Canadians

The federal government has passed legislation to temporarily relieve GST on food and some alcohol, Bill C-78 Tax Break for All Canadians Act.

Included in this bill is for businesses to remove GST from food, non-alcoholic beverages, and all wine, beer, and ciders, and spirit coolers up to 7% ABV from December 14th to February 15th, 2025.

The legislation, passed on November 28th, clearly outlines which alcohol products are GST exempt. Learn more about the qualifying goods HERE.

Our colleagues at ABLE BC understand that many of you may have concerns or are are unclear on the details of Bill C-78 and have taken the time to compile the most common questions from operators. Visit the following link for more information. 

Threat of US Tariffs Present Considerations

for Tourism

In a recent conversation with Pique Magazine, TIABC CEO Walt Judas presented a perspective on the potential implications of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods proposed by President-elect Donald Trump and emphasized an optimistic outlook, noting that unlike other sectors that may experience setbacks, tourism "could actually come out reasonably favourably'.

Read the full interview HERE.

How Much is Taylor Swift Helping BC's Tourism Economy?

TIABC CEO Walt Judas had an engaging discussion with Al Ferraby of CFAX, shedding light on the significant impact that this weekend's Taylor Swift concert is poised to have on British Columbia's tourism sector and the overall visitor economy.

Listen to the full interview HERE.

ICYMI | Episode #31

Ellen Walker-Matthews

Meet Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO at Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association as she chats with TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas and discusses her career path, her work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in her region today.

Provincial State Memorial Service Planned for Former Premier John Horgan

A provincial state memorial service for former premier John Horgan will be held on Sunday, December 15th, at the Q Centre in Colwood, starting at 1 pm.

Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin, Premier David Eby and other dignitaries will be in attendance.

The service will include religious components by Rev. Dr. Keith Howard, musical interludes and words of remembrance.

The public is welcome to attend. Information about how members of the public can obtain entry will be released in the coming days. 

Arrangements for media coverage are being made. Details will be forthcoming.

Nominate Someone Today for BC's

Top Honours

The Government of BC has announced that nominations are being accepted for its two highest honours: the Order of British Columbia, and the Medal of Good Citizenship for 2025.

The Order of British Columbia, the Province’s top honour, celebrates outstanding achievement, excellence or distinction that has benefited the province or reached beyond its borders. Former or current residents of BC who have made extraordinary contributions are eligible. Posthumous nominations are not accepted.

The Medal of Good Citizenship recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to their local communities on a volunteer basis. This prestigious honour recognizes acts of selflessness, generosity and contributions to the betterment of someone’s local community. Young people between 15 and 25, and posthumous nominations are welcome.

Nominations for both honours must reach the Honours and Awards Secretariat by Friday, April 4, 2025, to be considered next year.

• To submit a nomination for the Order of British Columbia, visit HERE.
• To submit a nomination for the Medal of Good Citizenship, visit HERE.

Input Needed | Survey on Domestic Vessel Safety and Oversight Procedures

As part of their focus on promoting safety at sea under the Oceans Protection Plan, Transport Canada is reviewing how they oversee small domestic vessels (commercial vessels and not pleasure craft). They invite you to complete a survey that will help improve vessel safety and how they deliver oversight.

Given the size and scope of the Canadian fleet, Transport Canada is looking for new ways to oversee Canadian vessels below 150 gross tonnage or less than 24 metres in length, including:

• fishing vessels
• passenger vessels
• non-passenger vessels (like tugs and workboats)

The survey closes on December 13th. Take the survey HERE.

Be Prepared | Be Avalanche Aware

People in BC who are intending to explore the backcountry are encouraged to be mindful of potential hazards, have a plan and be informed about avalanche safety and forecasts.

The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness is reminding adventurers that mountain adventures come with risks and before heading out, plan your trip carefully and share your plans with friends or family, make sure you’ve got the right equipment, check Avalanche Canada’s forecast and follow their safety guidance.

In addition to daily avalanche forecasts, Avalanche Canada may also issue special public avalanche warnings (SPAWs). SPAWs are issued to inform the public about dangerous or unusual conditions and provide information on how people can stay safe.

• For the latest avalanche forecasts, visit HERE.
• For PreparedBC’s avalanche safety guidance, visit HERE.

Job Opportunity

Manager, Corporate Communications

Destination Vancouver is seeking a Manager, Corporate Communications. Reporting to the Director, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement and

working in collaboration with the team’s other manager, Corporate Communications, this role supports the development and implementation of Destination Vancouver’s communications strategy, tactical communications initiatives and development of compelling stories.

The Manager is a resource for internal teams in developing stakeholder and external

communications and providing strategic communications counsel. The role works to advance

Destination Vancouver’s strategic priorities and strengthen the organization’s reputation.

Learn more about this exciting opportunity and how to apply HERE.

Presented by TIABC and sponsoring partners, the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Awards shine a light on the remarkable achievements that fuel British Columbia’s vibrant tourism industry. These prestigious awards highlight the bold leadership, creativity, and innovation shaping the province’s tourism scene. With a focus on excellence, the awards set the bar for industry standards, showcasing the province’s best products, services, experiences, and people. 

We are pleased to announce that nominations are now open. Awards will be presented in 10 categories:

For more information about each award visit the conference website HERE.

Finalists will be announced in early February, and the official recipients will be honoured at the Awards Gala evening during the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference on Thursday, March 6th, 2025, held at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre.  

If you know a business, organization, or individual who deserves recognition, submit your nomination and help celebrate their outstanding achievements! The nomination deadline is January 8th, 2025. 

QUESTIONS?

Email us at info@bctourismconference.ca. 

Learn more about the opportunity and how to apply HERE.

Iconic Gastown Steam Clock Changes its Tune With ‘Shake it Off’

In the 46+ years since its installation on Water Street, the iconic Gastown steam clock has only whistled the Westminster Chimes. But from December 5th to 13th, the steam clock will welcome fans and visitors with chimes that “Shake it Off” and add another element to the ‘Swift-couver’ excitement.

Every 15 minutes, and with a longer sequence at the top of the hour, the clock’s hours will be extended to 11pm until December 13th.

Ray Saunders, the clock’s legendary maker – who sadly passed away on November 23rd – was on board as soon as he was approached with the idea.

British Columbia Institute of Technology

BCIT Business + Media offers a range of industry-relevant programs to help prepare students for their career. Hands-on training is taught by instructors working in your field of choice, which means you’ll be more than ready to enter the world of business with the skills employers are looking for.

Classes are taught at the Burnaby and Downtown campuses, as well as online. Learn more about BCIT HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism newsletter, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. Contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

Early-bird registration is now open for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference. Early-bird rates will be available until January 15, 2025.

Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities will be released soon. Until then, we encourage you to visit the conference website for details on travel, accommodation and conference sponsorship opportunities.

Secure your spot today! This is a must attend event, and we look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!

Traveller Segmentation Program Launch

Destination Canada is inviting you to an 80-minute session to launch their new Traveller Segmentation Program. This is your chance to explore the program's groundbreaking benefits and gain a first look at the newly developed traveller segments. The session will also showcase the powerful features available through the Canadian Tourism Data Collective that make aligning our marketing, research, and destination development strategies across Canada easier and more effective than ever.

Session Details:

Date: December 9

Time: 9:30-10:50 am (PST)

This session will provide you with tools to better understand our travellers and help you drive greater impact in promoting your destination. A recording will be available for those unable to attend live.

Learn more and register HERE.

BCHA Industry Update

This webinar will feature expert insights from Debbie Jager of STR, who will unpack key performance metrics from this year and offer a thoughtful forecast for 2025. 

In this interactive session, we will cover the following:

• A deep dive into current trends, challenges, and key advocacy files
• Analysis of key metrics like GOPAR and benchmarks such as EBITDA + forecasting future trends and opportunities
• An overview of the valuable resources and programs available to our members

Featured Speakers:

• Ingrid Jarrett: President & CEO, BC Hotel Association
• Debbie Jager: Sales Executive, Western Canada, STR
• Karissa Bourgeault: Project Manager, BC Hotel Association
• Samantha Glennie: Member Services Manager, BC Hotel Association

Date: Friday, December 13

Time: 11am-12:30pm (PST) - Virtual

Learn more and register HERE.

Workshop | Climate Resilience, Governance and CDMOs

This new workshop delivered by Destination BC will provide details of the Community Destination Stewardship Initiative. The one-hour, virtual workshop will focus on government partnerships within the context of climate resilience in the tourism industry, exploring the critical importance of provincial, regional, and municipal partnerships to enhance climate resilience strategies.

Date: January 22, 2025

Time: 10:00 am (PST)

Learn more and register HERE.

Webinar | Losing Ground: The Definitive Workforce Update

Join Tourism HR Canada for this “state of the union”-style presentation that will explore pressing workforce challenges, including persistent labour shortages, declining competitiveness, and the shifting policies shaping the industry’s future. Featuring comprehensive workforce projections, actionable recommendations, and a review of programs designed to address these issues, this event will emphasize the urgency of collaboration and cohesion across the sector.

Date: January 22, 2025

Time: 10:00 am - Noon (PST)

Whether you’re an employer, educator, industry association leader, destination marketer, HR professional, or government representative, this session offers indispensable insights to inform your strategies and drive meaningful change.

Learn more and register HERE.

Vancouver Aquarium | Holiday Splash

There's no place like Vancouver Aquarium for the holidays! Soak up moments of holiday magic with more than 1 million twinkling lights, enchanting decor, a larger-than-life Jellyfish Snow Globe, and so much more.

No matter where your adventure leads—from daily Scuba Claus dives to a festive 4D experience—Vancouver Aquarium is flowing with holiday spirit.

To learn more about events at the Vancouver Aquarium, including Holiday Splash, visit HERE.

Barkerville’s Olde-Fashioned Christmas

Barkerville Historic Town & Park is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Olde-Fashioned Christmas event. This enchanting weekend promises festive cheer and delightful experiences for everyone.

Visitors can look forward to browsing a variety of unique gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal treats that perfectly capture the holiday spirit.

Dates: December 14 & 15

Mark your calendars and join us in Barkerville for an unforgettable Olde-Fashioned Christmas celebration. Learn more HERE.

SOS Coalition Announces

"Communities Driving Change" Forum

With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.

Date: January 23, 2025

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver

The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.

The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.

Note: If you have registered for the previous date of September 12th, 2024 and the date doesn't work for yoru schedule, please reach out and your registration will be cancelled.

Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.

Registration Now Open

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Early-bird registration is now open. Visit HERE.

Save The Date | SPARK!

BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference

ABLE BC is excited to announce the return of SPARK! Join in on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre for BC's premier liquor and cannabis conference. 

Date: March 5, 2025

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Vancouver

The highly anticipated third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores!

Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Stay tuned for more details, including registration, early bird pricing, sponsorship opportunities, and programming.

Learn more HERE.

Flourish 2025

Flourish is Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation's annual fundraising experience. It’s an opportunity to come together to support their students as they change their lives through the power of real learning and hands-on education.

Join in for an evening of food and wine, and help the community thrive.

Date: March 5, 2025

Time: 7pm - 10pm

Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit

The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver!

Date: April 22-23, 2025

Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver. 

Stay tuned here for more information on the program, featured speakers, nominations for the Awards of Excellence, and soon-to-be announced registration details.

Visit the conference website and learn more HERE.

Save the Date | BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

Join us in Nanaimo to explore this vibrant urban centre found on the east side of beautiful Vancouver Island, located on the traditional territories of the Coast

Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus.

Date: June 3-5, 2025

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo

More information and registration to be available soon!