Recently TIABC surveyed its members to solicit feedback on advocacy priorities and other matters we should be focussed on as an organization. More than one-third of our members responded, which is a healthy sample from which to draw some conclusions and set us on the right path for 2023. Allow me to provide a brief summary of what we heard and learned.

The top 10 most important issues to our members in order of priority are: workforce/labour; value of tourism; sustainability; access & transportation; municipal and regional district tax (MRDT); infrastructure development; short-term vacation rentals; reconciliation; land use; and equity/diversity/inclusion.

To be sure, there are very specific issues within the broader categories (e.g. sustainability – forest policy) that TIABC has been working on, but nonetheless the results affirm that these areas require attention.

Survey respondents also recommended that we tackle additional issues such as ferry routes, housing, visitor visas, trail maintenance, homelessness/crime, hotel inventory, sustainable tourism funding, tenure security and a handful of others…all of which we do speak to government about regularly but perhaps need to dial up our efforts.

I was pleased to see that most members are satisfied, believe TIABC offers fair value for money, and that the organization brings more awareness to the challenges and opportunities the tourism sector faces. Importantly, members identified TIABC’s advocacy efforts on behalf of the tourism industry to influence, change, eliminate or develop policy within all three levels of government to help accelerate the sector’s growth and potential to be the greatest value we offer.

With respect to recommendations on programs, information, or services that members would find valuable, there were several responses including but not limited to: Indigenous relations training; hard data on the value of tourism; greater advocacy and policy/legislative changes; fewer newsletters; more contact with directors; networking opportunities; more direct input from businesses instead of only sector associations; and new initiatives that help visitors better understand the backcountry.

Similarly, when asked what TIABC should be doing more of, members offered: lobbying; work with rural BC; providing insights for local governments to better understand the economic value of tourism; advocacy on behalf of the events sector; engagement with DMOs; tackling environmental concerns; and pressing government on tourism recovery.

Conversely, survey respondents told us we should reduce our efforts in trying to be all things to all sectors of the tourism industry, as well as publishing a weekly newsletter in favour of a quarterly edition.

Thankfully we heard many comments about the great work we’re doing but nonetheless, have taken note of the excellent feedback to help inform our strategic plan and actions for the next 12 months. On behalf of the board and team, I wish to offer my sincere thanks to members who responded to the survey. At the same time, I encourage you to continue to reach out via phone, email, or in-person to provide your views on what we should or could be doing on behalf of the tourism industry.

Three weeks ago we held our annual general meeting. Immediately afterward we announced the election of new directors (Joanne Burns-Millar, Miranda Ji) and bid farewell to one director (Jennifer Burton).

However, since then we haven’t formally closed the loop on all the changes to the board. For your information and benefit, I am pleased that directors Sandra van Steijn (St. Eugene Golf & Casino Resort), Jamie Cox (BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association), Dennis Innes (Vancouver Community College), and Mike Retasket (CCCTA) were all re-elected to serve another term.

At the same time, I regret to announce that Vice-Chair Barrett Fisher is no longer a director of TIABC. Fortunately she will continue to serve as a valued member of our Policy Committee. I’d like to thank Barrett for her outstanding contribution and commitment to our organization over the past four years and look forward to her continued work with us on behalf of the industry.

Because this is my last message to you until the new year, I wish you good health, prosperity, Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season.

J.J. Belanger

Chair, TIABC

Further to Premier Eby's Cabinet announcement this week, TIABC submitted a letter of congratulations to Honourable Lana Popham who was appointed the Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport.

The letter reinforced the importance for TIABC to have a strong working relationship with the Ministry team and eagerness to meet to not only discuss TIABC's advocacy priorities, but more importantly, to learn how we work with the Minister's objectives on behalf of all British Columbians.

TIABC has also sent letters to more than 15 ministers that influence the tourism file with a request to meet to discuss industry issues, opportunities and government policies.

TIABC Partners With NotMe Solutions to Help Industry

TIABC is excited to announce our new strategic partnership with NotMe Solutions, the modern end-to-end safety, HR, ethics & compliance SaaS solution for employers interested in fostering a speak up culture and reducing the trust gap that may exist between management and employees.

The #NotMe App enables employees to safely, easily, and quickly report any form of misconduct (harassment, discrimination, intimidation, etc.) they experience or witness – anonymously, if they choose.

“We are honoured to partner with TIABC and want to thank the organization for the initiative and the leadership it has shown.” said Ariel D. Weindling, founder and CEO at NotMe Solutions.

"This new partnership will benefit our industry and its employees. We are also on a mission to create a safe workplace across for our industry. It has become abundantly clear that we must make our industry a better place to work. Words alone will not accomplish this. This strategic partnership with NotMe Solutions is organic and natural. The #NotMe platform is a game changer for both employees and their employers.  It reduces the trust gap that may exist between the two and makes everyone safer,” said Sandra Oldfield, TIABC Director and Chair of its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Reconciliation (DEIR) Committee.

“Over the past 2 years, our business in Canada has grown tremendously. We recently entered into a partnership with Good Night Out and the City of Vancouver to make the night life in the City safer. We have a lot of clients in the food and beverage industry in Canada and as TIABC nicely said it, a TIABC x NotMe partnership was natural.” added Ariel Weindling.

About NotMe Solutions: Founded in 2017 and based in Los Angeles, #NotMe is a next generation patented, end-to-end whistleblowing, investigation, and case management software for people and organizations interested in a new, smarter, and efficient approach to workplace misconduct prevention, reporting, and investigation. #NotMe is an ethical system that fosters corporate integrity and helps organizations manage and mitigate risks while building trust with their people.

TIABC was part of a broad coalition representing the interests of the recreation and tourism sector, that recently sent a letter to new Premier David Eby asking that Budget 2023 include provisions for long-term sustainable funding to support the outdoor sector and BC's communities.

The letter noted the coalition is pleased the 2023 consultation report recommends continuing to invest in BC Parks and Recreation Sites and Trails BC, and ensuring BC's volunteer trail stewardship groups have the resources they need to continue improving access to outdoor recreation. However, the coalition maintains that to build on these recommendations, the provinceneeds to:

Last week, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC), Sean Fraser, and the Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, Randy Boissonnault, responded to advocacy efforts by multiple provincial and national sector associations to announce two policy changes that will remove some barriers surrounding international recruitment of workers.

Work Permits for TFW Family Members 

WORTH Association’s 2023 Mentorship program is now taking applications. WORTH is looking for mentors and mentees from around British Columbia to participate.

The Mentorship Program enables a relationship with a professional in the recreation, tourism and hospitality field. Two mentees will be matched with a leader for a 6-month period beginning in January, 2023.

Mentees will have the opportunity to engage with a positive role model, build leadership skills, and develop connections within the community with the goal of accelerating their leadership ambitions.

In addition to regular mentorship conversations, the program includes access to WORTH Association events and workshops.

Air Canada has announced for summer 2023, they are restoring suspended services and increasing frequencies on popular routes across Canada, as the company augments its Canadian network following the pandemic.

Here in BC, this includes increased frequencies on flights between Toronto-Kelowna and Montreal-Vancouver. Air Canada is planning daily wide-body service on its Ottawa-YVR route while also offering multiple options to leisure destinations, such as Kelowna and Victoria through its three main hubs.

For more information on Air Canada schedules, visit HERE.

Porter Airlines is introducing the first three routes with its new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Ottawa International Airport (YOW), and Montreal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL).

Service begins in February 2023 with multiple daily, non-stop flights, increasing over time.

Porter will offer a 132-seat, all-economy, two-by-two configuration. It is the only airline with no middle seats on every flight, including its existing De Havilland Dash 8-400 fleet. Porter’s order for up to 100 E195-E2s means additional routes will be announced regularly.

Flights are now available for booking. For more information, visit HERE.

Community grants for not-for-profit organizations in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast, Interior and Northern BC will help deliver services so people can be more active, creative and culturally connected.

Provincewide, 790 BC not-for-profit organizations focused on sports will receive nearly $28 million in Community Gaming Grants. Additionally, 717 not-for-profit organizations focused on arts and culture will receive more than $20 million in Community Gaming Grants.

The full list of arts and culture sector grant recipients for this round of funding is available here.

The full list of sport sector grant recipients for this round of funding is available here.

The Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) “Spark” Program is now open and accepting applications until January 18, 2023. Presented by Destination BC, sponsored by TD Bank and in collaboration with ITBC, the Lab is inviting any Indigenous entrepreneurs, small businesses and/or non-profits or community groups to apply with their new tourism idea.

Applicants could be selected to receive a $5,000 seed grant and mentorship to help get them started and push their ideas to the next level of development.

Visit HERE to learn more and to register for one of the upcoming webinars/info sessions.

The Tourism Innovation Lab has recently held two virtual “Spark” pitch session events, with a total of six new “Spark” winners announced for Surrey/White Rock and Thompson Nicola. Congratulations are in order for:

The next step for these outstanding recipients is for Innovation Lab to match the entrepreneurs with mentors in the new year. We will continue to keep you informed on the "Spark" program and the progress of some of these amazing stories in the months ahead. We also encourage our readers to follow the Lab on social media to stay up to date with their exciting new developments!

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) signed two agreements with Provincial partners at its AGM last week that will help further grow Indigenous tourism experiences, and support Indigenous tourism businesses and economic opportunities in BC.

Brenda Baptiste, TIABC Director and Chair of ITBC is proud to support a sustainable and authentic Indigenous cultural tourism industry, supported by the longstanding partnership with Destination BC.

“Our combined organizations can propel the development and enhancement of Indigenous-led tourism experiences that reflect Indigenous values, interests and goals, while building an inclusive, sustainable economy and environment,” said Baptiste. “We have a Stakeholder base of more than 200 Indigenous businesses across the province, and this commitment will provide support to these businesses and communities to recover from the pandemic, and expand the Indigenous tourism industry,” she added.

To help manage the increasing number of visitors to BC's north shore mountains this winter, BC Parks is continuing the free Day-Use Pass program at Mount Seymour. From December 15th to March 31st, 2023, day use vehicle passes will be required to park at Mount Seymour Provincial Park. Visitors with a valid ski hill pass and other clients of Mount Seymour Resort do not need a BC Parks Day-Use pass.

Passes are available to book starting at 7:00 am, two days in advance of your planned visit. Additional passes may be made available each morning at 7:00 am.

Cypress Mountain is also busy in the winter. Be prepared and plan your trip. Consider using the Cypress Mountain shuttle (www.cypresscoachlines.com) or carpooling. Backcountry visitors should be prepared for winter travel, aware of avalanche conditions, and travel within their ability. Check www.avalanche.ca and www.adventuresmart.ca before visiting.

Visit the BC Parks website HERE for more detailed information.

The Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA) is seeking an individual with a passion for sustainability to take the lead on the implementation of our sustainability action plan across the destination, including ongoing measuring and monitoring of progress. The action plan includes aspects of improving and implementing operational changes within NBCTA, as well as offering various programs and initiatives to tourism stakeholders within the region, that are designed to help them get started in their own sustainability journeys. Through the implementation of the action plan, a sustainability program and larger sustainability strategy for the sector in Northern BC will be developed.

Learn more and apply HERE.

Reporting to the CEO of Tourism Prince George, the Director, Marketing & Visitor Experience will act as a strategic, hands on, and participative manager that will lead and support all marketing activities for the organization and all aspects of Visitor Services. The Director, Marketing & Visitor Experience will play a critical role in partnering with the senior leadership team in strategic and operational decisions.

Learn more and apply HERE.

For those of you who were not able to make the deadline to submit an abstract, special session or poster, the Local Organizing Committee of the Coastal Zone Canada 2023 Conference is pleased to offer an extension to Friday, December 16th at 11:59pm (PST).

The theme of the conference is “Connecting Canadians with the Coast”.

Learn more about the conference and this unique opportunity to share your perspective and passion for Canada’s coast at the Coastal Zone Canada website.

Please use this link to submit your abstract.

The 2023 BC Tourism & Hospitality Awards are presented by TIABC and the BCHA to recognize and celebrate the excellence, leadership, and innovation in British Columbia’s tourism & hospitality industry. These Awards demonstrate a standard of excellence for operators and employees in the industry, showcasing the province’s best products, services, experiences, and people.

If you have any questions about conference registration, please contact us at registration@bctourismandhospitalityconference.com. General conference questions can be directed to info@bctourismandhospitalityconference.com.

Destination Vancouver invites diners to celebrate the 21st Annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival from January 20th to February 5th. Taste the world across the city at more than 350 restaurants with delectable multi-course meals and unique culinary experiences. During a normally slow time of the year, the festival has become a popular time for Vancouverites and visitors to the city to get out and support the local community’s restaurants. The annual festival will also feature special events and Downtown Vancouver hotel offers.

Celebrate the flavours, innovation, and the globally recognized names of Vancouver’s restaurant industry with set menus offered at three price ranges: $20-$34, $35-$50, or $50-$64.

Learn more HERE.

Destination Greater Victoria and the BC Restaurant & Foodservices Association (BCRFA), Victoria Branch, are once again teaming up to organize the always popular Dine Around & Stay in Town Victoria. Dine Around & Stay in Town is Victoria's favourite food festival with over 50 of Victoria's best restaurants offering set three-course menus at deliciously low prices. Both locals and visitors alike delight in the wide range of culinary experiences and host of world-class accommodations to be had in the Greater Victoria area.

By following public health advice, organizers and participants will help to ensure that everyone can enjoy the best that Greater Victoria’s restaurants and hotels have to offer in 2023. 

Learn more HERE.

HeliCat Canada is the trade association of the Canadian helicopter and snowcat skiing industry.

The primary mission is to speak and act on behalf of members, to guide and develop best practices in the areas of sustainability and safety, and to promote the growth of the helicat sector in a way that is economically, environmentally and socially responsible.

Click HERE to learn more about HeliCat Canada

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC 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.

Your support and engagement is vital to ensuring businesses, DMO's and sectors are united and speaking with one voice on issues that impact BC's tourism industry.

The conference is guaranteed to provide a mix of discovery, education, industry insights, and networking opportunities - it is designed to offer the tools needed to forge a brighter path forward for the sector!

Visit our website to book your accommodation at one of our conference hotels and learn more about your travel options to Prince George. Plus, enjoy an Air Canada discount code!

If you have any questions about conference registration, please contact us at registration@bctourismandhospitalityconference.com. General conference questions can be directed to info@bctourismandhospitalityconference.com.

IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference promises to deliver another provocative

and solution-based conference.

The biggest change you will see is the option of including Sunday ‘s Day of IMPACT (January 22nd) into your overall registration.

The theme for the event is: O P E N. New sessions this year will address how to build careers with purpose, funding the transition to a more sustainable destination and tourism operation, how to develop effective partnerships to reach your sustainability goals and a deeper look into KPIs and metrics, while exploring ESG best practices.

When we come together with open hearts and open minds, anything is possible. We see connections everywhere. We welcome all ideas, experiences, and ways of life—because this is how we learn, grow, and change.

Visit HERE to learn more and to register.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is hosting the 2022 Thompson Okanagan Tourism Summit.

Date: February 22, 2023 at Thompson Rivers University Campus (Kamloops).

Tourism stakeholders are invited to come together as a tourism community to learn from everything we've been through and think differently about how we can co-create a more vibrant and resilient tourism industry in BC.

Registration to be announced soon. Click HERE for more information.

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is excited to announce registration is now open for the International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC).

This conference is designed to unite the global Indigenous tourism industry bringing together tourism operators, international delegates, members of parliament and tourism partners. IITC features collective sharing of best practices and networking as Canadian and global delegates participate in panel discussions, breakout sessions, keynote presentations and local cultural experiences.

Dates: March 8-10, 2023

Location. Treaty 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Metis - Winnipeg

Learn more and register HERE.

We are pleased to announce the dates for the next annual BCAC Conference. It will take place in Prince George, ("Base camp to the North" and home to YXS) at the "Courtyard by Marriott" hotel.

More information including conference theme, agenda, list of speakers, as well as hotel and travel partner recommendations to follow soon. Questions or Sponsorships? Ask Dave!

Drop us a line at info@tiabc.ca.

TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.