June 28, 2024

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Wishing You All a Safe, and Most Enjoyable Canada Day Weekend

From The Board and Staff of TIABC

Please note, the office will be closed for the holiday and re-opening on July 2nd

CEO MESSAGE

No matter how early or late I go to bed, I sleep solidly for the first two hours after my head hits the pillow, then catnap the rest of the night until rising between 5 and 5:30 am to embrace another day. It’s a pattern that has followed me for decades.

Experts say humans need a minimum of seven to eight hours of sleep daily to function at optimum levels, yet many folks like me don’t reach that target for myriad reasons. Some rely on medication to both fall and stay asleep. Others try methods such as reading a book, something my naturopath says I should do more often when I find myself staring at the ceiling at 2 am.

Lately I’ve been doing a lot of reading later in the evening to catch up on various files and I can honestly say, it works as an antidote for insomnia, especially when studying dry subjects such as new legislation as opposed to a compelling novel or biography.

That said, some of the reports I’ve consumed in the last month have actually awakened my senses instead of putting my lights out…which is a good thing to be sure. For example, Destination Canada’s (DC) new Tourism 2030: A World of Opportunity strategy is a solid piece of work that I read cover-to-cover before bedtime a few nights ago. Among other things, it got me thinking about where and how DC’s plan aligns with Destination BC’s Corporate Strategy, and what our members and stakeholders need to do to leverage both.

In case you haven’t read it or heard Destination Canada President & CEO Marsha Walden speak about Tourism 2030 in recent months, the strategy explains how DC will chart a path for sustainable growth and help Canada’s tourism sector generate as much as $160 billion in annual revenue by the end of this decade. To summarize 50 pages of content is not do-able in this space but I’ll do my best to capture a few highlights.

A core tenet of the plan focusses on morphing from good to transformative as an industry, moving beyond conventional measures of growth and revenue to achieving prosperity that makes a difference for businesses and communities. From an action perspective it means reassessing target audiences and the timing of visits, as well reevaluating investments, infrastructure and policies needed to better support the tourism sector and local communities…all within the context of embracing wellbeing, cultural vibrancy and sustainability.

Another tenet sets the foundation for transformation and looks at both areas of strength as a country and barriers that hold us back from becoming more globally competitive as a world destination. Workforce supply, transportation access, and digital transition are among the constraints we currently face…issues that TIABC and our federal, provincial and territorial counterparts are all attempting to address as part of individual and collective advocacy efforts.

DC’s Tourism 2030 strategy encompasses five primary areas:

A). Aspiration - tourism generates wealth and wellbeing and enriches the lives of guests

B). Guiding Principles - collaboration, prosperity, public support, regeneration, reconciliation

C). Strategic Choices - target audiences, markets, seasons, path to purchase, channels

D). Strategic Drivers - sector advancement, brand leadership, destination development collective intelligence

E). Key Outcomes - organizational performance, sector competitiveness, societal wealth and wellbeing

Each of these strategies contain a number of specific actions or initiatives, not only for Destination Canada but also for tourism businesses and destination management/marketing organizations in partnership with DC and/or local operators. These include everything from aligning business decisions with data driven intelligence and creating meaningful journeys, to empowering Indigenous tourism and embracing regenerative practices.

I’ve barely scratched the surface of the strategy, let alone referenced important items such as measures. Nonetheless, I hope to have peaked your interest into reading and becoming more familiar with Tourism 2030, not to cure your bouts of insomnia but ironically to sleep better knowing how you’ve contributed to DC’s efforts for the aforementioned benefits to our industry and communities. For the record, Destination BC’s corporate strategy, which you are likely more familiar with, contains similar goals and actions and is also worth reading if you haven’t already.

Over the course of the summer, I plan to tackle a long list of important reports to read, preferably during times where I’m wide awake, alert and able to comprehend the content. For those periods where I can’t fall asleep, my naturopath recommends I pick a title from a list she found online of the most boring books to cure insomnia. Either that or I’ll dig up an old biology textbook one of my kids left behind. I doubt I would get past the first page before my eyelids closed.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Plan Ahead, Be Prepared for Wildfire Risks

This Long Weekend

The Provincial Government wants to remind everyone who are enjoying beautiful BC this Canada Day long weekend to use caution and be prepared as warm weather and drought conditions increase wildfire risk in many areas of the province.

Residents and travellers should use caution and take steps to reduce the risk of wildfire by staying up to date on current conditions, following fire bans and restrictions, and having an emergency plan that is shared with friends and family.

Because conditions can change quickly, people who are travelling should check ahead for road closures, evacuation alerts, evacuation orders and other prohibitions, such as BC Parks closures. Follow all instructions from local governments or First Nations. People are encouraged to explore the province, but should avoid travel to areas that are under evacuation alert or evacuation order.

Learn More:

• For the latest information about the current wildfire situation, including fire bans and restrictions, in BC, visit HERE.
• For the most up-to-date information about wildfire activity in BC, visit HERE. https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/dashboard
• For more information about fire prohibitions, visit HERE. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/fire-bans-and-restrictions.
• For a guide about how to travel safely this spring and summer, visit HERE.

REMINDER: Respect Fire Bans in BC and Follow

the Camper’s Code

It only takes a moment for an unattended fire to decimate a campground. We know from years gone by. Our campgrounds and forests are here to be enjoyed by everyone. Practice Fire Safety by following the Camper’s Code.

• Respect fire bans
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Put fires out completely (cool to the touch)

Please camp responsibly. Take the Camper’s Code pledge HERE.

TIABC Supports Peninsula Streams Society Through

Impact and Legacy Program

Following the 2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference (BCTIC) in March, TIABC has chosen to support Peninsula Streams Society through Destination Greater Victoria's Impact and Legacy Program.

TIABC is the primary advocate for BC's visitor economy, uniting operators, sectors, DMO’s, government and residents to support and be passionate about making this province a great place for tourism. The organization has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, committing to enhance sustainability practices in a number of ways, including measuring and reducing their carbon footprint, integrating sustainability into organizational strategies, and promoting sustainable practices through partnerships and educational initiatives​.

Working with Destination Greater Victoria as the host destination partner of BCTIC, TIABC is providing Peninsula Streams Society with a contribution to support its work in building a legacy of healthy streams and shorelines on Southern Vancouver Island.

Just Released! | Episode 25 - Nancy Stibbard

Meet Nancy Stibbard, owner and CEO of the Capilano Group of Companies as she discusses with TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas her career path, her work in tourism through the Capilano Group's different businesses, and what challenges business owners & operators are facing in the province today.

You can listen to the Voice of Tourism podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Check us out on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Deezer, Podcast Addict and Podchaser. Or listen through the link below.

UPDATES FROM BC DESTINATION MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATIONS

Tourism Tofino Launches New Website



Tourism Tofino has announced the successful launch of their new website.

The primary objective of the new website is to create an immersive and inspiring experience, prioritizing user-friendliness above all else. Tourism Tofino aims to provide visitors with a seamless and captivating online journey, from being an inspiration for them to visit, straight through to being a platform for finding accommodations, activities, and experiences to book a trip to Tofino (Načiks). 

One of the key highlights of the new website is its enhanced incorporation of Nuu-chah-nulth content in consultation with Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks. Visitors can now access information on Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, the ʔiisaak pledge and learn local names in Nuu-Chah-Nulth language, fostering a deeper connection with the local community.

Tourism Tofino invites visitors and locals alike to explore the new website and discover the wonders of Tofino at

www.tourismtofino.com

Tourism Kelowna Launches Chatbot

on Website



As travellers and locals explore the Tourism Kelowna website, they can now communicate with their new Chatbot, KAITI (Kelowna Artificial Intelligence Tourism Information), which can help answer general tourism-related questions about Kelowna and the Central Okanagan.

KAITI has been trained using all the information available on their website and additional information provided by their team members, furthering its intelligence. While communicating with KAITI, a website visitor can request to be transferred to one of the Tourism Kelowna Community & Visitor Engagement team members.

Learn more HERE.

Osoyoos Tourism Master Plan to Focus on Benefits to Residents, Environment,

and Business



Destination Osoyoos is set to present the Osoyoos Tourism Master Plan to the public in just a few months. This first-ever, collaborative project represents an 18-month effort involving local businesses, cultural organizations, governments, Indigenous groups, and other tourism-related agencies. The project began in November 2022 with an examination of similar tourism-dependent communities including Ucluelet, Fernie, Tofino, Cranbrook, and others.

The Tourism Master Plan will focus on strategies to enhance destination appeal while delivering resident benefits, such as improving outdoor recreation opportunities; enhancing coordination and support for arts, culture, and heritage; and exploring new opportunities to diversify hospitality and travel industry experiences. Another key component is maintaining, diversifying, and improving industry resilience during peak summer travel, and also deepening the travel season into spring, fall, and winter.

For more information on the Tourism Master Plan, Destination Osoyoos has developed a project information page that can be accessed by visiting HERE.

BC Tourism Destinations Join Global Group to Drive

Tourism Innovation

Tourism Tofino and Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism (CCCT) are two of the 10 founding organizations from across the globe taking new steps with other destination leaders to drive innovation in tourism through a powerful collaboration. Organized by Destination Think, the aim of the collaboration is to harness and share collective experience and expertise in identifying and implementing improvements in travel.

Together, under the umbrella of Destination Think, they will be working on shared challenges and solutions that includes:

• Attracting visitors who support local values
• Preserving the things that draw visitors for future generations
• Helping the community be heard and find the benefits and positivity from tourism,
• Navigating emerging situations that may be disruptors or risks to tourism
• Providing ideas to the tourism industry to reduce operating costs
• Addressing housing and social equity concerns
• Reducing the environmental impact of travel-related activities

The 10 founding partners along with CCCT and Tourism Tofino are Banff Lake Louise Tourism, Destination Queenstown, Mammoth Lakes Tourism, Noosa Shire, Travel Marquette, Visit Bend, Visit Grand Junction, and Wonderful Copenhagen.

TIABC's One Minute Monitor (OMM) is a short survey deployed as necessary to help us better understand members' views on pressing issues and to help inform policy development and prioritize advocacy activities.

QUESTION: Is your projected business (i.e. bookings, revenues) for the months of July, August and September up, down, or the same compared to the same period in 2023?

CONFIDENTIALITY

We respect the confidentiality of the data provided and therefore will not publish responses by any individual or organization. All responses are anonymous and will be reported in aggregate only.

Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism Construction Set to Begin at

Okanagan College

Earlier this week, the team at Okanagan College and students from its Culinary and Tourism programs were joined by government officials, community partners, and TIABC Directors Michael J. Ballingall and Chris Lewis to celebrate the kick-off to the construction of the new Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism.

The new centre, expected to open for students in 2026, will include modern teaching spaces, food labs, beverage research and development facilities, and common spaces. The $55.8-million project received $51.8 million in provincial funding, while Okanagan College provided the remaining $4 million.

Through 2033, 91,900 job openings are expected in BC's tourism and hospitality-related industries, including 9,700 in the Thompson-Okanagan.

Learn more and read the full announcement HERE.

Airports Council Announces Keith Granbois as 2024 Small Airport Professional of the Year Award

Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), the trade association representing commercial service airports in the US and Canada announced earlier this week, Keith Granbois from Nanaimo International Airport was the recipient of the 2024 ACI-NA Small Airport Finance Professional of the Year Award.

Keith Granbois is the CFO and VP of Business Development at Nanaimo International Airport (YCD). Among his many achievements, Granbois successfully led the airport during the COVID-19 pandemic, implemented data systems to streamline the airport’s payroll processing functions and employee records, and increased the passenger facility fees. In 2023, Granbois successfully brought in Pacific Coastal Airlines, a new carrier to YCD, to offer airline services to Kelowna and Vancouver. He also served as the project lead to clear 15 acres of airport land to be renovated for future ground-side development projects and revamped YCD’s marketing, website, and social media accounts to further engage with the community and relevant stakeholders. Read the full announcement HERE.

TIABC's board and staff extend sincere congratulations to our member Keith Granbois on this prestigious recognition.

Photo: Keith Granbois, centre, receiving award. Photo credit: ACI-North America

Michael Drake Appointed as New V.P. of

Meetings & Conventions

Destination Vancouver has announced the appointment of Michael Drake as new Vice President of Meetings & Conventions. Michael brings more than 30 years of industry experience across several strategic roles in leading hotels across Canada. 

He joined the Destination Vancouver team in 2015 as the Director of Sales, Meetings & Conventions for Canada & International markets and spearheaded the rebranding of the Be A Host Program to today’s MIND (Meeting & Innovation Network of Distinction) Partnership. He has forged relationships with key stakeholders and partners in Vancouver’s tourism ecosystem and works collaboratively to secure large conferences for Vancouver including the recently announced Web Summit. 

The TIABC Board and staff join Destination Vancouver in congratulating Michael in his new role that becomes effective July 1st.

Input Needed | ABLE BC Wage Survey

ABLE BC seeks to understand how the June 1st minimum wage increase has affected their members’ businesses, what industry standards are for starting wages, and what their members include in employee benefits packages.

This survey is for all Cannabis Retail Store (CRS), Licensee Retail Store (LRS), and Liquor Primary (LP) licensees in BC. 

Your replies are vital to their research and advocacy work and will help to better advance the needs of ABLE BC members.

This survey should take less than 5 minutes to complete and will remain open until July 19th.

REO Rafting & Yoga Resort Is Open Again

After suffering devastating destruction due to last summer’s wildfires, TIABC member REO Rafting & Yoga Resort, has opened for its 42nd season following eight months of rebuilding and revitalization. Though the capacity is smaller now, the business opened with 17 glamping tents, each located five metres above the rapids of the Nahatlatch River.

Guests have resumed whitewater rafting on the world-class river and, although the tragedy of the fire frames both sides of the waterway, the regrowth is green and the speed and continuous nature of the rapids keeps them focused on the waters ahead. The rebuild of the Yoga & Wellness Retreat Centre will carry forward into the 2025 season.

REO Rafting & Yoga Resort will be open until September 21st. Learn more HERE.

Three New Visitor Centres Open in

VCM Region

Just in time for the peak visitor season, three new visitor centres have opened in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains (VCM) region.

Tourism Harrison held their grand opening of the Harrison Visitor Centre & Sasquatch Museum last week with the support of Sts’ailes and the Village of Harrison Hot Springs. The new building is three times the size of the original museum. Its main feature is the “Land of the Giants'' exhibit, highlighting the area’s bald eagles and sturgeon, alongside the legendary Sasquatch.

Destination Vancouver has introduced a new kiosk in Gastown, with the support of Gray Line Westcoast Sightseeing and the Gastown Business Improvement Association. Located at Water and Cordova streets. Hours: June 4 – September 30, 10am to 3pm.

Discover Langley City has opened a year-round Visitor Centre in downtown Langley City. Complementing the summer Mobile Visitor Services program, the Visitor Centre is located in the Discover Langley City office at 101-20611 Fraser Highway. Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.

Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca

St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino

Nestled in the spectacular Rocky Mountains and located within the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, St. Eugene Resort celebrates a unique history within a beautiful and rare setting. Once a former residential school, the Mission Building was reclaimed under the visionary leadership of the Ktunaxa Nation and transformed into a full-service resort and beacon of light for the community.

Learn more about St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, 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.

BC Accessibility Standards: Business and Industry Associations Session

The Accessibility Directorate will hold a series of virtual sessions with government and non government parties to collect input on proposed Accessible Service Delivery and Employment Accessibility standards. Join the conversation, help remove barriers for people with disabilities in the province and shape BC's first accessibility standards.

Date: July 4 - VIRTUAL

Time: 2pm - 4pm (PT)

Learn more and register HERE.

Updates from Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC

Free Drop-in Learn to Fish Events

Join Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC for a fun two-hour program, and learn how to go freshwater fishing. A snapshot of some upcoming events can be found below, with many more listed on their website: 

July 2

Ellison Provincial Park (Vernon)

Surveyors Lake (Kikomun Creek Provincial Park)

Gordon Bay Provincial Park (Cowichan Lake)

Lightning Lake (E.C. Manning Provincial Park)

July 5

Moyie Lake (Moyie Lake Provincial Park)

Shuswap Lake Provincial Park (Scotch Creek)

Alice Lake Provincial Park (Squamish)

Programs also run in municipal parks, and at our hatchery locations. To find a program near you, visit the events calendar HERE.

Marlon Recreational Products and Go Fish BC Contest

One lucky family will win a Marlon SWV 12' utility boat and Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC prize pack, which includes a manual inflatable PFD, 13 Fishing Defy Black GENII 6'7" two-piece spinning rod and Kalon Spinning Reel, 12-ounce tumbler, and cap! Set yourself up for hours of family fun on the lake.

Good luck! Contest closes June 30th. Winners will be announced July 9th. Learn more and enter the contest HERE.

Tickets Now On Sale | 2024 Wine Capital Weekend

Oliver Tourism Association and the Wine Capital Weekend Organizing Committee is thrilled to announce that tickets for the 2024 Wine Capital Weekend are now on sale!

Set in the picturesque town of Oliver, from September 20th to 22nd, this extraordinary weekend promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with world-class wines, craft beers, ciders, spirits, delectable food, and exciting entertainment.

Secure your tickets now to take advantage of early bird pricing available until July 31st!

Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.

43rd Annual Kamloopa Powwow

Join in to celebrate three days of vibrant Indigenous Culture! The Kamloopa Powwow Society is honoured to host the 43rd annual Kamloopa Powwow. The Kamloopa Powwow expects another large turn-out with an estimated 500 dancers and drummers from all across Canada and the United States. Attendees can expect to enjoy amazing drumming and dancing, colourful regalia, great food, and shopping at the artisan vendor booths.

Dates: June 28-30

Location: Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Special Events Facility (the Arbour) within Secwepemcúl’ecw, Kamloops

By being together, we will celebrate our culture and lift our spirits up. Kamloopa Powwow helps to honour our personal pride as First Nations and share our beautiful culture and territory with the world.

Learn more HERE.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournaments

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournaments. This year a new venue is being introduced to the Vancouver location which will bring a whole new experience: 

Dates:

• July 5 - Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club
• August 21 - Olympic Golf Club, Victoria

Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament

The highly anticipated Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament is set to tee off! Golf enthusiasts and industry professionals alike will gather for a day of friendly competition and networking against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s scenic landscapes.

Dates: July 17

Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club

To Register: please email the CITAP+ office at info@citap.ca to be invoiced for your preferred activities/ sponsorships. Please indicate the number of individuals that will be in attendance.

33rd Annual PNWER Summit

Advancing a Sustainable Regional Economy through Clean Energy & Innovation

Legislators, business leaders, academics, and policymakers from the U.S. and Canada will gather in Whistler for PNWER's 33rd Annual Summit from July 21-25 to discuss regional economic best practices and trade concerns. It will be an opportunity to engage with our region's key decision makers on both sides of the border. 

Dates: July 21-22

Location: Fairmont Château Whistler

Learn more and register HERE.

Annual Tourism Summit & AGM

What to Expect at the 2024 Tourism Summit - As an attendee you will have access to a range of networking opportunities, the chance to pick up invaluable insights from industry experts, and time to connect with the tourism community. 

Date: October 15-17

Location: Bella Coola

Registration, room rates and agenda will be posted soon.

Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2024

At the annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration, the BCAC recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse almost $150,000 through their Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia.

Date: October 18

Time: 5:45pm - 10:00pm PDT

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit

The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and will bring together industry experts, travel enthusiasts, and local businesses to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in Northern BC's tourism sector.

Dates: October 22-24

Location: Ramada Hotel, Prince George

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.

Dates: October 23-24

Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson

Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!

Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum

The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!

Dates: November 4-6

Location: Manning Park Resort

Registration and agenda to be available August, 2024.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

Save The Date

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

Details to the conference including registration, accommodation and travel information will soon follow.