June 7, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

Watching a lone cyclist saddled with heavy gear struggling to make his way up a long steep hill on Highway 5 (Yellowhead) a couple of weeks ago, I wondered where he planned to sleep that night considering he was well over 100 kilometres away from any hotel/motel, campground or other amenity one might need after such a gruelling climb. My guess is he pitched a tent somewhere in the woods once his legs finally gave out.

As the cyclist quickly faded to oblivion in my rear-view mirror, it struck me that as a province we still have a ways to go to develop the kind of infrastructure needed to attract tourists from all over the world who love bike touring. To be sure, there are wonderful riding trails and routes in the Thompson Okanagan and elsewhere in BC, just not enough of them or at the advanced stage to effectively market and lure the lucrative, long-distance cycling tour segment.

Conversely, one element of cycling that has taken off in virtually every region is mountain biking. The sector is booming with countless mature and new backcountry trails, bike parks, retail and service shops, as well as clubs and communities whose primary tourism offering caters to riders of all ages and abilities.

British Columbia is not only home to some of the best back (and front) country trails in North America, we also have many world-renowned bike parks that attract high-yield visitors from every part of the globe. Our reputation on the international mountain biking stage is growing every year.

While in Valemount for a tourism celebration over the May long weekend, our group stopped by the local bike park which was teeming with riders, many who came to town for the express purpose of conquering some of the 146 kms of trails built by staff and volunteers of the Valemount & Area Recreation and Development Association (VARDA).

On the surface, all is well for riders in the northern reach of the Rocky Mountain Trench but as I learned from VARDA’s General Manager (Curtis Pawliuk), and more recently from the head of Western Canada Mountain Biking Tourism Association (Martin Littlejohn - WCMBTA), the popularity of mountain biking presents several challenges for local clubs throughout BC that need to be resolved soon to ensure this form of recreational activity remains sustainable.

Advocates like Martin and Curtis tell me there is inadequate funding for trail maintenance, operations and infrastructure in many areas, and counting on annual grants is futile. Most trail systems and bike parks rely on volunteers, which are harder to come by these days. Moreover, many more volunteers are desperately needed for ongoing upkeep, improvements, construction, clean-up, and other duties as necessary to maintain the infrastructure. To add to the mix, obtaining approvals and navigating government bureaucracy is also challenging, especially in today’s ever-changing regulatory environment. Plus, the layers of agencies, land managers, and various other stakeholders complicate matters even further, never mind access restrictions, mitigating risk and liability, managing negative land impacts, and trying to figure out how to operate in the context of DRIPA, among other concerns.

Funding and capacity issues were on most delegates’ minds at the recent Mountain Bike Symposium in Naramata where TIABC presented virtually on myriad problems facing BC’s tourism sub-sectors, including mountain biking. Our plan is to work with WCMBTA in the coming months to find ways to tackle the challenges and embrace opportunities to make the mountain bike tourism sector more sustainable…although neither objective will be simple nor quick.

In the meantime, the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation is developing an economic impact model to assess the contribution from outdoor recreation (which includes tourism), while WCMBTA is working on its own data research project to better understand trail user volumes and the important role that mountain bike tourism clubs and trail organizations play in managing resources. Both of these initiatives are sure to add much-needed information to the conversation. 

Whenever I see cyclists on a remote stretch of highway somewhere in the province, I not only wonder about where they’re headed, but I’m also curious as to why they chose this particular route, how they stay focussed and motivated when climbing long hills, are they having fun, what wildlife have they encountered, what gear are they carrying, and a dozen other questions I’d love to ask. Perhaps one day I’ll encounter a cyclist at a rest-stop and fire away to satisfy my curiosity. Or better still, embark on a long-distance ride to find out for myself.

Walt Judas,

CEO, TIABC

Minister Responds to TIABC Regarding Changes to International Student Program

Hon. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) has responded to a letter from TIABC regarding the recently announced changes to the International Student Program (ISP), including the cap on most study permit applications.

The Minister noted that while the principal objective of the International Student Program is to enable foreign nationals to study in Canada, IRCC intends to change the number of hours students are able to work off campus to 24 hours per week.

The Minister also assures that IRCC continues to examine future options for the off-campus work hours policy, and extends thanks to TIABC for providing feedback on this important topic. Additionally, all information will be taken into consideration as the department continues to work with provinces and territories, designated learning institutions, and national education stakeholders on developing a sustainable path forward.

Read the letter HERE.

DBC Launches Partnership Opportunities

2024-2025 Resident Perceptions of Tourism Research

Destination BC (BC) has launched the 2024-25 Resident Perceptions of Tourism Research Survey that offers partnership opportunities for regional and city destination management organizations (DMOs) in BC to help deepen their understanding of how residents view tourism in their communities

If you are a RDMO or CDMO that’s interested in partnering with DBC to enhance your resident perceptions insights and benefit your community, please contact the DBC Research & Analytics team leads to confirm your participation and get more information on these partnership offerings.

Partnership Opportunity #1

Eligibility: Larger communities with over 100 respondents in last year’s survey.

Contact: jarrah.rubinstein@destinationbc.ca by June 15th to participate

Partnership Opportunity #2

Eligibility: Communities currently conducting their own Resident Perceptions of Tourism research.

Contact: jarrah.rubinstein@destinationbc.ca by July 15th to discuss integration

Partnership Opportunity #3

Eligibility: Communities new to conducting Resident Perceptions of Tourism research

Contact: jarrett.bachman@destinationbc.ca by July 15, 2024, to begin your journey

Note: availability of opportunities may vary by community, subregion, or region.

ORCBC Survey Confirms Outdoor Recreation is Important to BC Residents

According to a recent poll conducted by Ispos for the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC), 56% of BC residents say access to trails and outdoor recreational amenities influenced their current choice of residence.

The new poll also shows that 89% of respondents are passionate about outdoor recreation and think that increased government investment in the development and maintenance of trails, parks and other recreation amenities will benefit them or their community.  

The top identified benefits included: improved physical and mental health (62%), protection of biodiversity and nature (50%), and support of the local economy, for example keeping residents spending locally rather than travelling (44%).

Community parks and trail networks (66%) emerged as the preferred recreational destination for BC residents who participated in outdoor recreation in the past 12 months, followed by beaches/coastal areas (48%), rivers/lakes (45%) and national/provincial parks (41%). 

Learn more about the survey and findings HERE.

Wines of BC Release Q4 Report

Wines of British Columbia (WGBC) have just released their Q4 report which highlights the following objectives and includes highlights, updates and metrics that supported the WGBC Operational Plan.

• Build a world-class brand for Wines of British Columbia
• Position BC a a premier wine regional trade, media and influencers
• Make BC wine country a benchmark for wine tourism
• Strengthen wine industry leadership
• Leverage government advocacy efforts
• Increase demand for 100% bc wines at higher price points
• Secure and improve access to the BC market

Read the full report HERE.

Vancouver Votes to Move Ahead with

Pod Hotel Pilot Project

Vancouver City Council has approved a pilot project to convert empty office space into pod hotels. The motion proposed Vancouver look at changing the building bylaw to make it easier to convert office space left empty because of the pandemic to pod or capsule hotels.

A pod hotel or capsule hotel features numerous small, bed-sized rooms called pods. Originating in Japan, these hotels provide just enough space for sleeping and minimal storage, making them popular in space-constrained urban areas for budget-conscious travellers seeking convenience.

While the aim is to get something done in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the city sees value beyond that so visitors to Vancouver have more affordable options.

Read more about this pilot project HERE.

Photo: Vancouver city councillors Sarah Kirby-Yung (left) and Lisa Dominato at the Pangea Pod Hotel in Whistler. Photo by Sean Martin/Pangea Pod Hotel / sun

Go Yellowhead: The Original Original Edition

Destination Indigenous has partnered with Go Yellowhead to create a detailed, foldable map showcasing all The Original Original experiences along the Yellowhead Highway. 

The printed map features an introductory description of The Original Original Accreditation Program, along with marked locations and descriptions of accredited experiences. It is filled with striking imagery that captures the essence of these experiences.

Go Yellowhead has also developed a landing page introducing The Original Original to its audience. This digital companion, easily accessible for online users, re-purposes the map's content, providing easy access to the same valuable information.

Learn more about the Go Yellowhead progam that includes many experiences across British Columbia HERE.

BC Parks Visitor Satisfaction Survey

Have you visited a BC Park recently? Whether you camped, hiked, biked, boated, or got up to something else, BC Parks want to hear from you.

Through this survey, the province wants to learn more about who is visiting parks, what activities they enjoy while visiting, what they like about parks, and where there is room for improvement. This information will be used to support future decision-making, training, and funding for facilities, trails, and other initiatives.

The survey will be open through to September 16, 2024. Learn more and take the survey HERE.



REMINDER | 2024-2025 Corridor Strategy Program Submissions Close June 19

A reminder that submissions for the Destination Canada 2024-2025 Tourism Corridor Strategy Program intake are being accepted until June 19th at 12 pm PT.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work with Destination Canada to co-create a strategy, implementation plan, and investment plan to support the development of their tourism corridor in collaboration with the relevant regional partners involved.  

Learn more about the Corridor Strategy Program and submit your application HERE.

REMINDER | go2HR Offering EDI Training

June is Pride Month, and we want to remind our readership that go2HR have tailored training courses aimed to begin or advance your journey into Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).

go2HR's EDI training courses are specifically designed for the tourism and hospitality industry. Equip your staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Register today for the following courses:

• 2SLGBTQ+ Diversity and Inclusion Training - $50

• Introduction to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion - $35

• Navigating Cultural Diversity in the Workplace - $40

• Unconscious Bias in the Workplace - $40

Learn more and view the course list HERE.

GreenStep Launch New Membership Category

GreenStep has recently launched a brand new membership category, aimed at supporting businesses and destinations who are seeking sustainability resources and 1:1 support as they make progress on their journey, but who may not be ready for Certification.

GreenStep supporter membership benefits include:

• Access to internationally recognized criteria to measure sustainability performance of your business or destination
• Detailed report of assessment results with top three recommendations for improvement
• Access to exclusive online Member Community Hub, which includes resources such as Action Planning Guidebook, Marketing Toolkit, Sustainability Team Starter Kit, Recorded webinars and more
• Annual 1:1 consulting session with a GreenStep advisor

Learn more about GreenStep membership options HERE.

4VI Introduces Emergency Management & Engagement Specialist to Team

4VI has welcomed new team member Evan Thibault in the role of Emergency Management & Engagement Specialist. His primary responsibilities will be the renewal of 4VI's Vancouver Island Region emergency response and management plan, along with engagement of community partners. Evan will be the point of contact for emergency management for 4VI. He is on a term appointment until March 31, 2025.

Evan can be reached at evan@forvi.ca.

Squamish Lil'wat Culture Centre Commemorates National Indigenous History Month

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) has announced a series of immersive cultural experiences throughout June in commemoration of National Indigenous History Month.

On National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), public activities will include an artists’ market, curator tours, storytelling performances, the Salish Summer Carving Series, live comedy and crafts—with free admission. Lululemon partners to facilitate yoga at Istken Hall for the summer solstice, and the Whistler Film Festival (WFF) will premiere an Indigenous short film series in the SLCC theatre.

More information can be found on the SLCC website HERE.

Thompson Okanagan Extending Welcome to 2SLGBTQIA+ Travellers

Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) are gearing up to welcome 2SLGBTQIA+ travellers to the Thompson Okanagan as part of their ongoing initative Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan (TOTO).

The collaboration is shared among Tourism Kamloops, Tourism Vernon, Tourism Kelowna, Visit Penticton, and Destination Osoyoos, with support from Destination British Columbia, to spread the word about safe and welcoming travel experiences in the region. The initiative hopes to create the foundation for years to come for fun, safe, and unforgettable travel experiences for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Learn more about Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan HERE.

Recent Study Shows Victoria is Second Most Walkable City in Canada for Tourists

A recent study conducted by a Canadian company suggests that Victoria is the second most walkable city in the country. 

This study was done by analyzing how long it takes to walk between the top five tourist attractions via TripAdvisor using what most tourists utilize to navigate a new city, Google Maps. 

Victoria ranked as the second most walkable city, and according to the study, Craigdarroch Castle, the Royal BC Museum, the Inner-Harbour Pathway, the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and Beacon Hill Park are the most visited and top-rated spots in the city. 

Learn more HERE.

PODCAST | Building a Regenerative

Tourism Business

Chris Tait, Tourism Manager of TIABC member Klahoose Wilderness Resort, was a guest for one of the latest episodes of ITAC's Beyond the Lair podcast series.

In this episode, the podcast delves into a journey to inspire others and create a regenerative tourism business rooted in meaningful and authentic cultural sharing.

Tune in for an insightful conversation that delves into the rising world of Indigenous tourism.

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

Britannia Mine Museum

The Museum was established to preserve the material and social history of mining in British Columbia and to educate the public about mining.

The Museum promotes mining awareness through entertaining, experiential education programs, historic collection preservation and insightful public engagement, providing visitors with a blend of experience, serving as a tourist destination, an adventure attraction and education venue that allows guests to leave with a better understanding of mining in BC...past, present and future.

Learn more about the Britannia Mine Museum 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.

Webinar | Canadian Tourism Data Collective

Following the recent launch of the award-winning Canadian Tourism Data Collective, the new, centralized national platform designed to revolutionize how we share and access tourism data, Destination Canada will be hosting a free industry webinar to further explore and discuss the platform’s dynamic features and products.  

Join in for an informative session and demo of this innovative tool which will harness the formidable power of data, research, and insights to increase Canada’s competitiveness and ultimately fuel economic growth through data-driven decision making. The webinar will be followed by a Q&A session. 

Date: Tuesday, June 18

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PT) 

Registration closes June 12th. Learn more and register HERE.

BCHA's Fast Track Your Future:

Managing Crisis Communications

The BC Hotel Association’s (BCHA) Fast Track Your Future series returns next month with sessions on Managing Crisis Communications.

This series equips participants with essential issues management and communication tools tailored to the unique challenges of the hospitality sector. 

From establishing a proactive response plan to implementing best practices, attendees will gain the confidence and expertise needed to navigate crises responsibly and intentionally.

Sessions:

• Strategic Responses June 11
• From Reaction to Recovery June 18

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Family Fishing Weekend

BC's Family Fishing Weekend is an annual celebration of fishing that coincides with the Father’s Day weekend. The three-day event falls on June 14-16. This is a great chance to get together with family and friends and try fishing! 

The BC Family Fishing Weekend aims to share the simple joy of casting a line and catching a fish with all British Columbians. 

There are plenty of ways to celebrate. Take advantage of free fishing days! No fishing licence is required to fish fresh or salt waters from June 14th to 16th. 

Learn more HERE.

Okanagan Wine Festivals Return in June

The Okanagan Wine Festivals returns this June with three weeks in wine country you don’t want to miss. There is no better time to visit BC Wine Country than in June. Just before the summer season kicks into high gear, you can explore all your favourite wineries and discover hidden treasures. The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will focus on a TASTE and SIPS series of events throughout the Okanagan Valley.

Dates: June 2-23

The official launch of the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will take place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on Friday, June 7th, following the BC Wine Awards private reception, where the 2024 BC TOP 50 and the Wine of the Year will be announced.

Learn more about the Okanagan Wine Festivals, the various events and how to purchase tickets HERE.

Active Transportation Summit 2024

Sold Out

Shape the future of active transportation in BC at the 2024 Active Transportation Summit. This dynamic two-day conference, supported by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and hosted by BCCC, brings together planners, engineers, government leaders, industry experts, nonprofits, and academics for collaboration and innovation. This year's theme, "Let's Keep Moving", challenges us to do even more.

Dates: June 18-19

Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster

Get 50% off the regular price if you register before April 5!. Learn more and register HERE.

Celebrating Roots & Fruits

The festivities begin with the 4th annual Rock & Roll Picnic. You won't be able to resist the electrifying performances of two amazing rock bands while indulging in gourmet hotdogs created by our top local chefs.

The excitement continues on Sunday with non-stop music, entertainment, kids' activities, and a diverse range of vendors to explore lasting well into the night.

Dates: June 20-23

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Art of Leadership for Women Returns

to Vancouver

The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Vancouver! This year's conference features a riveting collection of renowned world leaders, business icons, esteemed academics, and bestselling authors who share strategies and insights on the most critical issues confronting leaders in our world today. Don't miss this unique opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams.

Date: June 24

Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Use promo code TIABC40  and save $100 per pass.

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 CanSPEP National Conference Registration

Join event entrepreneurs at CanSPEP featuring immersive programs, networking and awards in Victoria, BC.

Dates: June 25-28

Early registration is now open until May 3rd. Learn more and register HERE.

2024 CITAP+ Annual General Meeting

The 2024 CITAP+ AGM will be held electronically via Zoom on Wednesday, June 26th. Online registration through Zoom will open in early June, so please stay tuned! There will be no cost to attend the meeting.

Date: Wednesday, June 26

Time: 10:00-11:00 AM

Place:  Zoom Cloud

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.

SKAL Vancouver | Tourism Industry Golf Tournament

This year Vancouver's tourism executive club: Skal, is hosting a different kind of tourism industry Golf Tournament; a KP (Closest to the Pin) Shootout.

Date: June 21

Location: Mylora, Richmond

Having 15 Par 3's to shoot at for $1000.00 in cash & prizes on a course anyone can play on, with a Shotgun start, is the way to go. More fun, no waiting around for 5 hours on a golf course, and a great barbeque onsite at the end.

We are looking for golfers, hole sponsors, a title sponsor for the event, the reception, and the KP shootout. For more information, visit THIS LINK. 

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.

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.