October 13, 2023

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CEO MESSAGE

As a groomsman at my buddy’s wedding some 34 years ago, I was sitting at the head table next to the podium when the master of ceremonies took the mic to start the reception. A few words into his welcome, he passed out and hit the floor right next to me. After making sure he was okay, I informed the guests we would take a short break to allow the emcee the opportunity to rehydrate, catch his breath, and calm down before resuming formalities.

After about 10 minutes, he stepped up to start again and the same thing happened…only this time I anticipated another mishap and positioned myself to catch him before he bonked his head on the stage. To make a long story short, the emcee sat down for the remainder of the reception while I used his notes to direct the rest of the proceedings.

I’ve witnessed both a groom and a wedding party member pass out before but never the emcee. In this case, there was no formal backup plan so the bride and groom asked me to take over given my extensive public speaking experience.

I am often reminded of that incident when attending events where something goes sideways. Earlier this week, Destination Vancouver (DV) hosted a tourism outlook briefing at SFU downtown where the fire alarm twice forced attendees to vacate the building before the presentations began an hour later than originally scheduled. Full marks to DV’s staff who remained calm and handled the situation extremely well, as did the speakers who improvised but still offered compelling and relevant content on what Vancouver and BC’s tourism sector can expect in the year ahead.

From a macro, general business perspective, the Conference Board of Canada (CBC) noted that the rapid adoption of technology such as e-commerce and remote work is here to stay; business travel will be slow to recover to pre-pandemic levels; more than 700,000 small businesses (including tourism operators) have yet to repay their CEBA loans; between eight and 12 percent of office space remains vacant in major Canadian cities; and higher lending rates are expected to persist for the foreseeable future. Yikes!

For tourism specifically, YVR and DV both noted that pent-up demand for travel to Canada still exists; significant seat capacity is coming to the market from a range of airlines with passenger growth anticipated for 2024; domestic travel is back to 2019 levels; US visitation next year should equal 2019, while travel from other countries is poised to rebound to pre-pandemic levels by 2025/26; and inflation adjusted visitor spending may take a little longer to recover.

The information shared was a mix of positive news and caution. As a former boss used to say…because none of us can predict the future with 100 percent accuracy, every projection is likely to be wrong to some degree. At the same time, given how the tourism sector regularly faces trials of one form or another, it behooves all of us to be prepared as best as possible and improvise as necessary to either deal with global (e.g. pandemic), national (e.g. inflation) or local issues (e.g. wildfires), as well as capitalize on opportunities (e.g. new routes/markets) to ensure that BC’s visitor economy remains on solid footing.

I’m aware that many TIABC members are buried in strategic planning with a focus on assessing market demand, reviewing revenue forecasts, evaluating the feasibility of expanding their businesses, or any number of possibilities for next year and beyond. Considering the ups and downs of BC’s visitor economy so far this year and dating back to 2020, it’s a difficult job to say the least.

Nonetheless, insights from credible sources such as DV, YVR, and CBC on local, national and international trends and data is helpful to make informed decisions to help businesses survive and ultimately prosper in an environment of unpredictability and constant change. Kudos to Destination Vancouver for hosting the session, and to those that waited patiently and stuck around to capture knowledge they can apply to their 2024 business plans.

At my age, the days of being a groomsman or (last-minute) wedding emcee are long behind me but hosting events, meetings, and presenting to groups are not. Thankfully I am usually prepared with a back-up plan in case something goes sideways, especially with technology. At the very least, adapting to a first-time or unanticipated scenario as Destination Vancouver did on Wednesday, is an option that can also work well provided the right people are calling the shots.

In case you’re wondering, the rest of the wedding reception went off without a hitch and everyone laughed at all my stories and jokes even though I wrote none of them. As for the original master of ceremonies…he’s never emceed an event of any kind since that fateful day more than three decades ago.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Province Seeks Input on Disaster Financial Assistance Regulations

The Province has announced that BC residents are invited to provide input to help shape and improve new emergency-management regulations, including post-emergency financial assistance for people recovering from a disaster.

Public engagement is open until December 31st to gather input on the development of two new regulations under the recently introduced Emergency and Disaster Management Act. Individuals, communities and small businesses are invited to share written feedback or take part in virtual workshops in November. Sessions for First Nations will also be offered.

A post-emergency financial-assistance regulation will replace the existing Compensation and Disaster Financial Assistance Regulation. The Province is also seeking feedback on new regulations to supplement and complete provisions under the new legislation for local authorities.

To learn more about the public engagement and to participate, visit HERE.

Read the official announcement from government HERE.

Federal Government Contributes $1M to

BC Tourism Organizations

Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea-to-Sky Country, Patrick Weiler was in Squamish earlier this week to announce that over $1M would be shared among the Indigenous Tourism Association of British Columbia (ITBC), BC Parks Foundation, and Tourism Bowen Island.

Approximately $500,000 will be allocated to ITBC to develop the Invest in Iconics strategy to grow Indigenous tourism, $360,000 will go to technology development for tours and information about BC Parks, and $158,000 will help develop a sustainable destination management plan for Bowen Island.

The funds came from the federal Tourism Relief Fund.

Read more on this week's announcement HERE.

Pictured: MP Patrick Weiler making the announcement in Squamish on Oct. 11th. Photo credit: Andrew Hughes / Pique

Just Released on Friday the 13th! - Episode #13 in TIABC's

Voice of Tourism Podcast Series

TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas speaks with Dave Frank, Executive Director of the British Columbia Aviation Council about the work they're doing for members around the province, the policy and advocacy challenges facing the aviation and tourism sectors, and how we can move towards a more sustainable aviation industry.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism podcast feature interviews with some of the most respected professionals in the tourism industry and has been developed to provide TIABC members and stakeholders with insightful content and a unique perspective on industry developments, policy directives, the work that sector associations are doing, and the opportunities that exist for businesses, communities, and government within the visitor economy.

Now Available on Spotify or the following link:

Register Today! | TIABC AGM

The Annual General meeting of the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) will be held on the following date:

Date: Thursday, November 9, 2023

Location: Virtual

Time: 10:00 - 11:30 am (PT)

The meeting is called for the purposes of:

• To receive the financial statements of the Association for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2022
• To approve the minutes of the November 18th, 2022 Annual General Meeting
• To elect five (5) Directors 

1. Register for the AGM HERE
2. Learn more about the TIABC Board of Directors and nominees HERE
3. Vote for qualified candidates for election as directors before the AGM HERE

TIAC Seeking Members to Join Membership Advisory Committee

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is currently seeking enthusiastic members to join their newly formed Membership Advisory Committee. If you are a TIAC member, they want to hear your voice to help shape TIAC’s membership future and be part of this committee. The Membership Advisory Committee will play a pivotal role in advising on matters related to membership engagement, best practices, and overall advantages.

The primary goal is to ensure the representation of a wide range of voices from various sectors within the tourism industry. TIAC strongly encourages individuals with a passion for fostering growth, driving innovation, and leading positive change in our industry to express their interest in joining the committee.

Key responsibilities of committee members will include:

• Providing input on membership engagement and outreach strategies.
• Reviewing current programs and offering expertise and insights to enrich the current programs.
• Sharing perspectives and collectively contributing to the committee's goals.
• Helping formulate recommendations and strategies to enhance member services and benefits.

If you are a TIAC member interested in becoming a part of the Membership Advisory Committee and believe that your expertise, dedication, and passion can contribute to the growth and success of our industry, please submit your expression of interest by Oct. 20th HERE.

2023 ITBC Board of Directors Nominees

At the Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) Annual General Meeting of October 25th, the newly elected board members for (1) Regional Director of Vancouver Island, and (3) At-Large Directors will be announced.

NOTE: Only registered voting stakeholders can vote. Please follow THIS LINK to cast your vote(s). The deadline to submit your vote is October 24th, 4:30PM PST. 

This year, ITBC has two acclaimed directors seats;

• One Regional Director of Northern BC - Leslie Brown, Davidson Decedents - Haida Gwaii
• One Regional Director of Cariboo Chilcotin Coast - Kathy Brown, SeeQuest Development Co - Bella Bella

Learn more, and meet the nominees HERE.

Understanding the Michelin Guide: Stars, Green Star, Bib Gourmand, and the New Michelin Key

An Excerpt from a Blog by Ben Liegey, of the Better Table.ca

"Many people today are trying to better understand the Michelin rating system. With Michelin stars, Bib Gourmand, the Green Star and now the new Michelin Key for hotels, it’s a guide to high-quality experiences. Ben Liegey of the Better Table dives into what these distinctions mean.

The Michelin Guide is a revered institution in the gastronomical world. Originating in 1926, this guide serves as a beacon for food enthusiasts, leading them to some of the world’s best dining experiences, where dining and hospitality meet excellence and distinction. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a hospitality leader or a globetrotter, understanding the Michelin rating system can be quite intriguing. With Michelin stars, Bib Gourmand, the Green Star and now the new Michelin Key for hotels, it’s a comprehensive guide to high-quality experiences."

WORTH Seeking Mentees

WORTH Association is seeking qualified mentees to participate in their Mentorship Program.

The WORTH Mentorship Program enables a relationship with a professional in the recreation, tourism, and hospitality field. Mentees will be matched with an experienced leader who will be your mentor for a 6-month period.

Over that duration, 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, resources and workshops.

Interested in being a mentor? Visit HERE.

Opportunity | President

Tourism Sun Peaks

Tourism Sun Peaks is seeking to fill the role of president. The president is responsible for the operations and day-to-day management of all Tourism Sun Peaks activities. The president reports to the board of directors and is accountable to stakeholders including members and funding partners. The president will oversee the implementation and monitor the progress of these plans which are reviewed and updated on an annual basis, thus acting as the framework upon which the association operates.

Executive responsibilities are combined with supporting tactical and operational executions such as event activations and marketing campaigns.

Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP) is a destination marketing and management organization mandated to promote the resort to the world. Founded in 1996, TSP is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization with 1,500 members representing accommodations, attractions, restaurants, retail and homeowners.

Learn more about this exciting position and apply HERE.

BC Ranks Amongst Best in 2023 Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards

Earlier this month, Condé Nast Traveler revealed its 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards – the longest-running recognition in the travel industry. More than half a million readers rated their travel experiences across the globe to make up this year’s list. The annual Readers’ Choice Awards continues to capture the travel experiences that readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises, islands, and luggage. Congratulations are in order to two of BC's best cities in the world:

• Best Small Cities - Number 1/10: Victoria
• Best Big Cities - Number 8/10: Vancouver

Visit HERE for the full list of the BC-based winners that include best resorts and top 15 hotels in the world.

Kelowna Set to Welcome the Pan Continental Curling Championships

Later this month, Kelowna will welcome visitors from across the globe for the second edition of the Pan Continental Curling Championships, which are taking place at the Kelowna Curling Club from October 29th - November 4th.

Kelowna has hosted three previous World Curling championships—the World Women's in 1986, the World Juniors in 2002, and the World Mixed in 2018—Kelowna has excellent experience with these events.

During the week-long event, world-class athletes, coaching staff, family and friends, and curling fans, some of whom may be visiting for the first time, will be exploring downtown Kelowna and beyond, meaning that the number of people in our city will be much higher than usual for this time of year.

Read more information from Tourism Kelowna HERE to learn more about the Championships and how the community and region can prepare to warmly welcome these visitors!

Allied Golf Association of BC

The Allied Golf Association of British Columbia is a provincial organization that contains representation from each of the Regional Golf Industry Associations that are dedicated to providing one cohesive voice for the golf industry of British Columbia.

Representatives from each of the provincial golf associations are committed to the understanding of each others respective roles, working together on matters of mutual interest that require unified communication, and promoting ways and means to grow the game of golf in BC. Their mission is to provide leadership, collaborative advocacy and a cooperative resource for the British Columbia Golf Industry.

Learn more about the Allied Golf Association of BC HERE.

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

Transform Your Organization with AI

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a luxury but a necessity for small- and medium-sized businesses looking to stay competitive.

Join us for a dynamic session that provides an understanding of how AI can help individuals and organizations become more productive, innovative and resilient.

Date: October 18

Time: 8 - 9:30 am (GMT)

Learn more and register HERE.

The Great BC Shake Out - 2023

Are you and your staff ready to drop, cover, and hold on October 19? Join hundreds of employers across BC as we practice how we drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake drill. Employers can also plan their earthquake drill as the Great ShakeOut has free online resources for all industries including tourism and hospitality. Plan and develop a earthquake safety plan for employees and register today!

Date: October 19

Time: 10:19 am (PT)

Learn more on how to participate and register HERE.

Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples Virtual Workshop

Customized for the tourism organizations, visitor centres, and tourism businesses, this live virtual training is designed to build awareness of Indigenous peoples and support your organization with building relationships with Indigenous communities and businesses in British Columbia.

Date: October 24

Time: 9am - 4pm (PT)

Learning Outcomes:

• Understanding how current Indigenous issues impact Indigenous communities
• Understanding the constitutional, political and legal context of Indigenous issues
• Understanding how Indigenous and western world views impact decision-making
• Understanding how to cultivate Indigenous relationships, manage risk and consult with Indigenous Peoples
• Understanding business reasons for working with Indigenous Peoples

This full-day workshop is free of charge. Space is limited. Register HERE to secure your spot.

BCLCA to Host Fall Parking Lot Meetings

for Members

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is inviting their members to join in for their fall Parking Lot Series of Meetings.

Members will gather via zoom video to chat with the board and fellow operators about the summer business conditions. There is no FEE to attend but registration is required.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email via zoom containing information about joining the meeting. A reminder email will be sent one day before the event.

Confirmed Dates and Topics for Parking Lot Series Meetings:

• October 26 - 9:00 am – 10:00 am - Guest Speaker from Go RVing Canada
• November 23 - 9:00 am – 10:00 am Guest Speaker Stan Duckworth, Pathfinder Ventures.

The sessions will be moderated by Jamie Cox, President with other directors on the BCLCA board in attendance.

Visit HERE to register.

Online Charity Wine Auction to Support BCHF

Trialto Wine Group has proudly partnered with The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) to host an online auction consisting of over 25 collectible Magnums and large formats. The rare formats are a special collection procured through our winery partners, targeted to support BCHF’s charitable work and highlight Trialto's 25-years of importing special wines to Western Canada.

"Magnums & More" online auction items will include:

1. Rare back vintage magnums perfect to add to your cellar
2. Signed magnums from winery proprietors or wine makers
3. 3L and 6L rarities from the likes of Langmeil Winery of Australia, Felton Road from New Zealand, and Champagne Bollinger

The online auction will be open for bidding from October 1st, (8:00am) to October 21st (11:59 pm). To view online auction, visit HERE.

2023 Small Business Week Summit

The BC Chamber of Commerce annual Small Business Week Summit celebrates BC's small and medium-sized businesses and allows them to engage directly with subject matter experts and thought leaders on topics that are important to them.

Designed to be current, relevant and practical, a carefully curated program of four virtual sessions will provide businesses with the opportunity to learn, ask questions and access valuable resources. 

• October 16, 8:00 am - 9:30 am; Making Sense of Today's Economy: How Businesses Can Navigate Uncertainty & Find Opportunity
• October 18, 8:00 am - 9:30 am; Transform your Organization with AL
• October 19, 8:00 am - 9:15 am; Business Reconcii-ACTION
• October 20, 8:00 am - 9:30 am; Business as an Engine for Good: Growth, Resilience, Impact

Tickets are complimentary, and each session will be hosted via Zoom webinar. Learn more and register HERE.

2023 Premier & Cabinet Luncheon

The BC Chamber of Commerce will be welcoming Premier David Eby and members of Cabinet to its annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon, a flagship event that offers business leaders the opportunity to connect with the Executive Council​ of the provincial government.

Attracting over two hundred guests from across the province, the event offers a coveted opportunity for leaders from private and not-for-profit sectors and First Nations to engage in deep dialogue with the Premier and Cabinet on issues that matter most in today's business.

Date: December 7

Location: Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver

Time: 11:00 am - 1:45 pm (PT)

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

A Month of Spooky Spectacles

Burnaby Halloween Festival 2023

The spookiest season of the year is approaching, and Burnaby is gearing up to host its most thrilling Halloween Festival yet! The Burnaby Halloween Festival 2023 promises to be a bone-chilling, hair-raising extravaganza filled with a wide range of events and activities for all ages. We invite locals and visitors alike to join in the spine-tingling fun throughout the month of October.

Learn more about all the exciting events happening in Burnaby during the month of October HERE.

BC Hotel & Liquor Conference

The second annual SPARK BC Hotel and Liquor Conference is back!

BC’s Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC) and the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) are joining forces once again to bring together industry experts in hospitality, liquor retail, and accommodation.

This event offers an unparalleled opportunity for liquor and hospitality businesses across BC to network with like-minded professionals, connect with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights from informative sessions and speakers.

Date: October 16 & 17

Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Restaurant Hall of Fame 2023

The BCRFA BC Restaurant Hall of Fame is returning. The BC dining scene is recognized across the country as industry and trend leading.

The highlight of the evening is the 2023 BC Restaurant Hall of Fame awards presentation. This year’s inductees will join the almost 100 individuals whose contributions have been forever commemorated in the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame to date.

Date: October 23

Location: Italian Culture Centre, Vancouver

Tickets to attend the Inductee Evening are now on sale and are available HERE.

4VI Delivering Fall Industry Sessions

4VI, who serves as the Regional Destination Management Organization for the Vancouver Island Region, will be touring this fall to engage with communities regarding their work for Destination British Columbia and give an update on their shift to operating as a social enterprise. Topics covered will include destination and industry development, travel trade and travel media, and content development.

Attendance is free and attendees will have the opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect with each other over local food and drink. Join the 4VI team from 4pm-7pm on any of the following dates:

Langford - October 24th, Langford Business Centre

Campbell River - November 3rd, Maritime Heritage Centre

Ucluelet - November 30th, Ucluelet Community Centre

We encourage anyone who is interested to register HERE for the nearest event to you.

Silver Wings - 2023

The highly anticipated annual Silver Wings Scholarship and Industry Awards gala event has been announced! Event details including Sponsorship Opportunities, Travel and Hotel Partners, Menus, and Entertainment.

Date: October 26

Time: 5:45 - 10:00 pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

A list of Industry and Scholarship Award Winners will be posted closer to the event date. Stay tuned for more information!

Learn more and register HERE.

The Annual Go Fish BC Photo Contest is Now Open!

It’s on again! Enter your BC freshwater fishing photos for a chance to win cash prizes.

Categories:

• Gone Fishing – for fishing photos, with no catch required! We're looking for snapshots of your favourite fishing moments from the river, lake, or campsite.
• Fishing Buddies – for photos that convey the social connections made through fishing. We're looking for images of your fishing buddies – friends, family, or pets. 
• Fishing Firsts – for photos of a first fishing moment. This can be an image of a first fish ever caught, first fish of the season, first time ice-fishing, first time fishing a new location.

Prizes:

First, second, and third prizes will be awarded for each category.

Entries close on October 31 at 11:59 p.m. PDT. Learn more and enter HERE.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association

AGM & Conference | Registration Open

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 46th Annual General Meeting & Industry Conference.

Date: November 1-2

Location: Copper Point Resort - Invermere

For more information on the conference and to register, visit HERE.

IGNITE | Whistler Wellness Weekend

Wellness Travel BC is very excited to share that one of our leading BC partners, is offering IGNITE, a weekend wellness retreat to help you make the seasonal transition. Bring your partner, a bestie or two, or maybe your mom and sister to attend this weekend of inspired workshops, delectably good eats, and accommodations.

Date: November 3-5

Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler Chateau

Learn more and sign up HERE.

International Symposium on Destination Stewardship

Destination Canada is excited to be hosting the International Symposium on Destination Stewardship.

Dates: November 6-8

Location: Canadian Museum of History, Gatineau, Quebec

This three-day event will bring together global thought leaders, stakeholders, partners, and knowledge keepers from diverse sectors for a unique discussion on redefining tourism and destination stewardship. 

Building on the excellent work already taking place in this space, the Symposium will explore how we can transform ourselves into destination stewards, while unpacking how a regenerative approach to tourism can have a positive impact on residents, their communities, culture, economy, and the environment. 

Learn more and register HERE.

VCM Industry Forum

Attention DMO's and tourism businesses from the Vancouver Coast & Mountains tourism region. Registration for this year’s VCM Industry Forum is now open! Hear the latest updates from Destination BC teams and presentations from special guest speakers.

Date: Wednesday, November 15

Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond

Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | CCCTA AGM and Conference

Join the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA) for an extraordinary event celebrating "Discovering Tourism's Potential".

Celebrating the rich heritage of the past, and the limitless possibilities of the future.

Date: November 15-17

Location: Williams Lake

Learn more about the AGM and Summit HERE.

Boating BC 2023 Conference

Be sure to save the date for Boating BC’s 2023 conference. There will be world class speakers, great discussions and amazing entertainment at the Cascades Casino.

Marina night will be on November 20th. Please mark the dates in your calendar.

Date: November 21-22

Location: Delta Hotels by Marriott, 6055 Highway 17A, Delta

Learn more and register HERE.

2023 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala

The Sport Fishing Institute (SFI) will be holding its annual Policy Conference and look forward to this highly anticipated annual forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons.

Speakers have been lined up to address this year's theme; Changing Expectations and Changing Opportunities. The agenda is taking shape and will be made available before the event. For a sense of what to expect please visit the SFI Conference web page for details of last year's conference.

Date: November 24

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Following the Conference, also at the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Big Splash Gala will be held including fundraiser.

Early bird tickets now available until October 24th. Learn more HERE.

CITAP Winter Event

CITAP+ is ecstatic to announce that registration for the 26th annual Winter Function is NOW OPEN!

Early Bird registration deadline is October 6th at 5 PM PDT.

The event will consist of a full day of events, including morning educational sessions and an afternoon marketplace and dinner reception.

Date: December 5

Location: River Rock Casino Resort Hotel

Please note that in order to receive preferential member pricing, your membership must be in good standing.

Learn more HERE.

Save the Date

2024 Annual Conference | BCAC's "Soaring Above Challenges"



The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to announce that the 2024 Conference is now scheduled! Mark your calendar now and check in with our draft event webpage closer to the date for more details including agenda, speaker profiles, sponsorship opportunities, activities (including add-ons), travel and hotel partners, and more.

Date: May 27-29, 2024

Location: Nanaimo

View the draft event agenda HERE.