Airport Upgrades Support Improved Connections Across the Province

Communities that rely upon regional airports, heliports and water aerodromes province-wide will benefit from funding provided through the Province of BC’s Air Access Program.

Government announced earlier this week that they are investing $6.2 million through the BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) to support 16 airport upgrades throughout the province. Projects include:

• Runway improvements in Comox, Courtenay and Vanderhoof;
• A permanent heliport to serve the isolated community of Tipella, supporting air ambulance and visits by medical practitioners;
• Wildlife-exclusion fencing at Fort St. James;
• Upgraded weather monitoring at Fairmont Hot Springs; and
• Lighting and fuel system upgrades at several airports to improve safety.

There are over 300 public airports, heliports, and water aerodromes in BC, and these facilities are an essential connectivity system for residents, travellers, and service providers. While airports fall under federal jurisdiction, provincial investment through BCAAP reflects BC’s commitment to supporting the infrastructure that sustains rural and Indigenous communities, tourism growth, and emergency preparedness.

Read the official announcement from government HERE.

YVR Anticipate Busiest Summer on Record

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is gearing up for its busiest summer on record with more than 6.7 million travellers expected to arrive between June 15th and September 2nd, an average of 85,000 travellers daily.

These numbers represent a 4% increase over 2024, and 1% more than the previous benchmark, which was set in 2019.

Read more HERE.

Parks Canada Supports Canada Strong Pass to Promote Domestic Tourism

As announced last week, Canadian residents are invited to explore more of our country's remarkable natural and cultural sites at no, or reduced, cost with the new Canada Strong Pass which is now in effect.

Parks Canada administered sites are at the heart of our national identity. They connect us through powerful stories and breathtaking landscapes, fostering a shared attachment to the places that have shaped who we are as Canadians.

• To answer any questions about the Canada Strong Pass and how it applies to Parks Canada, an Q. & A. document has been prepared for your reference HERE.
• For full eligibility details and participating locations, visit the official Canada Strong Pass website HERE.

Have Your Say | Feedback Open for Labour Relations Code Review

The Ministry of Labour is accepting feedback on a report and recommendations of the 2024 Labour Relations Code Review Panel.

The report is now posted for people to share their views on how the province’s labour laws should be updated. The Ministry of Labour will consider this feedback to determine next steps on the panel’s recommendations.

The most recent comprehensive review in 2018 resulted in several substantive amendments to the Labour Code in 2019 and 2022. Engagement is open until September 19th.

• Learn more about the engagement process HERE.
• View the Labour Relations Code HERE.

Have Your Say | BC's Liquor to Go Policy

The LCRB is exploring changes to BC’s Liquor to Go Policy - which currently allows Liquor Primary and Food Primary licensees to sell liquor for off-site consumption with a meal for takeout or delivery. The policy first came into effect in October 2021 during COVID-19.

As part of this engagement process, the LCRB is seeking industry feedback on the benefits, challenges, and potential public health and safety risks associated with the program, as well as possible solutions.

Feedback is open until August 7th. While ABLE BC will be submitting recommendations on behalf of their members, individual businesses are also encouraged to share their own feedback.

You can find all the details HERE.

Bill C-59: What Canada’s New Greenwashing Law Means for Tourism 

What changed, how it affects tourism, and the steps you should consider taking. 

An excerpt from a post by Angela Nagy, CEO, GreenStep Solutions 

In May 2024, the Government of Canada passed Bill C-59, a wide-reaching budget bill with a big impact for businesses promoting their environmental credentials. Especially relevant to the tourism industry are the bill’s new rules targeting greenwashing through amendments to the Competition Act. 

C-59, among its various provisions, amends the Competition Act. It specifically addresses greenwashing, defined as unsubstantiated or misleading environmental claims used in the promotion of products or services. 

Now that these changes are law, tourism businesses across Canada need to pay close attention. The updates mean businesses must have solid evidence to back up any environmental claims, or risk facing penalties.

These new rules apply to you, whether you’re a hotel promoting your new energy-efficient design, a tour operator highlighting your commitment to conservation, or a destination marketing organization talking up your community’s “eco-friendly” experiences.

Read the full post HERE.

RFP | Sport Facility Gap Analysis for Sport Tourism Opportunities

The Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission is inviting proposals from qualified consultants to conduct a facility gap analysis to ensure the regions ability to attract major sport tourism events that will help shape the region’s future event-hosting potential.

Destination Greater Victoria strives to position the region as a leading sport tourism destination. As event hosting requirements evolve and new sport facility demands emerge, it is critical to Destination Greater Victoria to assess current strengths, gaps, aging infrastructure, and next-step opportunities for attracting provincial, national, and international sport events. 

Qualified consultants with experience in sport facility planning and stakeholder engagement are encouraged to submit a proposal by July 15th. Learn more HERE.

Free Bilingual Tourism Guide Now Available

A new bilingual (French/English) tourism guide highlighting destinations, businesses, and unique experiences across British Columbia is now available for wide distribution.

This free guide has been created for both locals and visitors looking to explore BC through a cultural and inclusive lens. It is currently available at major distribution points such as BC Ferries, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and over 60 tourism venues in Vancouver. View the digital version of the guide HERE.

If you would like copies of this guide, contact the editor/publisher HERE.

Job Opportunity | Director, Government and Community Relations, West and North

Air Canada is looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and experienced leader to join its Government and Community Relations team.

Reporting to the Vice President, Government and Community Relations, the successful candidate will play a leading role in representing Air Canada in Western and Northen Canada, being responsible to develop and foster relationships with key government, industry and community stakeholders and advocating for policies that support the airline’s goals and its contributions to Canada.

Learn more about the position, and how to apply HERE.

Job Opportunity | Destination Canada

Senior Director, Client Engagement, Business Events

Reporting to the Executive Director, Business Events, the Senior Director, Client Engagement, Business Events, is responsible for leading, managing and implementing the development of the Business Events team’s client engagement strategy and developing tactics to execute on the strategy.

The goal of the strategy is to increase overnight visitation to Canada by attracting business events from international markets in alignment with the economic sectors identified in Canada’s international trade priorities.

Learn more about the position, including how to apply HERE.

Job Opportunity | Destination Silver Star

Executive Director

The Silver Star Resort Association (SSRA) is seeking a dynamic individual to fill the role of Executive Director (ED). The ED represents the Silver Star Resort Association (SSRA) and functions as Destination Silver Star (DSS).

The ED role includes: skilled, strategic leadership, carrying out initiatives approved by the board of directors, securing additional funding, identifying projects for the initiatives, navigating and working with relevant government organizations, developing and managing stakeholder relationships, day to day management of a small team of employees, financial accountability and reporting to the Board of Directors.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position to info@destinationsilverstar.com by 11:59PM on June 30th.

Now more than ever, it's time to celebrate the beauty, energy, and unforgettable experiences found right here at home.

Would you like to be part of our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Send a photo of you enjoying a BC destination to deborah@tiabc.ca.

Tourism Kamloops Celebrating a Milestone That Changed the City

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Tourism Kamloops as the organization celebrates 20 years since the destination marketing organization (DMO) was officially established.

In March 2005, Kamloops made a decisive move. With the formation of Tourism Kamloops as its official DMO and the adoption of the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), the city laid the foundation for a new tourism economy.

As noted by Tourism Kamloops, "the city chose to believe in the power of tourism—not just to bring in visitors, but to shape its future. What began as a modest effort to market Kamloops to the world has grown into something much bigger: a movement that transformed how we see our city, how we welcome the world, and how we show up for each other."

Read more about the history of Tourism Kamloops and where the organization is today HERE.

Tourism Prince George Launches "Hit The Trails" Challenge

Tourism Prince George has kicked off the "Hit The Trails" Challenge! With over 100km of trails winding through forests, parks, and green spaces, this community-wide challenge invites residents and visitors to discover Prince George one trail, one check-in and one reward at a time.

Participants use the Passport Trail mobile app to check in at trailheads and as users reach milestones, they unlock exciting rewards.

Learn more about the Challenge, and how to sign up HERE.

New Leadership at Tourism Innovation Lab

Congratulations to Alex Berlyand of the Tourism Innovation Lab who has officially stepped into the role of Program Lead for the organization where he will be leading the next chapter of the Lab and the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Programs across the province.

TIABC extends our congratulations to both Alex and to Justin Lafontaine who founded the Lab and has moved into his new role with Destination Ontario. We look forward to continue our work together to support growth in the tourism industry.

Learn more about the Tourism Innovation Lab HERE.

DGV Moving Forward with Region-wide Project to Reduce Single Use Plastic

Visitors to Greater Victoria will soon have increased access to water bottle refill stations in several hotel lobbies across the region. Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) is moving forward with a Circular and Sustainable Drinking Water Program, a region-wide initiative designed to reduce single-use plastic water bottles in Greater Victoria hotels through the installation of drinking water stations.

While still in the early stages, it is estimated that the project could eliminate more than 150,000 single-use plastic water bottles annually based on eight participating hotels.

Learn more about this new and significant project HERE.

Fortis BC: Small Business Engagement Program Information Sessions

GreenStep Solutions, in partnership with FortisBC, is hosting a webinar to introduce the FortisBC Energy-Saving Support for Small Businesses program.

This program is tailored to help small businesses implement energy-saving strategies, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

In addition to the webinar, professionally designed marketing materials will be provided to organizations that choose to support this program through their platforms.

• July 10 at 10:00 am (PDT)

CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

June is RVing & Camping Month

The annual Canadian RVing and Camping Week has shifted focus from a post-May long weekend event to a month-long celebration in June.

Organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Association, this expanded month long initiative is designed to encourage Canadians and international visitors to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends.  

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association has provided valuable resources to share and encourage you to join in this year's camping season. Learn more HERE.

23rd Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic

Registration for the 23rd Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic is nopen.

Date: Thursday, July 10

Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Delta

You’ll find the event registration form attached to this email.

This year’s tournament will kick off at 12:00 PM with a shotgun start and follow a Texas Scramble format—guaranteeing a day full of friendly competition and great fun on the course.

We’re proud to once again support the ALS Society of BC and the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre as this year’s beneficiaries.

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Hospitality Foundation | Tee Up for Two Unforgettable Golf Events

Join the BC Hospitality Foundation for two premier golf events this summer—each offering an incredible day of competition, camaraderie, and hospitality at its finest. Whether you're in Vancouver or Victoria, these tournaments promise an unmatched experience on the greens. i

Mark Your Calendars:

• July 17| 15th Annual Vancouver Golf Tournament | Tsawwassen Springs
• August 20| 9th Annual Victoria Golf Tournament | Olympic View Golf Club

Visit HERE to learn more and to book!

19th Annual Partners In Tourism Invitational Golf Tournament

The Partners in Tourism Invitational Golf Tournament is a fundraising event organized by Partners in Tourism to support future generations of tourism professionals. The tournament raises funds through various means, including sponsorships and donations, which are then used to provide scholarships and awards to students and programs in the tourism and hospitality industry. 

Date: Thursday, August 28

Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club

Learn more including how to register and how to donate HERE.

Wine Capital Weekend Returns to Oliver!

The Oliver Tourism Association is thrilled to announce that Wine Capital Weekend will return for another unforgettable celebration. As the Wine Capital of Canada, Oliver welcomes locals and visitors alike to experience three days of wine, craft beverages, food, live music, team competitions, and family-friendly fun.

Dates: September 19-21

The weekend will once again feature:

• Kick-Off Party at District Wine Village – This year’s musical act will be GLASS TIGER
• Cask & Keg Festival – A celebration of craft beer, cider, and spirits featuring delicious eats, live entertainment, yard games, a family zone, and the crowd-favourite Beer Olympics.
• Festival of the Grape – The South Okanagan’s premier wine tasting event returns for its 26th year.

Early-bird deadline for tickets is June 30th! Learn more, including how to participate and purchase tickets HERE.

4TVI | 2025 Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit

You are invited to the 4TVI Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit. The 2025 program will focus on the efforts of stewardship through destination management and collaboration. Speakers will provide tangible, inspiring presentations for attendees. The full day event will also include a State of the Region presentation.

Date: October 2-3

Location: Coast Bastion, Nanaimo 

Registration is now open. 

Early Bird Registration (until July 31): $199 + GST

General Registration $299 = GST

Learn more and register HERE.

Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit

The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit, a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the development of a strong tourism sector in Northern British Columbia.

Ready to connect, learn, and lead the future of tourism? The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit is your opportunity to be part of the region’s most dynamic gathering of tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers.

Dates: October 15-17

Location: Courtyard by Marriott, Prince George

Learn more and register HERE.

Mark Your Calendar | TOTA AGM and Summit

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has announced the dates for the 2025 TOTA AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 22-23

Location: KF Centre for Excellence, Kelowna

Last year's Summit was a sold-out event that brought together tourism industry professionals from around the region for two days to network, engage in industry-specific workshops, and learn from experts. 

Stay tuned for more details, including registration and speaker updates.

Save the Date!

Boating BC 2025 Conference: Rocking The Industry – Navigating Disruptive Times

Presented by Mercury Marine, this is the must-attend event for marine professionals across the province — a dynamic two-day experience packed with industry insight, leadership, and valuable networking. We’re also excited to announce our first confirmed speaker: Vaughn Palmer of the Vancouver Sun, returning to share his always-popular perspectives.

Dates: November 18-19

Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond

To learn more about the conference sponsorship opportunities, visit HERE. Early bird tickets go on sale in early September — stay tuned!

IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit - 2026

Registration is now open for 2026's iteration of the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit Victoria

Dates: January 25-28

Get ready to explore Aligned action, shared direction, and real progress alongside global changemakers. With a brand-new Workshop Series, immersive case studies, and hands-on tools to take home, IMPACT 2026 will equip you to transform your destination into one that's not just visited, but nurtured.

Learn more and secure your spot HERE.

SAVE THE DATE | 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference

The 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (#2026IITC), hosted in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Explore Edmonton, will be held on unceded Treaty 6 Territory in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton).

Dates: February 17-19, 2026.

The many Nations that call the area home, including Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People, are excited to welcome you to their territory at this amazing celebration of Indigenous tourism. Save the date! 

SAVE THE DATE | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference

It's hard to believe the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference is behind us! While planning for 2026 won't begin until early fall, we're excited to announce the date and location:

Dates: March 4-6, 2026

Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna

Mark your calendar - we can't wait to see you there and celebrate our incredible industry together!

Save the Date | BC Outdoor Recreation Conference 2026

The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy in 2026, and we’re marking the occasion in a big way! Join us at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC, for this milestone event.

Dates: May 20-22, 2026

Location: Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops

This conference will bring together outdoor recreation leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts from across British Columbia to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and shape the future of public recreation. Look forward to engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking with recreationists, land managers, and decision-makers.