Short-term Rental Registry Updates

Following the announcement from the Province earlier this week (see below) regarding Short-term rental registry rules, additional information has been released.

A. STR Registry FAQ location:

• Link to STR registry page HERE.
• Link to FAQ page HERE.

Note: further updates to the FAQ will be coming. Be sure to check back for the most up to date information.

B. Language regarding strata hotels.

By May 1, 2025, a strata hotel that has its own website where guests can book a stay must be registered with the provincial Short-Term Rental registry as a strata hotel platform.

• Hosts with short-term rental units within a registered strata hotel that advertise only through the strata hotel's own platform or rental management pool are exempt from the requirement to register.
• Hosts with short-term rental units within a strata hotel who manage their short-term rental independently and advertise on third party platforms such as, for example, Airbnb, Expedia or Booking.com, must register their listing as a host and pay an annual fee.

Strata hotels that are in a community where the principal residence requirement applies must upload documents in their registration application that prove they meet a strata hotel principal residence exemption type.

1. The principal residence exemptions for strata hotels may be found HERE.
2. To understand what it means to be operating in a manner like a hotel or motel, see the Hotel-Like Policy Guidance, found HERE.

As of April 24, 100 strata hotel registration applications have been submitted.

• 84 applications have been processed (81 approved; 3 withdrawn).
• Strata-hotel platform applications have been approved within 32 days on average. 

Province Moving Forward on Short-term Rental Rules

The Province has provided an update on short-term rental registration (STR) numbers and deadlines ahead of the one-year anniversary of new restrictions to crack down on illegal listings and open up more long-term homes for people.

Following advocacy by TIABC, along with partners BCHA and BCDMOA, the province has made some adjustments on the timing to the short-term rental registry requirements for platforms, although hosts were still required to register by May 1st.

In response to requests from STR platforms to allow for additional time to complete technical work on platforms’ validation systems, the Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs is moving to have the timeline extended for when platforms are legally required to validate provincial registration numbers and automatically remove illegal listings as follows:

• As of June 2nd, if a short-term rental listing does not have a valid registration number, platforms must stop advertising the listing and prevent new bookings from that host or face a possible investigation and potential monetary penalty. This date was previously May 1.  

• As of June 23rd, platforms must cancel all future bookings from hosts without a valid provincial registration number or face a possible investigation and potential monetary penalty. This date was previously June 1st. 

During this period, the Province will continue working with platforms to ensure any technical challenges or concerns are addressed.

To learn more about the principal-residence requirement, visit HERE.

Read the full announcement from the Province HERE.

Emergency Preparedness Week | May 4 - 10

Emergency Preparedness Week is May 4 to 10 and everyone is encouraged to learn how to prepare yourself, your family, your friends and neighbours.

Being prepared isn’t just about what supplies you have. It's about working together, so we can collectively respond to and recover from emergencies better.

This year's Emergency Preparedness Week theme is "In it Together," recognizing the importance of relationships and community connection.

The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness has developed a wealth of resources for your use regarding Emergency Preparedness Week next week that include information on how to take action, scheduled webinars and graphics. For more information, visit HERE.

BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative Sustainability & Resilience Measures

Baseline Data Reveals the Climate and Sustainability Journey of the Tourism Industry in BC

As part of the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI), the first-ever province-wide Tourism Climate Adaptation and Environmental Sustainability Business Survey proved to be a success with participation from more than 550 tourism businesses.

The survey results provide critical baseline data on a common set of measures that will track sustainable practices and climate adaptation initiatives across the tourism industry in BC. As the industry continues to adapt to climate change, this data will help identify priority areas, track progress, and share success stories that inspire collective action.

The three priority areas measured in the survey were Emissions, Waste Management, and Climate Adaption.

The findings highlight clear opportunities for action. Whether it’s improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, or preparing for climate-related risks, every step taken by tourism businesses helps build a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable tourism industry in BC.

The full Tourism Climate Adaptation and Environmental Sustainability Business Survey report is now available in the following link.

Destination BC also launched the new How Do You Measure Up? Guide, which summarizes efforts across the tourism industry in BC on key environmental sustainability and climate resiliency indicators — including emissions, waste, and climate adaptation — and provides practical actions that businesses can take to measure and track their sustainability performance.

The BCTCRI Report and How Do You Measure Guide serve as empowering resources for businesses to learn more about climate resilience in tourism and see what they can do to be better prepared moving forward.

Learn more about this project HERE.

WCC and TIABC Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Hospitality Education

Western Community College (WCC) and TIABC are proud to announce the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing WCC’s Hospitality Management Program and strengthening industry connections for students.

Through this partnership, TIABC will provide expert input on curriculum development, offer opportunities for guest lectures, facilitate site visits with leading tourism organizations, and support practicum placements for WCC’s hospitality students. In return, WCC will incorporate industry insights into its program offerings and ensure that students are prepared with the real-world skills needed to thrive in BC's evolving tourism sector.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to excellence in education, workforce development, and community engagement. Together, WCC and TIABC will work to align academic learning with emerging industry trends and ensure graduates are positioned for success.

Read the full announcement HERE.

Leadership Transition and the Future of ABLE BC

A Message from the President

The President of ABLE BC, Yvan Charette, has delivered an update regarding the future of ABLE BC since the departure of Executive Director Jeff Guignard. Yvan has announced that ABLE BC has officially entered a new era of industry representation and the team has been working diligently to ensure a smooth and positive transition, all with the goal of providing the very best advocacy and support for its members and industry.

They are also actively developing stronger mid- and long-term systems for the organization while addressing immediate priorities to strengthen their foundation.

TIABC Extends Support to EYA as Part of a Commitment to Sustainability at BC TIC 2025

TIABC CEO Walt Judas presented a cheque for $5,000 to the Environmental Youth Alliance (EYA) as part of the BC Tourism Industry Conference's commitment to support a local initiative that meaningfully contributes to a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable Metro Vancouver.

On hand to receive the donation at Vancouver's Strathcona Community Garden was EYA board member Amber Grant (L) and Co-Executive Director (Programs & Operations) Erica Ellis.

Environmental Youth Alliance provides free land-based education and paid employment training programs that support youth to develop the skills and confidence to become environmental stewards. All programs integrate Indigenous teachings and land stewardship protocols through visits from Indigenous elders and knowledge keepers. EYA programs are led by youth who identify as Indigenous, Black, and/or people of colour.

Global Wellness Economy Report Released

The Global Wellness Institute has released detailed data and information relating to the global wellness economy noting that the sector has grown rapidly in the aftermath of the pandemic, reaching a new peak of $6.3 trillion in 2023.

While the global wellness economy was initially hit hard by COVID in 2020, it has rebounded quickly, fuelled by the ever-expanding consumer interest in and need for wellness – which has only accelerated in the wake of the pandemic.

The wellness economy is expected to grow to $9.0 trillion in 2028.

Job Opportunity| Travel Penticton

Executive Director

As Executive Director for Travel Penticton Society, a Destination Marketing/Management Organization (DMMO), you'll be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization’s operations, developing and implementing strategic plans, staff development, and stakeholder relations, all while ensuring the organization's financial stability and mission success.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director plays a vital role in elevating Penticton and Penticton Metropolitan’s profile as a tourism and event destination, particularly within the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) and sport sectors in a sustainable manner that strengthens the local economy and enriches the quality of life.

Qualified candidates’ applications will be received until May 16, with the position starting August 2025. Learn more about this exciting opportunity HERE.

We hope you are enjoying Season Two of Postcards from BC as we highlight TIABC members out exploring and enjoying everything British Columbia has to offer. 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.

TIABC Responds to Premier's Announcement to Create a Canada Strong Pass

On Monday, April 28, Canadians voted in a Liberal minority government and those in the tourism and hospitality sector reflected on what that will mean for business.

While on the campaign trail, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced what he called a Canada Strong Pass, aimed at making travel more affordable for young families that included providing free access to national museums and galleries for those younger than 18 years old, those youth travelling with parents to ride VIA Rail for free, introducing heavily discounted access and fares for those aged between 18 and 24 years and reduced prices for camp sites in national parks for all Canadians during the peak June - August season.

TIABC CEO Walt Judas responded to the announcement in an interview with BIV, stating that “Certainly, those things are helpful and appreciated but it's probably not going to move the needle on tourism to the same degree that perhaps other regulatory issues or investment might." and noted that one of the key things he would like to see from Carney is a "commitment to sustain or increase funding to Destination Canada."

Read the full story in BIV HERE.

Tourism Tofino Release 2024 Economic Impact of Tourism

Tourism Tofino has released the 2024 Economic Impact of Tourism in Tofino Study, a comprehensive assessment of the vital role that tourism plays in their local economy. This is the first such study conducted since 2018 and marks a critical update on how tourism continues to shape and support the Tofino region.

The report provides fresh insights into visitor activity, employment, and the financial contributions of tourism to their community.

 Key findings from the 2024 report include:

• 711,200 visitors to Tofino estimated in 2024, including over 632,000 overnight guests.
• Tourism directly supported 3,190 local jobs, accounting for a significant portion of Tofino’s employment base.
• Visitors directly spent an estimated $430 million in Tofino in 2024.
• In total, including indirect and induced effects, 4,440 jobs were supported by tourism in Tofino, contributing $657 million in total economic output and $345 million in total GDP to the province of British Columbia.

Download the full report HERE.

WORTH Academy Introduce Single Moms Cohort 

Single moms in our industry are juggling more than most and they deserve more than applause. 

Through personalized coaching, practical tools, and a strong community of peers, this cohort honours the realities of single motherhood while helping women thrive in their careers. 

The program is designed to help single mothers advance their careers in recreation, tourism and hospitality. It is open to anyone interested in leadership but may be especially relevant for those who currently hold positions such as: lead, supervisor, coordinator, assistant manager or manager.

Learn more, apply or share with a single Mom HERE.

That's not all: The WORTH Beneficiary Fund (with BC Hospitality Foundation) will provide up to $3,000 in relief for single moms facing unexpected hardship due to injury or accident. Learn more HERE.

Destination Greater Victoria Recognize Black Ball Ferry's President & CEO Ryan Burles

Ryan Burles, President and CEO of TIABC member Black Ball Ferry was recognized with Victoria's 2024 Life Member Award at Destination Greater Victoria's annual general meeting.

Ryan's career with the company spans over 40 years and touches all areas of its operation. During his tenure with Black Ball Ferry Line, Ryan has helped guide the company through many improvements including implementation of a reservation system, development of bundled travel packages, and a rebuild of the Victoria terminal dock.

Ryan has been active in the community, serving on Destination Greater Victoria's Transportation and Destination Management Committee, as the Rotary Club of Victoria President in 2011, and as a board member for the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Victoria & Esquimalt Harbour Society, and the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority.

Former President and Owner of Big White Ski Resort Honoured

Big White Ski Resort and the broader ski community proudly honour the late Peter Schumann, recipient of the prestigious Jimmie Spencer Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA). This award is reserved for individuals who have made a lasting impact on the ski industry through exceptional leadership and service in senior management, ownership, or consultancy roles.

Schumann, former president and owner of Big White Ski Resort, passed away in August 2022 after a lifetime devoted to the ski industry, starting at Mount Hotham in his native Australia and later shaping Big White into a world-class destination. His career was defined by a relentless drive to build world-class mountain experiences, a deep respect for his team, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Watch the tribute video presented by TIABC Board member Michael J. Ballingall HERE.

New DVan Website Takes Top Honors

Congratulations to Destination Vancouver for being awarded 'Best Website' at the 2025 eTourism Summit, recognizing excellence and innovation in digital tourism marketing.

The redeveloped destinationvancouver.com won out from among hundreds of entries, with only four finalists in each category. DVAN was also honoured to be named a finalist for Best Emerging Technology Integration - a further testament to the team’s commitment to memorable digital experiences.

Discover BC's Great Outdoors During Canadian RV & Camping Month June 2025

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) want to remind everyone that if you are looking for an affordable way to travel this summer, June is Canadian RV & Camping Month. There are a wealth of special promotions to make sure you get the most out of your camping adventure. Participating campgrounds in British Columbia and across Canada are offering discounts, bonus nights, themed weekends, and even giveaways.

Get ready to explore more, spend less, and make the most of BC’s natural beauty this

June. Learn more HERE.

BC Hospitality Foundation | 2025 Golf Tournaments

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) have announced the dates and registration details to their popular golf tournaments. Get ready for unforgettable days and exclusive hospitality experiences.

Vancouver Golf Tournament - Presented by Containerworld

• Tee Off at Tsawwassen Springs – Thursday, July 17, 2025
• Learn more and register HERE.

Victoria Golf Tournament - Presented by Destination Greater Victoria

• Tee Off at Olympic View – Wednesday, August 20, 2025
• Learn more and register HERE.

Emergency Preparedness Week 2025 | Webinar Series

Being prepared isn’t just about gathering supplies. It's about working together, so we can collectively respond to and recover from emergencies better.

This year's Emergency Preparedness Week theme is "In it Together," recognizing the importance of relationships and community connection.

During the week, the PreparedBC team will host free webinars for the public:

• Inclusive preparedness | Mon May 5 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
• Cultural safety and preparedness | Tue May 6 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
• Animal preparedness | Wed May 7 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
• Insurance: Why it matters | Thu May 8 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
• Community preparedness | Fri May 9 | 5:30 PM (PDT)

Learn more about the webinars and register HERE.

Building Trust From Day One: Psychological Safety

for Tourism & Hospitality Teams

Are you onboarding new staff faster than guests check in? In Tourism & Hospitality, seamless service can't wait—even when your team just met. This FREE webinar helps managers like you establish psychological safety from day one, no matter how packed the schedule or how seasonal the crew.

Date: May 13

Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Register for this free webinar HERE.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Update

Please join the Destination Vancouver team in welcoming Erin Mathany, FIFA World Cup 2026 Vancouver Host Committee Marketing & Brand Lead for an update on promotional planning, upcoming activations and key milestones.

Date: May 13

Time: 1:00 pm

This webinar will also include an update on Destination Vancouver's consumer-facing activities and accommodations. 

RSVP for this webinar HERE.

CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

Lakeland Flowers returns with a three-month cascade of flowers, beginning with the Abbotsford Tulip Festival. Positioned as Canada’s premiere tulip festival with 35 acres of tulips and lupins, the fields are set to create another remarkable display of colour.

Dates: Until May 11

For more information about the event, visit HERE.

2025 Pig Out Festival

For those who are already dreaming of spring, this much-loved food and wine event is returning to the heart of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country set against the stunning vineyard backdrop of Cellar Door and More. 

Date: May 3

Location: Cellar Door Winery (and more)

The 2025 theme, “When Pigs Fly,” takes the festivities to new heights by incorporating creative poultry-inspired dishes, crafted by talented local and guest chefs. 

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Kelowna Beer Festival

The Okanagan’s premier craft beer festival will take place again in downtown Kelowna. The annual festival attracts thousands of locals and visitors to the iconic City Park in downtown Kelowna to sample the best of craft beer throughout our region.

Festival goers will have access to 40+ breweries and cideries, ample food trucks (with GF and Vegan options), and live entertainment including DJ’s, live music, games, and performers.

Date: May 10 (2 time slots)

Time: 11am – 3pm and 4pm – 8pm

Location: City Park Kelowna

Community giving: Partial proceeds benefit the Central Okanagan Brewing Association (COBrA), a not-for-profit organization supporting the Central Okanagan’s craft brewing industry which creates local employment opportunities and stronger communities.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

BC Hospitality Foundation | Hospitality With Heart

The BC Hospitality Foundation is excited to announce Hospitality with Heart a week-long campaign uniting British Columbia’s hospitality and tourism industries in support of the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF).

Dates: From June 1-8

Please join in giving back to an industry that continually supports its people.

Learn more HERE.

TOTA Golf Tournament

Join industry colleagues for a day of friendly competition, great networking, and the chance to win the coveted Ohhh Canada Cup!

Date: June 5

Time: 12pm - 8pm

Location: Osoyoos Golf Club

Don’t miss your chance to secure your spot HERE.

BC Aviation Council | BCAC Conference

"Innovation - All Eyes on the Horizon"

The BC Aviation Council will be holding their annual conference in Kamloops (YKA).

Date: June 2-4

Location: Delta Hotels, Mariott

Note: TIABC members are eligible to register at the BCAC member rate.

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

Join us in Nanaimo to explore this vibrant urban centre found on the east side of beautiful Vancouver Island, located on the traditional territories of the Coast Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus.

Date: June 3-5

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo

Connect with Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade executives, business leaders and association stakeholders from across the province who play a key role in shaping policy, fostering networking opportunities

and driving economic growth throughout British Columbia.

Early bird rates end March 31st! Learn more about the AGM and Conference and register HERE!

BC Trails Day 2025

BC Trails Day is returning, marking the 5th annual celebration of British Columbia’s exceptional trail networks. This province-wide event promotes environmental stewardship, responsible recreation, and equitable access to outdoor spaces.

Date: June 7

If you are already organizing an event, be sure to REGISTER to ensure additional promotional support and access to upcoming resources, contests, and important updates.

Learn more about BC Trails Day, access the Event Host Guide and how you can participate HERE.

BC Family Fishing Weekend

2025 marks the 26th anniversary of this annual celebration, which coincides with Father's Day each year.

Dates: June 13-15

The BC Family Fishing Weekend offers all British Columbians a chance to experience some of Canada’s vast landscapes and stunning scenery, along with the simple joy of casting a line and catching a fish.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate and participate. Visit the website for further details HERE.

23rd Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic

We’re excited to announce that registration for the 23rd Annual Coast Hotels Shuhachi Naito Golf Classic is now open.

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 B.C. 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!

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.

Learn more, including how to participate 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 | 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 to 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.