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One of my favourite pastimes is to peruse realtor.ca to check out properties for sale in communities around the province. While a move to another home isn’t imminent, it’s helpful to be somewhat familiar with real estate prices in the event we decide to pull up stakes and settle elsewhere.
I am both fortunate and grateful to own my current residence so if my wife and I decided to sell for whatever reason, we have the option to use the proceeds to purchase another home. Conversely, if we stay put for the foreseeable future, we could leverage against the market value of our house to buy another property as an investment.
Over the holidays I spent many hours looking at listings and was astounded to learn how in most cases the numbers simply don’t make sense to purchase a condominium now and rent it out to a long-term tenant.
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Notwithstanding the staggering price of a standard condo in many BC communities, with interest rates as they are, plus maintenance fees, insurance, property taxes, utilities, repairs and other costs, I would need to charge an exorbitant amount and still supplement any rental income with money out of my own pocket to pay the mortgage.
Suffice it to say, I not only feel for those trying to get into the market, but I also understand the plight of average folks who invested in real estate for the long-term with the intent of generating sufficient revenue to cover expenses through vehicles such as short-term rentals (STR), which often produce higher monthly income than rent. Because the new provincial rules introduced last May limit what can be used as a STR and where, some investors can’t afford to keep their units any longer.
There are those that have no sympathy for owners who assumed the risk in a largely unregulated environment, while others maintain that there has to be a palatable solution for all parties (e.g. owners, visitors, communities, platforms, government) that can be implemented in short order. Regardless, the unintended consequences of the regs deserve to be acknowledged.
As a reminder, one of TIABC’s primary goals was to see the new provincial STR regulations put a stop to multi-unit developments built to house permanent residents that were instead being operated as ‘ghost’ hotels. Along with attaining more homes for long-term tenants, including tourism workers, we also wanted to ensure the regs allowed for a healthy balance between much-needed permanent housing and short-term rentals, especially in communities under-serviced by traditional accommodation. We happen to believe that so far the legislation has accomplished these objectives.
However, because the data are not yet available, it’s too soon to measure the efficacy of the regs. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon insists the new STR rules are working with more housing available for those who need it. That said, I’ve heard from tourism operators and communities who say the regulations have impacted visitation and hurt business. In fact, the BC Conservative critic for Jobs, Economic Development & Innovation, Gavin Dew, told the Vancouver Sun last week that the so-called STR ‘ban’ has cratered tourism in places like Kelowna where he cited the lack of hotel rooms compounded the issue...which by the way was not the case.
I asked a number of my colleagues, including Tourism Kelowna, for their assessment and they noted that while many operators indicated 2024 was a strong year, others implied that activity levels did not meet expectations, particularly in the peak summer months.
In my view it’s premature to conclude that any decline in business in places like the Okanagan can be blamed solely on the notion of fewer STRs. As I’ve learned, it’s more likely a combination of factors including rising costs for goods and services leading to decreased spending on travel or activities; fears about weather or potential crises (e.g. wildfires); concerns over crop loss (grapes, tree fruits) due to the extreme frost events of a year ago; and perhaps the perception and not necessarily the reality of far fewer STRs.
As TIABC has promised from the start…if restrictions on STRs prove to be a primary factor in declining visitation and impacts on business, we’ll convene with government to see if or what changes might be necessary to ensure the tourism industry remains buoyant. In the meantime, the next component of the legislation (that we also advocated for) is poised to take effect which amounts to a provincial registry of all STRs and the removal of any listings where the operator is non-compliant.
As I’ve reminded many industry colleagues and media time and again since the rules were introduced last May, there is no provincial ban on short-term rentals (although in some communities, local bylaws may be more stringent than the province’s) and thousands are still operating legally today.
If anything, governments at the provincial and civic levels, as well as short-term rental platforms and the tourism industry need to do a better job of communicating to visitors (and locals) that STRs are available as an accommodation option (to complement hotels, motels, resorts, B&Bs, campgrounds) for those travelling to and within BC. Notwithstanding local bylaws, it’s also imperative to remind various stakeholders to become intimately familiar with what provincial regulations do or don’t permit so that accurate information on STRs is dispensed to various constituents.
I plan to continue my practice of exploring realtor.ca for now although I’m tempted to also peruse STR platforms to find out what I could rent my house out for if I decided to take an extended vacation. According to the rules, I could offer my entire home as a short-term rental for up to 90 consecutive days which, for the record, I’m not going to do but the revenue would certainly help pay my soaring property taxes.
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
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Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | |
2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference
Early-bird registration remains open and industry award nominations will be accepted until January 15th for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities as well information travel and accommodation are available on the conference website.
- Support the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Silent Auction
If you're able to contribute a valued item for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference Silent Auction, we would appreciate your gift as soon as possible. Please complete the Silent Auction Submission Form linked below.
Information for a digital profile on the Bid Beacon app is due no later than February 26th. Donate HERE today.
Over the past year, our industry has experienced the pain of losing some of our most cherished colleagues and friends.
As in past conferences, we will pay our respects through an In Memoriam slideshow tribute to honour all of those who have passed away since the start of last year. Therefore, we need your help to ensure that each of our industry friends is included.
Please submit details on a colleague to pay our respects to via info@bctourismconference.ca. Be sure to include first and last name, image (headshot), title and company from their most recent employment.
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BC Wineries Resume Selling Directly to Alberta Consumers
This week the BC wine industry welcomed the official launch of the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) program, an inter-provincial agreement between Alberta and BC.
After an interprovincial deal was announced last summer, British Columbia wineries are once again able to sell their products directly to Alberta consumers. This means that Albertans can now order wine from over 300 BC-based wineries, with the Alberta government receiving its share of applicable taxes in return.
The agreement is set to run for one year, at which point its effectiveness will be evaluated.
Read the official news release from Wine Growers BC HERE.
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BC Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulation Updates
As part of the ongoing implementation of the Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulation, several new resources are now live on the Plastics webpages. They include:
1). Multi-language Resources
Factsheets and printable business resources are now available in Simplified and Traditional Chinese, French, Punjabi and Tagalog. These translations are available on the Multi-language Resources page.
2). Business Resources
Developed in partnership with Lil’wat Nation and the Indigenous Zero Waste Technical Advisory Group (IZWTAG), posters and tent cards are now available on the Business Resources page. Indigenous communities interested in developing resources in their language are encouraged to contact plastics@gov.bc.ca.
3). Success Stories
New stories of organizations that have successfully implemented projects funded by the Plastics Action Fund have been added to the Actions and Success Stories page.
Learn more about the Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulations HERE.
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Tourism HR Canada Announces Launch of the Tourism Workplace Accessibility Clinic
Tourism HR Canada has announced a new initiative to help Canada’s tourism employers by launching the Tourism Workplace Accessibility Clinic (TWAC).
The TWAC is an innovative new program aimed at enhancing inclusivity and accessibility within the tourism sector. The goal is to support employers with inclusive hiring, connect them with a largely untapped talent pool to address workforce shortages, and increase the sector’s capacity to better engage with persons with disabilities as part of their business.
Services will include:
- Customized training tailored for tourism employers
- Recruitment support and job matching through experienced HR professionals and leading Canadian service partners
- Accessibility consulting and strategic planning thataligns with tourism business goals and legislation
- Workplace adjustment advisory services, as needed, to set everyone up for success
- Expert guidance around best practices for creating an inclusive workplace
This program is offered on a complimentary basis to tourism employers with support from the Government of Canada’s Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities.
Learn more about the Tourism Workplace Accessibility Clinic HERE
Learn more about the Government of Canada’s Opportunities Fund HERE
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Expression of Interest | Tabor Mountain Ski Area
The Mountain Resorts Branch (MRB) of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport (TACS) is seeking parties who may be interested in investing their funds and operational expertise in the Tabor Mountain ski area with a goal of reopening and operating in the future.
Calls for Expression of Interest are now open and posted to the Province of British Columbia's website HERE.
Deadline for submission is February 14.
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CCCT Seeking Creative Input to Refreshed Visual Identity
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism (CCCT) is looking to engage the creative and artistic community, youth, and the tourism industry in providing input into their brand, ensuring it reflects their culture and community values.
This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your design skills and contribute to the visual identity of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region. The contest consists of an online submission process, including submission of a unique and creative logo for the main brand of the CCCT for the chance to win a MacBook Pro M3 with a total approximate retail prize value of $4,349.
Learn more including how to enter, and full contest rules HERE.
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Meetings Mean Business Canada | Call for Board Nominations
Meetings Mean Business Canada (MMBC) is seeking qualified individuals for election to its Board of Directors for a two or three-year term beginning immediately following their AGM on March 27th. MMBC board seats are volunteer positions without remuneration.
All directors should be qualified, competent and have a strong sense of ethics and integrity. Acceptance of nominations is based on a specific set of skills and experience.
Ideal candidates demonstrate the following core competencies:
- Senior leader in the business events industry
- Advocacy or government relations experience
- Previous board experience
Deadline for nominations is February 7 at 6pm EDT. Learn more about the nomination process HERE.
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We aim to keep you updated, provide you with useful tools and resources, and facilitate connections with fellow professionals in the tourism industry. |
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ICYMI | Episode #32 - Peter Pilarski
Meet Peter Pilarski, Founder of the Tourism AI Network as he chats with TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas about his inspiring journey, the role of AI in overcoming industry challenges, and how tourism businesses can adopt new technologies to stay competitive and deliver world-class experiences.
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TIABC Responds to Changes in Downtown Vancouver Hotel Landscape
In an interview with The Vancouver Sun earlier this week, TIABC CEO Walt Judas addressed the pending demolition of the former Four Seasons Hotel while noting the need for more hotel rooms in downtown Vancouver due to the increase in demand from business and leisure travellers, as well as major events.
Read the full interview in The Vancouver Sun HERE.
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We value our members and are excited to share with them the latest news, successes, and achievements! | |
Big White Ski Resort Reports Record Holiday Visits
Big White Ski Resort is excited to announce record-breaking results for the 2024/2025 holiday season, driven by excellent early-season snow conditions and customer confidence. All divisions at Big White reported impressive year-over-year growth, driven by increased guest activity and new facility enhancements.
The resort saw an extraordinary 50.4% year-to-date increase in skier visits, with the traditional holiday season attendance from December 21 to January 5 rising by an impressive 31% over last year. A favourable exchange rate contributed to a 52% visitation rate from the U.S. Also reported, over 62% of visitors came from the central Okanagan, while visits from Australia and New Zealand rose by slightly over 5%.
With the holiday season behind them, Big White is now preparing for its next major holidays, including BC's Family Day and US Presidents’ Day.
Read the full announcement from Big White Ski Resort HERE.
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Destination Greater Victoria Introduces Leslie Fisher as GM, Visitor Services
Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) is excited to announce the addition of Leslie Fisher to their team.
Leslie brings a background in Human Resources and Business Management to DGV. On top of working at organizations such as Nordstrom, she’s also owned her own business. Leslie is excited to bring her strong retail sales and operations experience to the Visitor Centre and the rest of Destination Greater Victoria.
TIABC extends its warm welcome to Leslie.
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Tourism Big White Elects New Board of Directors
The Tourism Big White Society held its 11th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on January 7th and announced its new Board of Directors. TIABC Director Michael J. Ballingall was elected President, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association President & CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews, was elected Vice President, and John Mooney, representing on mountain businesses & restaurants was elected Treasurer/Secretary. With the support of its dedicated board members, the Society is well-positioned to continue its efforts in promoting ski and bike tourism on Big White Mountain and driving tourism growth in the central Okanagan region.
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BCLCA Release January/February BC Camping News
The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) has distributed its January/February 2025 edition of BC Camping News, which offers a wealth of recommendations on provincial winter destinations and outdoor activities that include winter camping opportunities and a reminder to take the Camper's Code.
Learn more from the BCLCA including camping, lodging and RV accommodations around the province and how to sign up for the BC Camping News publication HERE.
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BC Enterprises Offering Indigenous-Led Wilderness Tours
A recent article in Travel Courier highlighted a unique experience operated by TIABC members Homalco Wilderness & Cultural Tours and Klahoose Wilderness Resort, offering wildlife viewing, Indigenous cultural storytelling, and breathtaking marine life encounters.
These leading Indigenous enterprises are promoting the Toba Bears & Wilderness Tours, which run from August 22nd through October 19th and lead clients to a coastal BC spot north of Vancouver where grizzly bears gather during a salmon run. Guests can watch the bears from a series of raised and covered viewing platforms, offering what the tour company and the lodge say provide a safe and immersive experience.
Read the full story in Travel Courier HERE.
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Peake Catering|Events
Peake Catering|Events has been dishing up delicious moments for Greater Vancouver and beyond since 1991. As a premier catering and event management company, the Peake Catering|Events team works with private or corporate, intimate or extravagant, to bring events of every scale to life with a great deal of creativity, collaboration, and personalization.
Learn more about Peake Catering | Events HERE.
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Let's Work Together on What Matters Most
To bolster industry advocacy efforts, membership in the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a good investment.
Becoming a member of TIABC offers many significant benefits that can enhance your business, elevate your voice on the issues that matter and contribute to the success of BC’s visitor economy. As well, you will gain ease of access to a collaborative network of businesses, partners and allies that support the tourism industry, both nationally and provincially.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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How to Make the Outdoors More Welcoming to All
Delivered by the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, the focus will be learning the secret to encouraging new membership, boosting volunteerism and retention, finding new funding sources and feeing even better about your mission.
Date: January 14
Time: 1:00 pm (PST)
Join in the panel of experts who have first-hand experience making their corner of the outdoors more accessible and welcoming to everyone.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Climate Resilience, Governance and CDMOs
This new workshop delivered by Destination BC will provide details of the Community Destination Stewardship Initiative. The one-hour, virtual workshop will focus on government partnerships within the context of climate resilience in the tourism industry, exploring the critical importance of provincial, regional, and municipal partnerships to enhance climate resilience strategies.
Date: January 22
Time: 10:00 am (PST)
Learn more and register HERE.
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Losing Ground: The Definitive Workforce Update
Join Tourism HR Canada for this “state of the union”-style presentation that will explore pressing workforce challenges, including persistent labour shortages, declining competitiveness, and the shifting policies shaping the industry’s future. The webinar will feature comprehensive workforce projections, actionable recommendations, and a review of programs designed to address these issues.
Date: January 22
Time: 10:00 am - Noon (PST)
Whether you’re an employer, educator, industry association leader, destination marketer, HR professional, or government representative, this session offers indispensable insights to inform your strategies and drive meaningful change.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Exploring the VCM Sustainability Toolkit
This webinar is designed by Destination BC for Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region (VCM) communities and tourism businesses to explore practical ways to utilize the sustainability toolkit. It’s a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding and drive sustainable practices.
Date: January 23
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 am (PST)
Learn more and register HERE.
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CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Destination BC | Tourism Digital Academy
The Tourism Digital Academy is a FREE, 8-week digital marketing program for BC tourism businesses who are interested in building their knowledge and skills in digital marketing to an intermediate level.
Designed for business owners or their marketing team members, this comprehensive program is focused on providing practical, actionable guidance to complete your digital marketing plan. From setting your goals, to building a better SEO, website usability, content, email marketing, analytics and more. You'll leave the program with the confidence and knowledge to put that plan into action. There are two intakes:
Dates: January 21 - March 12
January 29 - March 19
Learn more and register HERE.
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SOS Coalition Announces "Communities Driving Change" Forum
With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.
Date: January 23
Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver
The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.
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Dine Around and Stay in Town Victoria
Hosted at the beautiful Crystal Garden, the Gala will feature mouthwatering bites and sips from over 50 local restaurants and beverage purveyors with lively entertainment, socializing and fun!
Gala vendors will put their best food-forward to impress and delight guests, while building excitement for the endless dining experiences that await during the 17-day Dine Around program running from January 24th - February 9th, 2025.
Date: January 23
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Crystal Garden, 713 Douglas Street, Victoria
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit - Registration Open
The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria. The annual Global Summit unites DMOs, tourism operators, government, Indigenous leaders and academia in a collaborative, innovative dialogue on our industry challenges.
Day of Impact: January 26
Dates of Conference: January 27-29
Note: Day of IMPACT: Now Available as a Standalone Experience!
Our highly anticipated Day of IMPACT is now available as a standalone experience! Dive deep into the world of sustainable tourism with a full day of interactive experiences, thought-provoking discussion, and actionable insights designed to inspire change in the travel and tourism industry.
Learn more including agenda, registration and accommodation by visiting HERE.
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CLIA Set to Deliver Second Annual Pacific Northwest Symposium in Vancouver, British Columbia on January 29 and 30, 2025.
Following the first and successful Pacific Northwest Symposium held last year, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is excited to welcoming you to join the over 60 cruise line representatives from 11 CLIA member cruise lines, CLIA staff and many Pacific Northwest business and community partners.
Dates: January 29 & 30
Location: J.W. Marriott Parq Hotel, Vancouver
Learn more about the event and register HERE.
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SPARK! - BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference | Early Bird Registration Closes January 24!
ABLE BC is excited to announce the highly anticipated, third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores. SPARK is being held in conjunction with the annual BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Date: March 5
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Learn more and register HERE.
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Flourish 2025
Flourish is Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation's annual fundraising experience. It’s an opportunity to come together to support their students as they change their lives through the power of real learning and hands-on education.
Join in for an evening of food and wine, and help the community thrive.
Date: March 5
Time: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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WORTH Leadership Summit
Join WORTH for Western Canada’s only summit dedicated to women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—an inspiring event designed to uplift women, elevate organizations, and drive progress across our industry.
Date: March 11
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
Held on the week of International Women’s Day, the WORTH Leadership Summit is for anyone dedicated to uplifting women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—regardless of gender. Whether you’re a manager, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, the Summit offers valuable insights and connections to fuel your growth.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit
The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver! The Summit brings together a distinguished gathering of hospitality industry leaders, including hoteliers, chief decision makers, and key stakeholders from across British Columbia.
Date: April 22-23
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver.
The BCHA Summit offers a dynamic program, Marketplace with 50+ exhibitors, and the prestigious Awards of Excellence.
Visit the conference website and learn more HERE
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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.
More information and registration to be available soon!
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TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.
#970 - 1050 West Pender Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 3S7 | 604.685.5956
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