May you have a most enjoyable, relaxing and safe long weekend. Take the time to enjoy the many activities taking place in your community and region. Please note that our office will be closed for the BC Day holiday, reopening on August 5th. | | |
When I first read the federal government’s notice regarding the launch of the process for pre-budget consultations, it made me chuckle. The news release stated that Budget 2025/26 will 'spend less' and 'invest more' to catalyze private capital, unleash investment, and build the strongest economy in the G7.
The notion of government ‘spending less’ and ‘investing more’ seemed like an oxymoron until I considered the difference between investing and spending, which lies in the expectation of return. Spending is about using money for immediate consumption or needs, with little-to-no expectation of a future return, while investing involves allocating resources with the expectation of generating downstream benefits such as income, profit, or appreciation in value.
With those definitions in mind, TIABC is looking to draft its pre-budget submission with a focus on investment, but also considering spending requests that are necessary. To that end, we will be reaching out to members over the course of the next few weeks to seek your input on the top priorities.
If you recall, in our pre-budget submission last year, we focussed on five areas:
A) Disaster Relief: Create a dedicated tourism sector disaster relief and recovery fund for tourism operators to prepare for, respond to, and in particular, recover from major crises such as wildfires, flooding, and drought.
B) Debt Relief: Create a loan guarantee program with more favorable terms (e.g. longer amortization, lower interest rates) for anchor tourism businesses to support the re-financing of existing debt or much needed capital improvements.
C) Capital Investments: Launch a dedicated Tourism Infrastructure Fund to support major capital projects in the sector, with a particular focus on building, renovating or expanding conference venues, airports and attractions.
D) Transportation: Develop and help fund a multi-modal transportation system for Canada that expands connectivity across the country, enhances rural/urban connections, and maximizes the interconnected role played by Canada’s airlines, motorcoach, passenger rail, and cruise ship stakeholders in improving traveller access throughout Canada.
E) Transportation: Create a fund dedicated to improving tourism infrastructure vis-a-vis electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in rural areas enabling Canada to meet its 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air Strong Economy goals through a reduction in carbon emissions; and invest in the domestic production of biofuels and green solutions for Canada’s transportation sector.
Some or all of these may still apply. However, given the constantly changing operating environment, there are likely new ideas worth considering. Importantly, we aim to stay focussed on up to five pressing priorities rather than a long, laundry list of recommendations, most of which tend to get dismissed.
For your information, our national counterparts (TIAC) are advocating for more money for Destination Canada; permanent funding for the business events sector (International Convention Attraction Fund); a national, multi-modal transportation strategy (similar to point D above); digitization of the electronic travel authorization process; and environmental sustainability (i.e. green solutions).
What would help your business from a federal budget perspective? What new investment measures should be introduced? Are there certain taxes that need to be eliminated or reduced? What policies require refinement? TIABC would appreciate hearing from you so please take the time to drop us a line or fill out the One-Minute Monitor survey below. In the meantime, you can learn more about the budget consultation and provide direct input via Canada.ca/YourBudget.
The practice of ‘spending less’ and ‘investing more’ is a good strategy but extremely difficult for governments to implement, especially when it comes to the tourism sector. At the same time, highlighting future returns on investing in digitization, green solutions, a Canada-wide multi-modal transportation system, and other priorities is not something to laugh about but a serious opportunity to move our industry forward in the coming year.
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
| | Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | | | |
TIABC Shares 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference Sustainability Report
This year’s conference demonstrated that sustainability isn’t just a consideration; it’s essential to the future of tourism & events.
We focused on three core areas: reducing our environmental footprint, engaging suppliers and attendees in best practices, and giving back to our host communities. The result? Real contributions to global goals.
- We reduced waste and resource use by rethinking materials, sourcing locally, designing for reuse, and supporting food rescue
- We boosted local economic impact by prioritizing regional and Indigenous-owned suppliers throughout planning and purchasing
- Results were achieved through strong partnerships, shared values, and cross-sector collaboration
It’s a reminder: events aren’t just touch-points. They’re opportunities to drive change.
#SustainableDevelopment #EventSustainability #TourismForGood #SDGs #CircularEconomy
| |
Premier Calls for 'Fair Treatment' for BC's Ferry Users
Premier David Eby is urging the federal government to boost its subsidy for British Columbia ferry users, following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s fulfillment of a commitment to reduce ferry fares in Eastern Canada.
Earlier this week, Premier Eby said that the federal government subsidizes ferry users on the East Coast by about $300 per person, while ferry users in BC receive $1 per person. He also noted that provinces should receive the same per-capita funding, regardless of the program.
The premier said Ottawa must increase the federal subsidy for B.C. ferry users, which has not changed for almost two decades.
Learn more in the story from CBC News HERE.
| |
Industry Letter to Minister DIX on the BC Low Carbon Fuel Policy
The Canadian Council for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (CCSAF), Air Canada, WESTJET, IATA and the BC Business Council have recently collaborated and directed a letter to Hon. Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions regarding the implementation of the BC Government Sustainable Aviation Fuel mandate.
The letter references the Low carbon Fuels Act which was amended in 2022 to include jet fuel as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation sector. In order to achieve the collective objectives, low-carbon jet fuel in the form of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (“SAF”) must be available in sufficient and cost-competitive supply and it is now obvious that such a supply will not be available at the levels required to meet the LCFS Carbon Intensity (“CI”) requirements coming into effect on January 1, 2026. As a result, there is a request to delay on the full Low Carbon Fuels implementation until 2028 to allow the possibility of new supply coming on stream to produce SAF in Canada.
Much of the concern from the industry is the impacts on airline fares and sustainability of regional routes in BC. Read the letter HERE.
| |
BCLCA Provides Exemption and Refund Update from Short-Term Registration
Earlier this year there was confusion about campgrounds with cabins having to register under the Short-Term Rental Accommodation Act to be listed and marketed on sites such as Airbnb, booking.com and VRBO. The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) wrote to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, to address the question regarding cabins located at campgrounds needing to register with the Short-Term Rental Registry.
The response from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture was:
"... cabins on campgrounds is a grey area – and therefore, the direction was that cabins (even those with full wiring, plumbing and kitchen) that are a part of a legal campground, that operate similarly to a hotel or motel (e.g. single owner, consistent branding, commercial zoning) are exempt from registration under the hotel/motel exemption."
You may claim exemption under one of the following:
- Accommodation not suitable for long-term housing:
- Motel
- Other temporary shelter
Campground operators can submit requests for refunds to strbranch@gov.bc.ca. Please note that requests can take over 30 days to be individually assessed and processed.”
| |
RFP | Host a 2026 Regional Roundtable
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is seeking proposals from destinations and regions across Canada to host one of five (5) regional tourism roundtable events in 2026.
These full-day events will bring together tourism operators, stakeholders, and key regional players to discuss current industry challenges and opportunities, foster collaboration, and engage with TIAC’s advocacy efforts.
Learn more including how to submit your proposal HERE.
| |
New EDI Training Bundle for Supervisors and Managers in Tourism & Hospitality
go2HR wish to remind supervisors and managers during this Pride Season, to go beyond celebration and start building an everyday culture of inclusion.
In tourism & hospitality, diverse teams and guests are at the heart of what we do. As a leader, you have the power to shape respectful, welcoming workplaces for everyone by empowering your leadership with inclusive tools.
This bundle includes the following courses that will help you:
- An Introduction to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) for Tourism & Hospitality
- Navigating Cultural Diversity in the Workplace
- SuperHost® Foundations of Inclusive Service: Service For All™
- Supervisor Training Module: Promoting EDI Principles
Learn more and enroll HERE.
| |
A REMINDER:
This BC Day long weekend, people are encouraged to stay informed about wildfire conditions, be prepared, and plan travel. Emergencies and unexpected events can disrupt travel, impact visitor experiences, and put pressure on communities and businesses.
Destination BC offers a wealth of emergency information resources for British Columbia, as well as suggested messaging and actions for BC’s tourism industry during emergencies.
People should be checking the following websites for information if they are planning to travel around the province:
You can also learn more through the Destination BC "Know Before You Go" information site HERE.
| |
BC Declared 2025 Golf Destination of the Year
British Columbia is once again making headlines with public courses who are landing top spots on SCORE Golf’s prestigious Top 59 list, with 17 public courses earning a spot.
It also should come as no surprise to learn that British Columbia has been named the 2025 Golf Destination of the Year—Americas by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). This prestigious honour recognizes the province’s outstanding contribution to international golf tourism.
This global recognition affirms that BC is one of the world’s premier golf destinations. Learn more HERE.
| |
WGBC CEO Delivers "What I've Heard, What We're Doing, and Where We're Headed Together" Report
As Wine Growers BC (WGBC) CEO Jeff Guignard marks 90 days in his new role, he has taken a moment not to celebrate, but to check in and say thank you. Whether it was connecting in your cellar, tasting room, at a growers meeting, walking through your vineyard, or over a quick coffee, Jeff is truly appreciative of the your honesty, insight, and passion.
The link below provides a video and recording that includes a snapshot of what he has heard, what WGBC is doing, and what comes next.
Listen to the WGBC Update Report HERE.
| |
Please Complete our Brief (one-minute) Survey to Help Inform the Federal Budget
TIABC's One Minute Monitor (OMM) is a short survey deployed as necessary to help us better understand members' views on pressing issues and to help inform policy development and prioritize advocacy activities.
CONFIDENTIALITY
We respect the confidentiality of the data provided and therefore will not publish responses by any individual or organization. All responses are anonymous and will be reported in aggregate only to help inform policy positions.
| |
TIABC's Voice of Tourism is a podcast that gives a voice to British Columbia's vibrant tourism industry.
EPISODE #37 - Serge Corbeil
TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas welcomes Serge Corbeil, Director of Government and Community Relations for Air Canada, for a compelling conversation on aviation, tourism, and public policy.
Serge shares his journey from Montreal to BC, moving from journalism and politics to the airline industry. He reflects on Air Canada’s impact on regional connectivity, the challenges of navigating government regulations, and his advocacy work with Air Canada, TIABC, and TIAC. As he approaches retirement, Serge offers insights on leadership, the value of collaboration in tourism, and his plans to focus on travel and marathon running.
| |
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.
| AN AI MOMENT WITH PETER PILARSKI. | |
Welcome back to the bi-monthly feature with Peter Pilarski, founder of the Tourism AI Network. Peter shares his expertise to demystify the AI landscape and provide essential understanding, helping us to simplify technology, embrace innovation, and navigate the exciting world of AI.
Why Tourism Organizations Must Rethink Their Digital Strategies in the AI Era
Imagine a world where DMOs replace the OTA industry, using a social enterprise model focused not only on attracting more tourists, but also promoting responsible tourism, destination development and building a destination economy that aligns perfectly with the fabric of the community they serve.
Just as Google’s 25 year dominant position as the undisputed champion of search is under threat, so too is there an opportunity for destinations and their tourism partners to rethink what is possible in the digital world. AI is literally challenging every aspect of the internet as we know it, and new possibilities are emerging almost daily.
Whether the DMO OTA model I’m describing is possible or not, the AI revolution requires significant digital strategy adaptation and collaborative innovation. I’m here for it. Let's reinvent the future of tourism together!
| | | |
“Experience the Fraser” Launch New Industry Resource
The Experience the Fraser (ETF) collective recently launched its new website, offering an interactive hub for tourism organizations, government agencies, and CDMO partners along the Fraser Corridor. Led by VCM and the ETF Project Team, the platform serves as a comprehensive resource to support development and promotion of the ETF initiative.
Key features include a detailed map of the interim Canyon to Coast Trail—the ETF’s greenway component—as well as standalone pages for each participating community. Users will also find in-depth community reports with signage inventories, recommended locations, and project suggestions, along with GIS and planning tools to aid implementation efforts. The site is designed to support collaborative growth and strategic trail development across the region.
View the Experience the Fraser website HERE.
| |
Tourism Fernie to Launch Paleo Trails BC Initiative
Tourism Fernie has announced the organization is spearheading an exciting new initiative that will bring the ancient history of Fernie, Sparwood, and Cranbrook to life.
Paleo Trails BC is a regional project that combines education, storytelling, and tourism to showcase the remarkable fossil discoveries found in our part of the Kootenays. Planning and implementation for the initiative are currently underway, and will include:
- A short film in collaboration with Dinosaur Valley Studios and TrueArc Media, highlighting the incredible journey of fossils in the Elk Valley and beyond.
- A series of educational tours to share our unique paleontological history including a self drive tour.
- Interactive displays like the exhibition at the Sparwood Museum, Ammonite & Ichthyosaur exhibit at the Fernie Visitor Centre, and an extensive display at Cranbrook Museum.
Learn more about the Paleo Trails BC initiative HERE.
| |
Good Cruise News for Victoria
As Victoria reaches the mid-point of the cruise season, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority is pleased to share three pieces of good news.
- A survey by Destination Greater Victoria revealed that 84.1% of Victoria residents believe the cruise industry has a positive impact on our city;
-
87.6% of cruise passengers arriving before 5:00 p.m. disembarked to explore Victoria, while 64.2% of passengers arriving after 5:00 p.m. still disembarked despite later arrival times;
-
A recent survey of 102 ports ranked Port of Victoria at No. 2 among the world’s best cruise destinations. Port of Quebec ranked No. 3 and the Port of Vancouver at No. 6.
| | |
HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL
Hostelling International Canada is part of the world's largest hostel network made up of over 3,000 hostels in 61 countries. About 40 of those hostels are in Canada, including 12 hostels right here in British Columbia.
HI Canada is a not-for-profit, member-based organization and all hostels are regularly inspected for high quality standards.
Learn more about Hostelling International Canada HERE.
Photo Credit: Destination BC
| | |
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.
NEW! Associate Member Category
If you’re a tourism operator and already an active member of another sector association or DMO and cannot afford a full membership in TIABC, consider supporting us by becoming a TIABC Associate. For a nominal annual fee you’ll receive streamlined benefits and opportunities, including adding your voice to the conversation about the future of our sector.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
| | |
|
Trail Planning in BC | Challenges, Best Practices & Opportunities 🛠️
Join the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC for a deep dive into BC’s trail planning landscape with guest speaker Erik Morden, a professional community planner in the Village of Pemberton and outdoor recreation researcher, who will share insights from his master’s thesis from Vancouver Island University, including areas of best practice, challenges, and opportunities in trail planning.
Date: Tuesday, August 12
Time: 12:00 PM (PDT)
In the live webinar, Erik will discuss how trails and the processes of planning them can deliver meaningful outcomes for communities beyond the existence of a recreational amenity.
Register HERE.
| |
Destination Dialogues 2025 | Rethinking Experience Development: From Ideation to Export Ready
oin Destination Canada for a free 90-minute session to explore how destinations, businesses, and community leaders can develop regenerative, Indigenous tourism experiences in rural, remote, and northern areas of Canada.
Date: October 8
Time: 9:00 am (PDT)
This session is tailored for tourism and destination development professionals in Canada. It will share best practices in rural experience development, leaving you informed, inspired and empowered to create regenerative travel experiences deeply rooted in your community.
This year's session theme will focus on Indigenous tourism in collaboration with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Learn more and register HERE.
| | | CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Diverse Abilities Discovery Fair | Inclusive Hiring Starts Here
Looking for fresh ways to build an inclusive, skilled, and people-first team? This event flips the script on hiring — and puts Tourism & Hospitality potential front and centre.
Date: August 8
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (PDT)
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre
Hosted by the Tourism Workforce Accessibility Clinic and the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Diverse Abilities Discovery Fair invites you to connect with job seekers who are often overlooked in traditional recruitment.
Register by email HERE.
| |
BC Hospitality Foundation | Tee Up for An Unforgettable Golf Event
Join the BC Hospitality Foundation in Victoria for a premier golf event this summer - offering an incredible day of competition, camaraderie, and hospitality at its finest. This tournament promises an unmatched experience on the greens. i
- 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.
| |
Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx
Registration is now open for the inaugural Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx.
Dates: November 3 - 6
Location: St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, Cranbrook
Come join campground, RV park, glamping, and outdoor hospitality operators from across Western Canada for three days of:
- Inspiring speakers and expert-led sessions
- Practical workshops tailored to your business
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
- An exhibitor showcase featuring products and services designed for your operation
Learn more and register HERE. Early bird registration ends Sept. 15.
| |
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!
| |
TIAC - 2025 Tourism Congress
Tourism is more than travel—it is a tool for unity across Canada. TourismCan celebrates the industry that unites the country through building economies, communities, careers, innovation, and policy. Tourism is the thread that ties Canada together.
Dates: November 18–20, 2025
Location: Hilton Lac-Leamy, Gatineau, QC
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Engage with industry leaders and stakeholders from across the country
- Participate in critical discussions on the future of Canadian tourism
- Recognize and honour the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of Canada’s tourism sector
Early-bird registration is open until August 13, 11:59 pm. Learn more and register HERE.
| |
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.
| | | |
|
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
| | | | |
