July 19, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

Last fall dozens of unexpected and unwelcome European visitors led to the destruction of my entire lawn. Seems the dreaded invasive species known as the Chafer beetle produced grubs that raccoons, skunks and crows all competed for. Compounded by lack of water and an industrious mole that set a new record for building tunnels on my property, there was virtually nothing left of the grass I once nurtured and mowed.

This spring I dug up more than six yards of dirt, rocks, roots and weeds and replaced them with double-screened, clean soil in an attempt to give my entire yard a fresh start. Rather than laying down artificial or pre-grown turf, I decided on Chafer-resistant seed to see if I could grow grass the old-fashioned way. However, it required a daily ritual of watering, and even though I followed local bylaws that stated I was permitted to soak the seed, in many respects it made me feel guilty given the necessary water restrictions all over the province.

These days I’m much more aware of and taking steps to reduce my household environmental impact, as well as at the office and now especially while travelling for pleasure or business. Even little things like partnering up with colleagues on cabs or declining the daily hotel cleaning service all help to some degree. In other words, I do what I can to emulate so many in our industry who walk the talk when it comes to sustainability.

To that end, you may recall TIABC’s three primary sustainability goals for the 2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference (BCTIC) in Victoria last March which included minimizing the environmental footprint of the event, engaging and educating attendees and suppliers on sustainable best practices, and giving back to our host destination communities. Recently we received the final BCTIC Sustainability Report produced by our conference management team (ConnectSeven Group) that pointed to many successes and some failures.

For example, while not all data could be collected and included in various measures, all suppliers were keenly interested in supporting the sustainability initiative as best they could with the resources and processes they had in place. Importantly, although we attempted to compare against measures from the 2022 conference, differences in methodology prevented us from doing so for certain actions.

That said, the 2024 baseline measurements are intended to be used as a guide to better understand our main impact streams for reducing carbon emissions for future conferences and as a case study for learning and capacity building. It should be noted that (not surprisingly) the two largest contributors to emissions were energy (64.2%) and travel (34.3%).

It’s worth stating again that as part of our commitment to the most recent conference sustainability objectives, TIABC provided a contribution to both Destination Greater Victoria’s Impact & Legacy Program for work undertaken by Peninsula Streams Society, and to the North Island Marine Debris Removal Project, coordinated through 4VI’s new 4Good charity.

The sustainability goals for BCTIC 2025 (March 5-7) in Vancouver will revolve around carbon footprint measurements, energy usage, procurement, travel, food & beverage, communications, and programming. More to come once we start planning for next year after the September Labour Day weekend.

Because of the persistent mole that has become a permanent tenant I should be charging rent to, there are many days where I’m tempted to do what greenskeeper Carl Spackler (Bill Murray’s character in the 1980 movie Caddyshack) did when he ultimately used dynamite to rid the prestigious Bushwood Country Club of a nuisance gopher. I think that perhaps some kind of explosive device might solve my grub infested, lumpy lawn problem but then I’m reminded that the gopher in Caddyshack survived and the golf course didn’t.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Op-Ed from TOTA:

Let’s Not Normalize “Wildfire Season” 

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is appealing to the media and the public to be thoughtful about the language used to talk about forest fires and heat in our region and throughout BC.

Let’s be clear, public safety is always first and foremost and we will continue to do our part to amplify evacuation orders and alerts relating to climate emergencies – including forest fires and significant heat events.

At the same time, our tourism operators have the exciting and enviable task of showcasing every corner of our spectacular province to visitors, so it’s always in our best interest to ensure it’s protected and cared for. More than most industries, we recognize the impact of the changing climate on our region and province and the need to raise public awareness about keeping it safe and protected. However we are concerned about the growing narrative referencing summer as “Wildfire Season"; weather and heat consistently being referred to as extreme and severe and the trend to catastrophize every new update.

Such language, without context or nuance, paints the summer season with an alarmist brush, regardless of the situation on the ground. It has a huge and irreparable impact on all sectors of the tourism industry, which is a key economic driver in British Columbia. In the Thompson Okanagan alone, with just over 750,000 residents we welcome 3.9 million visitors annually and from that generate in excess of 3.37 billion in revenue and 40,000 jobs. Tourism is a driving force in our regional economy. 

We know that all aspects of the economy can be negatively impacted as a result of forest fires, but we have learned the hard way that tourism businesses, of all sizes and types, can be dramatically affected when BC forest fires are misrepresented in the media.

At 944,736 square kilometres in size, BC is an enormous province, with a coastline stretching 25,725 kilometres. Currently, some of these areas are experiencing forest fires - but the vast majority are not. When misinformation circulates or headlines are sensationalized, entire regions and destinations are assumed unsafe for travel by potential visitors, leading to abandoned travel plans and canceled visits.

Worst of all though, when summer is casually referred to as “Wildfire Season,” we treat forest fires as inevitable, and negate the onus on humans to mitigate our impact and take more care and responsibility when enjoying this beautiful place.

Human caused wildfires are responsible for at least 40 percent of forest fires in our province. These include fires caused by open burning, vehicle use, industrial activity, fireworks, outdoor flame, cigarettes and arson and they are fully preventable. For the remaining 60 percent, high temperatures, dry conditions and lightning all contribute, but human intervention — including fuel management and prescribed burning — can go a long way to reduce the risk and severity of naturally caused fires.

Over the past year, the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, the Ministry of Forests, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport, have worked tirelessly to prepare for climate events which can, and will, take place in the Province of British Columbia. They have worked on mitigation initiatives, ensured that personnel are well-trained and well-equipped, provided organizations with the necessary resources, and fostered strong communications and a united front across all sectors. British Columbia has never been more prepared, and the way we have managed the crisis so far has been exemplary.

The challenges we face as a result of climate change are upon us and they are real. Let’s be mindful of the language we use and let’s collectively focus on the underlying issues, human accountability, and what we can do to adapt and mitigate risk, so that residents and visitors alike can enjoy the wealth of summer travel experiences that the Thompson Okanagan, and all of British Columbia, offers. 

BCHA CEO Ingrid Jarrett Stepping Down

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) announced yesterday that Ingrid Jarrett will be stepping down as CEO, effective at the end of 2024. Ingrid will be moving on to the next chapter in her career after five years of leading the BCHA, having joined the team in 2019 with a wealth of industry experience and knowledge.

As noted in the official news release, "anyone who has had the honour of working with Ingrid can attest that her leadership has been instrumental in positioning the BCHA for ongoing success. Ingrid’s vision and dedication have helped transform British Columbia’s hospitality landscape, preparing BCHA and the sector for future growth and resilience".

Under Ingrid’s leadership, the BCHA has achieved many milestones. These include enhanced relationship-building based on trust with the Government at provincial and federal levels, leading the hospitality sector by example for diversity, equity, and inclusion and reaching the 50/30 diversity challenge by November 2022, while also promoting sustainability in hospitality through the launch of the BCHA Sustainability Playbook. 

Ingrid also led the BCHA team through advocacy efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including various initiatives to support the industry’s recovery and future growth. She helmed the team through research and legislative changes for British Columbia on the short-term rental policy development and legislation to support affordable, available housing.

She has been recognized for her many achievements including the 2024 BC Tourism Industry Business Woman of the Year Award.

TIABC has enjoyed a remarkable working relationship with our esteemed industry colleague who has been a valued partner and friend. Our Board of Directors and staff extend heartfelt best wishes to Ingrid as she embarks on the next stage of her life's journey.

Read the full announcement from the BCHA HERE.

BC Wine Industry Celebrates Return of Direct to Consumer Shipping to Alberta

Wine Growers BC has announced that following a new agreement between both provinces, BC wineries can once again ship their products directly to Alberta consumers, reopening a vital sales and tourism channel for the industry. British Columbia and Alberta have signed a memorandum of understanding which will provide a path forward.

While Wine Growers BC estimates the Alberta direct-to-consumer (DTC) channel to represent only 1.1% to 2.75% of the Alberta-BC wine market, DTC shipping to Alberta residents has been a critical component to the growth and success of the BC wine industry. Not only does it allow wineries to provide customers with high-end products often not available in the AGLC, but it also invites opportunities to create lasting connections via their wine club offerings.

Read the full announcement from Wine Growers BC HERE.

ABLE BC Update | Temporary Relocation for

LRS Licences

ABLE BC has advised of the announcement by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) that beginning August 20th, Licensee Retail Stores (LRS) can apply for a temporary relocation for up to five years while significant alterations (renovation, reconstruction) are made to their original location. A one-time request can be made to extend operations at the temporary location for another two years if the significant alterations are not completed in five years. 

Like permanent LRS locations, the temporary LRS location must be a minimum of one kilometre from a permanent LRS, an LRS hold location (i.e., the original site of the store that the LRS licensee will return to), or a BC Liquor Store.

Learn more from the LCRB Bulletin 24-08 HERE.

TIABC Board Chair Provides an Update to the Vancouver Island Visitor Season

In an interview with CBC's "On The Island" earlier this week, TIABC Chair J.J. Belanger discussed the Vancouver Island tourism season and how it compares to previous years. 

Listen to the segment HERE.

ICYMI| Episode 26 - Dave Butler

Meet Dave Butler, Vice-President, Sustainability at CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures as he joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas to discuss his career path, his work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners and operators are facing in the province today.

WorkSafeBC Releases Preliminary Base Rates for 2025

WorkSafeBC has just released preliminary base rates for 2025 and will serve as the basis for determining WorkSafeBC insurance costs for next year. However, it’s important to remember that companies can achieve discounts and surcharges based on their business-specific experience ratings.

In the chart below, go2HR has compiled a variety of tourism and hospitality business types with their corresponding preliminary base rate for 2025. Note: these rates will be confirmed and communicated individually to employers in November 2024.

To learn more and to search your preliminary base rate based on your industry classification, visit HERE.

Construction Advances on New

Belleville Terminal

Visitors to Victoria’s inner harbour can expect to see more activity at Belleville Terminal as Phase 1 construction of the temporary terminal and wharf upgrade advances throughout the summer.

The temporary terminal will enable ferry service between Vancouver Island and Washington State to continue uninterrupted throughout construction. Modifications to the CPR Steamship Terminal building and the Blackball building will be completed during Phase 1 to accommodate continued Canadian Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection services.

Phase 2 construction activities, expected to begin in 2025, include the demolition of the existing Clipper terminal, construction of a new pre-clearance terminal building with modern border security standards, and the replacement of aging wharf facilities. The project is expected to be completed in time for the 2028 tourism season.

Read the full announcement HERE.

People Invited to Test Drive the

Next DriveBC

The DriveBC website is being revamped and people are invited to provide feedback on the improvements. The new DriveBC will be easier to use, more reliable and more personalized, allowing drivers to focus on their routes.

Drivers use the site to plan safe and efficient trips, get the latest information on road incidents, construction and maintenance, and view hundreds of highway webcams.

There will be a simplified map and a less cluttered look. The site will offer clearer event notifications and new advisory features. New route planning will focus information about specified trips and have a stronger focus on the mobile experience.

The DriveBC site has a button linking people to the test site where they will find a survey to provide feedback. That input will help the site designers streamline and modernize BC's main source of information about highway conditions. 

Drivers should continue to rely on the existing DriveBC site for their travel planning while the test site is under development. You can visit the new DriveBC test site and take part in the survey HERE.

Take the Inter-community Transportation Survey

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and UBCO have partnered with the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior of BC (ETSI BC) to understand business, resident, and visitor needs regarding transportation preferences between communities in the Thompson Okanagan Region.

The results of the survey will be used to help direct future planning and advocacy for inter-community transportation needs in the region.

Have your say and qualify to win one of several great prizes!

Learn more and take the survey HERE.

Kitimat Launches Destination

Development Strategy

Kitimat was provided the opportunity to develop the Kitimat Destination Development Strategy through Destination BC and funding support through PacifiCan.

This new tourism strategy builds on the success of planning efforts to date and offers the opportunity to capitalize on future funding opportunities, and set the stage for the community to attract new visitors and entice repeat visitation. Community input resulted in a series of five strategic focus areas with short and long-term actions that can be prioritized as time and resources allow. The themes include Experience Development, Visitor Amenities and Welcome, Value of Tourism, Tourism Workforce, and Marketing.  

Ultimately, these themes will support the revised vision and contribute to growing Northern BC's tourism industry.

Learn more about Tourism Kitimat HERE.

Marketing Coordinator Joins the

NBCTA Team

Meet Ann Marie Hak, Marketing Coordinator for the Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA), whose passion for tourism stems from her roots in the region. A graduate of BCIT's Tourism Sales & Marketing Management program, she combines her passion for travel with her suave social media skills to inspire travellers to visit the North.

Ann Marie enjoys exploring the world and especially her backyard. You can find her snowboarding Hudson Bay Mountain in Smithers, kayaking Silverthorne Lake in Houston, or hiking the Blue Lakes in Hazlelton. Her journey is shared through her lens as a travel photographer, reflecting her ability to showcase the essence of Northern BC.

The TIABC Board and staff join NBCTA in welcoming Ann Marie to the team!

Destination Greater Victoria Achieves

DMAP Designation

Congratulations to Destination Greater Victoria! The DMO was awarded with the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) designation by Destinations International (DI) this week in recognition of the organization's commitment to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination organizations around the world.

The accreditation program requires a destination organization to successfully comply with a multitude of mandatory and voluntary standards that span a variety of performance areas to gain this momentous achievement. The standards cover nearly all aspects related to the management and marketing of destination organizations including governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development, and research.

Read the official news release HERE.

"In The Bucket" Podcast Series

Introducing In the Bucket - a podcast that explores speyfishing culture in the Pacific Northwest.

A new 'In the Bucket' episode is released each month.  Join host Brian Niska on this multi guest format podcast that explores speyfishing culture. The June episode is live and features pro guide Trevor Covich and noted fly designer Alex Belogna.

The Skeena Spey website homepage features recent episodes of in the Bucket. You can find the full list of episodes HERE.

Alaska Airlines Launches Air Service Between Kelowna and LAX

Alaska Airlines will start providing daily non-stop, seasonal service between Kelowna (YLW) and Los Angeles (LAX) on December 19th.

This new direct route to LA will attract more tourists to enjoy the Okanagan and its world-class ski resorts. The route will also support the region's other tourism-related activities and the business community, particularly Kelowna's tech sector. The airline also provides seasonal service from Kelowna to Seattle, which is expected to return this fall.

Tickets are now available on the Alaska Airlines's website.

Pacific Coastal Introduces New Route Between Prince George and Kelowna

Pacific Coastal Airlines has announced the launch of a new route from Prince George Airport (YXS) to Kelowna International Airport (YLW) starting October 28th.

You can fly with the airline from Sunday to Friday and explore the stunning beauty of these incredible destinations.

Book your tickets now through THIS LINK and save 20% using promo code KEL2PG and be among the first to experience this new connection. 

Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca

Mountain Bike Tourism Association

The Mountain Bike Tourism Association (MBTA) is a non-profit organization committed to establishing mountain biking as a safe and sustainable tourism experience in Western Canada, perhaps the most scenic and challenging mountain biking destination on the planet! They work collaboratively with a network of businesses, bike clubs, communities, resorts, and government agencies.

Their goal is to have Western Canada recognized for its world class sustainable trails and abundant mountain biking experiences that are supported by enthusiastic communities and resort operators offering high quality services.

Learn more about the Mountain Bike Tourism Association HERE.

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

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

Destination Canada Launches

Webinar Series

Destination Canada is excited to be back for the second year with the Destination Dialogues webinar series.

Date: September 12

Time: 8:30am to 10am (PT

This free 90-minute online session will describe how destinations, organizations, businesses, and individuals can create compelling storytelling-based experiences in rural areas.

This webinar is open to everyone, in Canada, and is designed to inspire, inform and foster innovation amongst communities. Many smaller rural regions lack the resources and budget to send staff to industry conferences, so this opportunity is to provide them with a comprehensive and valuable learning opportunity online.

If you are interested in joining, you can find more about the event and register through the link below.

WEBINAR | Update on the State of Tourism

in BC

Destination BC invites you to join in for an update on the state of tourism in BC and the latest on their key strategies and programs.

Date: Thursday, August 1

Time: 10:00 am (PDT)

The webinar will include updates on our marketing campaigns, travel trade and media relations, destination development projects, and more. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session.

Tickets Now On Sale | 2024 Wine Capital Weekend

Oliver Tourism Association and the Wine Capital Weekend Organizing Committee is thrilled to announce that tickets for the 2024 Wine Capital Weekend are now on sale!

Set in the picturesque town of Oliver, from September 20th to 22nd, this extraordinary weekend promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with world-class wines, craft beers, ciders, spirits, delectable food, and exciting entertainment.

Secure your tickets now to take advantage of early bird pricing available until July 31st!

Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.

33rd Annual PNWER Summit

Advancing a Sustainable Regional Economy through Clean Energy & Innovation

Legislators, business leaders, academics, and policymakers from the U.S. and Canada will gather in Whistler for PNWER's 33rd Annual Summit from July 21-25 to discuss regional economic best practices and trade concerns. It will be an opportunity to engage with our region's key decision makers on both sides of the border. 

Dates: July 21-22

Location: Fairmont Château Whistler

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournament

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournament in Victoria.

Date: August 21

Location: Olympic Golf Club

Learn more and register HERE.

Annual Tourism Summit & AGM

What to Expect at the 2024 Tourism Summit - As an attendee you will have access to a range of networking opportunities, the chance to pick up invaluable insights from industry experts, and time to connect with the tourism community. 

Date: October 15-17

Location: Bella Coola

Registration, room rates and agenda will be posted soon.

Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2024

At the annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration, the BCAC recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse almost $150,000 through their Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia.

Date: October 18

Time: 5:45pm - 10:00pm PT

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Note: Prior to the Silver Wings event, they are also hosting the third annual "Chair’s Women in Aviation and Aerospace Reception” (CWAAR), also at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC).

For more information and registration HERE.

Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit

The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and will bring together industry experts, travel enthusiasts, and local businesses to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in Northern BC's tourism sector.

Dates: October 22-24

Location: Ramada Hotel, Prince George

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.

Dates: October 23-24

Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson

Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!

TOTA AGM and Summit

Early bird registration is now open for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 29 and 30

Location: Vernon

Hosted in partnership with Tourism Vernon and Destination Silver Star. Early bird pricing for the Summit is available until August 2nd. 

Mark your calendar, learn more and register HERE.

Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum

The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!

Dates: November 4-6

Location: Manning Park Resort

Registration and agenda to be available August, 2024.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

Save The Date

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Details to the conference including registration, accommodation and travel information will soon follow.