May 10, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

For me the toughest shot in golf is inside of 120 yards. According to Golf Channel instructors, instead of generating speed on my downswing, I decelerate which often results in a divot the size of PEI and leaves my ball well short of the green. Seems I’ve fallen into a bad habit of recalling previous duffs, losing focus in the moment, and ultimately hitting my wedge ‘fat’.

Admittedly, this innocuous example of a negative pattern pales in comparison with other destructive practices that many of us fall into, some far more consequential than shooting a double bogey. Yet regardless of what it is, long-standing bad habits are hard to break and often take months or even years to reverse and turn into a positive routine.

Case in point, some media and government officials have a habit of referring to wildfire season anytime flames engulf the backcountry or a community somewhere in BC. To be sure, there are times of the year where wildfires are more prevalent, particularly in the hotter, drier months. But consistently calling it a season implies that it’s always a prolonged period of time for the entire province every year, which is not necessarily the case.

As Emergency Preparedness Week wraps up, I draw your attention to a meeting that the Tourism Emergency Management Committee (TEMC) had last week with Hon. Bowinn Ma (Minister of Emergency Management & Climate Readiness) and Hon. Lana Popham (Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport Minister) to discuss sector concerns in the context of various crises, including drought and wildfires.

Among other things, we raised the importance of communication and requested that decision-makers refrain from saying wildfire season given the ramifications on the visitor economy, especially during what we normally refer to as peak tourism season.

At a news conference yesterday to announce government’s new Emergency Ready Planner, the term wildfire season was used repeatedly by media and officials. Because of the seriousness of the subject matter, I hesitate to be too critical but the TEMC, the Tourism Emergency Response Team (TERT), and our various partners have been working diligently for years to expunge the common vernacular 'wildfire season' and instead simply refer to these emergencies as wildfires to avoid the messaging that implies that because it’s wildfire season, BC must be avoided. I suspect that given what prospective visitors are hearing online and through media channels, a decline in advance bookings in certain regions is to be expected.

As mentioned earlier, old habits are hard to break but with more education and consistent advocacy, our goal is to influence a change to the term wildfire season no matter how long it takes.

For the record, in the meeting with the Ministers last week, we also spoke of the need for dedicated resources for regional destination management associations to prepare businesses for emergencies, better business and economic impact data following a crisis, a support program for impacted businesses, and assistance to develop a risk assessment profile for all operators.

As co-chair of the TEMC, I am encouraged by the progress we’re making on the tourism emergency file (see other news below), yet at the same time recognize the work that still needs to be done to prepare, protect and help our industry recover from whatever crisis befalls us in the days ahead.

I have a habit of watching the Golf Channel and snacking on something sweet just before bedtime every night. I’m trying to break it by recording everything I eat each day to track calories, find better balance in my diet, make healthy food choices, and to prove to my wife that I’m not the one eating all the chocolate chip cookies. Unfortunately, I’m failing miserably...or pleasurably as it were.

Walt Judas,

CEO, TIABC

New Tools to Help People Prepare, Stay Informed During Emergencies

The Province is introducing an interactive Emergency Ready Planner to help people create an emergency and evacuation plan for their family. This is part of a suite of new-and-improved tools released during Emergency Preparedness Week to help keep people safe through wildfires, drought, floods, and earthquakes.

New and improved emergency preparedness tools and resources include:

• the Emergency Ready Planner, an online, interactive tool to help people create a personalized emergency and evacuation plan;
• major upgrades to the BC Wildfire Service app to better connect people to the latest wildfire and fire ban information; and
• updates to the Drought Information Portal to better inform people about drought levels and watershed conditions around the province.

Read the full announcement from government and learn more HERE.

BCRTS Renews Proactive

Crisis Communications Support

BCRTS has announced the renewal of proactive crisis communications support between marketing communications agency, Hatch Comms, and the representatives overseeing tourism responsibilities in their communities - known as Tourism Community Leads.

Together with Hatch Comms, BCRTS will continue to offer crisis communications support before, during, and after emergency events. By investing in preparation, communities will be equipped with the necessary tools and support to navigate crises effectively, safeguarding the safety and well-being of all visitors in the area.

In times of crisis, when a Tourism Community Lead activates the support system, Hatch Comms will step in to assist in implementing crisis communications plans. This ensures that destinations remain connected with appropriate agencies to access official messaging, which is then communicated back through established tourism channels, providing visitors with timely and accurate information to navigate crises effectively. 

Read the full news release HERE.

ICYMI | Emergency Guidance Document - Spring / Summer 2024

Destination BC is reminding the tourism sector to be prepared for emergencies with the help of their recently updated Emergency Messaging Guidance document.

The document outlines official emergency information resources for BC. It also includes suggested messaging and actions tourism businesses can use to navigate questions, mitigate visitor concerns and proactively manage perceptions during emergencies.

Access the Emergeny Messaging Guidance document and other valuable resources HERE.

Government of Canada Launches Major New Initiative to Support Indigenous Tourism

The Hon. Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, has announced the launch of the ITF’s Signature Indigenous Tourism Experiences Stream (SITES). With $10 million in federal funding, SITES will support major Indigenous tourism projects, awarding contributions of $500,000 to $1.25 million. The funded projects will build on existing tourism destinations, many of which are located around significant cultural and natural sites in Indigenous communities.

This funding is part of the broader $20 million ITF. The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) will deliver SITES to support projects that make Indigenous tourism sites more accessible, encourage overnight stays and boost spending. It will favour initiatives that can anchor larger tourism destinations and attract other sources of financing. 

Read the full announcement from government HERE.

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

IRCC Survey | Immigration Levels Plan

Every year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) engages with a wide range of stakeholders and partners from across the country to help shape Canada’s next Immigration Levels Plan, which will be announced in the fall of 2024.

This year, the federal government is expanding the scope of the Immigration Levels Plan by including temporary resident arrivals in addition to permanent residents in an effort to better align our immigration system with the needs of the country. 

As such, IRCC is seeking your views on the balance among different categories and programs, and how immigration can best support Canada from multiple perspectives. You can learn more about the engagement and consultation process HERE.

Take the online survey HERE. Responses will be received by June 30th.

Erik Fisher Appointed as New

CEO of Tourism Kamloops

Tourism Kamloops' Board of Directors announced earlier this week the appointment of Erik Fisher as the organizaton's new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Erik brings a wealth of tourism experience including brand and destination development at several premium winery establishments across BC, including Kamloops’ own Monte Creek Winery.

Erik is no stranger to the tourism landscape of Kamloops, having contributed to the local industry and serving on many boards, including the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Wine Growers British Columbia. Under Erik’s leadership, Tourism Kamloops will focus on leveraging his expertise in destination development and strategic brand marketing to enhance the city's profile as a must-visit location. His appointment comes at a time when the organization is poised to take significant strides in promoting tourism and fostering economic growth within the region.

TIABC's Board and staff congratulate Erik on his new position.

ITAC Request for Proposal | Travel Services

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced travel agencies interested in establishing a partnership to provide comprehensive travel services to ITAC employees, board of directors, representatives, partners, and clients.

This partnership aims to streamline travel arrangements, enhance customer service, and promote Indigenous tourism experiences across Canada.

Proposals must be submitted electronically by no later than May 22nd, at midnight PT.

Learn more HERE.

Pemberton Valley Lodge Receives 2024 TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice Award

Congratulations to TIABC member Pemberton Valley Lodge who has been honoured with the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award!

This prestigious award recognizes the property as a premier destination, placing them in TripAdvisor's top 10% of all global listings.

Learn more about Pemberton Valley Lodge HERE.

5th Annual Support, Ship & Sip

Small Local Winery Launches Campaign to Support Industry Members in Need

Township 7 Winery has announced the launch of its fifth annual Ship, Sip & Support charity campaign, benefiting the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF). Dedicated to assisting hospitality and tourism workers facing unexpected health challenges, BCHF has provided critical support to over 300 individuals since its inception in 2006.

In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. These contributions will directly aid BCHF's mission of providing essential financial assistance to those in need within the hospitality industry.

Supporters can join Township 7 Winery in their efforts by visiting Township7 HERE during the month of May to make a purchase or make a direct donation.

Don't Love it to Death' Awareness Campaign Shares Top Concerns About Bad Behaviour

in Nature

Ahead of the May long weekend, the Don't Love it to Death campaign team is urging locals and visitors to make better decisions outdoors. This timely reminder comes as a new survey in the VCM region shows the top three concerns from residents are:

• Overcrowding
• Lack of respect for nature
• Garbage and human waste

Don’t Love It To Death is an initiative by the Sea-to-Sky Destination Management Council that launched in 2022. This campaign is a reminder to outdoor enthusiasts and visitors enjoying the outdoors to be mindful of the impact their behaviour and activities are having on delicate ecosystems and communities.

Learn more about the Don't Love It to Death campaign HERE. Understand your impact by watching the video below.

Vancouver Lookout

In 1977, the Harbour Centre complex, including the office tower and Vancouver Lookout, was built over and around the original 1928 Spencer Building. American astronaut Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, opened the Lookout on August 13th, 1977, at which time it was the tallest building in Vancouver. Now it is the 8th tallest at 168 meters (553 feet).

The Lookout at Harbour Centre is equipped with LED colour changing lights that have a total output of 2,390 watts and are regularly lit up for holidays, and to support community events and charitable causes. Light-up requests may be made by contacting info@vancoverlookout.com.

Plan your visit and learn more about the Vancouver Lookout attraction 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. If you want to be featured in an upcoming TIABC Voice of Tourism and other platforms, 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.

WORTH Leadership Summit

This spring, women-identifying leaders and their allies in recreation, tourism, and hospitality will come together for a full-day industry event. Top voices in the sector will share inspiring ideas to spark dialogue about issues that impact women in the workplace. Their perspectives will inform, ignite, and empower to collectively identify ways to retain and develop women in the industry. This event will connect a community of leaders to expand their network and create meaningful relationships.

Date: May 13

Location: Fairmont Waterfront Vancouver Hotel

Please Use Discount Code: WLS2024TIABC

Learn more about the full program and purchase tickets HERE. For sponsorship details, please get in touch with summit@worthassociation.com or view HERE.

YVR Annual Public Meeting

YVR will be holding it's Annual Public Meeting to present their Annual & Sustainability Reports and financial statements and discuss the management, operation, and maintenance of YVR.

Date: Tuesday, May 14

Time: 2:00-3:30 pm

Location: East Concourse, US Departures Level 3 (near the Fairmont Airport Hotel), Vancouver International Airport

Please join in for the meeting in person or virtually as they share an overview of 2023 and talk about the important role that YVR plays in keeping BC connected to the world.

The presentation will be followed by a question period for the public. Questions may also be submitted in advance to community_Relations@yvr.ca or via X using #YVRAPM.To be answered during the meeting, questions must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 7. Note: A link to join virtually will be made available on May 14th.

Learn more HERE.

Tourism Valemount | Celebration of

Tourism Panel

Join Tourism Valemount on May 18th for an unforgettable evening centered around sustainability and partnerships. Get ready for an engaging lineup featuring a dynamic panel of tourism experts and an insightful presentation on content creation! Guest panelists include TIABC CEO Walt Judas, Robb MacDonald (TOTA), and Jamie Bourne (ITBC). The panelists will delve into a range of topics designed to empower your sustainability marketing efforts.

Date: May 18

Time: Doors open at 5pm, festivities run from 6-9pm

Location: Best Western Valemount, Eagle Room

RSVP by May 14th to secure your spot! Call (250) 566-3335 or email visitvalemount@gmail.com

Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the community together!

2024 Online Auction

Benefitting Care Camps Foundation

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is hosting its annual charity fundraising Auction. The charity Care Camps Foundation, founded by campground owners, helps kids with cancer get to experience the healing power of the outdoors by sending them to specialized oncology camps.

Donations and bids can be made through to May 20th. To donate, please email Darlene@bclca.com or call 604.908.5594. It is an excellent opportunity to support the Care Camps Foundation while potentially getting a fantastic holiday, a new product or gift cards and more.

Learn more HERE. The Auction Board is NOW LIVE! Visit the link below.

Big Spring Raffle|Early Bird

Deadline Approaching

The Big Spring online raffle is on! This fundraiser is to support the work of the Sport Fishing Institute of BC and its efforts to maintain and enhance sustainable access to BC’s public fisheries. Two early bird prizes will be drawn on May 25th. 

The excellent main prizes, including a KingFisher boat, Yamaha motor and Scotty downriggers package and trips with Langara Fishing Adventures in Haida Gwaii, Codfather Charters in Port Hardy, and Pacific Angler in Vancouver are all possible with the purchase of a ticket online.

For tickets and more details visit HERE.

Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival

Wings "Way Over" the Rockies - The BIG Picture

The 27th annual festival is underway and located in the beautiful upper Columbia River Valley centred around the mountain town of Invermere.

Dates: May 6-12

There are 107 events during the 7 festival days, many new ones too! Purchase tickets and view the event calendar HERE. 

Rendez-vous Canada 2024

Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) is Destination Canada’s signature event, co-produced with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). For nearly 50 years, this event has shined a spotlight on Canada, connecting international travel buyers with Canadian tourism businesses and creating meaningful opportunities from coast to coast to coast.

Dates: May 14-17

Location: Edmonton Convention Centre

Learn more about Rendez-vous Canada, and register HERE.

2024 Canadian RVing and Camping Week

The Canadian RVing and Camping Week is designed to encourage Canadians and international visitors to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends.  

Dates: May 21-26

The week is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Council and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:

• Promote the lifestyle associated with camping and RVing.
• Promote good behaviour and respect via the Camper’s Code
• Raise funds for Care Camps to send children with cancer to camp.

Be part of the program and sign up HERE.

Save the Date

Destination Vancouver AGM

Please join Destination Vancouver and the Board of Directors for the 121st Annual General Meeting

Mayor Ken Sim will be joining in for a Q&A session with members, moderated by Bridgitte Anderson, President & CEO, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

Date: Wednesday, May 22| 2:45pm - 6:45pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre West, Room 302-305

Save the Date

2024 Annual Conference | BCAC's

"Soaring Above Challenges"



The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to announce that the 2024 Conference is now scheduled! Mark your calendar now and check in with our draft event webpage closer to the date for more details including agenda, speaker profiles, sponsorship opportunities, activities (including add-ons), travel and hotel partners, and more.

Date: May 27-29

Location: Nanaimo

Registration is open, learn more HERE.

2024 BC Chamber of Commerce AGM

Join us and explore this vibrant, diverse and naturally beautiful city located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people.

Date: May 28-30

Location: Coast Capri, 1171 Harvey Ave., Kelowna

Learn more and register HERE. Early bird registration ends April 30th.

30th Annual TOTA Golf Tournament

Up Fore Some Fun? Register for the TOTA Golf Tournament

Yes, there will be great golf on an award-winning course, but this annual tournament is really about bringing people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry together for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!

Date: May 30

Location: Bighorn Golf & Country Club, Kamloops

Learn more and register HERE.

Okanagan Wine Festivals Return in June!

The Okanagan Wine Festivals returns this June with three weeks in wine country you don’t want to miss. There is no better time to visit BC Wine Country than in June. Just before the summer season kicks into high gear, you can explore all your favourite wineries and discover hidden treasures. The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will focus on a TASTE and SIPS series of events throughout the Okanagan Valley.

Dates: June 2-23

The official launch of the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will take place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on Friday, June 7, following the British Columbia Wine Awards private reception, where the 2024 BC TOP 50 and the Wine of the Year will be announced.

Learn more about the Okanagan Wine Festivals, the various events and how to purchase tickets HERE.

Active Transportation Summit 2024 Registration Now OPEN!

Shape the future of active transportation in BC at the 2024 Active Transportation Summit. This dynamic two-day conference, supported by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and hosted by BCCC, brings together planners, engineers, government leaders, industry experts, nonprofits, and academics for collaboration and innovation. This year's theme, "Let's Keep Moving", challenges us to do even more.

Dates: June 18-19

Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster

Get 50% off the regular price if you register before April 5!. Learn more and register HERE.

Art of Leadership for Women Returns

to Vancouver

The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Vancouver! This year's conference features a riveting collection of renowned world leaders, business icons, esteemed academics, and bestselling authors who share strategies and insights on the most critical issues confronting leaders in our world today. Don't miss this unique opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams.

Date: June 24

Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Use promo code TIABC40  and save $100 per pass.

Learn more and register HERE.

2024 CanSPEP National Conference Registration

Join event entrepreneurs at CanSPEP featuring immersive programs, networking and awards in Victoria, BC.

Dates: June 25-28

Early registration is now open until May 3rd. Learn more and register HERE.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournaments

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournaments. This year a new venue is being introduced to the Vancouver location which will bring a whole new experience: 

Dates:

• July 5 - Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Tsawwassen
• August 21 - Olympic Golf Club, Victoria

Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament

The highly anticipated Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament is set to tee off! Golf enthusiasts and industry professionals alike will gather for a day of friendly competition and networking against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s scenic landscapes.

Dates: July 17

Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Tsawwassen

To Register: please email the CITAP+ office at info@citap.ca to be invoiced for your preferred activities/ sponsorships. Please indicate the number of individuals that will be in attendance.

SKAL Vancouver | Tourism Industry Golf Tournament

This year Vancouver's tourism executive club: Skal, is hosting a different kind of tourism industry Golf Tournament; a KP (Closest to the Pin) Shootout.

Date: June 21

Location: Mylora, Richmond

Having 15 Par 3's to shoot at for $1000.00 in cash & prizes on a course anyone can play on, with a Shotgun start, is the way to go. More fun, no waiting around for 5 hours on a golf course, and a great barbeque onsite at the end.

We are looking for Golfers, Hole sponsors, a Title sponsor for the event, the reception, and the KP shootout. For more information, visit THIS LINK. 

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.

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 we are thrilled to be back in the room together.

Dates: October 22-24

Program details will be released soon!.

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!

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 4th - 6th

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.