Thompson Okanagan Tourism Newsletter | March 21, 2024

Updates, webinars, events, opportunities to get involved, resources, and research to support Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals.

Highlights of this newsletter include: Thompson Okanagan Outlook Magazine Travel Guide Canadian Digital Marketing Summit Beverage Industry Training Program And more... Quick Links Post a Job Industry Training Resources Industry Events Calendar Know Before You Go Travel Trade & Media Opportunities About TOTA Featured News On March 11 - 13, The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association board of directors met at Spirit Ridge, Unbound Collection by Hyatt in Destination Osoyoos, on the unceded territory of the Syilx People, to develop a strategic direction for the near future. The board had discussions with Richard Porges & Scott Fraser from DBC, Walt Judas from TIABC, a crisis communications presentation from Krista Lochhead from Hatch Comms, a presentation on the wine industry from Albert Hudec from Farris LLP, and Chief Clarence Louie shared the Osoyoos Indian Band's tourism initiatives, upcoming plans, and how TOTA can support tourism in the region. Photo by Yinet Gomez Photography.  Beverage Industry Training Program The Beverage Industry Training Program is delivered by Okanagan College in Partnership with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) for those living in the South Okanagan who are entering or looking for a training refresh in the craft beverage industry. This program runs from April 8 - 19, 2024.  Industry Resources Thompson Okanagan to be featured in Outlook Travel Magazine Regional tourism operators are invited to take part in a marketing opportunity with Outlook Travel Magazine. The region will be featured in the Thompson Okanagan Travel Guide and will be a part of the June edition of Outlook Travel Magazine. There are limited opportunities to purchase advertising space in the guide, please contact Krisha Canlas at 1-587-288-1538 or krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com for more information.  2024 BCHA Summit This year’s BCHA Summit is set to take place in Whistler, BC. Hosted at the prestigious Fairmont Chateau Whistler on May 1-2, the accommodation event of the year will unite the hospitality and business community for two days of industry excellence and connection.  Reconciliation Training Program for Non-Indigenous Businesses and Organizations ITAC, in partnership with Legacy Bowes, is offering the Truth2Action reconciliation training program for non-Indigenous businesses and organizations in the tourism industry. The Certificate in Reconciliation for the Tourism Industry is a hybrid virtual and in-person program that provides a safe space for staff and board members to learn more about Indigenous perspectives and explore their role in furthering reconciliation. Canadian Digital Marketing Summit  The Canadian Digital Marketing Summit is coming to UBCO on May 23, 2024. The full-day event offers networking opportunities, panel discussions, and keynote addresses. This event features industry professionals such as Brad Pederson from Pela, Ester Pike from Fledge Solutions, Deepa Pillay from Stober Group, and Laura Rychlik from Hootsuite. Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association members can utilize code TOTA25 for 25% off the admission price.  B.C. Vineyards and Orchards Receive Help to Replant A new enhanced replant program will provide as much as $70 million in support to help producers replace damaged, diseased and low-producing vines, plants and trees with climate-resilient varieties that produce in-demand, premium fruit. Canadian Tourism Labour Market Snapshot: February 2024 The Tourism Industry saw an increase in February compared to previous months. Read more about the growth in employment and other information about the industry in Tourism HR Canada's February report.  Get Involved Share Your Thoughts on Workplace Mental Health in BC's Tourism and Hospitality Industry go2HR, in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division, is surveying those in the Tourism Industry to learn about employee health and well-being in the workplace. This survey is being conducted by Sentis Research, a professional BC research company, on behalf of go2HR. Responses that are received by March 27, 2024, will be entered into a draw to win one of the following:  One $400 gift card One of two $100 gift cards One of four $50 gift cards Sharing the Destination Featured Photo Kettle Valley Steam Railway in Summerland. Credit - Summerland Chamber of Commerce Have a great photo for a TOTA newsletter or social post?  Submit images and get featured → Have you seen the Thompson Okanagan YouTube page? Check it out for videos like this and more.  TOTA Team Represents the Thompson Okanagan Region at Explore BC In February the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) marketing team attended the Explore BC conference, organized by Destination BC.  Highlights ⭐ 12 stunning road trip destinations to check out in BC this spring ⭐ Sip And Savour: A Culinary Journey Through Kelowna’s Local Flavors And Wineries Strengthening the Destination The Economic Trust of the Southern Interior and MITACS Celebrates Successful Research Funding Partnerships with TOTA & more The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) worked with UBC Okanagan to research the impact of changing weather patterns on ski resorts in Southern Okanagan. This research is available through TOTA's Tourism Impact Portal. Highlights ⭐ New Okanagan Society aims to make rail trails more accessible, one can at a time ⭐ BC Community Bat Program offering tips to help the Okanagan bat population ⭐ Thompson Okanagan is an endlessly varied playground for those looking for diversity and inclusion Corporate Sponsors: Connect with TOTA: Subscribe to TOTA News Updates Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), 2280-D Leckie Road, Kelowna, British Columbia V1X 6G6, Canada Unsubscribe Manage preferences