Manic Monday | Thompson Okanagan firmly on the International Radar

At the risk of sounding like my parents, I cannot believe that we have just completed another successful Rendezvous Canada Tradeshow. It feels like only weeks ago that our team returned from last year’s event in Calgary, and we have now once again completed a remarkable week of meetings and networking in Halifax.

For those that may not know, Rendezvous can best be described as speed dating with our Travel Trade operators over 3 lengthy days. It is 15 minute back-to-back appointments with Tour and Travel buyers from around the world, looking to showcase Canada in the tours and itineraries they offer to their customers.

To say it is a busy week does not even begin to tell the story.  It is enlightening, exhilarating, and quite frankly exhausting. It is the largest show of its kind in Canada and a tremendous opportunity to elevate our Region’s Export Ready Products to the world.

We were joined by many of our Industry Stakeholders from our Region who are well seasoned at this event as well as having several new faces in attendance bringing an ever expanding list of options for buyers to consider.

Our congratulations and heartfelt thank you goes out to the Province of Nova Scotia and the City of Halifax who played host to the record 1,500 plus delegates and to Destination Canada, Destination BC, and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada for organizing such a first class event.  Our maritime friends certainly know how entertain a large audience and everyone left feeling well looked after.

A special note of deep appreciation to TOTA’s Travel Trade Specialist Howard Grieve who, as always, represents our organization and industry with the utmost class and integrity.  Despite my efforts to encourage “4 more years” from him, Howard will be retiring in June and it was special to watch how many in this industry from around the globe approached him and paid tribute to his amazing efforts and career.  Thank you Howard from our entire TOTA team for representing us so well!

Canada, BC and the Thompson Okanagan is firmly on the radar screen of our international partners and the bookings are very strong for the coming years and growing.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | It's all in the messaging

We have been here before and not that many months ago. Our lakes, rivers, and streams are rising and many of our communities throughout the Thompson Okanagan are facing significant challenges with high water, road closures, and evacuations. These are real and serious situations and we all need to help and support our friends and neighbours in any way we are able. Safety of all concerned is everyone's first and foremost priority.

It is also a priority that we provide accurate and succinct reporting of the current situation through all of our various modes of communication.  Ensuring business websites, social channels, media messaging, and day to day conversations with guests, colleagues and friends provides clear, concise details and information benefits us all.

We are once again on the cusp of an important and very busy spring and summer season for our regional tourism operators. Sensationalizing stories and overstating the facts will negatively impact many of our businesses - both small and large. Key messaging should continue to invite visitors to the region, reconfirm all there is to take part in throughout the area, and identify the many access routes that are unaffected by closures.

Quite simply we can do this right or we can fail, it is all up to our collective abilities to communicate!  It is all in the messaging; the appropriate use of language always with a priority to keep visitors safe, present the facts, stick to the truth and understand the power in words and photos.....your words, your photos and those of the media.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Take the time to notice your difference makers...

In tourism we talk a lot about what differentiates us from other locations in the world. Our Iconic products, the authenticity of our story and shared history, the activities which provide opportunities to expand personal horizons, and of course, our culinary offerings which bring the bounty of our land to our plate and glass.

I was, however, reminded once again this week that none of this matters without the most important ingredient — our people. Those individuals who, day in and day out, deliver the tourism products and services to our guests and weary travellers. They are the difference maker between a visitor that leaves satisfied, fulfilled, or even grateful, and those that leave disappointed.

Many of our communities celebrate their tourism and hospitality employees for exemplary service in the face of often difficult challenges. We applaud this type of initiative and encourage other communities and areas to see how they might do the same.

At the Kelowna Hotel Motel Association (KHMA) Heart of Hospitality Awards this past week, I listened to the stories of front line staff members going above and beyond guest expectations.  From replacing a young lady's converse sneakers after she walked into construction cement; another taking a guest shopping for important and urgently needed medical supplies after their car had broken down; to another employee that had the foresight to recognize a potentially tragic and fatal situation before it happened and in so doing ultimately changed the course of someone’s life, and by extension, that of many of the lives of their friends and family.

Hotels, restaurants, attractions, and transportation companies all fall short when the positive and proactive interaction with staff is lacking. Take the time to notice your difference makers in your business or organization!  Thank and encourage them to continue to care, notice, and help whenever and wherever they are able to.

You will be rewarded with having visitors that will remember, return, and talk about their experiences in new and meaningful ways and you will have team members that understand and appreciate their critical role in delivering exceptional tourism experiences.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Criticism is Always Louder than Applause

TOTA was pleased to once again be in attendance as one of this year’s sponsors of the Southern Interior Local Government Association Conference (SILGA) which took place last week in Revelstoke.  This event is attended by municipal and Regional District government mayors, councils and Directors working collectively on issues and challenges that are common to all and identifying ways to work together in building strong regional partnerships.

2018 being an election year some of our current politicians will be moving on, most of them out of politics, and we wish to express our sincere appreciation for all of their hard work and long hours they have devoted to their communities.  For all of those who will continue to let their names stand or add them to this year’s slate of candidates, we applaud you for your desire to take on these demanding and often difficult roles.

Whatever your own politics, we are all very fortunate to live in this country and province where our elected officials are passionate and dedicated to their positions and the health and well being of the areas they represent. It is often thankless work and criticism is always much louder than applause.

SILGA 2019 will be held in Penticton and TOTA will definitely be in attendance to help support and inform on issues that are critical to our Tourism Industry to this very important stakeholder group!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Believing it is Possible - We are all Winners!

On behalf of all the Board and Staff at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, we are so very proud to let you know that  at the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) in Argentina late last week, the Association was named the 2018 Tourism for Tomorrow Award Winner in the category of Destinations for our Region’s work on Destination Management practices and Sustainable Tourism initiatives.

Not taking heed of those that said it was not possible, our Association embarked on a journey in 2010 to develop what would ultimately become the region’s 10 Year Tourism Industry Strategy. Together with all of our industry stakeholders and communities, the dream of a collaborative, cohesive and aligned strategic direction for the Thompson Okanagan became a reality under the banner "Embracing Our Potential”.

Since its adoption in late 2012, this industry-led strategy has provided the roadmap for all of the activities of our association and supporting partners.  With a focus on tourism initiatives which supported - Building Authenticity, Expanding Personal Horizons, Identifying the Iconic, Enriching Local Flavours and Revealing the Story, and all underpinned with a commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism development.

This commitment was further elevated in late 2017 with the successful achievement as the first destination in the America’s to achieve the Biosphere Sustainable Tourism Destination designation (one of only 21 world-wide) through the Responsible Tourism Institute. This designation commits the Thompson Okanagan to achieving the 17 Sustainable Tourism Development Goals as outlined by the United Nations and supported through the Paris Climate Accord. These initiatives collectively assisted in moving the region forward in a distinct direction and with a strong mandate of Sustainability under the pillars of Economic, Social and Environmental Priorities.

When the WTTC acknowledged the Association was selected as one of three finalists for the awards was already a huge achievement.    Originally, there were over 175 contenders from 63 countries for this prestigious award and TOTA was advised in early January that we had been shortlisted together with the Riverwind Foundation in Jackson Hole Yellowstone, Wyoming and Corporacion Parque Arvi, Columbia for consideration. Ultimately, we were the proud award recipient!

Throughout the process, there were many who believed that what this region was trying to achieve was impossible. That others worldwide were more capable, more advanced, more progressive, more knowledgeable, and in fact, more worthy.  We refused to believe those comments then, as we refuse to believe them now!  A huge thank you to all the community and industry leaders in this region that truly led the way for this recognition - but more importantly to all the tourism operators in this region that rise to the challenge each and every day to deliver a quality experience in a sustainable way. We truly are all winners and share this recognition together.

Believing it is possible, we are half way there......and we are collectively determined to go the full distance to make this region the best tourism destination in the world in every way possible.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Spring is slow to arrive, but not so for our new developments

While spring does not seem to want to arrive to our region, there are a lot of other exciting developments taking place all over the Thompson Okanagan that are giving us a lot to talk about.

The construction of new hotels throughout the region is a tremendous sign that our industry is continuing to grow and expand, enabling us to welcome more domestic and international visitors to the area in the months and years to come.

Here is a brief update on a number of projects currently in planning or near completion.

In 2018 there are 4 new hotels scheduled to open including the Wingate by Wyndham in Kamloops; an 80 room Coast Hotel opening in May in Oliver and two hotels 120 room hotels in Kelowna including the Holiday Inn Express and Suites in June as well as the Courtyard by Marriott later in the year.

Clearwater will be seeing a Best Western Plus open in June of 2019 while construction is scheduled to start as well this year on hotels in Salmon Arm (Fairfield) and Vernon (Best Western Premiere and Sheraton Four Points).

Penticton has two, as yet, unbranded hotels announced but not yet under construction and Kelowna has a further 147 hotel rooms announced in a mixed-use condominium development that are as yet pending a construction start date.

I am sure that I have missed some of the other proposed and pending developments taking place in and around the region and encourage you to let me know if there is a new tourism development going forward in your community.

Spring may be taking its time, but that is not true for our regional development plans. With Tourism continuing to be the #1 industry British Columbia and in the Thompson Okanagan, we are thrilled to see the continued increase in new product that enable us all to welcome our visitors from around the world and ultimately benefit all of us who are fortunate enough to call this part of the world our home.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | It is always the busiest that volunteer!

Have you ever noticed that those that are the busiest are also the ones that never fail to raise their hand when asked to help out? Whether coming together during a time of crisis or emergency or simply volunteering to pitch in for a person in need, it is always those with more than enough on their plate that rise to the occasion.

I am reminded of this as I watch the work of our TOTA board of Directors this week. Each of them with full personal and work lives and yet ready and willing to participate fully in our annual board retreat which takes them away from their regular routine and "to do" lists for 2 nights and 3 days.

Without the commitment and hard work of our volunteer Board, there would be no Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. They continue to support the day to day efforts of our team, provide guidance, and are always available on those occasions which from time to time may present challenges or concerns. They are a knowledgeable and engaged group who work hard to understand the issues of the entire region and provide thoughtful and insightful feedback.

I would like to take this opportunity as we begin our new year, which commenced April 1st, to thank each and every board member over the years for their continued efforts and look forward to a strong and prosperous 2018/19 for the entire region.

As a side note, a heartfelt thank you to the entire team at Echo Valley Ranch for hosting our Board Retreat these past few days. You have built an incredible and most hospitable visitor experience and you truly offer a remarkable regional experience as you welcome your guests as part of your family. Thank you so much again for all that you did to accommodate the TOTA Board Retreat 2018!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Pursuit of Slow Food and Travel

After what felt like a long and unrelenting winter, the Easter Weekend actually held the promise of spring. There were signs around the region of buds that will soon be blooms, grass finding its first tinge of green and people actually making their way out of hibernation. It is one of my favourite times of year.

It is also a perfect time to reintroduce our relationship with Slow Food and the new related Slow Travel movement. The Thompson Okanagan Slow Food Community started a chapter in the region in 2012 and has been building a presence for themselves since that time.  There have been a number of programs and conferences leading to their most current announcement of what they now refer to as a “Land to Table” approach to our relationship with our food. This initiative helps to engage all people in a better understanding of the source of their food, and highlights that long before the farming community it was our indigenous peoples who extracted all of their nourishment from the Land. It promotes and encourages better understanding and awareness of how our approach to eating can save and enrich our lives in multiple ways.

In the coming weeks, TOTA will be tying some of  our Biosphere Destination Sustainability initiatives closely to the Slow Food Movement encouraging locals and visitors alike to take time to appreciate the bounty available to us in this region and the Importance of not only buying local, but understanding what the land has to offer.  We will be highlighting the health benefits that come from taking time to prepare food properly and the mental stimulation from engaging with friends, families, and strangers as you dine. Ultimately, we hope to help people consider a wholistic approach to what the experience with food can be and the tremendous outcomes from making these changes to your lifestyle.

I hope that perhaps over this past Easter Weekend you may have already started a journey toward slow food dining and will continue to incorporate this way of living into your life in the coming spring and summer as we watch our lands awaken, our gardens grow, our farmer’s markets open and the new season of growth is upon us.

Head out to your garden and start planting; put down the cell phone and talk to the person next to you...the change will be incredible

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Big Data - Big Trouble or Big Opportunity?

As we watch the world unfold around the Big Data and the use of technology to track our every move, the debate will continue to swirl with companies like Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat as well as businesses we don't think of as collecting our information such as Uber or even SkipTheDishes.

There is no question in today's world that all that we do, and even don't do, is being tracked, analyzed and used to market to us in ways we had never imagined.

We have long been romanced by our cell phones and iPads which through the magic of apps have helped to provide us with everything from our favourite songs, to maps, even recipes, all the while storing data that was painting a picture of us in the background.  The resulting marketing intelligence and predictive indexing has enabled organizations to serve us up advertising and messaging tailored to our needs, wants and interests.

The question becomes when this kind of intelligence is used for "good" instead of "evil", how much of an issue does this tracking really create.

For myself, I would far prefer to be provided with a selection of information based on my personal preferences. Imagine the idea of watching television or listening to radio that only offered up commercials based on what your interest are.  You might actually read, listen to or watch the commercial and the advertiser could much more effectively spend their resources.

Obviously the line between market intelligence and market manipulation such as the discussion currently taking place around election tampering is something we should all be concerned about.

However in this time when we truly have a new Information Age upon us, let’s not be too quick to condemn Big Data, but rather find appropriate ways to regulate and control its use to the mutual benefit of all.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Events expose us to our country

With the start of spring break, I could not help but reflect on the many times over my life that I helped pack up the family car with my dad and we headed out of town on an "adventure".

More often than not these so called adventures were not a "spring break" as we know them today nor were they a vacation or even a holiday, but rather these trips tended to center around events and activities that dad had a keen interest in.

We might have been heading out to a fall fair, Folklorama, Expo, car show, or travelling to a rodeo. What I remember clearly is that they were almost always activities he needed or wanted to do and the rest of us were along for the ride.

Not surprisingly, these trips often turned out to be some of the best of times as we discovered parts of the country that we otherwise may not have travelled to, partook in activities that taught us something new, and enabled an opportunity to interact and engage with the local community in a different and unique manner.

This glimpse into my past is simply to remind us all just how important the many festivals and events are that take place throughout the region. Whether we are hosting a Granfondo or a Giants Head Grind; a Shakespeare Workshop or a Routes and Blues Festival - all provide amazing opportunities to attract guests to our region throughout the year.   Welcoming many visitors to the region who may be enticed to visit us for the first time, based on special interests and some who may only have been brought along for the ride.

As a community we need to make sure that we support these initiatives large and small to ensure their long term success and continue to attract those moms and dads with reluctant children in tow who will become the foundation of our tourism visitation in the years and decades to come.

On a final note we are very excited to congratulate Big White in its successful bid to host the 61st Annual World Airline Ski Championships which will take place in March of 2020. Indications are we will see between 450 - 500 ski enthusiasts from around the world who will visit our region, many for the first time, but we believe not for the last time.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Congratulations TIABC and the BC Tourism Industry!

There is always a level of energy and enthusiasm when a group of tourism industry colleagues gather that I have yet to see duplicated in other type of conference or event.

Thanks to the hard work of many industry partners and sponsors including Tourism Industry Association of BC, Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, Tourism Kelowna, Big White Ski Resort and countless others, too numerous to mention, the Thompson Okanagan region was fortunate to have played host to this year’s Tourism Industry Conference in Kelowna last week.

With well over 350 delegates it was by all accounts a tremendous success. This year there was no shortage of challenging topics to discuss that ranged from proposed Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) funding changes, to Airbnb taxation, the speculation tax, labour and housing shortages and disaster management, to name but a few.

Aboriginal Tourism BC hosted a vibrant opening reception, where they announced their new name, "Indigenous Tourism BC”, aligning with the changes in the Federal Government and other National agencies. On the second evening Big White took the conference up the mountain to try their hand at snowshoeing, sleigh rides, night skiing or just a bit of dining on local food and beverage.

Destination BC laid out their road map for the future as they work collectively with all provincial stakeholders to build a content commonwealth and continue to create a powerful marketing network. As a province we are working smarter and using technology to ensure that we are gaining the edge and building on a philosophy that the "whole is greater than the sum of its parts".

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Lisa Beare closed the conference with a number of new initiatives including  the establishment of a new tourism advisory committee and a wine and culinary marketing initiative to be launched this spring.

It was a week of dialogue that ranged from informative and educational to challenging and emotional. There were moments of great laughter, followed by stories and messages that brought tears.

One final thought that will stay with me long after this week is behind us were the closing words of retired Fire Chief Darby Allen who lead the community of Fort McMurray through their devastating wildfire in 2016. Shortly after the fire Darby and his family were visiting Bowen island where they came upon a chalk board with these words which sum up so much of the journey for all of us:

"It's Impossible" - said pride
"It's Risky" - said experience
"It's Pointless"- said reason
"Give it a Try" - whispered the heart.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | A week of reminders and gratitude!

A Big Thank You to Southern Queensland Country Tourism Region!

A number of us from the TOTA region are returning this past weekend from an absolutely wonderful "Business On Tour" in Australia where we were hosted over the past 10 days by our “sister region” in Southern Queensland Country (SQCT).  I cannot begin to thank SQCT CEO Mary-Clare Power and her entire amazing team for putting together such an extensive itinerary which was both enlightening and exhausting!

We have all come away with information and insight that we will be able to put in practise as we continue to grow our region and our tourism products. We hope we have also left behind a few thoughts and ideas that they too may want to consider or implement.  We are worlds apart and right next door, we share so much in the way of opportunities and challenges and we hope that in the not too distant future we will be able to reciprocate by hosting a "Business on Tour " for our colleagues from Australia. Again, a big thank you to all that hosted us and to Air Canada who without their support this trip would not have been possible.

Now to the reminders!

This is a big week for our region as the Tourism Industry Conference hosted by TIABC starts in Kelowna on Wednesday, March 7th. We look forward to welcoming industry partners and stakeholders from around the province to several days of robust and constructive dialogue. There are many critical issues effecting our industry at the moment and this is an important forum to bring those concerns to the forefront and assist Walt Judas and his team in moving them forward in government.

One final reminder about the upcoming Thompson Okanagan Regional Job Fair hosted by TOTA and go2HR taking place on March 15th in Kelowna. If you have not yet booked a booth there are a few spots left. We are anticipating a large turnout of potential employees as this event has been promoted not only to our post secondary institutions but to the general public.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Mobility is a Human Right

It is hard to believe the 2018 Winter Olympics have come to an end. Canadian athletes certainly did our country proud and while we had some unexpected losses we certainly had a tremendous number of wins.  However, this is not going to be a review of the Winter Olympics but a commentary on what I believe was an outstanding advertising campaign that ran extensively by Toyota during this year’s Games.

What you may or may not know is that Toyota is now in its 8th year as a sponsor of the Olympics and Paralympic Games and they have taken their role very seriously.  Fundamentally, Toyota made the decision that they are no longer a car company, but rather a mobility company.  Their messages are clear, concise, and make you pay attention; they make you want to stay in the room when the commercials come on; and they made you want to see them again and again and share them with others.

Their resounding commentary of "Mobility is a Human Right" and "Start Your Impossible", underscores the importance of our need to participate and enjoy the freedom of movement by all persons. They ask that we change our mindset of what is possible by anyone at any age and reinforce that physical challenges touch many lives, be they from birth, as a result of injury, or as part of the aging process. Giving human kind the ability to participate fully in life, through whatever supports can be made available, changes the quality of life for everyone.  Toyota have done a masterful job of creating stories that are engaging, inspirational, evoke emotion and are definitely memorable. They have successfully used their brand to make an important social commentary; they have used their brand for good.

Accessibility needs to be an important conversation for the Tourism Industry. As an industry we can make a difference to the lives of our residents and visitors by embracing the ideal of Access for All.  To this end, TOTA is pleased to have recently announced our partnership with Spinal Cord Injury BC and together have launched Access BC. Through this relationship we will be endeavouring to identify and promote tourism products and services that are accessible to all and encouraging tourism stakeholders to identify the changes they can make that will make their services welcoming to a wide array of abilities.

We may be "Starting our Impossible" as an industry, but if an Automotive Company can recognize its role in advancing accessibility, there is no question in my mind that Tourism can take on this important commitment and be a part of inspiring moments for all.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Thompson Okanagan recognized as Top 100 Sustainable Destinations globally and finalist as Best of the Americas

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is very pleased to announce that the Thompson Okanagan region is recognized as one of the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations Worldwide by Green Destinations and a finalist in the Best of the Americas Awards to be presented at ITB In Berlin, Germany in March.

I’m so proud of the tourism community Destination Marketing Organization leaders, Industry stakeholders, and partners in this Region who continue to pursue forward-thinking work to ensure the long term health of our visitor economy and the viability of the many natural and cultural assets that drive it.

Consumers of today, and into the future, are recognizing and expecting that all industries, including Tourism, act in a manner that is socially, environmentally, and economically responsible.   Rest assured, these consumers and travelers will vote with their wallets and travel and invest their dollars in places that take this movement seriously.

To be considered, the Thompson Okanagan was rigorously reviewed and required to demonstrate and provide evidence on how the Region complies with the 100 globally recognized criteria of the Green Destination Standard.  While each of the Top 100 Destinations worldwide on the list knows that there is much more work to be done, this list represents an ongoing and growing commitment by tourism destinations to acknowledge and act on the importance of Sustainability and Responsible Tourism development and delivery.

Green Destinations is a non-profit foundation for sustainable tourism, leading a global Partnership of expert organizations, companies, and academic institutions. The Sustainable Top 100 Destination Awards are supported by ITB Berlin, Green Destinations, TravelMole, Travelife, and ten other organizations.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Driving and Flying Regional Tourism Revenues

Access means everything to the Tourism Industry and it is certainly a critical component of "driving or flying"  tourism revenues into the Thompson Okanagan.

On the ground, this means ensuring we continue to lobby for improved road systems through lane twinning, increased passing sections and the use of more electronic adjustable speed limit signage.  We need stronger enforcement of existing policies and safety measures specifically the winter requirement for chains and/or approved winter tires on our mountain passes. And we must ensure that there is enhanced year round road maintenance and snow removal programs to keep our roads safe for our residents and visitors alike.

In the air, we have seen incredible improvement in connectivity and we must continue to work with our airline partners to increase the number of direct flights or seamless arrivals from major gateways both domestically and internationally. Through the tireless work of many of our stakeholders, DMO's and Airport partners in Penticton, Kamloops, and Kelowna we have seen the construction of new terminals and runways, technology and guest service enhancements and ever-increasing air access.

The Thompson Okanagan has been fortunate to have a partner in Air Canada who have been strong and supportive allies over decades.  Their commitment to this region has been unwavering and their response to industry concerns, recommendations and suggestions have been met open minds and dialogue that have continued to lead to positive changes.

This past week a group of regional stakeholders made up of key industry leaders from the Okanagan Bucketlist with the additional support of YLW, Tourism Kelowna, and TOTA participated in hosting a luncheon for Air Canada Global Sales Representatives in Montreal further elevating our regional message and once helping to cement the Region as a key destination within the Air Canada World Wide Network.

Access changes everything and we applaud those that understand the importance of providing our residents and visitors with the best possible driving and flying experiences.

One last comment...

Last Friday marked the beginning of the Year of the Dog in the Chinese Lunar Calendar and in fact it is not just any dog but the "Earth Dog". The earth dog only comes around every 60 years so for many of us it is the first and possibly the last time for this particular lunar cycle.

What does this mean? Well, only the next 12 months will be able to tell for sure, but as dogs are generally known to be loyal, easy going and kind, perhaps we can all wish for more peace, better communication,  collaboration and understanding in our world going forward.

It is with that hope that we extend our hearts to those in Florida that last week lost so much in yet another senseless shooting; we are all grieving.  Your loss and your heartbreak break the hearts of us all.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Intergenerational living at its best - Welcome the IGen App

My weekday mornings would not be complete without listening to Chris Walker on CBC Radio as I get ready for work. I tend to find out a tremendous amount about the entire region from his program and very often learn a few interesting business ideas.  Recently he interviewed the owner of Happipad located here in Kelowna who has developed a novel approach to the housing challenges in the area through the creation of a new App called iGen.

The concept is brilliant and quite simple. Bring together students looking for affordable accommodation with healthy independent seniors who are looking for more than just rental income. The end result is transformative for both groups. The often lonely living situation that many seniors find themselves in is positively impacted by the addition of the student renter who provides a degree of companionship, conversation and even learning opportunities. Likewise, the student, who is often away from their home for the first time and may have limited family or friends in the area, is provided a rental situation that is more of a "home-like" environment and to some degree can mimic living with parents or even grandparents.

Both parties go through a rigorous interview process that includes background and criminal record checks.  The two parties must also agree to a variety of criteria that includes spending time together, cooking and having meals with each other and in general finding and creating opportunities to socialize.   In addition, each party identifies their "value add", or in other words, a list of skills they could teach to the other person that they believe may be useful.  This could range from the senior assisting the student with budgeting, writing resumes or even learning to sew/mend clothing while the student might assist the senior with scanning and organizing photos online, helping them set up online grocery shopping and delivery or even get them up and running on  a "Google Home or Alexa System". Whatever those skills maybe each must look for ways to provide personal learning / growth to the other.

Not only is the program getting a tremendous amount of interest but not surprisingly the students have actually indicated that as opposed to wanting deep rental discounts, which was originally one of the intended goals of the program, they are actually willing to pay more to participate.

IGen is in its infancy but all indications are that it will be a tremendous success. While the pilot program is limited to pairing up college/university students with seniors who are or were professionals, in time, the owner/developer has indicated they have plans to continue to grow the program beyond its current target markets.

This is truly the kind of 'out of the box" thinking that we need be looking at and supporting as we work to overcome the serious accommodation challenges our tourism industry is facing for our employees around the region. I encourage you to check out the Happipad website and IGen program; perhaps the next iteration of this App could be young tourism employees finding themselves living with seniors who have or are still working in the industry; sharing, mentoring and ultimately building a more robust tourism and hospitality industry that really takes care of its own.

One final note....
It would seem nearly impossible not to make a comment on the events that took place last week between BC and Alberta.  We are neighbors, allies and trading partners. There is much at stake and much to be lost in continuing down the current path and as one speaker so aptly commented: "the most unfortunate issue is the collateral damage to innocent business owners". We encourage communication, cooperation, and a conscious effort to find workable solutions.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Looking for that next great employee?

How did you find one of your first jobs? Many of us who are over the age of 40, found those important first time positions through family, friends, a local ad or an ad in the newspaper. I remember my first real job (as in not working for my dad), happened because I actually walked into a business, resume in hand, applying for a position that was posted in a window.

Fear, excitement, a coming of age, the idea of having my own money. The entire experience was enough to make any teenagers palms sweat and hopes sore. Of course the job was not nearly as intriguing as the idea of it was, and the money was not going to make me the rich teen I had hoped it would, but it was independence in a way I had only dreamed of.

Today, of course, there is the internet where you can search and apply for positions in a far more anonymous way, but in the end most of the time the employer will want a face to face meeting or at the very least a Skype call before the position is secured.

We would like to suggest another great way to find a job in Tourism.  Why not attend the Tourism Job Fair hosted by TOTA and go2HR taking place March 15th at the Holiday Inn Express in Kelowna?

Open to the public, it is a great way to find out more about the wide array of jobs available in tourism throughout this region. You will have a chance to meet employers face to face in a friendly and casual setting. There will also be a few live demonstrations that may help to tweak your interest in different types of employment and an opportunity to interview with prospective employers one on one should you find that perfect match.

For our tourism employers looking to hire this spring and summer, we encourage you book a booth at this year's event to ensure your business is front and centre with potential employees. Not only will you have a chance to meet with students and first time workers, but we anticipate a large cross section of age groups and many boomers looking to find that next career, supplement their retirement income or just stay active and involved.

Booth space is limited and registration is now open.

Join us ...and let us help you find that next great employee or that next great job...In Tourism!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | We are Already Winners......We Call this Place our Home!

This year has started out with some very exciting news for our region.

On the heels of our November announcement that the Thompson Okanagan has been certified as a Biosphere Sustainable Tourism Destination, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) announced on January 16th that the Thompson Okanagan is one of three finalists for their Tourism for Tomorrow Awards in the category of Destination.

Other finalists in this award category include the Riverwind Foundation in Jackson Hole and Corporacion Parque Arvi located Medellin, Columbia, who we are honoured to share this opportunity with.

The 14th annual WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow awards recognizes a total of 15 tourism stakeholders in 5 award categories showcasing best practices and high standards acknowledging tourism providers that recognize the importance of balancing, people, profits and environmental concerns with industry.

As quoted in the WTTC Press release:

“Sustainable growth is one of the sector’s most pressing challenges and a strategic priority for WTTC. The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards showcase the very best examples of how our sector is addressing this challenge and contributing in a positive way to the sustainable development goals and a better world for all. I congratulate all the finalists who are playing such a significant role in ensuring the future sustainability of Travel & Tourism, and encourage the whole sector to learn from their best practice”. Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC.

Early travel estimates for 2017 indicate that once again the industry worldwide saw growth in travel of over 4%,  numbers that are anticipated to continue well into the 2020's and beyond. Now more than ever we need to ensure our tourism assets are protected and managed for the future such that they can continue to be enjoyed by our visitors and our residents.

The WTTC will be sending an expert judge into our region in February for review and adjudication and the winners will be announced in April.

On behalf of the all of us at TOTA, we thank each and every stakeholder for your ongoing commitment to Tourism Sustainability and Responsible Tourism Practices!

It would be outstanding for our region to win this award, however, we know we are all very big winners just calling this region our home.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Start 2018 by Joining us for Business On Tour - Australia

By now you should have seen a few email updates confirming the details of our upcoming Business on Tour taking place February 23 - March 1st in Southern Queensland Country, Australia.

I hope you will consider taking the time to join us as we meet with tourism counterparts to expand our knowledge of industry best practices, meet potential employees and educators, tourism government officials and tourism stakeholders.

For the past several years, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has had a "sister region" relationship with the area of Australia known as Southern Queensland Country. This particular part of Australia shares a great many of our similarities and attributes. They too are an inland region that draws on two major coastal cities for the majority of their tourism visitation. A burgeoning wine area, with an actively developing First Nations product; Southern Queensland Country is also home to many successful festivals and events and have built an incredible Rail Trail product that they continue to upgrade to world-class standards. Their stakeholder base, like ours, is primarily small business owners who are entrepreneurial, creative and very industrious.

When TOTA originally solidified a relationship with the Tourism Authority in this region, I took part in an information exchange traveling to meet with their board, participating in their annual AGM and meeting with stakeholders. Similarly, their CEO visited the Thompson Okanagan and journeyed to many parts of our region interacting with Tourism Representatives, University Students, Government Officials and of course Stakeholders.

The business exchange has been designed to provide Stakeholders with an opportunity to meet like-minded business operators; exchange information, dialogue around problem-solving and discover new and innovative business ideas. It is a chance to experience how things are done on the other side of the world, compare best practices and share ideas. In our experience, there have been many takeaways and much to be gained through learning from each other. We can promise there will also be some fun along the way and a chance to get to know the spirit of our good friends and neighbors in the land of Auz…

As noted above this year's “Business On Tour” will take place from February 23rd - March 1st, with an option to extend your stay on either side, and we can help provide add-on itineraries.

The base program will include meetings with the Tourism Authority in both Queensland and Southern Queensland County, discussions with post-secondary institutions to develop student exchange relationships, tourism industry operator meetings, participation in tours and activities.

The cost for the 7-day exchange including accommodation, meals, ground transportation and activities is $1,750 per person plus GST, not including airfare. Participants will be responsible for their own airfares, however, through our Air Canada corporate partnership, we will be able to extend greatly reduced rates. Additional nights or alternative activities will be at the cost of the individual participant.

Registration deadline is January 25th and there is limited space available.  Deadlines for the exchange are as follows:

• To Register interest email Ellen Walker-Matthews at industry@totabc.com as soon as possible

• Non-Refundable Deposit - $500 plus GST due on or before January 25th, 2018

• 2nd Installment - $500 plus GST due on or before February 1st, 2018 (non-refundable)

• Final Payment - $750 plus GST due on or before February 15th, 2018 (non-refundable)

Airfare bookings will be paid for in full by the participant at the time of booking, however, our team will assist you with special Air Canada pricing that has been provided to TOTA for this exchange.

For additional information, or to book your spot, please contact Ellen Walker-Matthews at industry@totabc.com.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Sustainability starts with every individual

Creating a sustainable tourism destination begins with a commitment by each and every community and stakeholder in the region.  As I have noted before, the work that was done leading up to the Biosphere Responsible Tourism designation for the Thompson Okanagan achieved in early November was just the beginning of an exciting journey that we believe will have wide-spread implications on our long-term successful development as a tourism destination. Those opportunities will begin to be realized as early as this year!

Currently, I am in Madrid, Spain attending and presenting to a worldwide conference on Sustainability highlighting the Thompson Okanagan Region and our focus on this critical issue. This opportunity puts our area of British Columbia and Canada front and centre on the world stage and assists us in bringing forward our message regarding the right tourist at the right time in the right place. It also enables us to connect with other tourism destinations who have learned how best to engage in regional sustainability practices.

Also, this month in Victoria for the first time there is an Impact Conference being held which will bring together government officials, business leaders, special interest groups, tourism organizations, and stakeholders to discuss the issues around climate change, floods, fires, severe winter and ultimately the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry. If you are to attend we encourage you to register for this event.

Finally, in the coming weeks, you will start to see announcements from our TOTA team on how you and your business can take an active role in developing your business in a way that is responsible and sustainable.

This is a team event and together we can make a difference. Sustainability starts with each of us and every action small and large contributing to an enormous change.

We look forward to an exciting year of change in 2018 and working closely with our DMO partners creating a road map that will ensure we all see a healthy and vibrant tourism industry for the long term.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO