Regional Tourism Pledge NEW VIDEO
Resiliency at the Heart of the Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge
In November 2019 we launched the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Pledge entitled "Seven Affirmations for Seven Generations" drawing from rich indigenous values
1 | TRUE ROOTS
2 | TREAD LIGHTLY
3 | GOOD NEIGHBOUR
4 | TRAVEL SAFELY
5 | LIVE IN HARMONY
6 | CHOOSE LOCAL
7 | EDUCATE OTHERS
SIGN THE PLEDGE
TOTABC.ORG/PLEDGE
We envisioned the Regional Pledge as a critical step in reaffirming all that we hold dear. Helping to remind every one of us that we are but visitors and caretakers of this land, whether we call it home, spend our lives here, or merely chance upon it for a moment in time. Impressing upon us the importance of thoughtfulness, mindfulness, kindness, and care in all that we do.
Little did we know how quickly our world could change, how instantly our lives would be thrown into chaos, and how, in what felt like merely days, our health and well-being whether personal, mental, or financial would be put in grave danger. We have been through a very dark moment in history, one we were not fully prepared for, and by and large did not anticipate.
Today, as we begin to slowly and cautiously awaken from these weeks of lockdown, begin to open our lives back up, start engaging with neighbors and friends from near and eventually from far; these Seven Affirmations are more important than they have ever been. Take time to read them, think about their meaning, to understand, and appreciate how they can guide us forward and to commit to them. We hope you will share them with those you encounter and ask them to also make a commitment to these values, as we all work toward a new way of life and a new way of living together safely.
7 Affirmations for 7 Generations | Tourism Resiliency Video
We knew these words were important in November 2019 when we launched the Pledge, but today we know they truly speak directly to the future more than ever. These seven affirmations provide clarity, direction, kindness, and calm. They are a thoughtful way forward after a very difficult journey.
True Roots, Tread Lightly, Be a Good Neighbour, Travel Safely, Live in Harmony, Choose Local, Educate Others
National Tourism Week
NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK
#BCTourismMatters
May 24th - 31st, we celebrate National Tourism Week in Canada, and this year more than ever we need to highlight the importance of our tourism industry in the Canadian economy.
The trickle-down effect of tourism businesses and operators unable to open or struggling to remain solvent has a tremendous impact in our Thompson Okanagan communities both rural and urban. In this region alone, Tourism is the number one employer, and our largest economic driver; when it falters or worse when it fails the impacts and implications are widespread and far-reaching.
Not just this week, but going forward, we need to celebrate all of those businesses that have pivoted or are working hard to adapt to the new rules and guidelines for tourism. We need to support our stakeholder businesses small and large as they try desperately to survive, and we need to adopt and to commit to shopping local and supporting Provincial and Canadian companies in order to preserve and protect each other through the challenging weeks that still lay ahead.
We can recover from this, we will recover from this but it takes all of us coming together to understand the value and importance of tourism, support those that are trying hard to begin to provide activities and services, and in the days to come, welcome visitors back to our region.
National Tourism Week....you can make a difference #BCTourismMatters
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
BC Tourism Resiliency Network
New Program to Support Tourism Industry
For most of our tourism industry, this is the 8th week of our provincial shut down as we all do our best to follow the direction of Health Minister Adrian Dix and Dr. Bonnie Henry in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Over the initial few weeks, our team at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been doing our best to reach out to personally connect with over 800 industry stakeholders to understand your issues and concerns and to feed those up daily to the Provincial and Federal Governments. Through these conversations with you, It has become clear that many stakeholders need support in navigating the various assistance programs that are available, where they are eligible, and what steps they need to take to obtain the many opportunities for relief or benefits.
Together with the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat representing the 5 Regional Destination Management Organizations (RDMO) in the Province and our strong partners at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, go2HR, Indigenous Tourism BC, Tourism Industry Association of BC, Community DMOs, and Destination BC, we are activating a new Tourism Program for the industry this week. This work will see our organization at TOTA pivoting our efforts to provide the one on one direct support we have heard industry asking for.
As part of the introduction to this initiative, TOTA will be hosting a Webinar TODAY, MONDAY, APRIL 27th at 2:00 p.m. that will provide tourism stakeholders in the Thompson Okanagan with information and details on how our team has been preparing to work to assist you and the next steps in how to participate in this new program.
REGISTER FOR today's informational TOTA Tourism Resiliency Webinar
On behalf of myself, our board of Directors, and our entire TOTA team I would like to take a moment to thank both the Provincial Minister, the Honourable Lisa Beare and Federal Minister, the Honourable Melanie Joly for their tireless efforts to find the relief assistance necessary to provide and protect our Tourism Industry today and for the future.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
This Too Will End
History Assures Us This Too Will End
It is Easter Monday and no matter how you might normally celebrate this holiday weekend, whatever your beliefs, rituals or plans most of us have had to find alternatives to long-standing traditions.
Travel is at a standstill, we are not visiting family or friends, gatherings whether in a formal church setting or simply to hunt for those elusive Easter eggs have been paused for this moment in time.
In many ways, however, this is what Easter historically represents. Each one of us is sacrificing our own freedoms, giving up things we love and staying close to home in an effort to protect ourselves and importantly the lives of those around us. These past few weeks and certainly during this holiday weekend we are altering how we experience important moments and activities, large and small so that we all might enjoy them again in the future.
It seems an impossible task at times, more than anyone can handle and we are all struggling under the weight of the burden; be it financial, mental, emotional or all of these. But history, assures us that this too will end and soon there will be better days. A concept that is not so easy to believe when you are in the thick of the battle.
From myself, our team at TOTA, and our entire Board of Directors, we wish you health and safety in the days and weeks to come. It is going to be a long road to recovery but there will be much to celebrate when we see the results of our collective efforts.
Take care of yourself and those around you and thank you from all of us for staying home, we look forward to welcoming visitors and guests back to our region and our businesses just as soon as it is possible.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
In Challenging Times We Pivot
For every one of us, no matter where we live or what industry we are working in, there is tremendous anxiety as we navigate this current and developing pandemic situation. Business losses are mounting daily, while people's livelihoods, savings, and futures are all in question. We are worried about our financial health, personal health, mental health and that of those around us.
This is a time where it is easy, even somewhat impossible not to find ourselves locked in our own thoughts, frozen by the situation and as a result often unable to move forward in any direction. But this is the very time when we must dig deep and find the mental fortitude to pivot our thinking and challenge ourselves on what is possible.
We have already seen many adaptations with restaurants, bars, wineries, breweries offering curbside and home delivery; hotels providing emergency shelter to front line works and those that are self-isolating, yoga studies providing online classes, guide outfitters offering training for when the time comes that we are back outside and spas providing online health tips, to name but a few. This is a time to turn your business model upside down, consider retooling, redirecting skills, tapping into available training and finding ways to provide your services in new and unique ways.
The team at TOTA has been reaching out to connect with many of you and want to continue to do this in the coming weeks. If you have not heard from one of us and would like to please email us at recovery@totabc.com. In the meantime, we are currently pivoting our business and working closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture as well as other Tourism agencies to connect you with the relief programs that have been announced or are coming shortly. Watch for more on this early this week. We have heard your comments and questions and know that you need help in understanding what is available and we are poised to make that happen.
How business is done and how it will continue in the future is changing right before our eyes and each of us needs to evaluate our priories and activities both professionally and personally to adapt to what is being thrust upon us. One thing that most people are agreed upon, when this is behind us there will be a new normal. How we have lived, compared to how we will live is unquestionably changed forever.
Glenn Mandziuk
President and CEO
Manic Monday | We Want To Hear From You
Midnight Musings from our CEO
Over the course of the past several days, our TOTA team together with members of the regional Community DMO’s, have reached out to you by phone to discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis on your business and to find out how you are personally coping through this time.
We appreciate your willingness to share your thoughts, questions, and concerns with our teams and want to ensure you that this collective information is being provided directly to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture as well as Destination BC.
In the coming weeks, we will continue to reach out to as many of you as possible, as well as circling back to some that we have already spoken with as the situation continues to change and unfold. If we have not yet contacted you and you would like to update us on your particular situation, please email us at recovery@totabc.com, with your name, business, and phone number and we will make sure to connect with you.
Things are moving and changing quickly, and we want to be able to assist you in getting the answers to the questions you have as quickly as possible. Please continue to reference our website and the Destination BC website.
Stay safe, stay healthy, be kind.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
MINISTER’S MESSAGE
This week’s message from our Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture – the Honourable Lisa Beare.
I want to start by thanking everyone who has provided feedback, offered support, and stayed engaged as we gather information about the impacts of COVID-19 to communities, businesses and people.
I continue to brief my Cabinet colleagues frequently and your feedback has helped me paint a fuller picture of the impacts of COVID-19 on the tourism sector. We are considering the needs of your communities at every stage of the planning process for mitigation, relief and eventually, recovery.
We are living through both a health crisis and an economic crisis, and I know people are worried about what the future holds. We have been working around the clock to protect people’s health, but we’ve also announced relief measures for businesses and people.
On March 18, the federal government announced a package for businesses and workers. These measures will offer some relief of the economic stress, but we know more will be needed. On March 23, the provincial government announced the B.C. COVID-19 Action Plan, which builds on the federal government’s strategy and represents our first step to provide relief to people and businesses in British Columbia.
The B.C. COVID-19 Action Plan has several measures that will offer some immediate relief to the tourism and hospitality sectors. These include delaying several tax filing and payment deadlines for personal income tax, EHT, PST, MRDT, motor fuel tax, and carbon tax.
Businesses will also benefit from government’s announced 50% cut in the provincial school property tax rate for commercial properties.
People who have had their income affected by the outbreak will soon be able to apply for the BC Emergency Benefit for Workers for a tax-free one-time payment of $1,000. That is in addition to the new Canada Emergency Response Benefit. As well, the federal government has introduced a temporary wage subsidy up to 75% and is providing additional business financing support through its Business Credit Availability Program.
For more information about supports for businesses and workers, click here.
As the tourism, hospitality and culture sectors are amongst the hardest-hit by this pandemic, we are working on sector-specific supports to help you come back strong in the future. I will be sharing more details about this in the coming weeks.
Tourism is one of the most resilient industries in B.C. I’ve seen you overcome great challenges like wildfires and floods. Your leadership and your swift response to this unprecedented situation is a sign of your strength and it gives me confidence that, together, we will get through this and welcome the world once again to beautiful B.C.
Take care,
Lisa Beare
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, responsible for Sport
Manic Monday | Taking Care of Yourself Mentally and Physically
Midnight Musings from our CEO
In these unprecedented times, it is more important than ever to stay connected. As we have been advising over the past few weeks, we will be updating our website and News Centre with pertinent links to information as it becomes available and we will continue to take your comments, questions, and concerns weekly to the Provincial Government and Destination BC.
Our team will be contacting many of you with a series of questions on both your current needs and thoughts for recovery initiatives and you can reach us directly on the COVID-19 situation at recovery@totabc.com
This morning, however, I really wanted to stress the importance of staying healthy, both physically and mentally, during these days and weeks of social distancing, self-isolation, and working from home.
One comment I heard, that has stayed with me, was "some people will take this time to watch shows, overeat and consume too much alcohol or similar substances while others will take the time to improve themselves." It really is a choice we all can make.
A few good tips and reminders that I have seen for staying healthy while staying apart:
Get outside for a walk or a bike ride, even if you only go around the block get some fresh spring air
Limit the amount of daily information you read on the COVID-19 virus. While it is critical to know the government updates, once or twice a day will keep you informed
Grow an Indoor Garden with your kids to keep them busy and transfer outside once the weather gets hotter
Sign up for an online course... that one you always meant to do... or pick up that book that you have been putting off reading
Find your inner creative self! Depending on your talents, use that part of your brain that sometimes gets neglected; create music, paint, journal, start that book you have always wanted to write
If you are able; grocery shop for neighbours or those that are in quarantine or self-isolation
Stay connected with family, friends, and co-workers to make sure they are doing okay.
As simple as a phone call, using tools like Zoom, Facetime or Google Hangouts to have virtual meetups and happy hours, together!
This is not an easy time, but when it is over, and it will eventually be over, you can look back and realize all that you accomplished, or not, it really is your choice.
This situation is out of our control but how we react to it is the one thing we are able to take into our own hands.
Be safe, stay healthy, look after each other, social distance, self-isolate and remember to be kind.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | Crisis Management Protocols in Full Force
Midnight Musings from our CEO
As we are hearing on a daily basis, these are unprecedented times for the entire world. Navigating the COVID-19 virus will test us all and I cannot say enough about the women and men on the front lines of this situation, assisting those that are unwell, potentially putting themselves directly in harm's way, as well as those that are working tirelessly to find a vaccine.
It is important that we take the direction from our public health officials seriously. We collectively have the ability to slow this virus down and flatten the curve, protecting our health care system and ensuring those that are in need of it the most have the access when they require it.
At TOTA, we have implemented our emergency planning protocols which are focused on regular communications weekly with our Provincial Leaders, Community DMO"s, and the regional tourism stakeholders.
We will be contacting many of you directly to understand how your business is being impacted and the measures you are currently taking or considering implementing. Most importantly, we will be asking for your thoughts on recovery initiatives that you believe would help get your business now and when we are through the worst of the situation. We also ask you to reach out to our office if you have information and recommendations that you believe will be useful to share. Please contact us directly through our Crisis Management Specialist, Rob Grifone, at (778) 721-5517 or crisismgmt@totabc.com and we will make sure your thoughts are included in our reporting.
All of this information collected will be regularly shared with Destination BC; Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister, Lisa Beare; and her Minister colleagues as she works together with other key ministries to assist the tourism industry in both the short and long term.
We will also have links to important information and resources on our website and the News Centre for ease of access.
Again, as we hear regularly, stay healthy, wash your hands, practice social distancing, stay home if you are sick with any form of cold or flu and above all be kind.
This crisis too will pass, but how we work together, strive to listen and communicate real facts and follow the guidelines being put forward by our health officials the better we will all be...
Stay safe and healthy.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | BC Tourism Industry Moves Sustainably Forward Together
Midnight Musings from our CEO
By all accounts, the Tourism Industry Conference held in Victoria was another great success, congratulations to TIABC and all of those that worked tirelessly to host this important industry event.
I was personally unable to attend the meetings last week but TOTA had tremendous representation by way of our Chair, Frank Antoine; Vice-Chair, Michael Ballingall; Director, Beverley DeSantis; and our Accessibility Specialist, Sonja Gaudet, who was also a presenter in one of the workshops. Thank you to all of them for representing the region so well and a special mention to Tourism Kamloops on winning the Innovation Award and Ogopogo Tours for receiving the Leading Accessibility Award!
I was also very appreciative to hear that the Federal Minister Melanie Joly and Provincial Minister Lisa Beare both took the time in their addresses to the delegates to recognize the work that the Thompson Okanagan Region and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has undertaken in the past several years in moving forward with a Responsible and Sustainability Destination Management Strategy.
Finally, we were very pleased that the BC Tourism Ministry Framework is founded on developing the industry in a sustainable way and understand that Destination BC, under the direction of Marsha Walden, is moving forward the concept of Destination Stewardship and embracing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals outlined by the UNWTO for the Province. Well done! This literally speaks directly to our work as a region. We believe strongly that protecting and managing our natural and cultural assets, today, and creating a thoughtful and planned approach to tourism for the future is not only timely but imperative.
We embrace the opportunity to work closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Destination BC, the other Regional DMO's and the Communities in moving this Provincial mandate forward. Never has it been more important than it is now to work together.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | The Industry’s Unsung Heroes
Midnight Musings from our CEO
There are many unsung heroes in any organization, but by far, volunteer board members are certainly a group of people who do not get the recognition they deserve.
Over my 11 years as the President and CEO of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association it has been remarkable to have had the quality of individuals serving on our board at TOTA, all of whom have been both passionate and dedicated to the betterment of tourism, the region’s industry stakeholders, and of our Association. Never has this been more apparent and true than those who are sitting as board members this year. Last week, the collective group met for an annual two-day retreat; reviewing the activities of the prior year; collaborating on strategy to move forward; reaffirming vision, mission, and values; and ensuring that all members understand TOTA's direction and focus.
These meetings cover a tremendous amount of detailed information, necessitating full board engagement, input, and direction. It requires board members to take time away from their own businesses and individual priorities; they come together for the good of the industry, region, and Province leaving personal interests at the door.
This year we are faced with significant direct and indirect challenges as an industry and an Association. For myself personally and our entire team, it was inspiring to witness the level of board engagement on often difficult topics, their level of collaborating, sharing, questioning and ultimately unanimously supporting TOTA as we continue to develop and grow the Association as a tourism management organization.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | Great Conferences to make sure you take part in.....
Midnight Musings from our CEO
There are a number of tremendous conferences on the horizon that I wanted to take a moment to highlight this week. If you have not attended these before or if you are still deciding whether you should attend I encourage you to consider taking the time and resources to register and support them.
Tourism Industry Association of BC - Annual Conference
Coming up shortly, March 4th - 6th, and taking place this year in Victoria is the annual BC Tourism Industry Conference. Hosted by TIABC, our tourism industry advocate, this event is a tremendous opportunity to gain insight into key trends and topics affecting our industry today. Speakers and sessions will feature a range of key priorities including, Emergency Management, Accessibility, Carbon Reduction Planning, Working with the Film Industry, the Future of Luxury Travel, Understanding UNDRIP, Visual Storytelling, and the list goes on.
For more information go to their website at https://bctourismconference.ca
BC Hospitality Summit - 5th Annual Conference
Hosted by the BC Hoteliers Association and the Alliance of Beverage Licencees, this year's event is being held in Kelowna, April 6th and 7th. An equally impressive line up of topics and speakers their goal is to help the industry understand the importance of strong alliances and partnerships to build long term profitability. A highlight and always inspirational is the Industry Awards Gala on the final night, where so many accomplishments are recognized and celebrated. For more information and to register, go to https://bchospitalitysummit.com
Global Sustainable Tourism Council Summit
Still a few months away but taking place sooner than you think is the GSTC Summit, will come to Kelowna, November 19th - 22nd, 2020, the first time ever to be held in Canada. This conference brings together industry professionals to discuss key challenges and opportunities surrounding smart destination management and sustainable tourism development by featuring a series of presentations, speakers and panelists from around the world. To learn more and to register, go to https://www.totabc.org/gstc
Life long learning, connecting, networking, broadening our knowledge, discovering best practices, aligning and developing strong partnerships, just a few of many reasons that you should take the time to attend these important events. We are so fortunate to have this level of quality conferences taking place in our province and in our own back yard.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | A Lot is Happening at TOTA – Get Involved!
Midnight Musings from our CEO
The TOTA team continues to have a lot in the works and numerous opportunities for you and your organization to take part in.
Through our partnership with Destination BC and the Learning Centre, there are several workshops being presented in February and March, some of which have had additional seats made available. Workshops are taking place in Cache Creek, Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton, and Rock Creek. To find out more contact Ellen Walker-Matthews at industry@totabc.com.
Our Biosphere Committed Stakeholders Sustainability Program continues to grow and we have two exciting new opportunities coming including the Eco-Efficiency Program and Health and Safety Audits through our relationship with go2HR. This community of tourism stakeholders is growing and we hope you will become part of the important work taking place. For more information contact Mike Overend at industrysupport@totabc.com.
This year’s Thompson Okanagan Guide is not just focused on all that the region can offer our guests but on the Accessible products and services available for those with mobility challenges. Mobility is a human right and this not only applies to those with life long injuries but those with challenges as a result of aging, declining health and parents with young children. To learn more about the Guide and making sure your business is included contact Lorraine Friesen acctexec@totabc.com.
Finally, we will be announcing the sponsorship opportunities for those interested in playing a significant role in the Global Sustainable Tourism Council Summit, as well as the World Travel Awards. There will be a wide range of ways to put your business forward at this International event coming to Kelowna and Vernon next fall and we look forward to working with many of you.
It has definitely been a busy and motivating year so far and we are only halfway through February! Please continue to join us in ensuring the Thompson Okanagan continues to be forward-thinking, innovative and leaders in the drive for responsible sustainable tourism stewardship.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | Combining Efforts to Make a Difference Through Tourism Development
Midnight Musings from our CEO
Last weeks announcement of additional $1 million in regional funding facilities, through the BC tourism regions such as TOTA, for rural communities negatively effected by Mill closures is a tremendous collaboration between the Ministry of Forest Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development together with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Destination BC.
Special thanks go to Tourism Minister Lisa Beare for championing this important initiative.
This coordinated approach is an outstanding example of cross-ministry initiatives that can make a substantive difference for smaller communities with tourism opportunities as the economic driver.
In the weeks to come, TOTA will be working closely with communities and regional and local economic development and tourism agencies in the application of these dollars to develop tourism initiatives and ultimately new business and job opportunities.
Priorities are for Destination Development Initiative(s) specifically targeting rural communities with populations of less than 25,000 who have been affected by permanent Mill Closures.
Our goal, as we work closely with our partners, will be to find and develop legacy projects that will have a lasting positive impact and may be replicated in other communities in the future.
Strategic tourism stewardship and management have the ability to make a significant impact on our entire region and we look forward to working together and assisting anywhere we can on bringing this to fruition.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | "Accessible" and how important is it that you are?
Midnight Musings from our CEO
When most people hear the word accessibility, the first thought for many is to reference individuals who for a variety of reasons may require a wheelchair.
Today the definition of accessibility has become much broader. Inclusive and accessible tourism and travel means welcoming persons with a wide range of mobility needs. These needs may be the result of injury or aging, but they may also be parents or grandparents traveling with young children who are in strollers, it may mean individuals with hearing and sight concerns or those with diminished mental capacity.
Increasingly people want to travel and experience the world no matter their situation. No longer are people willing to be held back by physical or mental issues, no longer content to stay home or watch while others enjoy. This provides the Tourism Industry with a tremendous opportunity is to ensure we are ready and welcoming making adjustments to services and products that will assist in helping everyone's travel experiences "remarkable" and "exceptional".
Based on our understanding and learning in this area continues to grow we know that while businesses and operators cannot be all things to all people, it is important to accurately communicate the accessible services you do have. For this reason, we are undertaking the development of the first regional accessibility travel guide. With input and direction from our TOTA Accessibility Specialist Sonja Gaudet, we believe this first of its kind travel guide, will provide guests and potential guests to the region insightful guidance for trip planning that can help ease the concerns of a fast-growing segment of the travel population.
Join us in creating what we know is a critically important regional guide. All of our TOTA team are taking an active role in bringing this piece to life and can help answer your questions.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | The UNWTO Takes On Plastic... You Can Too
Midnight Musings from our CEO
Plastic is often attributed to the 1960s, a bi-product of the space program, it was once considered a practical and necessary application that quickly found its way into our everyday life. Yet you might be surprised to learn that first plastic, "polyethylene", was created in 1898 and it wasn't long after that, in 1907, as a result of a number of breakthroughs that the product advances resulted in plastic began being mass-produced.
Its popularity grew as it became apparent that plastic was versatile, durable and efficient and most useful in keeping our food supply safe and sanitary. The use of plastic has enabled us to enjoy many products we take for granted but as we know all too well has resulted in disturbing and devastating unintended consequences.
One of the big issues is that plastic lasts; not just years or decades but centuries, and as we know all too well today, it is gravely affecting many aspects of our environment, most critically our oceans and marine life.
This past week the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), together with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and in collaboration with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, officially announced the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative.
With a priority to reduce the amount of plastic waste produced by the tourism sector, the initiative has laid out the following actionable commitments to be achieved by 2025:
Eliminate problematic or unnecessary plastic packaging and items;
Take action to move from single-use to reuse models or reusable alternatives;
Engage the value chain to move towards 100% of plastic packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable;
Take action to increase the amount of recycled content across all plastic packaging and items used;
Commit to collaborate and invest to increase the recycling and composting rates for plastics;
Report publicly and annually on progress made towards these targets.
This program is now a focal point of the Sustainable Tourism Programme and One Planet Network. This network currently unites 450 businesses, governments, stakeholders and other partners in a sophisticated and thoughtful approach to the use of plastics.
Eliminate entirely where possible, implement recycling and reusable techniques where appropriate and utilize compostable solutions.
TOTA is committed to this program and you and your business can be too!
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | Thinking With Your Mind and Your Heart
Midnight Musings from our CEO
I was both honoured and grateful to have been invited by the Outlook Group, in partnership with such organizations such as Incredible India, to participate and speak at India’s Outlook Responsible Tourism Summit and Awards event held this past week in New Delhi.
It was my first time in India and it was truly a full sensory experience. I could not have been more warmly welcomed, nor found a more gracious and engaging people whether through interacting in meetings or those on the streets.
For very good reason this great place is branded ‘Incredible’ and if you have never had the opportunity to travel to this country, it is a destination you should try not to miss.
While being there alone was very special, it has been a life long dream of mine to visit the Taj Mahal and I was fortunate that during this quick trip it was able to happen. This Mausoleum is considered one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in the world and in 2007 was named the winner of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2000-2007). It was commissioned and construction started in 1631 by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, following the death of his beloved wife shortly after giving birth to their 14th child. The building took 12 years to complete and the gardens another 5, but without question, as you experience it today, centuries later, you can feel the enormity of care and thought that went into its creation. As the story is told and as is apparent when you are there, the Emperor poured his heart and soul into it, intending to create a symbol of their life, love, and marriage and intentionally designed to both celebrate and share their story with the generations that would follow.
It made me wonder, when did we stop making wonders, pushing our limits and not settling for just enough? How do we challenge ourselves to think more long term as we build the legacy of our tourism industry, products, and experiences? How do we change our mindset from a disposable society to one that appreciates and wants to be part of history, culture, and generational thinking?
One step for the Thompson Okanagan is the commitment to the regional tourism pledge entitled “7 Affirmations for 7 Generations." It is a small step down that path to help broaden how we approach things and pushes us to begin to understand the cause and effect of what happens today and the positive or negative effects for generations to come.
There is nothing wrong with quick thinking and thinking with our heads; it makes us agile, adaptable and strong. But what if we combine that with thinking into the future by thinking from our hearts — thinking with forethought, passion, and care.
The two together may just make us wiser, cause us to create things that last, that make people think beyond themselves, that may be here long after we are gone. It takes courage and risk to combine these thoughts, of moving away from what is known, what is easy, what is cookie-cutter, but it might just be the recipe for the development of the extraordinary and many, many more wonders in this world to come.
I would also like to make special mention and thank our Royal Roads practicum student Anirudh Kukrety for showing me some of his favourite spots in and around New Dehli. Anirudh was back visiting his family and I really appreciated the local experience and knowledge. We look forward to having him back at TOTA in February.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | How Ever You Need Us - We Are Here to Help
Midnight Musings from our CEO
We start this New Year with heavy hearts as we watch our friends and colleagues in Australia suffering the horror of extreme wildfire.
All of us in British Columbia and the Thompson Okanagan have an appreciation for the effects of wildfires but those in Australia are experiencing conditions that we can only pray we will never have to experience.
The loss of 27 lives and more than 2000 homes is devastating as the estimated 17.9 million hectares have burned so far. The toll it is taking on the wildlife is completely unfathomable. As of today, it is estimated that where they had thought approximately 480 million animals had been lost scientists are now saying that number is more likely closer to 1 billion. At least 25,000 koala bears are believed dead and many more burned and seriously injured and there is a real concern for the survival of the species. Counts are not even in yet for the loss of kangaroos and wallabies, and with such a diverse ecosystem the toll on many species will be unprecedented.
Our thanks to the enormous number of brave men and women fighting these fires from all over the world including many from right here at home. We are with you in our hearts.
There are many ways to help the cause and we encourage you to assist as you are able. Near or far we are in this together and in the months to come, we must all work to find ways to slow and prevent this type of devastation.
As a tourism industry, we also know that this type of catastrophic event can cause long term damage for tourism as a whole and travellers often cancel plans to visit even unaffected areas. This is a fact we understand all too well. We came upon this article by Amanda Wood outlining a number of ways to provide help and support including the importance of supporting the travel industry.
We are with you all the way Australia we will be there in whatever way you need us.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | The Difference in a Decade
Midnight Musings from our CEO
It is now less than 10 days until Christmas is upon us and 2 short weeks until we begin not only a new year but a new decade.
It seems a fitting moment to reflect on the last 10 years and the changes in the conversation that have occurred since we were poised on brink of 2010.
The end of 2009 marked a time for celebration as we anxiously awaited the 2010 Winter Olympics which were about to take place in Vancouver and that were ultimately an unprecedented legacy for British Columbia.
That event changed us all, drew us together and saw the province and the tourism industry come into its own, truly come of age. The spotlight shone brightly as we welcomed the world and we basked in the afterglow for months and years thereafter.
Today as we await the arrival of 2020, we are less celebratory and the entire world is much more pensive. Political unrest is a global phenomenon as is the dialogue on climate change reaching an intensity where even non-believers are having to concede the situation must be addressed.
In British Columbia and the Thompson Okanagan Region, we are once again poised to play a significant role on the world stage as we continue to move forward, make important decisions and changes ultimately embracing new ideas and concepts that will we believe will make positive impacts.
Outdoor experiences and our natural, authentic beauty is our product, it is the feature that motivates people to live here or visit and one that we all must work to preserve and protect. In 2020 we will also set the stage by welcoming the Global Sustainable Tourism Council Conference to our region, a first for Canada. We know when that day arrives we will be ready to assist in having the critical conversations necessary, helping to set new directions and focus, and collaborating on global agreements that will be beneficial to all.
The world has changed quite dramatically in a short 10 years and with it, our responsibilities have also changed, grown and become much clearer.
On behalf of myself, our Board of Directors and all of our team at TOTA we look forward to working with you in 2020 and beyond and we are confident that as we move forward toward 2030 we will collectively make the right choices for the best possible future.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | Global Sustainable Tourism Conference 2020 - Coming to the Thompson Okanagan
Midnight Musings from our CEO
It was truly an emotional moment, last Friday, when the announcement was formally made that the 2020 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference would take place November 19th - 22nd in Kelowna, BC.
This decision is a direct result of the dedicated work that has taken place across the Province by communities, tourism stakeholders, and partners who have recognized the importance of responsible and sustainable tourism practices, management, and development. It is a recognition of the importance we collectively place on these issues and the leadership work that is taking place in this area. A huge thank you also goes to our host partners including Tourism Kelowna and Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort - this would not have happened without them.
Not only is this the first time for this conference in our Thompson Okanagan region but the first time for this event to take place in Canada!
We hope you will consider taking part in this global event taking place in our backyard. Tourism industry leaders from around the world will come together to discuss critical issues, important trends, and best practices focused on ensuring the long term health and wellbeing of the tourism industry.
Special thanks go to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council for having the confidence in us to host such an important event.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Manic Monday | The World Travel Awards is coming to the Thompson Okanagan... in more ways than one!
Midnight Musings from our CEO
Without question, it was an exciting moment last week when for the second year in a row the Thompson Okanagan has been presented with the award for Responsible Tourism Destination at the 26th Annual World Travel Awards (WTA).
It was a tremendous honour to be recognized once again for all of the work the region and tourism stakeholders are undertaking in the area of sustainable and responsible tourism management and development.
This year however we are also very pleased to note that the Thompson Okanagan has been selected to host next year's North America Awards Gala presented by the WTA. These awards will see more than 300 delegates join us in the region next October 2020 thanks to our partnership with the City of Vernon and Predator Ridge. This will also mark the first time in the 27 year history of this event that it will take place in Canada.
We all win when the Thompson Okanagan region is recognized on the world stage and that is further enhanced when we are selected to play hosts. We hope you will find ways to get involved as we begin to make plans for next year's gala. The World Travel Award is once again the Thompson Okanagan's but this time in more ways than one!
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO