Thompson Okanagan Tourism News | Weekly Update
Updates on the BC COVID-19 vaccine requirement taking effect today, Canada Welcoming Back International Travellers, business resources, and more.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News Summary | Week of September 6, 2021
The latest good news stories, industry resources, sustainable tourism updates, and market research.
News Highlights
The Good News(letter) | September 3
Through all the changes and uncertainty, we're continuously inspired by the resiliency and innovative spirit of the people behind the businesses. The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team for a little bit of good news from around the Thompson Okanagan and globe.
Business Resources
The TOTA team is here to help with the challenges your business is facing. As part of TOTA's Tourism Resiliency Program, tourism companies can access the following free supports:
1:1 Business Support with a TOTA Resiliency Advisor
Submit a Voice Your Concerns form so TOTA can share the impacts on the tourism industry with government
Email Recovery@TOTABC.com for quick questions or to share challenges faced by your business
Apply for DER3 Digital Resiliency Free Program Before September 14
Innovate BC's DER3, or Digital Economy: Rapid Response + Resiliency program, provides free advisory services and mentorship to B.C. businesses outside of the Lower Mainland. The DER3 program helps businesses expand or create their digital presence, with the help of a business coach. Register for this great opportunity before program intake ends on September 14.
Free Virtual Learning Sessions for Tourism Businesses - Destination BC + Small Business BC
Destination BC has partnered with Small Business BC to provide tourism stakeholders across the province with free access to Small Business BC’s webinars and online education to support COVID-19 recovery and help mitigate ongoing impacts. There is no charge to tourism stakeholders. Services are delivered online, by phone, email, webinar or in person (if available).
Sustainable Tourism
TOTA’s Destination Stewardship team offers presentations over Zoom to share how tourism businesses can participate in TOTA's Biosphere Commitment Program. Learn more about:
How to become a Biosphere Committed Company
How to participate in the Eco Efficiency Program
How to use the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform
Exclusive training opportunities & other benefits
How businesses can take the Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge
Biosphere Awards and how to earn recognition for your commitment to sustainable tourism
Schedule a Biosphere Presentation →
New Biosphere Committed Member - August
Learn more about the newest Biosphere Committed Company, Manteo at Eldorado Resort. Manteo is constantly seeking new ways to enrich their local community by creating a safe and healthy environment for all, with an emphasis on diversity and equality.
The Ripple Effect
The ripple effect is real and it matters. What is most important to realize about the ripple effect is that action is required. The IPCC report is not only a reminder of the dire situation we find ourselves in but also an invitation to remember that small actions taken by individuals and within companies matter — but only if real action exists and is visible and shared with others.
Research Spotlight
Fast Facts Thompson Okanagan Tourism Research Summary
A bi-weekly roundup of B.C. tourism research to provide an ongoing snapshot of the tourism industry over time.
Measuring Canadian Travel Patterns - Thompson Okanagan
Research data created by Environics Analytics to help the travel and tourism industry understand the impact of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic as it relates to Domestic Overnight Visitors within Canada.
COVID-19 Tourism Impact Report - June
Report on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism businesses gathered through industry surveys by tourism businesses around the Thompson Okanagan and British Columbia.
The Good News(letter) | September 3
Through all the changes and uncertainty, we're continuously inspired by the resiliency and innovative spirit of the people behind the businesses. The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team for a little bit of good news from around the Thompson Okanagan and globe.
Through all the changes and uncertainty, we're continuously inspired by the resiliency and innovative spirit of the people behind the businesses.
The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team.
Thompson Okanagan
The Globe Café & Tapas Bar was proud to collect and deliver over 20 boxes of staple food and personal care items this summer from the supportive residents of Big White for the Kelowna Community Fridge.
The 24/7 accessible Community Fridge downtown offers barrier free, stigma free access to those who need a helping hand during this pandemic and beyond. The Globe has become an official drop off location for donations at Big White.
The Community Recreational Initiatives Society (CRIS) celebrated it's 20th anniversary in August.
Founded in 2001 by Troy Becker and Lynnette Legrandeur, CRIS Adaptive Adventures began as a small organization of friends operating out of the founders' garage, to a large scale community of staff and volunteers with multiple operating locations around Kelowna offering trips and experiences from Osoyoos to Vernon and beyond.
In celebration of front line workers and first responders, Big White Ski Resort is offering a complimentary scenic chairlift ride tickets and 50% off MOO-Lix ice cream at The Globe Café & Tapas Bar in the village all Labour Day Long Weekend (from Thursday, September 2 to Monday, September 6). If you're a frontline worker, simply present an ID or paystub at the ticket window in the Big White Village Centre Mall.
Around the Globe
A new train ticketing startup in the UK offers an even more green incentive to ditch the car and travel by rail.
Trainhugger pledges to plant a tree for every journey booked through the business. The investment in nature comes at zero cost to the passenger as tickets cost the same as their competitors.
Berlin is a city renowned for its radicalism, and, in true form, activists from the Berlin Autofrei campaign are taking things one step further. They are demanding a complete ban on private automobile use in the 88km2 area within the S-bahn ring—a train line that circles much of the city’s urban area.
If they succeed, it will be the largest car-free urban area in the world.
Do you have good news or a remarkable story you'd like to share?
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News | Weekly Update
Updates on new Fairs, Festivals, and Events Recovery Fund, the B.C. Proof of Vaccination Requirement Program, Thompson Okanagan tourism news, and business resources.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News | Weekly Update & Request for Industry Impact Feedback
Updates on how to voice your concerns on COVID and wildfires, federal election, business resources, opportunities, and more.
The Good News(letter) | August 20
Through all the changes and uncertainty, we're continuously inspired by the resiliency and innovative spirit of the people behind the businesses. The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team for a little bit of good news from around the Thompson Okanagan and globe.
This summer has presented the Thompson Okanagan with much uncertainty. We're continuously inspired by the resiliency and kindness the communities, stakeholders, and businesses have showcased during these times.
The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team.
Thompson Okanagan
The kitchen at Pizzamoreh is the new headquarters for producing hundreds of meals for people pushed from their homes by fires all over the region.
Dave Johnston began the process at the Peachland 50 Plus Activity Centre when Patsy Guest from Pizzamoreh offered up the kitchen to increase capacity. Donated foods are put together as meals that are brought to where they're needed in refrigerator trucks.
On August 16th Bright Jenny Coffee kicked off a pay-it-forward program for first responders and anyone displaced or affected by the wildfires. Customers have the opportunity to donate whatever amount they want to go toward buying someone a coffee. Donations are also being accept online at www.orderbrightjenny.ca.
To start things off, Bright Jenny's added $50.00 to the fund.
To support fellow British Columbians impacted by devastating losses and evacuations due to wildfires, Tantalus Winery donated all the proceeds raised from tasting fees on August 14/15 along with any additional donations to the Canadian Red Cross Fire Appeal.
On August 17th Karat Chocolate + Pastry donated and matched all proceeds from sold cupcakes to the Red Cross British Columbia Fires Appeal. Proceeds will be used for immediate and ongoing relief efforts, long term recovery, resiliency and preparedness for future events in British Columbia and impacted regions, including consequential events related to the fires.
Around the Globe
The Taoyuan Slow Food community, combined with the Tienmu Slow Food community, are announcing a new project in the North of Taiwan! By building connections between farmers and chefs, the “Pick Here!”project wants to create a new selling system in agriculture and increase awareness about good, clean and fair foods in the local area.
A huge thank you to everyone fighting the fires across the Thompson Okanagan region including those helping evacuees and residents in whatever way they can. Our hearts go out to everyone who has been evacuated and affected by the fires.
Would you like to be featured in the next Good News(letter)? Fill out our submission form and tell us your good news!
Do you have good news or a remarkable story you'd like to share?
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News Summary | Week of August 16, 2021
Industry messaging guidance, news, resources, and more.
Without question, the tourism industry has faced an extremely challenging summer. The B.C. provincial state of emergency has been extended to September 1, 2021, there are a number of travel warnings for parts of the Interior of B.C. due to wildfires, availability of labor continues to be an issue, and we continue to deal with rising COVID-19 numbers.
Destination BC has worked with Emergency Management BC to prepare Messaging Guidance for tourism companies.
Find the latest emergency resource information for BC's Tourism Industry, including updated messaging guidance on Destination BC's Emergency Preparedness page.
Advocacy for Government Support
The situation is gravely impacting the tourism industry and as such, there continues to be an ongoing need for advocacy. It is important that we continue to convey real-time feedback that explains the actual state of tourism relative to what might be considered recovery.
Organizations like TOTA, TIABC, TIAC, and many others will use this information to further advocate for the needs of the industry, particularly for additional government assistance through the course of the pandemic.
We invite Thompson Okanagan tourism businesses to share any challenges with so we can compile information on the evolving situation and share it with the appropriate parties, such as:
What challenges is your business currently experiencing?
How is this impacting your business?
What would help to improve the situation?
Feel free to share your current experiences at any time through the form at TOTABC.org/recovery or by emailing Recovery@TOTABC.com.
Canada Vaccine Updates
Canada to Require Vaccination of Federally Regulated Transportation Sector
As soon as possible in the fall and no later than the end of October, the Government of Canada will require employees in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine transportation sectors to be vaccinated. The vaccination requirement will also extend to certain travellers. This includes all commercial air travellers, passengers on interprovincial trains, and passengers on large marine vessels with overnight accommodations, such as cruise ships.
Canada Moving Forward with Proof of Vaccination for International Travel
The Government of Canada is collaborating with the provinces and territories to develop a proof of vaccination that will facilitate cross-border travel, while reducing the risk of spread and importation of COVID-19.
TIAC Federal Election Advocacy Push
TIAC will be running a proactive tourism advocacy and media campaign. This will include direct TIAC activity, as well as TIAC’s leadership of the Hardest Hit Coalition fighting for business survival support for the tourism suite of sectors. For more information, check the TourismVotes.ca microsite, a one-stop shop for election information for tourism businesses, including detailed Platform Analysis for impact on tourism, messaging guidance, email updates, and more.
As well, TIABC is in the process of developing an election toolkit to support decision-making for the 2021 Federal election.
Watch Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform Webinar Recording
TOTA hosted a virtual info session on the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform and how it can help B.C. tourism companies track progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and develop a Sustainable Tourism Plan.
Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle is an easy-to-use digital platform that recognizes your commitment to sustainability and links your organization with the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its 169 targets, through the development of a custom sustainability plan.
Members of TOTA's Biosphere Commitment Program receive a 1 year free trial for the platform and can now access the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform.
Learn More About Biosphere Commitment Program →
CRIS Adaptive Rentals Launches New Adaptive Bike & Pop Up Rentals in BC Parks
CRIS Adaptive debuted the newest addition to the fleet of rental equipment, the Hase Bike, a modular adaptive bike that gives clients significant options for supported and independent riding. CRIS is the first adaptive service provider in the Interior of BC to put a Hase system into service. As well, CRIS is offering a mobile rental program for accessible recreation equipment in various BC Parks. The schedule for rental "pop ups" is available on AdaptiveRentals.ca.
Nominations Open for 2021 Canadian Tourism Awards
If you have a business or an employee in mind that deserves to be recognized for their success in one of the 2021 Canadian Tourism Award categories, submit your nomination before August 31, 2021.
Business Resources
Resource Roundup | Advocacy, Funding, and Training Opportunities
A roundup of resources for tourism businesses, including opportunities to share your experience, apply for support funds, and train employees.
Free Support for FortisBC Rebates
TOTA’s Energy Analyst is helping Thompson Okanagan tourism businesses to find and apply for FortisBC rebates. To find ways to save on new equipment purchases, book a free appointment to learn more.
Free Online Resource: Tourism Business Builders
Tourism HR Canada team has launched Tourism Business Builders, an online learning program developed specifically for tourism and hospitality entrepreneurs. This “how-to” resource contains nine comprehensive modules on business fundamentals and dozens of practical tools, including Excel templates and PDF worksheets, available free until September 1, 2021.
Free Digital Marketing Skills Training Program
The Alacrity Canada Digital Marketing Bootcamp is a virtual skills-training program valued at $6,000 per seat and offered to eligible B.C. small and medium-sized businesses at no cost by the Province of B.C. The eight-week course covers 40 key topics offered by 10 expert mentors to provide a foundation of digital marketing, search-engine optimization (SEO), paid advertising, analytics, content marketing, and other skills.
Emergency Support Fund for Canada’s Live Music Sector
Funding is available to support Canada’s live music sector, including live music venues, booking agents, concert promoters, festivals, artist managers, artist-entrepreneurs, and service companies.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News Summary | Week of August 9, 2021
Learn about COVID-19 restrictions for the Central Okanagan, resources for the reopening of the Canada USA border, how to share tourism industry challenges, Destination BC welcomes new board members, and more.
Harkers Organics fruit orchard in Similkameen. Credit: Destination BC Hubert Kang
Recent News Highlights
Latest Research
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News Summary | Week of August 2, 2021
A congratulations to industry leaders Brenda Baptiste and Glenn Fawcett, COVID-19 updates, Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform, and more.
Recent News Highlights
Latest Research
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News Summary
In this week’s Thompson Okanagan tourism news summary, learn about wildfire preparedness and recovery, the announcement of Ellen Walker-Matthews as TOTA’s CEO, go2HR’s B.C. Labour Market Survey, funds for the Indigenous tourism businesses, and the latest research.
The view from Tantalus Vineyards, Kelowna. Photo Credit: TOTA
All of us in the Thompson Okanagan and the Province of British Columbia want to give a major shout out to the amazing work and bravery of our wildfire crews, working day in and day out for weeks to battle fires.
These individuals, on the ground and in the air, are working in extreme conditions of heat, smoke, and difficult terrain in order to keep our communities, businesses, residents, and visitors safe.
If you are near a wildfire area, please stay informed about the changing conditions and stay out of the way of those teams working on the ground or in the air.
For regional updates and resources, go to the ThompsonOkanagan.com - Know Before you Go page, which is updated on an ongoing basis.
We know this is a challenging time for many tourism businesses who have just entered Step 3 of the B.C. Restart Plan and in need of a busy season to recover.
We invite Thompson Okanagan tourism businesses to register in TOTA's Emergency Contact Database and also to share your current experiences so we can inform government of the evolving situation, such as:
Are you receiving cancellations that are due to concerns (real or perceived) with the wildfire situation?
Are your customers expressing concern about their plans and whether or not to continue their vacation?
Are your customers proceeding regardless of the wildfires and smoke, but changing their itinerary as the situation evolves?
Are you facing any other crisis related challenges?
Feel free to email Recovery@TOTABC.com with any information on the following questions and other concerns.
- The TOTA Team
Recent News Highlights
Latest Research
Thompson Okanagan Tourism News Summary
❕ Easing of Canadian Border Measures for Fully Vaccinated Travellers
❕ TOTA’s IArT Mobile Gallery Kicks Off Meet Me On Bernard in Downtown Kelowna
❕ Sign up for 1:1 Support to Share Travel Offers on HelloBC.com
❕ Applications Now Open for Tourism Relief Fund and Workplace Accessibility Grant
❕ The latest tourism research
Recent News Highlights
Latest Research
Let's Work Together to Prepare for Emergencies
In this week’s tourism newsletter, learn about Emergency Preparedness resources, marketing resources, how to get 1:1 Support to Share Travel Offers on HelloBC.com, the Tourism Relief Fund, and more.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association employs a Crisis Management Coordinator, who regularly engages with Emergency Management BC, to closely monitor the region and work with impacted communities, tourism businesses, Indigenous partners, and other stakeholders. We also assist the province to find alternative accommodation to place residents and visitors, should an evacuation be required.
As well, we encourage tourism business operators to review the emergency preparedness information on the TOTA Emergency Preparedness page.
Recent News Highlights
Latest Research
Welcoming Visitors From Across Canada: Air Canada's New Service Between Montreal and Kelowna Celebrated at Kelowna International Airport
TOTA is excited to welcome visitors through Air Canada’s newest non-stop domestic route between Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL), celebrated this week at YLW. With this addition, the Thompson Okanagan is now directly connected through YLW to the following Canadian cities: Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Victoria, Edmonton, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Hamilton, Kitchener/Waterloo, Whitehorse, and more.
TOTA is excited to announce Air Canada’s newest non-stop domestic route between Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL), celebrated yesterday at YLW. Starting with three flights weekly, the schedule will increase up to five weekly flights by mid-August. The addition of this route into the Thompson Okanagan is just in time for Canadians to begin traveling nationally, connecting one end of Canada to the other.
Passengers of this route will fly on Air Canada's fuel-efficient Airbus A220-300 fleet, featuring 12 Business Class seats, 125 Economy class seats (the widest ones in the fleet), a modernized in-flight entertainment system, and Wi-fi.
“Our new flights onboard Air Canada's ultra-quiet and environmentally-friendly Airbus A220-300 are also conveniently timed with connections to Atlantic Canada and abroad through our Montreal hub. As the country reopens, we are pleased to help friends and family reunite, and support Canada's economic recovery and tourism industry,” said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada.
These flights will not only connect the Thompson Okanagan to guests from Quebec but also connects the region to Air Canada's vast global network with just one stop. With the addition of Montreal, the Thompson Okanagan is now directly connected through YLW to all four of Air Canada’s hub cities: Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary. YLW offers flights through other airlines to Victoria, Edmonton, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Hamilton, Kitchener/Waterloo, and Whitehorse.
"We are thrilled to see this new direct flight from Montreal into Kelowna opening up tremendous possibilities for domestic travel in the Thompson Okanagan Region," said Ellen Walker-Matthews, Acting President and CEO of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, as she referenced the recently increased demand from Travel Trade and Travel Media in Quebec. "We have been seeing increased interest in our region from this part of Canada for some time now and this flight will be critical to help support that demand.”
This opportunity was made possible through the ongoing strong partnership between Air Canada, YLW, and YUL along with TOTA, Big White Ski Resort, the City of Kelowna, Tourism Kelowna, Okanagan Bucketlist, and the Kelowna and Vernon Chambers of Commerce.
Recent News Highlights
Resources to Support Tourism Businesses Connect, Restart & Build Forward
We are very fortunate in British Columbia to also have an existing network of strong industry partner organizations who have collaborated closely in the past 15 months to work through the many challenges this pandemic has created. Last week, TOTA brought together a panel of five tourism industry organizations to share key resources for building forward and driving resiliency. Each organization shared insights, opportunities, and resources available for B.C. tourism businesses, to help industry prepare for the coming season and beyond.
As we begin to prepare for Step 3 of the BC Restart Plan we are all gaining an appreciation for just how much is required to be done on this road to true recovery and how long it truly will be.
In April 2020, as part of the regional response to industry needs, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association together with our regional partners in the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) established the Tourism Resiliency Program. This tourism advisory and support program continues today as industry continues to look for information, clarification and guidance to help them through re-opening, recovery, and beyond.
We are very fortunate in British Columbia to also have an existing network of strong industry partner organizations who have collaborated closely in the past 15 months to work through the many challenges this pandemic has created.
Last week, TOTA brought together a panel of five tourism industry organizations to share key resources for building forward and driving resiliency. Each organization shared insights, opportunities, and resources available for B.C. tourism businesses, to help industry prepare for the coming season and beyond.
The webinar recording and presentation decks are available at TOTABC.org/webinar/tourism-resource-roundup.
Here's a summary of the Tourism Resource Roundup:
Symphony Tourism Services
Symphony Tourism Services, a subsidiary of TOTA, provides research, marketing, and consulting services to businesses, communities, consortiums, government, events, and regional destination marketing organizations.
Managing Director Kelly Galaski shared:
Reports on changes in visitation to BC and travel sentiments
B.C. Visitor Origins and Market Segments
Research Resources provided by the BC Tourism Resiliency Network for each region
How to access custom research to better understand your visitors
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BC Hotel Association (BCHA)
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) works with government and regulatory authorities to help the hotel industry thrive.
President & CEO Ingrid Jarrett presented:
State of the industry by region
Advocacy efforts at the community, provincial, and federal level
Forecast for Canadian tourism recovery
Hospitality benchmarking through STR Reports
EcoFund eco efficiency funding program
FoodBuy monthly rebate cheques
Check In Canada listing for BC Accommodation providers
BC Restart Toolkit
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Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC)
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is a non-profit, stakeholder-based organization that is committed to growing and promoting a sustainable, culturally rich Indigenous tourism industry.
Samantha Rullin, Stakeholder and Marketing Coordinator, shared:
Overview of Indigenous tourism in B.C.
How to collaborate with ITBC
ITBC Tourism Roadmap
Considerations when working with Indigenous communities
Indigenous BC Trip Planner app to find nearby Indigenous experiences
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go2HR
As the HR and health & safety association for the BC tourism and hospitality industry, go2HR exists to drive strong workforces and safe workplaces that deliver world-class tourism and hospitality experiences in BC.
Ginger Brunner, Senior HR Specialist, presented on:
COVID-19 & BC tourism labour challenges
HR Resources, Support & Consulting
go2HR Job Board
COVID-19 Safety Plan Reviews
BSAFE Training
BC Tourism & Hospitality LMI Research Project
SAFE Spaces Sexual Harassment Initiative
Workplace Mental Health Initiative
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Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Kelowna
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Kelowna is part of a network of more than 80 CMHA branches that promote mental health for all, working to support the resiliency and recovery of people experiencing mental illness, including workplace challenges.
Aaryn Secker, Associate Director, Education & Health Promotion shared:
Key learnings from the pandemic for tourism employees
Challenges and opportunities to improve workplace mental health
BC's Hub for Hospitality & Tourism Workplace Mental Health
Workplace CARE Certification for tourism & hospitality employees, team leads, and HR professionals
Recent News Highlights
Latest Research
Respectfully Acknowledging National Indigenous Peoples Day
Learn about National Indigenous Peoples Day, as well as Indigenous tourism initiatives in Canada, BC, and the Thompson Okanagan region. Since 2016, TOTA and Indigenous Tourism British Columbia have jointly employed a Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist based in the Thompson Okanagan to develop and implement a cultural tourism strategy in alignment with TOTA and ITBC's corporate strategies. TOTA’s Indigenous projects include the 2019 International Indigenous Tourism Conference, the IArT Mobile Gallery, the Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge, "Seven Affirmations for Seven Generations," and a 2020 tourism resiliency video.
Indigenous tour at Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre. Credit: Destination BC/Hubert Kang
In 1996, Canada declared June 21 as National Indigenous Peoples Day, a date which coincides with the summer solstice and the beginning of a season of berry picking, fishing, powwows, and gatherings for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
Indigenous Tourism BC and Hon. Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport in BC, have shared a simple call to action to support Indigenous businesses and self-determination by exploring Indigenous Experiences Open in 2021.
Businesses and individuals can share photos with hashtag #IndigenousBC to stand behind the success of Indigenous peoples, families, and communities.
Also today, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) announced the launch of a new campaign, The Original Original, which aims to educate travellers, modernize perceptions of Indigenous experiences, and rebuild the industry, which was disproportionately devastated by the pandemic.
Indigenous Tourism in the Thompson Okanagan
We acknowledge that the Thompson Okanagan region lies on the unceded, ancestral, and traditional territory of three Interior Salish nations: the Syilx, Nlaka'pamux, and Secwépemc Peoples.
In 2016, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Indigenous Tourism British Columbia embarked on a new and innovative program to assist Indigenous communities in the Thompson Okanagan with tourism development. Working collaboratively, the two organizations jointly hired a Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist based in the Thompson Okanagan, to develop and implement a cultural tourism strategy in alignment with TOTA and ITBC's corporate strategies.
TOTA’s Indigenous projects include:
In 2019, the International Indigenous Tourism Conference hosted nearly 800 delegates in Kelowna through a partnership with TOTA, Indigenous Tourism of British Columbia (ITBC), Tourism Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Shuswap Nation Tribal Council, Shackan Indian Band, and Lower Nicola Indian Band.
This summer, the IArT Mobile Gallery will house a digital art exhibit curated by Tania Willard of UBCO's Indigenous Art Intensive program. This authentic art experience brings Indigenous art from artists across Canada to the forefront of the Thompson Okanagan tourism experience.
The Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge, "Seven Affirmations for Seven Generations," was created to share guidelines for sustainable tourism. The Pledge is based on the Indigenous Seven Generations Principle, which recognizes that decisions today have an impact for seven generations to come. Therefore, it is always our responsibility to consider the far-reaching and long term implications of our actions.
In this time of uncertainty, change, and growth, the Seven Affirmations for Seven Generations Pledge is more relevant than ever for the tourism industry. The affirmations provide a thoughtful way forward on a difficult journey. Watch the video released in 2020 to learn more.
TOTA continues to work to cultivate credible relations with the 33 Indigenous communities throughout the Interior and endeavours to develop economic opportunities that progress Indigenous Tourism within the region, whilst maintaining respect and cultural authenticity.
If you'd like to learn about Indigenous tourism experiences near you, Indigenous Tourism BC has listings of Thompson Okanagan Indigenous tourism companies on their website including:
Quaaout Lodge & Spa at Talking Rock Golf Resort 📍 Chase | Visit Website
Jack Sam’s Restaurant 📍Chase | Visit Website
Indigenous World Winery 📍Westbank | Visit Website
Moccasin Trails 📍Kelowna/Kamloops | Visit Website
Syilx Trail Gift Store & Gallery 📍 Westbank / Kelowna
Kekuli Cafe 📍Westbank / Merritt | Visit Website
Spirit Ridge Resort 📍 Osoyoos | Visit Website
The Bear The Fish The Root and The Berry 📍Osoyoos | Visit Website
Nk’Mip Cellars 📍Osoyoos | Visit Website
Nk’Mip Cultural Centre 📍 Osoyoos | Visit Website
Nk’Mip RV Park & Campground 📍 Osoyoos | Visit Website
- The TOTA Team
Latest TOTA Updates
B.C. Safely Moved to Step 2 of Restart Plan as of June 15
Beginning on June 15, 2021, BC transitioned into Step 2 of BC’s Restart plan. TOTA compiled several resources for tourism businesses to prepare, including:
Moving from Step 1 to Step 2
Tourism Sector Restart Step 2 Toolkit
Visitor Travel Manners & DBC Messaging Guidance
Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant Extended to July 2
Business Transition to Step 3
Register for this Week's Webinar: Tourism Resource Roundup | Connect, Restart & Build Forward With B.C.'s Support Network
Wednesday, June 23, 2021 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
As we approach the next steps of the BC Restart Plan and begin to welcome visitors back in British Columbia, the BC Tourism Resiliency Network is bringing together a panel of five tourism industry organizations to help you leverage key resources towards resiliency.
Tourism Hiring & Employment Resource Roundup
With the launch of BC’s Restart Plan and the summer season starting, the Tourism Resiliency Program advisors have received many questions around hiring employees, health & safety training, and maintaining employees through the season. The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program team has compiled the latest updates and relevant resources to support tourism businesses.
BC COVID-19 Safety Plan: Key Trends Infographic by go2HR
go2HR offers a free BC COVID-19 Safety Plan Review Service for BC tourism businesses to support a safe restart. go2HR has created a BC COVID-19 Safety Plan: Key Trends Infographic to show key areas of need and supports offered by the service.
Thank You to Supporters of the Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program
The first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Agri-Tourism Entrepreneur Skills Training Program came together to celebrate with a virtual graduation ceremony. After two months of online class sessions from 29 facilitators, 3 self-led certificates, mentorship meetings, and employment coaching, 14 participants graduated, ready to launch an agri-tourism product in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Latest Research
The Good News(letter) | June 18
Carbon neutral beer, live music, local markets, honey highways and e-bike incentives. Happy Friday!
Through all the changes and uncertainty, we're continuously inspired by the resiliency and innovative spirit of the people behind the businesses. The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team for a little bit of good news from around the Thompson Okanagan and globe.
Through all the changes and uncertainty, we're continuously inspired by the resiliency and innovative spirit of the people behind the businesses. There's a lot going on in the world of Travel & Tourism - here are some good news and happenings from within the region and around the globe.
The Good News(letter) is brought to you twice a month by the TOTA team.
Thompson Okanagan
Tin Whistle Brewing has announced new ownership, a new look and a new environmental focus - now certified carbon neutral! In a COVID-19 pivot, wife and husband duo Alexis and Timothy became owners of Tin Whistle Brewing in 2020, after losing their jobs at the onset of the global pandemic, relocated their young family to Penticton, B.C. and got to work renewing the 25-year-old business.
Farmstrong Cider will be hosting live music every Thursday Night in June, July & August from 5 - 8 PMwith no cover charge but a donation jar for the North Okanagan Rail Trail from Armstrong to Sicamous. Grab a bite to eat, a cold cider and enjoy some live music! (P.S. - they are also currently planning their First Annual Pickle Festival in August!)
After a one year retirement, the Naramata Community Market is back and better than ever!Every Wednesday night, you can stroll through Manitou Park and pick up local produce, food, treats, and an array of handmade products.
Around the Globe
Insect hotels and honey highways are helping bee populations in the Netherlands. The country has launched a national pollinator strategy to help declining bee populations with innovative measures including insect hotels, green-roofed bus stops, planting on roadside verges, and 'honey highways'.
A credit-for-clunkers program launched in France offers drivers thousands of euros to switch aging vehicles to E-bikes! France will become the world’s first country to offer drivers a chance to trade in their old cars for a 2,500 euro ($3,600CAD) credit that can be used to purchase an electric bike.
Do you have good news or a remarkable story you'd like to share?
Closing the Gap Between Many Young Job-Seekers and Recruitment Challenges for Tourism & Hospitality Businesses
According to a recent news article, many young Canadians are struggling to find summer employment, having lost more than 100,000 jobs in the month of April. Meanwhile, many employers within the tourism and hospitality industry are actively recruiting and at the same time finding it challenging to fill open positions.
According to a recent news article, many young Canadians are struggling to find summer employment, having lost more than 100,000 jobs in the month of April. Ongoing uncertainty, especially prior to the announcement of BC's Restart Plan, was and continues to be felt by both job-seekers and employers alike. The May 2021 federal Labour Force Survey showed a loss of 68,000 jobs, most of which were part-time, and though the unemployment rate for B.C. remains below the national average, it remains high for young people between 15 to 24.
Meanwhile, many employers within the tourism and hospitality industry are actively recruiting and at the same time finding it challenging to fill open positions. The pandemic has posed countless challenges and greatly affected the recruitment process, including the ability to hire international workers and reach young people through job fairs.
This is a gap we all need to work together to fix to help ensure our Tourism Industry can rebound and that those who are seeking employment opportunities know how and where to connect with our tourism stakeholders.
If you are looking to attract and/or retain employees during this season, tourism employers can take advantage of an abundance of resources offered by go2HR, including a virtual job board, and one of many recent webinars with practical tips on adjusting recruitment practices.
National AccessAbility Week
From May 30 to June 5, we are celebrating the valuable contributions of Canadians of all abilities, the accomplishments of individuals, communities and workplaces, and the ongoing work we all have to do to promote a culture of inclusion - it’s National #AccessAbility Week! When barriers are removed, all Canadians are able to participate fully in society and workplaces. This helps our communities thrive and our economy prosper, so everyone benefits.
From May 30 to June 5, we are celebrating the valuable contributions of Canadians of all abilities, the accomplishments of individuals, communities and workplaces, and the ongoing work we all have to do to promote a culture of inclusion - it’s National #AccessAbility Week! When barriers are removed, all Canadians are able to participate fully in society and workplaces. This helps our communities thrive and our economy prosper, so everyone benefits.
This week, together with Access BC and Travel Penticton, TOTA's Accessibility Specialist, Sonja Gaudet, will be completing access and inclusion site visits within Keremeos Cawston, Penticton and Naramata. These site visits will assist our Biosphere partners with recommendations and specifications on how to improve the accessibility within the built environment and any of the experiences that they have to offer, while identifying the accessible features that many experiences already have inplace through the AccessNow consumer facing app.
We invite you to join the #AccessAbility Week celebrations and conversation and answer the question: How can I champion disability inclusion in my everyday life?
Building an Inclusive & Accessible Destination
There are numerous fantastic organizations, initiatives, and people within the Thompson Okanagan working hard to remove barriers. We would like to express gratitude toward each and every person championing accessibility and helping to build a more inclusive community and destination.
2021 Tourism Week May 23 - 30 | Pledge to Travel Canada When the Time Is Right, Support Local & Show that #TourismCounts
Next week, from May 23 – 30, 2021 is Tourism Week in Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is leading a national campaign to recognize Canada’s tourism economy, and the impact it has on every community across the country.
Next week, from May 23 – 30, 2021 is Tourism Week in Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is leading a national campaign to recognize Canada’s tourism economy, and the impact it has on every community across the country.
Since the world of travel and tourism is very different this year, TIAC is encouraging Canadians to take the 2021 Tourism Pledge to Travel In Canada when the time is right and restrictions are lifted. Extending an invitation to come together virtually, support our local tourism destinations, businesses, and employees, and amplify the importance of our industry. Different parts of Canada will be highlighted throughout the week, with British Columbia in the spotlight on May 27th.
We encourage you to get involved in Tourism Week and show that #TourismCounts, take the pledge, post your commitment through social media channels and encourage others to do the same. More information along with a branding toolkit to help spread the word can be found at TourismCounts.ca.
A Virtual Graduation Ceremony to Remember
Last week, we celebrated the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Tourism Skills Training Program with an emotional, virtual graduation ceremony. After over two months of instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support, we are extremely proud of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our 46 successful graduates.
Congratulations to the First Cohort of Graduates From TOTA's Tourism Skills Training Program
Last week, we celebrated the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Tourism Skills Training Program with an emotional, virtual graduation ceremony. After over two months of instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support, we are extremely proud of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our 46 successful graduates.
Throughout the program, we came to discover that many of our students had recently lost jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic and were in search of next steps, resources, and connection. Within a virtual setting allowing for a large group of participants from all corners of the region, students learned about Tourism and Hospitality trends, regional experiences, and the delivery of day-to-day guest service, including an overview of Indigenous tourism, accessible tourism, and sustainable tourism from a diverse roster of tourism experts. A virtual job fair held last month introduced program participants to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism industry and 20 potential employers.
The training program was offered to participants free of charge, in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, and supported by the Province of British Columbia, in response to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and decline of international tourism.
We would like to express a heartfelt 'thank you' to all those who have supported this program - mentors, facilitators, partners, and members of our staff whose passion and commitment made it all possible.
Congratulations to our graduates, we wish you all the best and trust you will be successful in all your future endeavours.
