News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Destination Events Support Fund by Tourism Kamloops
Tourism Kamloops has recently announced a new RFP funding opportunity, the Destination Events Support Fund. They are seeking proposals from businesses and organizations who want to develop annual destination events in Kamloops between October and April.
Tourism Kamloops has recently announced a new RFP funding opportunity, the Destination Events Support Fund. This was developed because Tourism Kamloops is committed to elevating Kamloops as an attractive, year-round destination by investing in strategies that focus on off-peak visitation. They are seeking proposals from businesses and organizations who want to develop annual destination events in Kamloops between October and April.
Program Goals:
- Generate incremental visitation and overnight stays in October, November, December, January, February, March & April.
- Develop the destination in off-peak months by creating events that enhance perception, increase awareness, and stimulate advocacy for Kamloops in key markets (social media & word-of-mouth)
- Enhance resident sentiment
- Increase net promoter score
Find out if you qualify for the funding by visiting TourismKamloops.com /Event-Support-Fund.
TOTA Golf Tournament Sponsors and Prizes | Join us May 30, 2024 in Kamloops
For 30 years, the TOTA Golf Tournament has brought together people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!
This year, Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops is playing host to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association’s 30th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 30.
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Information Communication Technologies at Hotels Symposium: A Route to Sustainable Development event on April 15 in Kamloops and Online
The TRU Faculty Adventure Culinary Arts and Tourism team invites hotel owners, general managers, and supervisory staff in BC to a symposium on April 15. It is free to attend online and $40 with lunch to attend in person. Sessions include a panel with members representing members Thompson Okanagan businesses: Delta Hotel Kamloops, Sandman, Doubletree, Quality Inn Vernon; and a session by FortisBC's Vladimir Kostka, Major Commercial Key Account Manager for Education and Hospitality.
The TRU Faculty Adventure Culinary Arts and Tourism team invites hotel owners, general managers, and supervisory staff in BC to a symposium on April 15. It is free to attend online and $40 with lunch to attend in person. Sessions include a panel with members representing members Thompson Okanagan businesses: Delta Hotel Kamloops, Sandman, Doubletree, Quality Inn Vernon; and a session by FortisBC's Vladimir Kostka, Major Commercial Key Account Manager for Education and Hospitality.
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and TOTA partner to benefit students in TRU’s tourism management program and support the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to benefit students in TRU’s tourism management program and support the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab.
KAMLOOPS – Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to benefit students in TRU’s tourism management program and support the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab.
The partnership prioritizes collaboration between TRU and TOTA to support students entering the tourism field through learning resources and opportunities, industry mentorship and referrals. TOTA’s support for the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab also fuels business development in the tourism sector.
“I am thrilled to affirm our commitment to fostering the next generation of tourism leaders through our partnership with Thompson Rivers University. Together, we are empowering students with invaluable resources, mentorship and opportunities to innovate within the dynamic tourism sector. This collaboration not only enriches the educational experience but also fuels entrepreneurial spirit, driving forward the future of tourism in our region,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of TOTA.
TRU, in partnership with Tourism Kamloops and the Kamloops Innovation Centre, launched the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab in February 2020. The entrepreneurship program leverages an existing tourism management course at the university and supports students to develop an innovative tourism product through research and industry mentorship.
Students can further develop their business ideas through the Tourism Venture Acceleration Program with support from the TRU Generator and Kamloops Innovation Centre to produce market-ready tourism products that fill current gaps.
“Industry partnership is critical to the success of our program, students and alumni because it keeps education up to speed with market activity and gaps, especially in BC,” said David Carter, assistant teaching professor and director of the Tourism Innovation Lab. “Our partnership with TOTA ensures students have access to resources that are current and reflect the state of the industry today.”
Success stories from the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab include:
Pilot tour to the McAbee Fossil Beds Heritage Site with Jada Glen
Guided hiking in Kamloops with Alex Page
ShredLoops with Steffen Masaites (watch the video here)
Additionally, TOTA has renewed funding for the Tourism Excellence Award first established in 2014 to provide a $1,500 annual scholarship for the top academic student on the Bachelor of Tourism Management Program.
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Contacts:
David Carter, Director, Tourism Innovation Lab
Thompson Rivers University
DCarter@TRU.ca
Ellen Walker Matthews, President and CEO
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
Ellen@TOTABC.com
Up Fore Some Fun? Register for TOTA Golf Tournament, May 30, 2024 in Kamloops
Yes, there will be great golf on an award-winning course, but this annual tournament is really about bringing people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry together for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!
Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops is playing host to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association’s 30th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 30.
Yes, there will be great golf on an award-winning course, but this annual tournament is really about bringing people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry together for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!
The event welcomes staff from tourism and hospitality businesses to come together for an afternoon of mingling, networking, golf, and fun.
Tourism Kamloops is the partnering sponsor of this year’s tournament and will be hosting a Western themed reception with all sorts of fun, including a mechanical bull ride that pays tribute to the area’s ranching history.
The BC Hospitality Foundation is also supporting the tournament, and will be on the green with a raffle to raise funds for the tremendous work of the foundation.
TOTA is thrilled to once again have Corporate Sponsors, TELUS, FortisBC, and Air Canada along with many others contributing to the event through prizing, hole activations, and other donations.
Throughout the day, enjoy sparkling wine tastings from Monte Creek Winery, sips of cider from Privato Winery & Woodward Cider Co, and a delicious “boozsicle” frozen flavour bomb from Ballistic Arts.
To end the day, Mason’s Kitchen + Bar will be serving up dinner, followed by more networking, fun, and prizes.
Register as an individual or put together a team - all skill sets and levels are welcome.
We hope to see you there and encourage you to invite your colleagues and other industry contacts. This is a great day to connect with individuals from all sectors of the industry and areas of the region, and others from outside the industry are welcome to attend.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Golf@TOTABC.com.
Thank You to the Golf Tournament Sponsors
TOTA Golf Tournament Save the Date & Call for Sponsors
The 30th Annual Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Golf Tournament will be hosted at Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with a full day of food, drink, and fun. Registration will open shortly. We look forward to seeing you there!
The 30th Annual Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Golf Tournament will be hosted at Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with a full day of food, drink, and fun.
Mingle with CEOs, hospitality pros, and a variety of people that form the heartbeat of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry.
The TOTA Golf Tournament is an 18-hole Texas Scramble shotgun format, fun for all participants, no matter your expertise on the course. The afternoon of golf will be followed by a delicious dinner, prizes, and awards!
Registration will open shortly - subscribe to the TOTA News Centre for updates.
TOTA is currently seeking sponsors. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, email Golf@TOTABC.com.
Pacific Coastal Airlines Adds Additional Flights to the Thompson Okanagan
Pacific Coastal Airlines has recently added additional flights to the Thompson Okanagan. The additional routes expand their services to every day of the week.
Pacific Coastal Airlines has recently added additional flights between Kamloops-Victoria and Penticton-Vancouver. These additional routes will begin in January and February 2024 and include Saturday flight options, expanding their services to every day of the week.
The new flight routes include:
New Victoria to Kamloops Flights
A new Saturday flight service starts Saturday, February 3, 2024
After the addition of the Saturday flight service there will be a daily flight between Victoria and Kamloops
To celebrate the launch of these new flights, Pacific Coastal Airlines is offering a 20% discount on flights to/from Victoria (YYJ) and Kamloops (YKA) using the promo code YKAYYJ20.
New Vancouver to Penticton Flights
Morning flight options on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday started on January 4, 2024
A new Saturday flight starts February 10, 2024. After the addition of the Saturday flight there will be flight every day of the week between Vancouver and Penticton
Beginning on April 28, 2024 Pacific Coastal will offer a morning and afternoon flight between Vancouver and Penticton every day of the week
Pacific Coastal Airlines is offering a 15% discount on bookings using the promo code: PCAPenticton.
The Thompson Okanagan looks forward to welcoming more guests from Vancouver and Victoria. Share the news about the additional Pacific Coastal Airlines flights so people can start planning their next trip to the region.
About Pacific Coastal Airlines
Pacific Coastal Airlines is a British Columbia-based, privately owned airline that operates out of the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Pacific Coastal Airlines connects 18 destinations across the province, connecting Vancouver Island and the interior.
Destination BC Launches First Iconic Brand, Rainforest to Rockies
The first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics strategy is now live for the world to see. Rainforest to Rockies, is an iconic Canadian journey along ever-changing landscapes, inspiring travellers to visit more places in the province.
Destination BC is branding, marketing, and supporting destination development of new, globally compelling routes and places that span the entire province of British Columbia. These new place brands will inspire more travellers to visit more places in the province, throughout the year.
The first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics strategy is now live for the world to see. Rainforest to Rockies, is an iconic Canadian journey along ever-changing landscapes, inspiring travellers to visit more places in the province.
On HelloBC.com/Rainforest-to-Rockies, travellers can choose their own adventure and enjoy the journey from Vancouver on the Pacific Coast to the Canadian Rockies through several routes, like Highway 3, 5, and 1, to various communities, including destinations in the Thompson Okanagan, such as Kamloops, Mt Robson, Osoyoos and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.
The TOTA team looks forward to working with Destination BC to promote this iconic route through the region.
Learn More at DestinationBC.ca.
BC Wildlife Park's Commitment to Access and Inclusion Continues with Fundraising for Playground Upgrades
The BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops has recently made significant upgrades to its facilities to increase accessibility and inclusivity. The park’s next focus for upgrades is the children’s playground, with plans to add inclusive equipment and sensory stations to allow children to play together.
In 2021, the BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops completed a project to pave all its pathways to make the park more accessible for people using wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers. As well, the park added powered mobility scooters and wheelchairs for visitors to easily explore the park. The washrooms were made accessible and environmentally efficient. And this was just the beginning of BC Wildlife Park’s commitment to access and inclusion.
Now, BC Wildlife Park has turned its attention to the iconic children’s playground. The current playground is over 23 years old and major upgrades are needed in order to bring it up to current standards and make it inclusive and accessible for children of all ages and abilities. While park priorities remain focused on animal care and welfare, children and families make it all possible.
Early playground renderings include accessible paths, inclusive equipment and sensory stations - all carefully designed to allow children to play together.
“Participation in play, on an equal basis with other children, is a right, not a privilege, for ALL children. Playgrounds are at the heart of a community and a space where children of all ages and abilities can connect together through play. Canada needs more playgrounds that are designed in innovative ways to be fully accessible and inclusive to the needs of all children. No child should be left on the sidelines of play.”
Fundraising Initiatives
Fundraising efforts began with a country music concert on June 17 and a children’s contest asking BC children of all ages to share what outdoor play means to them through a creative piece, like a poem, letter, artwork, or video.
More fun and engaging fundraising initiatives are planned throughout the year-long campaign.
To learn more about upcoming events, please visit BCWildlife.org for details.
To support the new BC Wildlife Park accessible playground visit BCWildlife.org/play.htm or text “play” to 30333.
New 3D Virtual Tours Highlight Accessible Features at Tourism Venues in the Thompson Okanagan
TOTA and Spinal Cord Injury BC have partnered to share 22 Virtual Venue Tours of Thompson Okanagan accommodation and attractions. The virtual tours showcase priority accessible features to help people easily plan a visit based on their specific requirements.
View tours: https://ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours
Kelowna, B.C. - Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC), and their Access BC program have launched Virtual Venue Tours, a mapping project to improve access and inclusion for people exploring the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. 22 tours are available on ThompsonOkanagan.com as of March 2023 showcasing priority accessible features of various accommodations and attractions in Kelowna, Kamloops, Penticton, Naramata, Keremeos, Cawston, and Chase.
The virtual platform is easy to navigate on desktop and mobile devices, allowing people to explore venues and determine whether accessible features meet their specific requirements. When planning a visit, trip planners can explore the venues virtually and make informed decisions about which ones to experience in person.
The Virtual Venue Tours project was created for the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which supports businesses to improve access and inclusion for visitors and staff through various services; with support from the Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative (TRTDI) fund from the Province of BC.
"This project will help improve access and inclusion for all visitors to the Thompson Okanagan region. We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the beauty of the region, and this program will make it easier for people to do so," said TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews.
At launch, these tours showcase the accessible features of the following venues who have participated in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program or are committed to access and inclusion:
Chase:
Kamloops:
Penticton:
The 3D images were created by Jody Wall Photography, a BC-based photographer and are hosted on the TourMkr platform.
More virtual tours will be added as funding becomes available.
To view the tours, visit ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours
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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.
As a Biosphere Certified Destination, TOTA is committed to working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including goals related to access and inclusion, such as “Reduced Inequalities” and “Sustainable Cities & Communities.” becoming a world-renowned accessible tourism destination and to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Learn more at TOTABC.org.
About Spinal Cord Injury BC:
Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) is a non-profit organization based in British Columbia, Canada, that provides support and resources for individuals who have sustained a spinal cord injury, as well as their families and caregivers. The organization was founded in 1957 and has since grown to become a leading resource for those affected by spinal cord injury.
SCI BC offers a wide range of programs and services, including peer support, information and referral, community outreach, and advocacy. One of the key initiatives of SCI BC is the development of accessible technology and equipment for people with spinal cord injuries, with a focus on enhancing mobility and independence. The organization also provides education and awareness programs to promote understanding and inclusion in the community.
Learn more at SCI-BC.ca.
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Tourism Kamloops Launches New Incentive Program
Tourism Kamloops is offering a cash back opportunity.
Through its new incentive program, event planners are rewarded for meeting in Kamloops. Submit your RFP to see if your program qualifies – the reward? $10 per room night.
Tourism Kamloops is offering a cash back opportunity.
Through its new incentive program, event planners are rewarded for meeting in Kamloops. Submit your RFP to see if your program qualifies – the reward? $10 per room night.
Andrew Peller Exploring Viticulture Potential of Tranquille Farmland in Kamloops
Andrew Peller Ltd., a name associated with award-winning premium and ultra-premium brands including Peller Estates, Black Hills, Sandhill, Tinhorn Creek, Red Rooster, and Gray Monk, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Ignition Tranquille Developments Ltd. to explore the viticulture potential for the Tranquille farmland in Kamloops, B.C.
Andrew Peller Ltd. will start microclimate data collection and micro-soil analysis to determine which grapes will be best suited for the land. After two years of data collection, Andrew Peller Ltd. will make recommendations to Ignition and move forward with 5-acre parcels of agreed-to varietals, with an expected planting date of spring 2025.
Andrew Peller Ltd., a name associated with award-winning premium and ultra-premium brands including Peller Estates, Black Hills, Sandhill, Tinhorn Creek, Red Rooster, and Gray Monk, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Ignition Tranquille Developments Ltd. to explore the viticulture potential for the Tranquille farmland in Kamloops, B.C.
With the MOU signed, Andrew Peller Ltd. will start microclimate data collection and micro-soil analysis to understand when the region gets frost free days, how many growing degree days it gets, and most importantly, to find out how cold it gets in the winter months. These processes will help determine which grapes will be best suited for the land.
Once these questions are answered based on robust two-year data collection, Andrew Peller Ltd. will make recommendations to Ignition and move forward with 5-acre parcels of agreed-to varietals, with an expected planting date of spring 2025.
Tourism Kamloops CEO, Beverley DeSantis Announces Retirement
Tourism Kamloops CEO and TOTA Director Beverley DeSantis, has given notice of her pending retirement effective January 1st, 2022. DeSantis has offered to continue part time at the Board’s discretion for a period to be determined to assist through the transition period should her support be required.
The Tourism Kamloops Board thanks Beverley for the incredible job she has done since assuming the role of CEO in 2016.
Tourism Kamloops CEO and TOTA Director Beverley DeSantis, has given notice of her pending retirement effective January 1st, 2022. DeSantis has offered to continue part time at the Board’s discretion for a period to be determined to assist through the transition period should her support be required.
The Tourism Kamloops Board thanks Beverley for the incredible job she has done since assuming the role of CEO in 2016.
Beverley's tenure as Tourism Kamloops CEO has been busy and transformative. Thanks largely to her work, the city has become a well recognized and desired destination regionally and internationally. Under her leadership, a five-year strategic plan was created and executed in less than three years, the organization went through a significant rebrand, launched a new website, increased its social media and travel trade presence, implemented innovative technologies, built a passionate team of professionals, and garnered significant community support.
Beverley's notice has triggered section 27.2 of Tourism Kamloops’ Board Policy for CEO Succession, which governs the organization’s robust CEO succession selection process. Tourism Kamloops’ Board will begin the process of finding a new CEO effective immediately and expects a new leader to be in place in early 2022.
A confidential email address has been set up by the Board of Directors to manage the CEO recruitment process. All inquiries should be directed to: board@tourismkamloops.com
Tourism Kamloops Supports TRU’s Limitless Campaign
Tourism Kamloops
For Immediate Release
January 30, 2020 – Tourism Kamloops has joined the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Limitless campaign, announcing at the 4th Annual BOLD Hospitality Awards a $50,000 donation to fund hands-on learning opportunities for students.
Limitless is the university’s largest-ever fundraising campaign, with a goal to raise $50 million for TRU’s 50th anniversary, in support of students, research, equipment and community-related initiatives.
Left to Right - Dustin McIntyre - TRU, Director of Development, Beverley DeSantis - Tourism Kamloops CEO, Douglas Booth - TRU, Dean of the Faculty of Adventure, Culinary Arts, and Tourism, David Carter - TRU, Lecturer & Steve Earl - Tourism Kamloops Board Chair.
The $50,000 donation goes toward the Tourism Innovation Lab founded by Tourism Kamloops, a collaboration with the Kamloops Innovation Centre (KIC) and the department of Tourism Management. This funding gives students the opportunity to take ideas developed in class and, when successfully pitched, incubate and accelerate in partnership with KIC to transform them into new tourism businesses.
“Our partnership with TRU and KIC and investment in our students is a dedicated effort directly supporting the future of Kamloops as a robust tourism destination,” said Beverley DeSantis, Tourism Kamloops chief executive officer.
“Endorsed by our stakeholders, experience development is a top priority for Tourism Kamloops. To engage, mentor and guide future tourism entrepreneurs from idea to start-up to create the right experience, for the right visitor, at the right time is vital to a thriving visitor economy.”
“This combination of industry and academic partners helps establish an initiative that benefits students, the city and the tourism sector,” said Douglas Booth, dean of the Faculty of Adventure, Culinary Arts, and Tourism.
“The Tourism Innovation Lab is a perfect example of Thompson Rivers University working with a local enterprise, Tourism Kamloops, to provide an opportunity for students to develop entrepreneurial skills, tourism-based products and tourism-based ventures,” he said.
“These new skills, products and ventures will contribute to the prosperity, growth and sustainability of Kamloops and the Thompson-Okanagan region.”
Kamloops welcomes 1.8 million visitors annually and the local tourism industry generates nearly $500 million in economic impact each year. Retaining TRU tourism students and supporting their work benefits the whole city, noted DeSantis.
To date, TRU’s Limitless campaign has raised $42.7 million. For more information, go to tru.ca/limitless
Media Contacts:
Beverley DeSantis, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Kamloops
250-517-9094 | bev@tourismkamloops.com
Douglas Booth, Dean, Faculty of Adventure, Culinary Arts, and Tourism
250-852-7138 | dobooth@tru.ca