News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
TOTA Awarded North America's Responsible Tourism Award 2024
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been awarded the 2024 North America’s Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been awarded the 2024 North America’s Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.
The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
TOTA has received the North America’s Award for Responsible Tourism for six consecutive years, in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024 (there was no NA competition in 2021) and is honoured to win once again in this category.
As well, TOTA received the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism in 2018, 2019, and 2020.
Achieving this recognition helps TOTA spread the word on how the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and our organization are working to offer tourism services in a responsible and sustainable manner.
As the winner of the North America award, TOTA is nominated for the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism contest in autumn 2024. Voting information will be shared then.
Background
About the World Travel Awards™
World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards™ brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.
TOTA 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.
BetterTable Shortcast with Ellen Walker-Matthews
BetterTable created a shortcast series for hospitality leaders to learn about food, sustainability and diversity from some of the brightest minds in the tourism and hotel industry.
In the latest episode, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews shared insights about the Thompson Okanagan region and dives into how TOTA is leading the way in sustainability by supporting local food, farm to table experiences, and food waste training and audits for tourism stakeholders.
BetterTable created a shortcast series for hospitality leaders to learn about food, sustainability and diversity from some of the brightest minds in the tourism and hotel industry.
In the latest episode, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews shared insights about the Thompson Okanagan region and dives into how TOTA is leading the way in sustainability by supporting local food, farm to table experiences, and food waste training and audits for tourism stakeholders.
Listen to BetterTable shortcast episode
TOTA is now Rainbow Registered
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a Rainbow Registered business. This accreditation, administered by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce(CGLCC), is a testament to our commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
We are excited to announce that The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a Rainbow Registered business. This accreditation, administered by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce(CGLCC), is a testament to our commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
By achieving the Rainbow Registered accreditation, we are recognized for ensuring that our 2SLGBTQI+ visitors and staff feel valued and respected. This aligns with our core values of diversity and inclusion, and we are proud to be a part of this important national initiative.
Tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan region can join over 300 other businesses in Canada that are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community by becoming Rainbow Registered.
We encourage you to visit RainbowRegistered.ca to learn more about the program.
Last chance: Register for TOTA Golf Tournament and enter win great prizes
This year, the 30th on the 30th TOTA Annual Golf Tournament, will the biggest and best golf tournament yet - and there's still time to register and be entered to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip economy tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies within North America including Hawaii.
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Register for the TOTA Golf Tournament & enter for chance to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip Tickets
Golfers registered by Friday, May 24 will have a chance to win 2 Air Canada Round-Trip economy tickets to anywhere Air Canada flies.
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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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GreenStep EcoFund Verified Program Assists TOTA Stakeholders to Reduce the Costs of Switching to RNG
TOTA continues its commitment to destination stewardship and sustainability through a partnership with GreenStep and its EcoFund program. Tourism businesses that join the EcoFund program, collect an EcoFee that helps their businesses to cut down on the consumption of energy, waste and water, by investing in more efficient technologies and renewable energy.
TOTA continues its commitment to destination stewardship and sustainability through a partnership with GreenStep and its EcoFund program. GreenStep is an industry leader in guiding businesses to reduce environmental impacts and in turn the region’s carbon footprint. Tourism businesses that join the EcoFund program, collect an EcoFee that helps their businesses to cut down on the consumption of energy, waste and water, by investing in more efficient technologies and renewable energy. The EcoFund is managed by GreenStep and is applied to measurable carbon reduction projects at the participating business.
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is part of that energy solution and businesses that are GreenStep Verified are now able to use 10% of their EcoFund towards incorporating RNG into their energy portfolio. RNG is a practical way to help mitigate future climate crises and transform BC's energy future by reducing BC's greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting both personal and professional climate goals, this is an important action to aid the Province’s path toward a ‘CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.’ Switching to FortisBC’s renewable natural gas option does not require any new equipment, upgrades, or installations. Customers have the option of replacing 5% to 100% of their natural gas consumption with RNG.
Improving tourism business value is a goal of TOTA and GreenStep. Through the GreenStep EcoFund program businesses access a comprehensive energy and carbon management funding program, and receive the EcoFund Verified seal, marketing assets, and annual summary reports to help communicate the positive impacts they have made. These materials help share the participation in the program, and reflect your dedication and progress towards improving sustainability within the region. If understanding your business's energy consumption or carbon footprint is a commitment for your business, then TOTA’s dedicated Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, can provide a free audit. Harshit specializes in energy and can offer local tourism businesses opportunities for cost-saving options to reduce their carbon footprints. For energy efficiency solutions and to learn more about the benefits of making this simple switch, schedule an Energy Audit with Harshit, or book a free EcoFund opportunity analysis with GreenStep. Projects identified can then be funded in whole or in part through the GreenStep EcoFund program.
About GreenStep Solutions Inc.: GreenStep was founded in 2008 to help small to medium-sized enterprises measure and improve their sustainability performance. To date, the organization has worked with thousands of businesses and organizations of all sizes, in a variety of industries such as tourism and hospitality, retail, professional services, and manufacturing. For more information, visit www.greenstep.ca.
BC Fairs Learning Exchange
The BC Fairs Learning Exchange took place in Penticton on April 14-16, bringing together a diverse community of thought leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from across the realms of business, culture, and innovation. TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews delivered the opening presentation and took part in a panel on crisis communications for BC fairs.
The BC Fairs Learning Exchange took place in Penticton on April 14-16, bringing together a diverse community of thought leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from across the realms of business, culture, and innovation. This BC Fairs event serves as a dynamic platform for fostering collaborative dialogue, sharing groundbreaking ideas, and cultivating lasting connections.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews delivered opening remarks, including an overview of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, the value of agri-tourism, and resources for agri-tourism operators.
Ellen also took part in a panel on Communicating in a Crisis with Leeann Froese and Travel Penticton executive director Thom Tischik, moderated by Allison Markin of All She Wrote Consulting. The panelists discussed how fairs/large events can communicate in a meaningful way when a sudden disaster (fires, floods, road closures, pandemics etc) happens, plus prepare ahead of time by developing reputation management strategies.
Promote Your Business at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre - 2024 Season
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors per season.
Promotion Opportunities for the season (May-October)
Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year
Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year
On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend
Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.
Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, contact Visit@TOTABC.com.
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors in a regular season.
TOTA operates the Tourism Inspiration Centre, with a team of Tourism Visitor Information Counsellors available to assist visitors en route to or from their Thompson Okanagan destination.
Note: Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.
Promotion Opportunities for the 2024 Season (May-October)
Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year
Display a poster for 4' x 8' space facing the Tourism Inspiration Centre and parking lot. This includes the opportunity to host an on-site exhibit space for one weekend during the season to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors; and one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business.
Billboard creation and installation not included.
Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year
Display brochures and link to your website in the Tourism Inspiration Centre. Tourism Inspiration Centre ambassadors will familiarize themselves with your company and share it with visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Brochure creation not included.
On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend
Host an on-site exhibit space outside the Tourism Inspiration Centre to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Tent/booth not included.
Secure Your Promotion Space
Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, submit the Promotion Subscription Form or contact Tourism Inspiration Manager, Barbara Bonnough, at Visit@TOTABC.com.
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
Reintroducing the Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is launching the revamped Biosphere Commitment Program. The updated program has a new focus on the online Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle (BSL) Platform, which allows organizations to measure, manage, and report on their sustainability efforts that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is launching the revamped Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program for all tourism companies within the Thompson Okanagan region.
The updated Biosphere Commitment Program builds from a foundation of sustainability programming with a distinct, new focus on the online Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle (BSL) Platform. The BSL platform empowers companies to continuously measure, manage, and report on their sustainability efforts that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while preparing for Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting standards.
The new webpages for the Biosphere Commitment Program are now live. After carefully considering the community's feedback and analyzing how visitors interact with the site, TOTA has redesigned the Biosphere webpages and implemented changes that enhance navigation and improve functionality.
What’s new?
The Biosphere Commitment Program Homepage - Discover what makes this program unique and quickly connect to key sections
Program Overview - Learn more about the program and connect with one of TOTA’s Biosphere Program Success Advisors during your introduction and onboarding process
Program Success Advisors - Do you want to learn how your actions align with the SDGs? The Program Success Advisors are available to answer any questions
Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform - Your sustainable actions are uploaded and verified online through the Biosphere sustainability management software
Whether you are an existing Biosphere Commitment Program member or are interested in starting your organization's sustainability journey, TOTA invites you to explore the new webpages to learn more. Feel free to share any feedback with Biosphere@TOTABC.com. or contact a Biosphere Success Advisor to advance your journey towards Biosphere Commitment.
Get Started with the Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program developed by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with the necessary tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program aligns ongoing and future business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification to prepare businesses for a globally recognized certification. By accessing the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform, organizations can create customized sustainability plans and utilize dedicated support from industry experts.
Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program
Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation
TOTA Team Represents the Thompson Okanagan Region at the Explore BC
In February, members of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) attended the Explore BC conference, organized by Destination BC.
In February, the marketing team of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) attended the Explore BC event, organized by Destination BC. The event catered to Travel Trade professionals based in British Columbia, providing updates on regional developments and cities across the province with a focus on the Travel Trade sector.
The conference offered presentations about product updates from various destinations, including the Thompson Okanagan, and facilitated networking opportunities through a marketplace format. Notably, Explore BC 2024 welcomed participants from 40 companies, including 36 Receptive Tour Operators (RTOs), all eager to gain insights into British Columbia's tourism landscape.
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.
Tourism Outlook Survey 2024
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is conducting a survey to collect current information from Thompson Okanagan tourism businesses about the financial outlook for the coming year, 2024.
A summary of the findings will be presented in March to the TOTA board, Destination BC CEO, BC Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport (MTACS). Please complete the survey by March 3.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is conducting a survey to collect current information from Thompson Okanagan tourism businesses about the financial outlook for the coming year, 2024.
A summary of the findings will be presented in March to the TOTA board, Destination BC CEO, BC Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport (MTACS).
Your company's input is critical to understanding the current tourism outlook. The survey will take approximately 5 minutes to complete.
Please complete the survey by Sunday, March 3, 11:59 pm.
To complete the survey, go to https://TOTABC.org/survey/outlook
Register for 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion Online Training for Tourism on March 1
Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals are invited to an online training session on March 1 to start a conversation about how your team can contribute to a work environment that empowers 2SLGBTQI+ colleagues, guests, and other stakeholders.
Friday, March 1, 2024 | 9 - 10:30 am
$25 per person
Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals are invited to a 90-minute session designed to start a conversation about 2SLGBTQI+ diversity and inclusion in your workplace. The session is hosted by Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, as part of the Rainbow Registered program.
As a business, your responsibility to maintain an inclusive and accessible workplace is more important than ever. This session is a great way to start a conversation about how your team can contribute to a work environment that empowers 2SLGBTQI+ colleagues, guests, and other stakeholders.
Topics include:
2SLGBTQ+ Intro - terminology, sexuality, orientation & attraction
Gender Diversity - identity and expression, transition, names & pronouns
Inclusion Considerations - context, work & employment related experiences
Inclusive Workplaces - what they look like, benefits & challenges of achieving them
Putting it into practice - how to demonstrate allyship & contribute to an inclusive workplace and atmosphere
Vote TOTA for North America's Responsible Tourism Award 2024 | Voting Closes April 7
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been nominated for North America's Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards. We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a few moments to register and vote for TOTA by April 7.
Voting is open for the World Travel Awards North America categories until midnight April 7, 2024.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been nominated for North America's Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.
We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a few moments to register and vote for TOTA in the category North America's Responsible Tourism Award.
The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
TOTA received the North America Travel Award for Responsible Tourism in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 (five consecutive years) and is honoured to be nominated once again in this category.
Achieving this recognition again would help TOTA spread the word on how the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and our organization are working to offer tourism services in a responsible and sustainable manner. TOTA would then be in the running to compete in the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism. TOTA received the global award in 2018, 2019, and 2020; and was nominated in 2022 and 2023.
How to Vote
To support TOTA and spread the word about the Thompson Okanagan region, please take a moment to register and vote for TOTA in the category North America's Responsible Tourism Award.
Votes can be cast by travel professionals, media and tourism consumers, with the nominee gaining the most votes in each category announced as the winner.
Votes cast by industry voters will count as two votes (if you check the Travel Industry box when you register, provide your company details, and submit a minimum of 10 votes).
Responsible Tourism Initiatives
TOTA's focus on responsible and sustainable tourism has been guided by the Regional Strategy: Embracing Our Potential since 2012, updated in 2020 with a continued focus on:
Sustainability
Regional Development projects
Accessible Tourism
Indigenous Tourism
Crisis Management
Trail Development
Partnerships
Learn more about these and other initiatives at TOTABC.org.
TOTA Team Represents the Thompson Okanagan Region at the International Media Marketplace (IMM)
The TOTA marketing team represented the Thompson Okanagan region at the International Media Marketplace (IMM) in New York in January 2024. The team met with 25 top tier media in the media marketplace where they got to know the individual writers and creators.
The TOTA marketing team represented the Thompson Okanagan region at the International Media Marketplace (IMM) in New York in January 2024. There, along with 525 North American media and 390 international travel brands, they attended a full day educational summit, discussing topics such as AI best practices, the relevance of podcasts, the changing media landscape, and a panel with travel editors.
As well, the team met with 25 top tier media in the media marketplace where they got to know the individual writers and creators and discussed various topics related to the key pillars TOTA’s media team works to amplify. These pillars are Accessibility, Indigenous Culture, Year-round Travel, the Variety of Activities and Adventures in the Region, Wellness Travel, and Road Trips.
These conferences are important to create connections with top tier media in the hopes of eventually inviting them to the region for excellent media coverage. Team Canada had one of the largest turnouts at the conference with the BC team being the largest province represented.
Learn more about the International Media Marketplace.
Team BC - DMO Representatives from throughout BC
IMM Marketplace
TOTA Team Represents the Region at CITAP+
The TOTA marketing team attended the Canadian Inbound Tourism Association (CITAP+) Winter Function on December 5 in Richmond, BC., to discuss new and existing trade-ready products in hopes of bringing more visitors to the TOTA region.
The TOTA team represented the Thompson Okanagan region at the Canadian Inbound Tourism Association (CITAP+) Winter Function on December 5 in Richmond, BC. CITAP+ works to improve the business environment for Reciprocal Tour Operators (RTO’s) and their partners specializing in inbound tourism in order to create a robust and varied tour and travel economy in Canada to foster global prospects for inbound tourism in the long run. At this event, TOTA met with RTO’s from British Columbia based in Vancouver to discuss new and existing trade-ready products in hopes of bringing more visitors to the TOTA region.
Learn more about CITAP+ at CITAP.ca
View Market Updates from CITAP+.
Ski the Thompson Okanagan Press Release
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is encouraging people to plan a visit to a Thompson Okanagan ski resorts to experience the wonders of winter by sharing a roundup of information with media. The press release is designed to raise awareness of ski resorts, passes, and activities in the Thompson Okanagan, inspiring them to plan a trip.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is encouraging Canadians and Americans to plan a visit to a Thompson Okanagan ski resorts to experience the wonders of winter by sharing a roundup of information with media.
Hatch Comms on behalf of TOTA, shared a press release with Canadian and American media on February 7, 2024, that included a list of ski resorts and information related to their winter offerings and pass programs to raise awareness about the current snowy winter conditions. TOTA's social media continues to share winter themed posts on ThompsonOkanagan.com and social media.
The press release is designed to raise awareness of ski resorts in the Thompson Okanagan, inspiring them to plan a trip, with the target audiences in BC, Alberta, and Washington. Information included downhill ski information, unique indoor and outdoor experiences, pass programs, upcoming events, and travel times from the closest airports.
Release:
The Thompson Okanagan is home to world class skiing and snowboarding along with a variety of other snow activities at eight mountain resorts with some reporting bases close to 160cm. The region’s well-known winter conditions and diverse terrain promises snow sport lovers the best time ever. Adventures include skiing, snowboarding, tubing, skating, fat biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and more. Snow pursuits aside, visitors can enjoy all kinds of mountain, recreation, culinary and cultural activities, festivals and events in the months ahead.
Affordable alpine adventures await thanks to the region’s numerous global reciprocal pass programs and wallet-friendly day passes. The Indy Pass grants two days access at each of the following mountains: Apex Mountain Resort, Baldy Mountain Resort, and Big White Ski Resort, Manning Park, along with 180+ resorts spanning three continents. Sun Peaks Resort is included in the IKON Pass, giving skiers and riders access to 50+ destinations worldwide. SilverStar is home to MY1PASS, an inclusive ticket that provides access to seven activities: downhill skiing, cross country skiing (XC), night skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, skating and fat biking. Family-owned resort Harper Mountain’s day passes are under $70 per day.
Continue to follow mountain conditions and updates by visiting the resort websites and social media along with OnTheSnow.com.
Explore the Slopes
Nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley at an impressive 7,200 feet above sea level, Apex is an awesome destination for every skill level from novice to intermediate to advanced. Some say, Apex’s post-ski experiences are the best part with its popular Gunbarrel Saloon earning the title of Best Apres Ski Bar by Ski Canada for ten consecutive years. The resort also boasts an enchanting kilometre-long Adventure Skating Loop through the forest, as well as nordic skiing, snowshoeing and tubing.
Upcoming events: Western Day, Brewski, and Retro Day.
Elevate winter expeditions at British Columbia’s third-highest elevation ski resort. Located where the Nk’mip Desert meets the inland rainforest of the West Kootenays, Baldy Mountain Resort was a dream turned reality for its committed winter enthusiasts in 1968. The South Okanagan locale offers 35 runs with 600 acres of skiable terrain and an additional 240 acres dedicated to exhilarating gladed tree skiing. Off the slopes, Baldy offers 13 kilometres of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, disc golf, and tubing.
Upcoming events: KR Academy Snowboard Camp, 16th Annual Winemakers Cup, and Slackcountry Cup.
An icon in the Thompson Okanagan skyline, the resort resides in British Columbia's famed powder belt. Encompassing a vast ski area of 7,355 acres of diverse terrain with 119 designated trails and vertical drop of 2,550 feet, the second-largest lift system in BC keeps skiers moving. The slopes at Big White Ski Resort cater to every skill level - from beginner to extreme and everything in between. The ski hill has been ranked 10th on The Times UK’s list of “best ski resorts for beginners,” boasts Western Canada’s largest night area and Canada’s largest ski-in, ski-out village. Big White is more than just alpine thrills with its access to Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and Canada's highest elevation skating rink in Happy Valley.
Upcoming events: Saturday Fireworks, Jr Chef Challenge, TELUS Kelowna Cup, Family Day Weekend, and AltiTunes Music Festival.
A winter wonderland awaits at this South Thompson ski hill. Celebrating 50 years, the traditional ski area offers 16 runs with 1,400 vertical feet of elevation across 400 acres of terrain all adorned by champagne powder. The resort also offers 16 kilometres of dog-friendly snowshoe trails, a 3 kilometre nordic loop, and tubing.
Pro-tip: try the poutine and Gluhwein in the cozy Log Day Lodge.
Adventure starts in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy the fresh mountain air and all kinds of exciting activities surrounded by majestic peaks. The laid back resort offers more than 346 acres of skiable terrain, 64 kilometres of nordic terrain, 300 kilometres of snowshoe trails, tubing and ice skating.
Upcoming events: Guided Snowshoe Tours: S'mores, Wine & Cheese, and Fondue.
The Monashee Mountain resort’s bottomless champagne powder is a hit with snow lovers. Its 3,282 acres of skiable terrain over 4 distinct mountain faces, features 132 runs with a 760m vertical drop. There’s a reason Canadian ski pioneers, Olympians, and world champions across the globe call Silver Star home. In addition to all the downhill fun it also has the most expansive cross-country trail network in North America with 105km of nordic trails that connect the peak of SilverStar Mountain Resort to Sovereign Lake’s subalpine. What else? Mini snowmobiles, ice skating, fat baking, snowshoeing, tubing and lots of fun and delicious apres.
Upcoming events: SEISMIC Spring Festival, and Sovereign2SilverStar Ski Marathon.
Canada’s 2nd largest ski area spans 4,270 acres of winter paradise featuring an impressive 882 metres of skiable vertical descent and - wait for it - 2,000 annual hours of sunshine. Winter warriors enjoy its 3 skiable peaks, 139 trails, 19 glades, the record-setting 8 kilometre run, and 13 lifts.. Beyond the slopes, Sun Peaks is known for its charming alpine village, diverse dining offerings and fun activities like yoga, axe throwing, horse-drawn sleigh rides and more than 34 kilometres of Nordic trails for snowmobiling, fat biking and snowshoeing.
Upcoming events: Sun Peaks Demo Days, Peak Pride, Elleboard All Girls Snowboard Camp, Sip, Savour & Ski Culinary Festival, Easter Extravaganza, and Slush Cup.
A not-for-profit, community-run ski area carved into the hills of Southern British Columbia, Phoenix Mountain is a haven for snow sport lovers offering 800 feet of vertical. The iconic T-bar gives riders a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the winter wonderland on the 6-minute ride up to access its 17 official downhill runs.
All mountain villages are all accessible within under an hour from the nearest city and under two hours from the nearest airports: Penticton Airport (YYF), Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and Kamloops Airport (YKA).
