News & Resources

The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.

 
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Canadian RVing and Camping Week & Camper's Code Pledge

May 24 - May 29, 2022 was the seventh annual Canadian RVing and Camping Week, an event to say "thank you" to patrons and invite other Canadians to take up camping. The Province of British Columbia issued a proclamation, BCLCA shared the Camper’s Code, and TIABC produced a "Know Before you Go" video.

 

May 24 - May 29, 2022 was the seventh annual Canadian RVing and Camping Week. Created by the Canadian Camping and RV Council, Provincial Campground Owners Associations, RVDA of Canada, Canadian RV Association and Go RVing Canada, this event is to say "thank you" to patrons and invite other Canadians to take up camping.

The value of camping to the economy and the well being of people has been recognized by the Province of British Columbia who issued a proclamation to proclaim May 24 – 29, 2022 “RVing and Camping Week”.

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) expects more than 1,000,000 campers will Camp or RV in British Columbia this year.

The importance of campgrounds to outdoor enthusiasts was amplified during the height of the COVID 19 pandemic, when more and more Canadians looked at camping for the first time as a safe, and healthy way to get outdoors and vacation responsibly.

With more first-time campers in British Columbia, the BCLCA found the need to ask people to be a respectful camper and in 2021 introduced the Camper’s Code. The Camper’s Code consists of nine simple messages to inspire a sense of shared responsibility and an understanding of appropriate behaviour. Campers are encouraged to take an online pledge and to help inspire a camping culture that is rooted in common sense, respect, and sustainability.

To support camping and lodging in BC and the BCLCA "Campers Code" - TIABC produced a "Know Before you Go" video, aimed at educating visitors and locals about how to behave responsibly when camping in BC.

 
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BC Tourism & Hospitality Labour Market Information (LMI) Research Project & Report | go2HR

go2HR has shared the report for the BC Tourism & Hospitality Labour Market Information (LMI) research project, which launched in January 2021 with the purpose of developing up-to-date and relevant LMI to provide the industry with the data needed to ensure a thriving workforce during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Research findings will help inform labour strategies to support labour recovery.

 

go2HR has shared the report for the BC Tourism & Hospitality Labour Market Information (LMI) research project, which launched in January 2021 with the purpose of developing up-to-date and relevant LMI to provide the industry with the data needed to ensure a thriving workforce during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Research findings will help inform labour strategies to support labour recovery.

The LMI project created new analytical resources for labour recovery planning for the industry, such as the BC Tourism & Hospitality Employment Tracker, which tracks monthly employment metrics in the industry, by region, and by worker demographics.

The project created 11 Workforce Profiles, providing in-depth information on key employment and demographics of the workforce offered from a provincial, sector and regional perspective.

The LMI Research Project Final Report details a labour recovery framework, labour demand projections, recovery scenarios, and a summary of worker and employer sentiments about the industry, as well as recommendations to plot the path forward on labour recovery.

Download Report →

View Announcement →

 
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Ongoing Backcountry Road Closures in the Thompson Okanagan to Protect Wildlife, Environment

Backcountry road users are advised that the roads closed in October 2021 across the Thompson Okanagan region, following 15 severe wildfires, will remain closed.

The closures were established under the Motor Vehicle Prohibition Regulation of the Wildlife Act and apply to backcountry roads across approximately 536,000 hectares.

The affected areas are:

  • Sparks Lake

  • Momich Lake

  • Tremont Creek

  • Two Mile Road

  • Bunting Road

  • Hunakwa/Crazy Creek complex

  • Thomas Creek

  • Nk'Mip

  • July Mountain

  • White Rock Lake

  • Garrison Lake

  • Mckay Creek

  • Mowhokam Creek

  • Lytton complex

View Announcement →

 

Backcountry road users are advised that the roads closed in October 2021 across the Thompson Okanagan region, following 15 severe wildfires, will remain closed.

The closures were established under the Motor Vehicle Prohibition Regulation of the Wildlife Act and apply to backcountry roads across approximately 536,000 hectares.

The affected areas are:

  • Sparks Lake

  • Momich Lake

  • Tremont Creek

  • Two Mile Road

  • Bunting Road

  • Hunakwa/Crazy Creek complex

  • Thomas Creek

  • Nk'Mip

  • July Mountain

  • White Rock Lake

  • Garrison Lake

  • Mckay Creek

  • Mowhokam Creek

  • Lytton complex

View Announcement →

 
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Reminder: Green Wine Future Virtual Conference, May 23-26

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is taking part in the upcoming virtual Green Wine Future Conference from May 23 to May 26.

Registration for one day of the conference is $47 USD. Through TOTA’s partnership, Thompson Okanagan stakeholders get a 55% discount by using the code TOTA55.

Register →

 

Green Wine Future Virtual Conference

May 23 - 26

North America Segment: Monday, May 23 | 2:00 - 6:30pm PT

 

Register with TOTA Discount Code

Registration for one day of the conference is $47 USD. Through TOTA’s partnership, Thompson Okanagan stakeholders get a 55% discount by using the code TOTA55.

Register →

About Green Wine Future

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is taking part in the upcoming virtual Green Wine Future Conference from May 23 to May 26. The event is the most ambitious environmental conference ever organized for the global wine community and will launch as a fully online gathering.

The Green Wine Future Conference will address critical topics of sustainability, climate crisis, biodiversity, wine tourism, regenerative agriculture, carbon amelioration, hydric resources, energy efficiency and create truly green business opportunities to respond to current world conditions. Speakers will present information through video footage, documentaries, and live broadcasts from vineyards and wineries.

TOTA is supported by several provincial and regional funding partners, including Destination British Columbia and Wine Growers British Columbia; and host wineries who will showcase the Thompson Okanagan wine region: Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, CedarCreek Estate Winery, and Monte Creek Winery. Other Thompson Okanagan wineries are invited to participate and represent the Thompson Okanagan wine region by hosting a Green Wine Future Virtual Trade Booth.

Thompson Okanagan Wine for the Planet Documentary

The conference includes the premiere of the Wine for the Planet docuseries, including a short documentary about the Thompson Okanagan wine region unveiled on May 23. The docuseries shows the support of the wine industry towards the most sensitive parts of the planet such as ice caps and glaciers, rainforest, marine environments, and areas sensitive to flooding and water scarcity.

Register →

Watch Thompson Okanagan Press Conference Recording from April 20

TOTA and Wine for the Planet hosted a Special Press Event at the BC Wine Information Centre in Penticton on April 20.

Green Wine Future founder, Pancho Campo, shared his work around the world and offered insights of what to expect at this year's Green Wine Future Conference. Several industry leaders and enjoy a small sampling of some of the area's various wine varietals.

Watch Recording →

 
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Discover Naramata Brand Launches "Small Town, Big Mood"

Discover Naramata launched a new brand that captures the magic of the winding road, rolling vineyards, and unique personality of Naramata. This fresh look launched on May 11 introduced the new logo and brand colours and will be rolled out in stages over the next year.

View Discover Naramata Website →

 

Discover Naramata launched a new brand that captures the magic of the winding road, rolling vineyards, and unique personality of Naramata.

As explained, "Naramata — Bench and Village — is a unicorn of a place, deserving of a destination marketing organization that reflects all the qualities that make it so special".

Over the last two years, a team of local industry veterans in tourism, hospitality, food, wine, and retail committed to making Discover Naramata more relevant, effective, and useful for the community.

Through research and consultation with local business owners, residents, employees, and visitors, a broad range of perspectives was considered. This fresh look launched on May 11 introduced the new logo and brand colours and will be rolled out in stages over the next year. It builds upon a recent update in the organization’s funding model aimed at greatly enhancing the visitor experience.

View Discover Naramata Website →

 
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"Do the Shu" New Shuswap Destination Website

The South Shuswap Chamber of Commerce launched a new website on May 6 at its annual Tourism Kickoff Breakfast. The website was developed in collaboration with the Chase Chamber of Commerce and the North Shuswap Chamber of Commerce.

The website is an economic development initiative for the western gateway to the Shuswap, developed through grants received from the Government of Canada, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior.

The website has been introduced to inform residents or visitors of the area and to ensure their time spent in the region will meet or exceed their expectations.

View Announcement →

View Website →

 

The South Shuswap Chamber of Commerce launched a new website on May 6 at its annual Tourism Kickoff Breakfast. The website was developed in collaboration with the Chase Chamber of Commerce and the North Shuswap Chamber of Commerce.

The website is an economic development initiative for the western gateway to the Shuswap, developed through grants received from the Government of Canada, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior.

The website has been introduced to inform residents or visitors of the area and to ensure their time spent in the region will meet or exceed their expectations.

View Announcement →

View Website →

 
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Ski Industry recognizes industry contributions including Helen Davies, Sun Peaks Resort and Debbie Muirhead, Inter-Mtn Testing and Inter-Mtn Enterprises Inc. (Kelowna)

On April 27, eight individuals were recognized for their contributions to the ski industry during the 2022 Canada West Ski Area Association (CWSAA) Spring Meeting.

From the Thompson Okanagan, CWSAA recognized:

Peak Performance Award: Helen Davies, Director of HR & Employee Experience, Sun Peaks Resort

Jim Marshall Leadership Award: Debbie Muirhead of Inter-Mtn. Testing and Inter-Mtn Enterprises Inc. located in Kelowna.

Congratulations to the all recipients of the CWSAA Awards.

Learn More About the Winners →

 

On April 27, eight individuals were recognized for their contributions to the ski industry during the 2022 Canada West Ski Area Association (CWSAA) Spring Meeting in Lake Louise.

From the Thompson Okanagan, CWSAA recognized:

Peak Performance Award: Helen Davies, Director of HR & Employee Experience, Sun Peaks Resort

The CWSAA Peak Performance Award acknowledges innovation and creativity and is given to individuals whose concept/idea/contribution has provided value to their employer, that furthermore benefits the industry.

The Award intends to celebrate a broad range of talent within the increasing sophistication of the ski industry inclusive of the variety of departments within ski areas.

Jim Marshall Leadership Award: Debbie Muirhead of Inter-Mtn. Testing and Inter-Mtn Enterprises Inc. located in Kelowna.

Debbie Muirhead started Inter-Mtn. Testing Ltd. and Inter-Mtn. Enterprises Inc.in 1987 and has grown two small companies to International supporters of the ski industry. She started her career in the ski industry at Grouse Mountain in the early 70s and spent many years in ski area marketing before she started Inter-Mtn. Testing Ltd alongside her husband Don Muirhead. Debbie has served twice as the CWSAA Board of Director’s Associate Member Director and has been a mentor and leader to many in the industry.

Congratulations to the all recipients of the CWSAA Awards.

Learn More About the Winners →

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SDGs

  • SDG 1: No Poverty
  • SDG 2: Zero Hunger
  • SDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing
  • SDG 4: Quality Education
  • SDG 5: Gender Equality
  • SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitization
  • SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy
  • SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, & Infrastructure
  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities
  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption & Production
  • SDG 13: Climate Action
  • SDG 14: Life Below Water
  • SDG 15: Life on Land
  • SDG 16: Peace, Justice, & Strong Institutions
  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
  • SDG 18: Indigenous Reconciliation
 
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First Nations, communities benefit from Emergency Preparedness Fund

More than 50 First Nations and local governments are receiving their share of more than $1.9 million in provincial emergency preparedness funding to help improve emergency support services (ESS) in their communities.

Thompson Okanagan communities include:

  1. Ashcroft – establishing ESS services: Total approved funding: $11,128.51

  2. Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – kits, lodging and security equipment: Total approved funding: $25,000

  3. Kamloops – training and capacity-building: Total approved funding: $25,000

  4. Okanagan Indian Band – capacity-building project: Total approved funding: $25,000

  5. Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District, with Keremeos, Princeton, Summerland, Osoyoos – regional – modernization and training: Total approved funding: $89,750

  6. Oliver – ESS: Total approved funding: $18,625

  7. Penticton – enhancing capacity based on five months of deployment in 2021: Total approved funding: $17,000

  8. Simpcw First Nation – Simpcw evacuation support unit: Total approved funding: $25,000

  9. Tk’emlups te Secwepemc – training and equipment: Total approved funding: $22,686.04

  10. Vernon – reception centre equipment 2022: Total approved funding: $25,000

View Announcement →

 

More than 50 First Nations and local governments are receiving their share of more than $1.9 million in provincial emergency preparedness funding to help improve emergency support services (ESS) in their communities.

Thompson Okanagan communities include:

  1. Ashcroft – establishing ESS services: Total approved funding: $11,128.51

  2. Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – kits, lodging and security equipment: Total approved funding: $25,000

  3. Kamloops – training and capacity-building: Total approved funding: $25,000

  4. Okanagan Indian Band – capacity-building project: Total approved funding: $25,000

  5. Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District, with Keremeos, Princeton, Summerland, Osoyoos – regional – modernization and training: Total approved funding: $89,750

  6. Oliver – ESS: Total approved funding: $18,625

  7. Penticton – enhancing capacity based on five months of deployment in 2021: Total approved funding: $17,000

  8. Simpcw First Nation – Simpcw evacuation support unit: Total approved funding: $25,000

  9. Tk’emlups te Secwepemc – training and equipment: Total approved funding: $22,686.04

  10. Vernon – reception centre equipment 2022: Total approved funding: $25,000

Funding will support communities building capacity to provide ESS through equipment purchases and volunteer recruitment, retention and training. ESS funding is part of the $189-million Community Emergency Preparedness Fund administered through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and supports programs that strengthen the resilience of First Nations communities, local governments and residents.

The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is a suite of programs divided into several funding streams. The Province is introducing three new streams this year to help First Nations and local governments better prepare for emergencies and the changing climate: public notification and evacuation planning; extreme-heat risk mapping, assessment and planning; and disaster risk reduction/climate adaptation, which includes flood-risk reduction.

Intakes will also reopen for volunteer and composite fire departments; Indigenous cultural safety and cultural-humility training; emergency support services; and emergency operations centres.

View Announcement →

 
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New Tourism Emergency Management Framework to Guide Industry During Crises

In conjunction with Emergency Preparedness Week, the industry-led Tourism Emergency Management Committee (TEMC) has released a new BC Tourism Emergency Management Framework to help reduce the industry’s vulnerabilities and risks and lessen the potentially adverse impacts to visitor experiences during emergencies.

The framework provides a unified structure to support tourism partners and visitors on matters related to the four pillars of emergency management:

  1. Mitigation

  2. Preparedness

  3. Response

  4. Recovery

The framework also supports the Province of British Columbia’s comprehensive emergency management plans by strengthening integration of visitors and the visitor economy before, during, and after an emergency event. This includes addressing visitors’ unique needs during emergencies, improving tourism industry preparedness, managing long term destination reputation, and reducing economic impact to tourism businesses.

As B.C.’s visitor economy continues to recover from the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a strong need for a coordinated approach to emergency management for the tourism sector, particularly given anticipated future crises such as wildfires, flooding, heat domes, and another pandemic.

View Framework Document →

View Framework One Pager →

View TIABC Announcement →

 

In conjunction with Emergency Preparedness Week, the industry-led Tourism Emergency Management Committee (TEMC) has released a new BC Tourism Emergency Management Framework to help reduce the industry’s vulnerabilities and risks and lessen the potentially adverse impacts to visitor experiences during emergencies.

The framework provides a unified structure to support tourism partners and visitors on matters related to the four pillars of emergency management:

  1. Mitigation

  2. Preparedness

  3. Response

  4. Recovery

The framework also supports the Province of British Columbia’s comprehensive emergency management plans by strengthening integration of visitors and the visitor economy before, during, and after an emergency event. This includes addressing visitors’ unique needs during emergencies, improving tourism industry preparedness, managing long term destination reputation, and reducing economic impact to tourism businesses.

As B.C.’s visitor economy continues to recover from the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a strong need for a coordinated approach to emergency management for the tourism sector, particularly given anticipated future crises such as wildfires, flooding, heat domes, and another pandemic.

View Framework Document →

View Framework One Pager →

View TIABC Announcement →

 
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DKA Nets Top Honors at Best In The West Awards

The Downtown Kelowna Association (DKA) has been recognized as “Best In The West” for its role in making Kelowna’s downtown an increasingly desirable place to live, conduct business, work, and play. The 2022 Best In The West Awards were presented on Tuesday, May 3 as part of this year’s Business Improvement Areas of British Columbia (BIABC) Conference held from May 1 to 4 in Coquitlam. The DKA received three awards in total: the Award of Merit in Special Events for the DKA Winter Street Market (2021), the Award of Excellence in Programming & Partnerships for Meet Me on Bernard (2021), and the Award of Excellence in Safety & Security for DKA’s On-Street Services.

 

The Downtown Kelowna Association (DKA) has been recognized as “Best In The West” for its role in making Kelowna’s downtown an increasingly desirable place to live, conduct business, work, and play.

The 2022 Best In The West Awards were presented on Tuesday, May 3 as part of this year’s Business Improvement Areas of British Columbia (BIABC) Conference in Coquitlam.

The DKA received three awards in total: the Award of Merit in Special Events for the DKA Winter Street Market (2021), the Award of Excellence in Programming & Partnerships for Meet Me on Bernard (2021), and the Award of Excellence in Safety & Security for DKA’s On-Street Services.

DKA Executive Director, Mark Burley, accepted the awards on behalf of the organization. When accepting the Award of Excellence for Meet Me on Bernard, Burley gratefully acknowledged the valuable partnership that exists between the DKA, the City of Kelowna, and Tourism Kelowna who work together to produce the initiative. Meet Me on Bernard is the summertime, temporary closure of Bernard Avenue from Abbot Street to St. Paul. Meet Me on Bernard returns for a third season beginning July 1 this year.  

Especially significant is the Award of Excellence in Safety & Security, which highlights the continued work of DKA’s On-Street Services Department. Covering a 42-square block radius, the On-Street Services teams are dedicated to the safety, security, and cleanliness of Downtown Kelowna during and after business hours. The Downtown On Call (DOC) and Clean Team ambassadors are the most visible members of the DKA, working with business members, visitors to Downtown, the RCMP, and social service agencies to help foster and maintain a positive social environment in Downtown Kelowna. On-Street Services Manager, Ron Beahun, who will retire later this year was instrumental in the creation of the department in 2008. 

 
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New Air Canada Flights to Vancouver Airport from Brisbane & Quebec City

Air Canada is resuming direct flights from Vancouver International Airport - YVR to Brisbane starting this July! The service will operate four times a week year-round. The return of the Brisbane flights is part of an expansion of Air Canada’s flights to the South Pacific as governments begin easing travel restrictions.

Learn More →

Air Canada continues to strengthen its presence in Quebec City by providing additional travel options to Quebecers with new seasonal service routes being offered to Calgary and Vancouver. In May, Air Canada operated its first non-stop service between Quebec City and Vancouver. These new seasonal domestic routes will operate until the end of October.

Learn More →

 

Air Canada is resuming direct flights from Vancouver International Airport - YVR to Brisbane starting this July! The service will operate four times a week year-round. The return of the Brisbane flights is part of an expansion of Air Canada’s flights to the South Pacific as governments begin easing travel restrictions. 

Learn More →

Air Canada continues to strengthen its presence in Quebec City by providing additional travel options to Quebecers with new seasonal service routes being offered to Calgary and Vancouver. In May, Air Canada operated its first non-stop service between Quebec City and Vancouver. These new seasonal domestic routes will operate until the end of October.

Learn More →

 
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Big White Ski Resort Raises Over $8K For Local Ukraine Charity

Thanks to a new colour combo of the famous Big White Ski Resort pompom snowball toque, and the generous donation of an on-mountain business, an $8,302 donation was presented to the Kelowna Stands With Ukraine Association on Friday, May 6.

At the beginning of April, the retail team at Big White Ski Resort launched a fundraising initiative for Ukraine with all proceeds from new blue and yellow toque going to the local group. The resort set a goal of raising $10,000 for Kelowna Stands With Ukraine, and expects more toque purchases and donations to come in to reach that amount. The resort is currently sold out online of the L/XL size toque. S/M and Kids sizes are still available.

Support Ukraine →

 

Thanks to a new colour combo of the famous Big White Ski Resort pompom snowball toque, and the generous donation of an on-mountain business, an $8,302 donation was presented to the Kelowna Stands With Ukraine Association on Friday, May 6.

"While Ukraine may be far from the Okanagan, we know the tragic events of the past couple months have been felt acutely by our Ukrainian community here," said Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President at Big White Ski Resort Ltd. "We want to give a huge thank you to our local community and the larger Big White family for making this happen."

At the beginning of April, the retail team at Big White Ski Resort launched a fundraising initiative for Ukraine with all proceeds from new blue and yellow toque going to the local group. The resort set a goal of raising $10,000 for Kelowna Stands With Ukraine, and expects more toque purchases and donations to come in to reach that amount.

The resort is currently sold out online of the L/XL size toque. S/M and Kids sizes are still available.

Support Ukraine →

 
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Swoop Expanding Service to Kelowna

Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, launched its new daily, non-stop, flights between Kelowna and Edmonton with inaugural flight WO213 taking off from Edmonton and arriving in Kelowna. With introductory fares from Kelowna to Edmonton starting at just $49 CAD, Swoop is showing Canadians just how affordable and easy experiencing the Okanagan region can be this summer.

Learn More →

 

Swoop, Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, launched its new daily, non-stop, flights between Kelowna and Edmonton with inaugural flight WO213 taking off from Edmonton and arriving in Kelowna. With introductory fares from Kelowna to Edmonton starting at just $49 CAD, Swoop is showing Canadians just how affordable and easy experiencing the Okanagan region can be this summer.

Learn More →

 
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B.C. conducts test of system, expands emergency hazards alert

The Province of B.C. is expanding use of the Alert Ready system in B.C. beyond tsunami warnings and Amber Alerts to also include imminent threats from floods and wildfires. The wireless alerting system is online and ready to be deployed for flooding, and will expand again to include wildfire threats by early June.

For tips on how to prepare an emergency plan and what to include in an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag, visit: http://www.preparedbc.ca

View Announcement →

 

The Province of B.C. is expanding use of the Alert Ready system in B.C. beyond tsunami warnings and Amber Alerts to also include imminent threats from floods and wildfires. The wireless alerting system is online and ready to be deployed for flooding, and will expand again to include wildfire threats by early June.

To receive alerts, mobile phones must be connected to an LTE cellular network (the device must be turned on and cannot be set to do not disturb or airplane mode), be alert-compatible, be within the alert area and have up-to-date cellular software. Alerts will be broadcast automatically at no cost to the user. To find out if your wireless device is compatible with the Alert Ready system, or for more information about the system, visit: AlertReady.ca.

British Columbians may wish to participate in a short online survey following the test on May 4 to help determine the reach of the Alert Ready test. This survey is administered by Public Emergency Alerting Services.

Share Feedback

For tips on how to prepare an emergency plan and what to include in an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag, visit: http://www.preparedbc.ca

View Announcement →

 
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Emergency Preparedness Week: May 1-7, 2022

Last week was Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week), a national event supported by Public Safety Canada, working closely with provincial and territorial emergency management organizations, Indigenous organizations, non-governmental organizations, and private sector who support activities at the local level. An annual event for over 25 years, it traditionally takes place during the first full week of May. EP Week is an opportunity for you to take action to ensure you are prepared to protect yourself, your family, and your community during an emergency. This year, the theme is Emergency Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything. The intent of this theme is to encourage Canadians to take action to become better prepared for the range of emergencies they could face in their region.

Learn More →

 

Last week was Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week), a national event supported by Public Safety Canada, working closely with provincial and territorial emergency management organizations, Indigenous organizations, non-governmental organizations, and private sector who support activities at the local level. An annual event for over 25 years, it traditionally takes place during the first full week of May.

EP Week is an opportunity for you to take action to ensure you are prepared to protect yourself, your family, and your community during an emergency.

This year, the theme is Emergency Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything. The intent of this theme is to encourage Canadians to take action to become better prepared for the range of emergencies they could face in their region.

Resources:

  1. Emergency Preparedness Week Video 2022

  2. Emergency Management Organizations

  3. Emergency Preparedness Week Toolkit

  4. Emergency Preparedness Guide

  5. Learn about hazards and other emergencies

  6. Make an emergency plan

  7. Build an emergency kit

Learn More →

 
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Tourism Kelowna Awarded Contract for Lake Country Mobile Visitor Services

The District of Lake Country announced that Tourism Kelowna has been awarded the contract to pilot mobile visitor services in the community for the summer of 2022. The pilot, which will begin in mid-May and run into September, will see mobile visitor services initiatives launched in high traffic locations around Lake Country such as beaches, parks, events, and attractions to engage with residents and visitors.

Learn More →

 

The District of Lake Country announced that Tourism Kelowna has been awarded the contract to pilot mobile visitor services in the community for the summer of 2022. The pilot, which will begin in mid-May and run into September, will see mobile visitor services initiatives launched in high traffic locations around Lake Country such as beaches, parks, events, and attractions to engage with residents and visitors.

Mobile services in the District of Lake Country will be delivered using equipment such as branded e-bikes, a tent, and roving Community Specialist staff who will distribute resources including maps, brochures, event listings, and more.

Lake Country branded merchandise will also be made available for purchase so locals and visitors can show their pride for the community. Staff will be trained using Destination British Columbia's Visitor Centre Network standards to ensure consistent service levels.

Learn More →

 
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Lynx Air Launches Affordable Air Travel Routes to/from Kelowna

Kelowna International Airport welcomed Lynx Air this week, after launching in March 2022. Lynx is currently operating two flights a week from Kelowna to each of Calgary and Vancouver, with fares as low as $39* to and from Kelowna.

As of June 29, Lynx will increase its service to Calgary to three flights per week, taking the airline's total flights in and out of Kelowna to 10 flights and 1,890 seats per week.

To commemorate Lynx's growing presence in Kelowna, the airline has launched a limited-time seat sale and is offering up to 50 per cent off all base fares to and from Kelowna. The sale will end on May 4 at 10:59 PT.

For details and to reserve discounted seats, please visit FlyLynx.com.

Read More →

 

Kelowna International Airport welcomed Lynx Air this week, after launching in March 2022. Lynx is currently operating two flights a week from Kelowna to each of Calgary and Vancouver, with fares as low as $39* to and from Kelowna.

As of June 29, Lynx will increase its service to Calgary to three flights per week, taking the airline's total flights in and out of Kelowna to 10 flights and 1,890 seats per week.

To commemorate Lynx's growing presence in Kelowna, the airline has launched a limited-time seat sale and is offering up to 50 per cent off all base fares to and from Kelowna.  The sale will end on May 4 at 10:59 PT.

For details and to reserve discounted seats, please visit FlyLynx.com.

Read More →

 
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90% of Consumers Look for Sustainable Options when Booking Travel According to Expedia Research

New research released today by Expedia Group Media Solutions reveals that although 90% of consumers look for sustainable options when booking, 70% feel overwhelmed with navigating options and making the best choices to be a more sustainable traveler.

Conducted in partnership with Wakefield Research, the study included an online survey of 11,000 representative, general population adults ages 18+ in 11 global markets fielded between February 11 and March 6, 2022.

Key Takeaways

  • Travel brands should make sustainable travel information easier to understand and show the value and impact of responsible travel choices.

  • Travellers want to know that travel brands are committed to sustainability, not just checking a box.

Additional insights from the recently released Sustainable Travel study from Expedia Group Media Solutions included price and opportunities in sustainable travel.

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New research released today by Expedia Group Media Solutions reveals that although 90% of consumers look for sustainable options when booking, 70% feel overwhelmed with navigating options and making the best choices to be a more sustainable traveler.

Conducted in partnership with Wakefield Research, the study included an online survey of 11,000 representative, general population adults ages 18+ in 11 global markets fielded between February 11 and March 6, 2022.

Key Takeaways

  • Travel brands should make sustainable travel information easier to understand and show the value and impact of responsible travel choices.

  • Travellers want to know that travel brands are committed to sustainability, not just checking a box.

Additional insights from the recently released Sustainable Travel study from Expedia Group Media Solutions included price and opportunities in sustainable travel.

Read More →

 
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Thompson Okanagan Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Thompson Okanagan Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

Destination BC Invest in Iconics Update

Destination BC, together with strategic industry advisory groups, and ITBC are in the midst of developing new brand strategies for the various Iconic routes and places across the province. The Invest in Iconics Strategy for British Columbia is focused on creating globally compelling brands for routes and places across the province that will help disperse visitors as well as help BC stand out amongst the vast array of travel choices around the world. Place Branding will present the province in a new way to create storylines about destinations that will ignite the imaginations of travellers for years to come.

Learn More →

 

Destination BC, together with strategic industry advisory groups, and ITBC are in the midst of developing new brand strategies for the various Iconic routes and places across the province.

The Invest in Iconics Strategy for British Columbia is focused on creating globally compelling brands for routes and places across the province that will help disperse visitors as well as help BC stand out amongst the vast array of travel choices around the world. Place Branding will present the province in a new way to create storylines about destinations that will ignite the imaginations of travellers for years to come.

Learn More →

 
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Thompson Okanagan Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Thompson Okanagan Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

YYF Penticton Airport Upgrade & Visit South Okanagan Posters

The Government of Canada recently renovated and expanded the YYF Penticton Airport terminal building, including new airline check-in counters, car rental kiosks, washrooms, and a visitor’s information booth. The upgraded facility also includes an expanded arrivals hall, security screening area and departure gates. The airport is also seeking a business for the upgraded food service area.

As part of the renovations, YYF added new signage, digital displays, and artwork throughout the terminal, including Visit South Okanagan posters for the South Okanagan destination community.

Read More & View Posters →

 

The Government of Canada recently renovated and expanded the YYF Penticton Airport terminal building, including new airline check-in counters, car rental kiosks, washrooms, and a visitor’s information booth. The upgraded facility also includes an expanded arrivals hall, security screening area and departure gates. The airport is also seeking a business for the upgraded food service area.

As part of the renovations, YYF added new signage, digital displays, and artwork throughout the terminal, including Visit South Okanagan posters for the South Okanagan destination community.

Read More & View Posters →

 
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