News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
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
New Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Online Courses by go2HR
go2HR is offering online Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training courses so tourism and hospitality employers can get started on their journey or continue to grow their practices.
Tailored for the tourism industry, the courses will equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to foster a culture of inclusivity in the workplace. EDI can increase employee retention, reduce absenteeism, improve on recruitment success, and have positive impacts on employee’s mental health.
go2HR is offering online Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training courses so tourism and hospitality employers can get started on their journey or continue to grow their EDI practices.
Tailored for the tourism industry, the courses will equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to foster a culture of inclusivity in the workplace.
EDI can increase employee retention, reduce absenteeism, improve on recruitment success, and have positive impacts on employee’s mental health.
The online courses are:
2SLGBTQ+ Diversity and Inclusion Training - $50
Introduction to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion - $35
Navigating Cultural Diversity in the Workplace - $40
Unconscious Bias in the Workplace - $40
People invited to test drive the next DriveBC website
The popular DriveBC website is being revamped and people are invited to provide feedback on the improvements.
Drivers use the site to plan safe and efficient trips, get the latest information on road incidents, construction and maintenance, and view hundreds of highway webcams. The new DriveBC will be easier to use, more reliable and more personalized, allowing drivers to focus on their routes.
The popular DriveBC website is being revamped and people are invited to provide feedback on the improvements.
Drivers use the site to plan safe and efficient trips, get the latest information on road incidents, construction and maintenance, and view hundreds of highway webcams. The new DriveBC will be easier to use, more reliable and more personalized, allowing drivers to focus on their routes.
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.
New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: BC Wildlife Park
BC Wildlife Park is an important community partner that works towards conserving species in British Columbia. They are home to nearly 200 animals and 65 different species native to the province. They work under their developed themes of creating positive emotional connections to wildlife, experiencing the interconnectedness of nature, and emphasizing the importance and power of individual responsibility with sustainability programs, like the Biosphere Program, to interpret BC wildlife and promote sustainability to visitors and residents alike.
Join TOTA in welcoming BC Wildlife Park to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program.
BC Wildlife Park was founded by John Moelaert after he proposed that a wildlife attraction would be beneficial to Kamloops for both visitors and residents. In February of 1966, Molson Breweries donated 106 acres of land that was previously a hops farm for the creation of a wildlife park. In August of the same year, the first exhibits were open to the public. BC Wildlife Park is now an important community partner that works towards the conservation of species in British Columbia. They are home to 65 different species native to the province and nearly 200 animals in total, including bighorn sheep, Kermode bear and western painted turtles. The Park also partners with the Burrowing Owl Conservation Society to prevent the local extinction of burrowing owls; together, they are the largest and most successful breeders of the species in the world. They also partner with the Fawcett Family Wildlife Health Centre as a dedicated wildlife rehabilitation centre that annually accepts over 600 animals from all over BC.
Sustainability Initiatives
BC Wildlife Park works under their developed themes of creating positive emotional connections to wildlife, experiencing the interconnectedness of nature, and emphasizing the importance and power of individual responsibility with sustainability programs, like the Biosphere Program, to interpret BC wildlife and promote sustainability to visitors and residents alike.
Animal Welfare
The Park is committed to the principles of ethical and scientific responsibility by providing the highest animal welfare standards. BC Wildlife Park ensures that the animals within their care have a stable diet, are provided social opportunities, and are treated in a way that avoids mental and physical suffering.
Accessibility for all Visitors
BC Wildlife Park has taken the initiative to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors. All public pathways throughout the park are paved, and the animal habitats are wheelchair accessible. They have also taken steps to create sensory-friendly experiences by offering a visual walkthrough of the park and sensory kits that are available for use during visits. BC Wildlife Park is also working on fundraising a major upgrade to the current playground, to create a more accessible and inclusive play space for kids of all ages and abilities.
Sustainable Measures at the Organization
BC Wildlife Park has made sustainable changes by implementing more reusable options around the park, such as their replacement of single-use paper maps with permanent map stations, adding water refill stations and eliminating the sales of plastic water bottles, and onsite composting which is used to fertilize the gardens around the park.
Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.
Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.
Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program
Managing Crisis Communications | BC Hotel Association Education Series in June
BC Hotel Association is offering crisis communications training for hotels to ensure teams are prepared to face the unforeseen with resilience and professionalism. This online training is held over 3 sessions in June.
BCHA's Fast Track Your Future Education Series returns for one more series this season - Managing Crisis Communications. Co-facilitated by Hatch Hospitality and tartanbond Communications
In the fast-paced world of hospitality, crises can range from natural disasters like fires and floods to complex HR issues and cybersecurity threats. Effective communication during these times is paramount to safeguarding the reputation of hotels and resorts while maintaining guest trust.
Preparation is the cornerstone of crisis management. In this series, we equip participants with essential issues management and communication tools tailored to the unique challenges of the hospitality sector. From establishing proactive response plans to implementing best practices, attendees will gain the confidence and expertise needed to navigate crises responsibly and intentionally. Join us to ensure your team is prepared to face the unforeseen with resilience and professionalism.
COURSE SCHEDULE:
· June 4th Preparedness Protocol
· June 11th Strategic Responses
· June 18th From Reaction to Recovery
Destination BC Micro-Grant Opportunity - Applications Open May 13-31, 2024
Businesses and non-profit organizations that provide tourism experiences within British Columbia are eligible to receive funding from Destination BC, through their BC Tourism Climate Resilience Initiative, of up to $15,000 to implement a project or obtain sustainability certification.
Businesses and non-profit organizations that provide tourism experiences within British Columbia are eligible to receive funding from Destination BC, through their BC Tourism Climate Resilience Initiative, of up to $15,000 to implement a project or obtain sustainability certification.
Project Two of the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI)–Micro-Grants to Support Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Plan Implementation–offers micro-grant funding for organizations that already have a sustainability or climate adaptation plan and are ready to implement the recommendations into their organization by:
purchasing equipment,
updating infrastructure,
implementing new systems, or
pursuing sustainability certification.
Benefits to businesses and organizations receiving a micro-grant include:
Support for creating long-lasting, positive impacts to help your tourism business prepare for the effects of climate change and align with provincial climate resiliency goals.
Up to $15,000 to invest in projects in your tourism business that improve responsible practices in operations to support climate change adaptation.
Potential long-term cost savings for your tourism business created by reduced energy or resource use.
Introduction of a process that promotes continuous improvement in your tourism business.
Potential recognition and credential through third-party sustainability certification.
Confidence in knowing that your tourism business is better prepared to adapt to climate events.
Learn more about the Grant opportunity and who is eligible at DestinationBC.ca
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Resource type: Funding, Training, Report, Get Involved, Guide
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Destination BC & Wine Growers BC Experiences: Sip, Smile, and Stay Awhile
Ten wineries across the province have developed completely new wine tourism experiences as part of the Cultivating Experiences: Elevating BC Wine Tourism program.
Ten wineries across the province have developed completely new wine tourism experiences as part of the Cultivating Experiences: Elevating BC Wine Tourism program. Working with Wine Growers British Columbia and Destination BC in partnership with Firecircle, and supported by Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), the wineries have been hard at work over the past few months with the goal of bringing their offerings from vision to market this summer.
The Cultivating Experiences program represents Wine Growers BC and Destination BC’s united effort to promote the province as a destination for incredible tourism experiences.
The program provided virtual workshops, valuable market research, and mentorship for each participant winery to ultimately launch a unique wine tourism experience. These Cultivating Experiences winery offerings are the latest added to the plethora of options available to those exploring BC wine country this summer:
Monte Creek Winery, Thompson Valley, Long Table Dinner Series
Maverick Estate Winery, Okanagan Valley, Intimate Dinner Series
Mythology Vineyards, Okanagan Valley, Sip, Savour & Create Mediterranean Experience, launching soon
Joie Farm Winery, Naramata Bench, Aikin’s Walk the Loop Tour Experiences, launching soon
Da Silva Vineyards & Winery, Naramata Bench, Terroir Sessions
Township7 Vineyards and Winery, Fraser Valley & Naramata Bench, Saber & Sip: The Art of Sabrage at both locations
Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery, South Okanagan Valley, Flavour, Texture & Time
Blue Grouse Estate Winery, Vancouver Island, A Sparkling Day in Cowichan
Unsworth Vineyards, Vancouver Island, A Sparkling Day in Cowichan
Culmina Family Estate Winery, Okanagan Valley, Wine & Art event
Wine Growers BC 2025 Operational Plan
Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) recently released its Fiscal 2025 Operational Plan. This year, the plan is focuses on five key Board-approved objectives:
Build a world-class brand for Wines of British Columbia
Position BC as a premier wine region with trade
Make BC wine country a benchmark for wine tourism
Strengthen wine industry leadership
Leverage government advocacy efforts
Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) recently released its Fiscal 2025 Operational Plan. This year, the plan is focuses on five key Board-approved objectives:
Build a world-class brand for Wines of British Columbia
Position BC as a premier wine region with trade
Make BC wine country a benchmark for wine tourism
Strengthen wine industry leadership
Leverage government advocacy efforts
In consideration of the challenges facing the BC wine industry, the Annual Operational Plan has been developed to address the current environment while still retaining the flexibility necessary to help industry and member wineries meet new and emerging challenges.
Destination Canada Announces New Tourism Strategy
Destination Canada President and CEO Marsha Walden and The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism, launched the new tourism strategy at Rendez-vous Canada in Edmonton, titled "A World of Opportunity."
Destination Canada President and CEO Marsha Walden and The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism, launched the new tourism strategy at Rendez-vous Canada in Edmonton, titled "A World of Opportunity."
This strategy focuses on transforming the tourism sector and positioning Canada back in the top seven global destinations by 2030.
The plan follows four strategic drivers: sector advancement, brand leadership, destination development, and collective intelligence.
For more information, see the Destination Canada Strategic Plan.
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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Watercraft transportation legal requirements to prevent invasive species, effective May 17, 2024
Effective May 17, 2024 in B.C. it is now illegal to transport your watercraft with the drain plug still in place, in order to prevent invasive species. Before transporting a boat or other watercraft, owners/operators must remove the drain plug and drain all water on dry land including all internal compartments such as ballasts, bilges, and live wells. Allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time for watercraft and/or equipment before entering new waters.
Effective May 17, 2024 in B.C. it is now illegal to transport your watercraft with the drain plug still in place.
Before transporting a boat or other watercraft, owners/operators must remove the drain plug and drain all water on dry land including all internal compartments such as ballasts, bilges, and live wells. Operators should also allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time for watercraft and/or equipment before entering new waters.
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Erik Fisher Appointed as New CEO of Tourism Kamloops
Tourism Kamloops' Board of Directors announced the appointment of Erik Fisher as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Tourism Kamloops' Board of Directors announced the appointment of Erik Fisher as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Erik brings a wealth of tourism experience including brand and destination development at several premium winery establishments across BC, including Kamloops’ own Monte Creek Winery.
Erik is no stranger to the tourism landscape of Kamloops, having contributed to the local industry and serving on many boards, including the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Wine Growers British Columbia. Under Erik’s leadership, Tourism Kamloops will focus on leveraging his expertise in destination development and strategic brand marketing to enhance the city's profile as a must-visit location. His appointment comes at a time when the organization is poised to take significant strides in promoting tourism and fostering economic growth within the region.
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Township 7 Winery launches Annual Support, Ship & Sip campaign to support industry members in need
In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. Visit Township 7 campaign page during the month of May to make a purchase or direct donation.
Township 7 Winery has announced the launch of its fifth annual Ship, Sip & Support charity campaign, benefiting the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF). Dedicated to assisting hospitality and tourism workers facing unexpected health challenges, BCHF has provided critical support to over 300 individuals since its inception in 2006.
In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. These contributions will directly aid BCHF's mission of providing essential financial assistance to those in need within the hospitality industry.
Supporters can join Township 7 Winery in their efforts by visiting Township 7 campaign page during the month of May to make a purchase or make a direct donation.
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New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Prestige Beach House Kelowna
Join TOTA in welcoming the Prestige Beach House Kelowna to the Biosphere Commitment Program. The Biosphere Program ensured that the ecological efforts and the service Prestige Beach House Kelowna provided to their guests aligned with their sustainable actions.
Join TOTA in welcoming Prestige Beach House Kelowna to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program.
The Prestige Beach House is located in downtown Kelowna, BC, and is the first accommodation you’ll see when entering Kelowna off the W.R. Bennett Bridge. It is located directly across the street from Kelowna’s City Park, offering visitors a prime location to the lake and all the amenities of downtown Kelowna.
Sustainability Initiatives
The Prestige Beach House Kelowna is inspired to make sustainable choices by following the company's Prestige in Balance program. Joining the Biosphere Program ensured that their ecological efforts and the service they provide to their guests aligned with their sustainable actions and with the help of their Biosphere Program Success Advisor, Prestige Beach House discovered the resources for sustainable initiatives available to them as Biosphere Program members. The Prestige Beach House Kelowna is working on sustainability initiatives in all three of the SDG fields, including environment and climate change, society and culture, and governance and economy, as they work towards certification.
Assistant General Manager Tyler Bolen believes that Biosphere is an essential program “for a real serious look into the world of sustainability,” and offers businesses a “platform to see how globally businesses compare to each other globally and how the standards vary from place to place.”
Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.
Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.
Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program
New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa
Join TOTA in welcoming Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa to the Biosphere Commitment Program. Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley for generations to come. They believe sustainable practices can benefit the current and future environment while providing eco-conscious guest experiences.
Join TOTA in welcoming Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program.
Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is tucked in between Penticton and Kelowna in beautiful Summerland, BC. The resort is located on Okanagan Lake and offers countless amenities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year including live music evenings, yoga, painting sessions, Wine Wednesdays, and numerous family activities. Visitors can also enjoy the onsite spa, watercraft rentals, and restaurants as well as nearby wineries, cideries, and breweries.
Sustainability Initiatives
Summerland Waterfront Resort is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley for generations to come. They believe sustainable practices can benefit the current and future environment while providing eco-conscious guest experiences.
Summerland Waterfront Resort worked closely with TOTA’s Biosphere Program Success Advisor, Kavan, who helped guide the resort towards being Biosphere Committed. Once they started, the resort was pleasantly surprised at how quickly they could progress through implementing sustainable changes to their current business practices. The guidance and support from the program and platform helped them navigate and understand the steps necessary to achieve the sustainability goals they had made for themselves.
General Manager Lisa Jaager invites others in the tourism industry to use the Biosphere Program to implement sustainable actions into their business practices. “We would encourage other businesses to embrace the challenge and take the first step, as the rewards of participating in the Biosphere program extend far beyond initial hurdles. It has been a transformative experience for us, and we believe it can be for others as well.”
Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.
Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.
Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program
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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Wells Gray Tours Donates $50,000 to BC Parks Foundation, for expansion of Okanagan Lake Provincial Park
Wells Gray Tours, a leading tour operator with five offices in British Columbia, announced their annual donation of $50,000 to the BC Parks Foundation. This generous contribution will support the acquisition of 28 acres on Okanagan Lake and the expansion of Okanagan Lake Provincial Park.
Wells Gray Tours, a leading tour operator with five offices in British Columbia, announced their annual donation of $50,000 to the BC Parks Foundation. This generous contribution will support the acquisition of 28 acres on Okanagan Lake and the expansion of Okanagan Lake Provincial Park.
Founded in May 1972 by Roland Neave, Wells Gray Tours emerged from a fervent mission to protect the natural wonders of Wells Gray Park. Initially conceived to advocate against proposed dams on the Clearwater River, the company has since grown into the largest outbound tour operator in the B.C. Interior. Over the past 52 years, Wells Gray Tours has remained steadfast in its dedication to offering unparalleled travel experiences while championing environmental sustainability.
"The heart of Wells Gray Tours has always been a burning desire to preserve the natural beauty of our environment," said Roland Neave, Founder of Wells Gray Tours. "Our commitment to environmental stewardship is woven into the fabric of our company. We are proud to continue this tradition and the donation is given on a rotational basis each year through one of our five offices, Kamloops, Kelowna. Penticton, Vernon, and Victoria who select a project. Our Kelowna office this year has chosen to support the BC Parks Foundation in their efforts to protect and expand Okanagan Lake Provincial Park."
The donation from Wells Gray Tours will contribute significantly to the BC Parks Foundation's mission to enhance and expand the park. The acquisition of additional land on Okanagan Lake will not only safeguard vital habitats, but also provide greater opportunities for outdoor recreation and education for generations to come.
The 2025 donation of $50,000 will be handled by Wells Gray Tours' Penticton office and will go to an environmental or conservation project in the South Okanagan. Charitable organizations are welcome to submit proposals until April 30, 2025.
For more information contact Joan Niemeier, 1-250-826-6650.
St. Jude's Anglican Church in Greenwood Destroyed by Fire
A massive overnight fire in Greenwood, BC destroyed the original St. Jude’s Anglican Church and historic elementary school, as a well as one home. No lives were lost and the rest of the town was protected, thanks to the hard work of the firefighters.
A massive overnight fire in Greenwood, BC destroyed the original St. Jude’s Anglican Church, the historic elementary school, one home, and a garage. No lives were lost and the rest of the town was protected, thanks to the hard work of the firefighters.
The church dated to 1901, and was the second oldest remaining church in Greenwood. The building was a connection to the earliest days of the city and the region. Over 123 years, generations attended for baptisms, weddings, funerals, and other events.
Our hearts go out to the community of Greenwood and the many people who felt a connection to the St. Jude’s Anglican Church.
Predator Ridge Announces Ritz-Carlton Residences
Predator Ridge is bringing the Ritz-Carlton Residences to the Okanagan region in 2026. This is the first Ritz-Carlton standalone branded residential development in Western Canada.
Congratulations to Predator Ridge as they bring a luxury brand to the Okanagan Region. Predator Ridge, owned by Wesbild Holdings Ltd., will build the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Residences, Okanagan, in 2026. This will be the first Ritz-Carlton standalone branded residential development in Western Canada.
The development will be situated above the Outlook neighborhood and feature high-end luxury homes and villas. The Residences are a major step forward for Predator Ridge and the surrounding area, providing ample opportunities to stimulate growth within the Canadian economy.
There has been a growing consumer demand for branded, standalone properties within resort-style, amenity-rich communities with Residences currently in Montreal and Toronto. The Ritz-Carlton is a world-renowned luxury brand that is continuing to grow in Canada.
For more information, see the Predator Ridge Media Release.