tourism industry association of bc

• Wine Program
• Local Flavours Program
• Outdoor Trail Guide
• Meetings & Conferences Sales
• Arts & Culture Program
• Digital Display Advertising
• Visitor Centre Display Advertising
• Brochure Racking
• Monthly Newsletter Sponsored Placement
• Online Advertising
• Relocation Guide
• How Can You Participate?
• Biosphere Committed Businesses
• Safety & Emergency Preparedness
• Partner Portal Login
• Digital Assets Requests
• Subscribe to Receive Updates
• Report to the Community
• Tourism Research
• Virtual Backgrounds
• Economic Sector Strategy
• Cycle & Savour
• Wine & Culinary
• Wellness & Outdoor
• Meetings Facilities
• Quick Facts
• Virtual Experiences
• #meetinKelowna Blog
• Accommodations
• Transportation Services
• Weddings & Events
• Wine & Food Tours
• Outdoor Itineraries
• Urban Adventures
• Family Itineraries
• Meetings & Groups
• Arts & Culture
• Familiarization Tours
• Promo Video
• Kelowna Photos
• Virtual Destination Showcase
• Sports Facilities
• How We Can Help
• 2025 Montana's Brier
• Media Requests
• Work With Us
• Story Ideas
• Hosting Policy
• Writer Application Form
• Non-Local Creators
• Local Creators
• Creator Guidelines
• Photo & Video Requests
• About Kelowna & Region
• Destination Copy
• #exploreKelowna Blog
• Events Calendar
• Indigenous Heritage
• #exploreKelowna Creators
• Realtors & Services
• Value of Tourism
• Visitor Centre
• Volunteer with Tourism Kelowna
• Board of Directors
• Destination Development
• Sustainability Indicators
• Online Retail Store
• Events Happening Today
• Events Happening this Weekend
• Submit an Event
• Subscribe to our Newsletters
• Spring Break in Kelowna
• Why Spring is a Great Time to Visit Kelowna
• Blossoms in Kelowna
• Why Spring Wine Touring in Kelowna is Incredible
• Golf Couples Getaway
• Spring Hikes to Check Out
• 5 Ways to Enjoy Summer in Kelowna
• Family-Friendly Activities to Add to Your Summer Checklist
• Fruit Picking
• Must Visit Restaurant Patios
• Loving Lake Life with the Family
• Perfect Long Weekend Itinerary
• Meet me on Bernard
• Ultimate Kelowna Itinerary for Your Summer Road Trip
• Why Fall Wine Touring is the Best
• Taste Kelowna's Fall Bounty
• Fall Hiking
• Multi-day Itinerary to Build Your Own Adventure
• Golden Larch Season is a Photographer's Dream
• Family Fall Adventures
• Delectable Farm-to-Table Restaurants
• Valentine's Day
• Family Day Weekend
• Hiking & Snowshoeing
• Nordic Skiing
• Ski Resorts
• Winter in Wine Country
• Winter Weekend in Kelowna with Kids
• Winter Holidays
• Local Flavours
• Attractions
• Cultural District
• Festivals & Associations
• Galleries & Studios
• Movie Theatres
• Performing Arts
• Uptown Rutland Murals Pass
• 10 Family Friendly Activities
• Spending a Day at the Lake with the Kids
• Indoor Activities with Kids
• 48 Hours in Kelowna for Families
• Farm to Table Tours
• Blossom & Harvest Dates
• Local Flavours Pass
• Golf Courses
• Build Your Golf Packages
• Off The Course
• Golf Events
• Golf Kelowna Guide
• Guided Wine Tours
• Guided Tours
• Health & Beauty
• Urban Adventure
• Bike Rentals & Services
• Crawford Trails
• Gillard Trails
• Knox Mountain Park
• Smith Creek Trails
• Dog Friendly Patios
• All Hiking Trails
• Family Hikes
• Picnic Hikes
• Spring Hikes
• Waterfall Hikes
• Winter Hikes
• Beaches & Parks
• Boating & Marinas
• Boat Launches
• Kelowna Paddle Trail
• Scuba Diving
• Motorbiking
• Myra Canyon Trestles
• Okanagan Rail Trail
• Rock Climbing & Bouldering
• All Wineries
• Dog Friendly Wineries
• Tour by Glass
• Wine Touring 101
• Kelowna Wineries
• West Kelowna Wineries
• Lake Country Wineries
• All Restaurants
• Delicious Desserts
• Farm to Table Dining
• Food Trucks
• Local Favourites
• Vegan Dining
• All Craft Beverages
• Distilleries in Kelowna
• What Makes Okanagan Cider So Special
• Local Flavours & Wine Trails Passes
• Packages & Promotions
• Hotels, Motels & Resorts
• B&B & Specialty Lodging
• Cabins & Cottages
• Vacation Rentals
• Camping & RV Parks
• Dog-Friendly Accommodations
• Current Conditions
• About Kelowna
• Downtown Kelowna
• Kelowna's North End
• Pandosy Village
• West Kelowna
• Westbank First Nation
• Lake Country
• Farms & Orchards
• Land as Heritage and Home
• Historic Sites
• Historic Westside Road
• Interesting Facts
• Electric Car Charging Stations
• Kelowna Maps
• Public Transit
• Transportation
• Public Restrooms
• Wine & Food
• Family Friendly Accessible Adventures
• Adaptive Ski & Snowboard Lessons
• Tips for Enjoying Kelowna Responsibly
• Wellness Travel
• Outdoor Safety
• Lake & Boating Safety
• Ways to Explore Safely in Kelowna
• COVID Health & Safety Information
• Laws & Regulations
• Currency & Taxes
• Gratuities & Tipping
• Entry Regulations
• Visitor Guide
• Family Friendly Itinerary
• Wine & Food Itinerary
• Urban Adventure Itinerary
• Golf Kelowna Itinerary
• Build Your Own Itinerary
• Additional Resources
• Blog Homepage
• Latest Blog Posts

BC Tourism Industry Conference 2024 Recap

The BC Tourism Industry Conference 2024 , organized by the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC), was held last week in Victoria, BC. Over 460 delegates from around the province attended, ready to tackle issues and discuss opportunities for the industry under the theme 'Shaping our Future Together.'  

Plenary sessions at the conference included updates and presentations from national industry associations, Destination Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. Destination British Columbia (DBC) showcased its Invest in Iconics Strategy in a plenary session and fireside chat, as well as through a workshop session. Other in-depth learning sessions covered topics such as tourism innovation, employee mental health and wellness, gender equity, DEIA, sustainability, the impact of AI, and more.

Premier David Eby, The Honourable Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport, and The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, were on hand to participate in plenary and workshop sessions. 

In addition to the professional development sessions, some of BC's top tourism talent was honoured at the annual BC Tourism Industry Awards. Our organization was one of three finalists in the Community Contribution & Impact category, while the Rotary Centre for the Arts was a finalist in the Remarkable Experience category. We congratulate our fellow category nominee,  Prince of Whales Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures , who took home the Community Contribution & Impact Award, and all of this year's award winners. We were honoured to be nominated alongside so many deserving nominees.

Key Takeaways

• Destination British Columbia’s Iconics Strategy has launched with the Rainforest to Rockies (Vancouver Coast & Mountains & Thompson Okanagan) and The Great Wilderness Route (Northern BC). The Iconics program is designed to create geographical dispersion throughout the province. Although the Rainforest to Rockies route does not directly feature the Okanagan Valley, it has connected elements. Five more Iconics routes will be launched in the coming years.
• DBC's Destination Development grant program is underway, where $3,000 microgrants will be given out to selected businesses for product development.
• Sustainability and Stewardship, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Indigenous Reconciliation were at the core of every session, workshop, and session and will be major topics of all future grants and development.
• The Province of British Columbia is rewriting many of its emergency response legislation in the coming years. Emergency Management BC's four focus areas are Mitigation, Preparation, Response, and Recovery.
• Premier David Eby acknowledged that tourism is the largest sector in British Columbia, larger than oil & gas, mining, and others.
• Topics discussed in the sessions and Q&A periods with the Provincial and Federal Ministers included the development of international relationships and the New Mexican Visa program, sustainability, including economic, environmental, and social/cultural aspects, short-term rentals, and much-needed support for the hospitality/restaurant sector and the BC wine industry.
• During question periods with various levels of government, I raised additional topics besides those mentioned above, including invasive species, air route development, the tourism sector in the new BC budget, short-term rentals, and much-needed community infrastructure.

Next year's conference will be held in Vancouver; anyone in the province's tourism industry is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Chris Lewis, Director of Destination Development

• Privacy Policy

English | Français

Tourism Kelowna would like to thank Westbank First Nation and Okanagan Indian Band for the privilege to live, work, and play on the tm̓xʷúlaʔxʷ (land), that is the unceded and traditional territory of syilx Okanagan peoples, the original stewards of these lands and to whom we give thanks to as our hosts

Kelowna Visitor Centre: 

238 Queensway

Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 6S4 Canada

1-800-663-4345

© 2024 Tourism Kelowna

Nuevos requisitos de visa para ciudadanos mexicano (New visa requirements information for Mexican passport holders)

• Meetings & Conventions
• Travel Trade

Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIA BC)

• #200 - 948 Howe Street
• Vancouver, BC V6Z 1N9
• Phone: 604.685.5956

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) advocates for the interests of British Columbia’s $15 billion+ visitor economy. As a not-for-profit tourism industry association, TIABC works collaboratively with its members – private sector tourism businesses, industry associations and destination marketing organizations – to ensure the best working environment for a competitive tourism industry.

We have taken significant steps to modernize our organization by expanding membership to include all sector businesses and destination marketing organizations, updating our governance model, and by establishing progressive methods to better distill issues and provide practical solutions. A world-class industry that competes in a tough, global marketplace requires a respected trade association that adheres to best practices in research-based policy development and advocacy.

TIABC’s vision is for the tourism industry to be recognized as one of British Columbia’s leading and sustainable industries. As the primary advocate for B.C.’s visitor economy, TIABC unites operators, sectors, DMOs, government and residents to support and be passionate about making this province a great place for tourism.

• Trip Advisor
• Related Businesses

Want the inside scoop? Sign up for our newsletter!

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines

Opinion: Why B.C. tourism is a beacon of resilience and opportunity

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

Tourism Week is a time to reflect on and celebrate one of British Columbia's most vibrant and essential industries.

Tourism is more than just a sector, it's the heartbeat of our province and communities, and at this very moment, people all over the world are planning to visit our world-class destination.

B.C. is recognized for its stunning landscapes and mountain ranges, the Pacific coastline, vibrant arts and cultural events and attractions, and authentic Indigenous experiences. But it is the more than 154,000 passionate individuals who work in the tourism industry who uphold our reputation as a must-visit destination. From tour guides and transportation providers to hotel staff, visitor centres and restaurant staff, each person is integral to the visitor experience. People working in the tourism industry showcase the best of B.C. and enrich the visitor experience, often turning tourists into ambassadors who share their stories with friends and family in all corners of the world.

Tourism is one of British Columbia's greatest economic drivers, generating more than $18 billion in revenue in 2022 and contributing $7.2 billion to our provincial GDP. That's more than any other resource industry, including forestry ($1.7 billion), agriculture and fisheries ($3.4 billion), oil and gas ($4.5 billion), and even mining ($5.4 billion). It's also one of the largest employers in the province and is mostly made up of small businesses (92 per cent) and people who have dedicated their lives to the sector.

An integral and deeply enriching part of B.C.'s tourism industry is Indigenous tourism. We know visitors are increasingly seeking sustainable travel opportunities that help preserve, rather than degrade, natural spaces. Through experiences such as storytelling, guided nature and wildlife viewing tours, Indigenous tourism not only educates but also fosters respect and appreciation for the traditions and histories that have shaped, and continue to shape, this land. The growing number of Indigenous-led tourism businesses and interest in authentic experiences is a testament to the richness of Indigenous cultures and the importance of reconciliation.

B.C.'s tourism industry is not without challenges. Together, we have worked to recover from a pandemic while facing the pressures of inflation, workforce challenges and recent climate-related events such as wildfires, flooding and drought. When there's a crisis in B.C., it affects the tourism sector and the people who care about it. But because people in the tourism sector are so resilient, we've seen tremendous progress toward recovery and increased optimism across communities, tourism businesses and people interested in visiting British Columbia.

Domestic and international flights are bringing visitors from every corner of the world. Events and festivals have returned. Hotels are filling up. We had a record-breaking cruise ship season last year, and our world-class hospitality and attractions continue to be the reason people want to visit B.C. over and over. A new cruise ship season has started, and we are expecting another record 1.27 million passengers in Vancouver in 2024, and another 300 ships that will visit Victoria. And for the first time in five years, the Port of Nanaimo is preparing to welcome cruise ships this season.

We will continue to work together to rebuild so we are even better than before. This includes new short-term rental legislation to create a better balance between homes for people, including tourism workers and visitor accommodations, and hiring and retaining skilled employees who are needed for businesses to operate at full capacity.

We have a lot to look forward to this year. With more than 1,100 fairs, festivals and events receiving support this year, hundreds of thousands of visitors throughout the province will travel, stay in accommodations, and contribute to local economies.

We remain confident about the future of tourism in B.C., thanks to the thousands of people throughout the province whose ongoing commitment to excellence elevates B.C.'s reputation as a world-class destination. This industry not only fuels our economy, but also enriches our culture, cares deeply for the environment, and continues to offer unforgettable experiences. Please join us in celebrating Tourism Week and the beauty of “Super, Natural” British Columbia.

Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC Brenda Baptiste, board chair, Indigenous Tourism BC Ingrid Jarrett, president and CEO, British Columbia Hotel Association Richard Porges, president and CEO, Destination British Columbia

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

More commentary.

• Campus scene

You are here

A time to celebrate bc’s tourism industry.

Tourism Week is a time to reflect on and celebrate one of British Columbia’s most vibrant and essential industries. Tourism is more than just a sector, it’s the heartbeat of our province and communities, and at this very moment, people all over the world are planning to visit our world-class destination.

B.C. is recognized for its stunning landscapes and mountain ranges, the Pacific coastline, vibrant arts and cultural events and attractions, and authentic Indigenous experiences. But it is the more than 154,000 passionate individuals who work in the tourism industry who uphold our reputation as a must-visit destination. From tour guides and transportation providers to hotel staff, visitor centres and restaurant staff, each person is integral to the visitor experience. People working in the tourism industry showcase the best of B.C. and enrich the visitor experience, often turning tourists into ambassadors who share their stories with friends and family in all corners of the world.

Tourism is one of British Columbia’s greatest economic drivers, generating more than $18 billion in revenue in 2022 and contributing $7.2 billion to our provincial GDP. That’s more than any other resource industry, including forestry  ( $1.7 billion), agriculture and fisheries ($3.4 billion), oil and gas ($4.5 billion), and even mining ($5.4 billion). It’s also one of the largest employers in the province and is mostly made up of small businesses (92%) and people who have dedicated their lives to the sector.

An integral and deeply enriching part of B.C.’s tourism industry is Indigenous tourism. We know visitors are increasingly seeking sustainable travel opportunities that help preserve, rather than degrade, natural spaces. Through experiences such as storytelling, guided nature and wildlife viewing tours, Indigenous tourism not only educates but also fosters respect and appreciation for the traditions and histories that have shaped, and continue to shape, this land.

The growing number of Indigenous-led tourism businesses and interest in authentic experiences is a testament to the richness of Indigenous cultures and the importance of reconciliation.

B.C.’s tourism industry is not without challenges. Together, we have worked to recover from a pandemic while facing the pressures of inflation, workforce challenges and recent climate-related events such as wildfires, flooding and drought. When there’s a crisis in B.C., it affects the tourism sector and the people who care about it. But because people in the tourism sector are so resilient, we’ve seen tremendous progress toward recovery and increased optimism across communities, tourism businesses and people interested in visiting British Columbia.

Domestic and international flights are bringing visitors from every corner of the world. Events and festivals have returned. Hotels are filling up. We had a record-breaking cruise ship season last year, and our world-class hospitality and attractions continue to be the reason people want to visit B.C. over and over.

A new cruise ship season has started, and we are expecting another record 1.27 million passengers in Vancouver in 2024, and another 300 ships that will visit Victoria. And for the first time in five years, the Port of Nanaimo is preparing to welcome cruise ships this season.

We will continue to work together to rebuild so we are even better than before.

This includes new short-term rental legislation to create a better balance between homes for people, including tourism workers and visitor accommodations, and hiring and retaining skilled employees who are needed for businesses to operate at full capacity.

We have a lot to look forward to this year. With more than 1,100 fairs, festivals and events receiving support this year, hundreds of thousands of visitors throughout the province will travel, stay in accommodations, and contribute to local economies.

We remain confident about the future of tourism in B.C., thanks to the thousands of people throughout the province whose ongoing commitment to excellence elevates B.C.’s reputation as a world-class destination. This industry not only fuels our economy, but also enriches our culture, cares deeply for the environment, and continues to offer unforgettable experiences.

Please join us in celebrating Tourism Week and the beauty of Super, Natural British Columbia.

This guest commentary was submitted by Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC, Brenda Baptiste, board chair, Indigenous Tourism BC, Ingrid Jarrett, president and CEO, British Columbia Hotel Association and Richard Porges, president and CEO, Destination British Columbia.

• Juju Online Friends
• Huffington Post
• Boing Boing
• Vancouver Sun
• The Province
• Calgary Herald

Asianpacificpost.com © Copyright Asianpacificpost.com 1997-2011

Support Independent News!

Get the latest stories and updates straight to your newsfeed..

2023 Resident Perceptions of BC's Tourism Industry Survey Results Now Available

Explore findings from this annual publication, conducted with BC residents to understand their perceptions of the economic, social/cultural, and environmental impacts of tourism.

Congratulations Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Program Winners!

12 finalists will bring new tourism ideas to life to enhance the road-trip traveller experience along the Rainforest to Rockies corridors in BC.

BC's Visitor Centres Receive Funding for Community-Based Experience Enhancement

20 Visitor Centres will implement projects by summer 2025 to enhance the visitor experience and grow tourism across all regions and seasons.

Destination BC, a provincial Crown corporation, leads the marketing of British Columbia as a tourist destination and promotes the development and growth of the provincial tourism industry.

Destination BC is focused on attracting overnight visitors to the province, by promoting our Super, Natural British Columbia® brand to the world, and increasing tourism revenues by supporting industry in the development and delivery of remarkable experiences.

We work collaboratively with industry, regional, community, and Indigenous partners.

In late February 2023, Destination BC launched a new 2023-2025 corporate strategy, which cascades from the Provincial Strategic Framework for Tourism and is designed to deliver strong, sustainable growth. It outlines our new path for success and provides clarity about the choices we will make over the next three years, and beyond. The strategy outlines our intention to focus on the following levers, to improve BC’s competitiveness and improve the quality of life for people living in British Columbia through tourism over the long term.

•    Compelling Reasons to Explore BC •    A Globally Competitive Tourism Ecosystem •    Respectful Growth of Indigenous Tourism

Learn more about the 2023-2025 corporate strategy, here .

Explore our Learning Centre

Open 24/7, access free resources and tools, featuring articles, guides, templates, and videos.

How to Work With Us

Destination Management

Funding Sources

BC’s Destination Brand

Research & insights, industry performance, regional research, market research, activity research, news and events, bc government news release: new rules take effect to rein in short-term rentals, deliver more homes, destination bc releases 2023 survey results on resident perceptions of bc’s tourism industry, entrepreneurs awarded grants and mentorships to help spark new tourism ideas in bc, bc’s visitor centres receive funding for community-based experience enhancement, supporting compelling reasons for people to explore bc.

Destination British Columbia acknowledges with gratitude the xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱ wu7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tseleil-Waututh Nation) on whose shared territories we operate our main office.

We respectfully recognise that we carry out our work on the territories of Indigenous Peoples throughout BC. We honour our ongoing and developing relationships with First Nations (status and non-status), Inuit, and Métis Peoples. We are on a path of learning and are committed to working together.

Subscribe to Directions , Destination BC’s e-newsletter.

Receive the latest information as it relates to BC tourism.

Destination BC

Official websites.

HelloBC.com

Be inspired to start planning your BC Vacation.

Travel Media

Information for journalists, editors and broadcasters.

Tourism Business Portal

Online, self-service business listings system for tourism industry.

Subscribe to our newsletter

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation
• Skip to site search
• Skip to side bar
• Skip to footer

BC Gov News

• News Archive
• Live Webcast
• Office of the Premier
• Agriculture and Food
• Attorney General
• Children and Family Development
• Citizens' Services
• Education and Child Care
• Emergency Management and Climate Readiness
• Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation
• Environment and Climate Change Strategy
• Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
• Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat
• Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
• Mental Health and Addictions
• Municipal Affairs
• Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
• Public Safety and Solicitor General
• Social Development and Poverty Reduction
• Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
• Transportation and Infrastructure
• Water, Land and Resource Stewardship

Historic B.C. legislation introduced recognizing Haida Aboriginal title

New agritech plant anchors B.C.’s industrial blueprint

More from the premier.

• Factsheets & Opinion Editorials
• Search News
• Premier's Bio

Province strengthens drought preparedness

B.C. vineyards, orchards receive help to replant for changing climate

More from this ministry.

• Minister's Bio

New legislation aims to remove systemic barriers for Indigenous, racialized people

B.C. acts to protect kids, school staff from disruptive protests

Expanded eligibility, new supports available for current, former youth in care.

New position expedites progress on Indigenous child welfare

Governments of canada and british columbia working together to bring high-speed internet to more than 7,500 households.

Michael McEvoy to serve as interim information and privacy commissioner

B.c. takes action to improve literacy for students.

More spaces coming for elementary students in Burnaby

Stronger local-disaster response will keep people safer.

More than $26 million invested in disaster mitigation infrastructure improvements across British Columbia

Bc hydro issues call for new clean electricity to power b.c.’s future.

New legislation ensures B.C. benefits from clean, affordable electricity

Park additions boost outdoor recreation, strengthen ecosystem protection, reducing emissions for a cleaner future for british columbians, budget 2024: taking action for people, families in b.c..

Climate action tax credit helps people with everyday costs

B.c. plants its 10-billionth tree.

B.C. continues investments to support forest sector

Launch of spring covid-19 vaccine boosters marks end of respiratory illness season, province takes more actions to strengthen primary care for people, b.c. builders can now use mass timber in taller buildings.

More than 70 temporary housing units will open in Chilliwack

Haida nation, b.c. recognize haida aboriginal title, a historic first in canada, throne speech lays out vision of a stronger b.c. that works better for people.

Province honours people providing extraordinary community service

Funding will strengthen rural Kootenay economies

2024 minimum wage increases confirmed, minister’s and parliamentary secretary’s statement on construction and skilled trades month, b.c.’s first detox services for indigenous youth coming to island.

Mental-health, addiction supports for youth expand in the Interior

Expanding multi-language support, services for newcomers, construction underway on cowichan sportsplex field house, new legislation recognizes work of first nations post-secondary institutes.

TradeUpBC builds, enhances tradespeoples’ skills

New digital platform improves response, safety for people in crisis in port moody.

New legislation paves the way for police reform

Budget 2024 supports improvements to treatment, recovery services.

Changes aim to help people out of poverty

Engagement launched for canadians of south asian heritages museum.

Historic water bomber destined for wildfire aviation exhibit

Province, yvr work together to support good jobs, fight pollution.

Airport improvements support services, growth for communities

Province supports new weir to keep cowichan river flowing.

Province strengthens flood defences, protecting people, communities

New rules take effect to rein in short-term rentals, deliver more homes.

Honourable Ravi Kahlon

Minister of Housing and Government House Leader

Email: [email protected]

Translations

News release, media contacts, bhinder sajan, ministry of housing.

• Visit Ministry Website

Featured Topics

• Progress on Homes for B.C.

Featured Services

• Strata Housing
• Building and Safety Standards
• Residential Tenancy Branch

New short-term rental rules that will deliver more homes for people are set to come into effect on May 1, 2024, as the Province releases additional information to guide hosts, platforms and visitors through the changes.

“The effect of short-term rental apps like Airbnb, VRBO and others has been the loss of thousands of long-term rental homes in the midst of a housing crisis, driving up the cost of housing for British Columbians,” said Premier David Eby. “That’s why our government has created balanced new rules to crack down on speculators who are effectively operating mini hotels, while also ensuring homeowners can still rent out spaces in their principal residence. As we’ve already seen, these new rules are turning short-term rentals back into homes for people who live and work in our communities.”

The new rules are aimed at reining in the growing short-term rental market that is taking homes off the market. Analysis from short-term rental data analytics company AirDNA, from March 2024, shows that more than 19,000 entire homes in B.C. are being listed as short-term rentals for the majority of a calendar year. Data from a McGill University professor about short-term rentals in B.C. also shows in June 2023 that the top 10% of hosts earn nearly half of all revenue.

“We are in a housing crisis that requires strong action to deliver more housing for the people who live and work in our communities,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “The changes passed last fall to tackle the growing short-term rental challenges are already bringing more long-term homes back onto the market. As the rules for hosts and platforms come into effect, we are taking another strong step to deliver more long-term homes for people in communities throughout B.C.”

The new rules that will take effect May 1, 2024, are:

• The Principal Residence Requirement, meaning short-term rentals can only be offered in the principal residence of a host, plus one additional unit, secondary suite or laneway home/garden suite on the property in communities where populations are greater than 10,000 people.
• The Principal Residence Requirement will function as a provincewide floor for communities with populations of more than 10,000 people, but local governments will still be able to use existing bylaws and introduce additional bylaws that are more restrictive.
• The Principal Residence Requirement will come into effect in more than 60 communities throughout B.C. 
• Strata hotels and motels that have been operating in a manner similar to a hotel or motel before Dec. 8, 2023, and that meet select criteria moving forward, will be exempt from the Principal Residence Requirement.
• Non-conforming use of property will no longer apply to short-term rentals. Under previous legal non-conforming use protections, if an existing use of land or a building did not conform to the new bylaw, it would have generally continued with legal non-conforming use. 
• Short-term rental hosts will be required to display a valid business licence number on their listing, where a business licence is required by a local government.
• Short-term rental platforms will be required to share data with the Province.
• Local governments can request that a platform remove listings that do not display a valid business licence.

In addition to the short-term rental rules going into effect, 17 communities initially exempt from the legislation have requested to opt in to the Principal Residence Requirement. For those communities, the new short-term rental rules will take effect on Nov. 1, 2024. A full list is included in Backgrounder 2.

A first-of-its-kind in Canada, the short-term rental data portal has been created to support local governments with monitoring and enforcement of short-term rental regulations and will allow local governments to have the platform companies remove listings that do not comply.

The Provincial Short-Term Rental Compliance Enforcement Unit, which will be phased in beginning May 1, will also be able to conduct investigations into alleged non-compliance, which may result in administrative monetary penalties and compliance orders. Administrative penalties for hosts breaking the rules can range from $500 to $5,000 a day per infraction, and up to $10,000 per day for corporations, depending on the infraction. Visitors and guests will not face any fines. The unit will also facilitate data sharing and requests to platforms to remove listings.

Visitors with stays booked after May 1, 2024, at short-term rentals are encouraged to check with their host directly to confirm the host is complying with their local government regulations and with B.C.’s new short-term rental rules.

Full requirements for hosts and platforms to comply with the new rules have also been released and are available in Backgrounder 1 and here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals

Turning more short-term rentals into long-term homes is part of the Province’s Homes for People action plan. Announced in spring 2023, it sets out further actions to deliver the homes people need faster, while creating more vibrant communities throughout B.C.

Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) –

“TIABC applauds the government for listening to the tourism sector and introducing regulations that will address housing shortages in visitor-dependent communities and give municipalities the tools they need to manage short-term rentals. From our perspective, the Province has found the right balance to provide more permanent homes for workers in tourism and other sectors, while also ensuring a range of accommodation options for visitors."

Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver –

“These short-term rental rules are vital in tackling the housing crisis not just in Vancouver, but across British Columbia. We’re eager to implement these new tools and collaborate with platforms to ensure short-term rentals in Vancouver align with these regulations. These measures lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and equitable housing landscape where Vancouver residents can thrive.” 

Learn More:

To learn more about the rules that take effect May 1, 2024, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/ShortTermRentals

To learn more about government’s Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing

Two backgrounders follow.  

Backgrounders

What visitors, hosts, platforms and local governments need to know ahead of may 1, 2024.

As of May 1, 2024, there are new rules for short-term rental hosts and platforms in B.C. This information is relevant if you:

• have a short-term rental booked in B.C. after May 1, 2024
• are a host operating a short-term rental in B.C. after May 1, 2024
• are a short-term rental platform booking short-term rentals in B.C. after May 1, 2024
• are a local government official enacting provincial regulations in B.C. after May 1, 2024

Visitors travelling to B.C. staying in a short-term rental

Visitors will continue to be welcomed in British Columbia and will still be able to stay in short-term rental accommodations that operate within local and provincial rules, along with hotels and motels and other accommodation not covered by the new short-term rental rules.

Visitors staying at short-term rentals after May 1, 2024, are encouraged to check with the host to ensure they comply with their local government regulations and with B.C.’s new short-term rental rules that come into effect.

Guests will not be fined for staying in a short-term rental that does not comply with the rules. The responsibility to comply with new short-term rental regulations is on the host and the short-term platform. A full list of communities and an interactive map of where the Principal Residence requirement applies can be found here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement

For more information for visitors staying at a short-term rental, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/information/visitors

Hosts operating short-term rentals

Short-term rental hosts will be required to ensure they are complying with local government regulations and provincial regulations by:

• obtaining and displaying their local business licence number on each listing, where required by the local government. Hosts should contact their local government ahead of May 1, 2024, if they are unsure if it is required in their municipality.
• discontinuing use of properties as short-term rentals that are not compliant with local government short-term rental bylaws and provincial legislation.

To find out if a community is subject to the Principal Residence requirement, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement

Short-term rental platforms operating in B.C.

Short-term rental platforms (which may include, for example, Airbnb, VRBO, Expedia, FlipKey), will be required to comply with provincial regulations as follows:

• adding a field for hosts to display their local government business licence number on short-term rental listings beginning May 1, 2024.
• providing the Province with the name and contact information of an individual that will represent the platform in B.C. by May 15, 2024.
• sharing data with the Province on a monthly basis, beginning with May data by June 17, 2024.
• removing listings at the request of a local government in instances where hosts are not in compliance with a business licence requirement, beginning May 1, 2024
• removing listings at the request of the Province that do not comply with the provincial principal residence requirement

To find additional information about the new requirements, short-term rental platforms can visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/information/platforms

Local governments with short-term rental business licensing

Local government officials in communities with existing short-term rental bylaws must be aware of provincial regulations and notify members of their community who are operating short-term rentals by:

• asking short-term rental hosts to obtain and display a valid business licence on their listings by May 1, 2024, in communities where applicable.
• sending a notice of non-compliance with a business licence requirement to both hosts and platforms prior to requesting the platform remove a listing.
• Uploading to the data portal information about non-compliant short-term rental listings

Local governments without short-term rental business licensing

Local governments without short-term rental business licensing will be able to use a web reporting form to notify the Province of properties they believe are not compliant with the principal-residence requirement.

Communities that have chosen to opt in, out of short-term rental rules

Municipalities with fewer than 10,000 people, regional districts and resort municipalities are exempt from the principal residence requirement but may request to opt-in by March 31 of each year, starting in 2024, to take effect Nov. 1 of the same year.  

To date, 17 communities have made the decision to opt-in to the Principal Residence Requirement, to preserve long-term rental options for people living and working in their communities, starting Nov. 1, 2024.

The communities that have requested to opt in include:

• District of Kent
• District of Tofino
• Gabriola Island
• Municipality of Bowen Island
• Town of Osoyoos
• Village of Pemberton
• Electoral Area A (Mill Bay/Malahat)
• Electoral Area C (Cobble Hill)
• Electoral Area E (Cowichan Station/Sahtlam/Glenora)
• Electoral Area F (Cowichan Lake South/Skutz Falls)
• Electoral Area G (Saltair/Gulf Islands)
• Electoral Area H (North Oyster/Diamond)
• Electoral Area D (Skaha East/Okanagan Falls)
• Electoral Area F (Okanagan Lake West/West Bench)
• Electoral Area I (Skaha West/Kaleden/Apex)
• Electoral Area B (Cortes Island)
• Electoral Area C (Discovery Island – Mainland Inlets)

Certain local governments can annually request by a resolution submitted to the minister of housing to opt out of the principal residence requirement if the community has a rental vacancy rate of 3% or more for two consecutive years.

There are four communities that have made the decision to opt out of the Principal Residence Requirement, meaning that the principal residence rules will not apply on May 1, 2024. Other changes brought into force by the Short-Term Rental Accommodation Act will take effect on May 1, 2024, in the following communities:

• West Kelowna
• Fort St. John
• Dawson Creek
• Pouce Coupe (a small community adjacent to Dawson Creek)
• ShortTermRentals_Chinese(simplified).pdf
• ShortTermRentals_Chinese(traditional).pdf
• ShortTermRentals_French.pdf
• ShortTermRentals_Punjabi.pdf
• ShortTermRentals_Tagalog.pdf

Related Articles

More priority communities selected to deliver more homes.

Connect with the Ministry

View the Ministry's latest photos on Flickr.

Watch the Ministry's latest videos on YouTube.

Acknowledgment

The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.

Connect with Us:

• Newsletters
• Accessibility

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

Chapter 1. History and Overview

1.4 British Columbia Overview

Origins of tourism in bc.

As with the history of tourism in Canada, it is often stated that the first tourists to BC were explorers. In 1778, Captain James Cook touched down on Vancouver Island, followed by James Douglas in 1842, a British agent who had been sent to find new headquarters for the Hudson’s Bay Company, ultimately choosing Victoria. Through the 1860s, BC’s gold rush attracted prospectors from around the world, with towns and economies springing up along the trail (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2009).

Railway Travel: Full Steam Ahead!

The development of BC’s tourism industry began in earnest in the late 1800s when the CPR built accommodation properties along its newly completed trans-Canada route, capturing revenues from overnight stays to help alleviate their increasing corporate debt. Following the 1886 construction of small lodges at stops in Field, Rogers Pass, and Fraser Canyon, the CPR opened the Hotel Vancouver in May 1887 (Dawson, 2004).

As opposed to Atlantic Canada, where tourism promotion centred around attracting hunters and fishermen for a temporary infusion of cash, tourism in British Columbia was seen as a way to lure farmers and settlers to stay in the new province. Industry associations began to form quickly: the Tourist Association of Victoria (TAV) in February 1902, and the Vancouver Tourist Association in June of the same year (Dawson, 2004).

Many of the campaigns struck by these and other organizations between 1890 and 1930 centred on the province’s natural assets, as people sought to escape modern convenience and enjoy the environment. A collaborative group called the Pacific Northwest Travel Association (BC, Washington, and Oregon) promoted “The Pacific Northwest: The World’s Greatest Out of Doors,” calling BC “The Switzerland of North America.” Promotions like these seemed to have had an effect: in 1928, over 370,000 tourists visited Victoria, spending over $3.5 million (Dawson, 2004).

The Great Depression and World War II

As the world’s economy was sent into peril during the Great Depression in the 1930s, tourism was seen as an economic solution. A newly renamed Greater Victoria Publicity Bureau developed strategies to promote tourism spending, with visitor revenues accounting for around 13.5% of BC’s income in 1930. By 1935, an organization known as the TTDA (Tourist Trade Development Association of Victoria and Vancouver Island) looked to create a more stable industry through strategies to increase visitors’ length of stay (Dawson, 2004).

In 1937, the provincial Bureau of Industrial and Tourist Development (BITD) was formed through special legislation with a goal of increasing tourist traffic. By 1938, the organization changed its name to the British Columbia Government Travel Bureau (BCGTB) and was granted a budget increase to $105,000. In 1939, Vancouver welcomed the King and Queen of England and celebrated the opening of the Lions Gate Bridge, activities that reportedly bolstered tourism numbers (Dawson, 2004).

The December 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii had negative repercussions for tourism in the Pacific Rim and was responsible for an era of decreased visitation to British Columbia, despite attempts by some to market the region as exciting. From 1939 to 1943, US visits to Vancouver dropped from over 307,000 to approximately 183,600. Just two years later, however, that number jumped to 369,250, as a result of campaigns like the 1943 initiative aimed at Americans that marketed BC as “comrades in war” (Dawson, 2004).

Post-War Rebound

We, with all due modesty, cannot help but claim that we are entering British Columbia’s half-century, and cannot help but observe that B.C. also stands for BOOM COUNTRY. —Phil Gagliardi, BC Minister of Highways, 1955 (Dawson, 2004, p.190)

A burst of post-war spending began in 1946, and although short-lived, was supported by steady government investment in marketing throughout the 1950s. As tourism grew in BC, however, so did competition for US dollars from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe. The decade that followed saw an emphasis on promoting BC’s history, its “Britishness,” and the commodification of Indigenous culture. The BCGTB began marketing efforts to extend the travel season, encouraging travel in September during prime fishing season. The bureau also promoted visitors to explore specific areas, including the Lower Fraser Valley, the Okanagan-Fraser Canyon Loop, and the Kamloops-Cariboo region (Dawson, 2004).

In 1954, Vancouver hosted the British Empire Games, investing in the construction of Empire Stadium. A few years later, an increased emphasis on events and convention business saw the Greater Vancouver Tourist Association change its name in 1962 to the Greater Vancouver Visitors and Convention Bureau (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2009).

The ski industry was also on the rise: in 1961, the lodge and chairlift on Tod Mountain (now Sun Peaks) opened, and Whistler followed suit five years later (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2009). Ski partners became pioneers of collaborative marketing in the province with the foundation of the Ski Marketing Advisory Committee (SMAC) supported by Tod Mountain and Big White, evolving into today’s Canada’s West Ski Area Association (Magnes, 2010). This pioneer spirit was evident across the ski sector: the entire sport of heliskiing was invented by Hans Gosmer of BC’s Canadian Mountain Holidays. The province also held the title of having 90% of the world’s heliskiing market share back in 2016 (McLeish, 2014).

The concept of collaboration extended throughout the province as innovative funding structures saw the cost of marketing programs shared between government and industry in BC. These programs were distributed through regional Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and considered “the most constructive and forward looking plan of its kind in Canada” (Dawson 2004, p.194).

Tourism in BC continued to grow through the 1970s. In 1971, the Hotel Room Tax Act was introduced, allowing for a 5% tax to be collected on room nights with the funds collected to be put toward marketing and development. By 1978, construction had begun on Whistler Village, with Blackcomb Mountain opening two years later (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2009). Funding programs in the late 1970s and early 1980s such as the Canada BC Tourism Agreement (CBCTA) and Travel Industry Development Subsidiary Agreement (TIDSA) allowed communities to invest in projects that would make them more attractive tourism destinations. In the mountain community of Kimberley, for instance, the following improvements were implemented through a $3.1 million forgivable loan: a new road to the ski resort, a covered tennis court, a mountain lodge, an alpine slide, and nine more holes for the golf course (e-Know, 2011).

Around the same time, the “Super, Natural British Columbia” brand was introduced, and a formal bid was approved for Vancouver to host a fair then known as Transpo 86 (later Expo 86). Tourism in the province was about to truly take off.

Expo 86 and Beyond

By the time the world fair Expo 86 came to a close in October 1986, it had played host to 20 million guests. Infrastructure developments, including rapid rail (SkyTrain), airport improvements, a new trade and convention centre at Canada Place (with a cruise ship terminal), and hotel construction, had positioned the city and the province for further growth (PricewaterhouseCooopers, 2009). The construction and opening of the Coquihalla Highway through to 1990 enhanced the travel experience and reduced travel times to vast sections of the province (Magnes, 2010).

By 2000, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) was named number one in the world by the International Air Transport Association’s survey of international passengers. Five years later, the airport welcomed a record 16.4 million passengers (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2009).

Going for Gold

In 2003, the International Olympic Committee named Vancouver/Whistler as the host city for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Infrastructure development followed, including the expansion of the Sea-to-Sky Highway, the creation of Vancouver Convention Centre West, and the construction of the Canada Line, a rapid transport line connecting the airport with the city’s downtown.

As BC prepared to host the Games, its international reputation continued to grow. Vancouver was voted “Best City in the Americas” by Condé Nast Traveller magazine three years in a row. Kelowna was named “Best Canadian Golf City” by Canada’s largest golf magazine, and BC was named the “Best Golf Destination in North America” by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators. Kamloops, known as Canada’s Tournament City, hosted over 100 sports tournaments that same year, and nearby Sun Peaks Resort was named the “Best Family Resort in North America” by the Great Skiing and Snowboarding Guide in 2008 (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2009).

By the time the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games took place, over 80 participating countries, 6,000 athletes, and 3 billion viewers put British Columbia on centre stage.

Spotlight On: Destination British Columbia

Destination BC is a Crown corporation founded in November 2012 by the Government of British Columbia works in collaboration with Destination Canada. Its mandate includes marketing the province as a tourist destination (at home and around the world), promoting the development and growth of the industry, providing advice and recommendations to the tourism minister on related matters, and enhancing public awareness of tourism and its economic value to British Columbia (Province of British Columbia, 2013b). Destination BC’s corporate site and their traveller website, called HelloBC , are both valuable sources of tourism information.

Tourism in BC Today

Building on the momentum generated by hosting the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, tourism in BC remains big business. In 2018, the industry generated $20.5 billion in revenue.

The provincial industry is made up of over 19,329 businesses, the majority of which are SMEs (small to medium enterprises), and together they employ approximately 161,500 people (Destination BC, 2018). It may surprise you to learn that in British Columbia, tourism provides the highest Gross Domestic Product, or the total revenues produced in a period of time, in 2018—more than mining, oil and gas, agriculture, and forestry (Destination BC, 2018).

Spotlight On: The Tourism Industry Association of BC

Founded in 1993 as the Council of Tourism Associations, today the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a not-for-profit trade association comprising members from private sector tourism businesses, industry associations, and destination marketing organizations (DMOs) . Its goal is to ensure the best working environment for a competitive tourism industry. It hosts industry networking events and engages in advocacy efforts as “the voice of the BC tourism industry.” Students are encouraged to join TIABC to take advantage of their connections and receive a discount at numerous industry events. For more information, visit the Tourism Industry Association of BC’s website .

One of the challenges for BC’s tourism industry, as long been argued, is fragmentation . Back in September 1933, an article in the Victoria Daily Times argued for more coordination across organizations in order to capitalize on what they saw as Canada’s “largest dividend payer” (Dawson, 2004). Today, more than 80 years later, you will often hear BC tourism professionals say the same thing.

On the other hand, some experts believe that the industry is simply a model of diversity , acknowledging that tourism is a compilation of a multitude of businesses, services, organizations, and communities. They see the ways in which these components are working together toward success, rather than focusing on friction between the groups.

Many communities are placing a renewed focus on educating the general public and other businesses about the value of tourism and the ways in which stakeholders work together. The following case study highlights this in more detail:

Take a Closer Look: Tourism Pays in Richmond, BC

The community of Richmond, BC, brings to life the far-reaching positive economic effects of tourism in action. Watch the short video called Tourism Pays to see what we mean!

Transcript for Tourism Pays in Richmond

[Upbeat Music]

Narrator (Dave): Hi, I’m Dave! Proud owner of a working blueberry farm and big-time supporter of promoting tourism. So why does a blueberry farmer care about tourism? Well, let me tell you a little story about John and Jane.

John and Jane: Hi!

Dave: They thought it would be nice to take a vacation. John had ideas, and Jane had ideas. But as they talked, they couldn’t decide where to go. They knew their perfect place was out there. They just had to find it. Jane flipped through magazines. John started noticing the vacation ads on TV. On his way to work, John saw billboards and heard radio ads.

[Muffled radio in the background.]

Dave: And once he got there, he talked to his friends about where they spent their vacations. Jane did some research on the internet, visiting different websites, to see which places had what they were looking for. After seeing all their options, John and Jane came to the same conclusion.

John and Jane: We found the Perfect Place!

Dave: They were so excited, they started to plan their trip right away. After booking their flights, John was eager to line up some things to do in the Perfect Place. So he visited the Perfect Place’s website, watched a video, checked out the hotels, bought tickets to a ball game, and signed up for the Perfect Place’s e-newsletter especially for visitors. John also downloaded the Perfect Place’s smartphone app so he could get information on the go. Jane liked the Perfect Place’s Facebook page and followed the Perfect Place on Twitter so she could get updates, ideas, and special deals.

[Beeping from Jane dialing the phone]

Dave: Jane also called the toll-free number and spoke to a nice lady who told her everything she needed to know about the Perfect Place. Jane also got the visitor’s guide, which helped her learn what theatre productions were in town, where to eat, and other things to do in the Perfect Place. So John and Jane had explored their options, booked their travel, and planned their vacation. They packed their bags and off they went. End of story, right?

Actually, this is where the real story begins. Because what do you think John and Jane do when they get to the Perfect Place? Guess what? They spend their money [ca-ching]. They spend their money on their rental car, in their hotel, seeing the attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, shopping, and dining out [glasses clink] . They’re happy they came to the Perfect Place.

John and Jane: Woohoo!

Dave: You know who else is happy? The hotel they stayed in, of course, and the bellman at the hotel, the workers at the local company that supplies his uniform, the stores they shop at, and the banks they use. And then there’s the restaurant where John and Jane ate dinner. And the waitress who served them their wine? She’s happy, too. So is the local vineyard who grew the grapes that made the wine, the people who bottled it, and the drivers who brought it into town. And the blueberry farmer who supplied the blueberries for the cobbler that the waitress served John and Jane for dessert.

That’s why someone like me cares about tourism in somewhere like the Perfect Place. Yes, I am a farmer, but I am also a business man, and I can draw a lot of conclusions form that story. I bet you can too. Tourism creates jobs. It brings in spending. And tourists pay taxes, which means locals pay less. But tourism in competitive, and without the marketing engine that drives it, John and Jane will take their money to some other destination, where it will benefit some other local economy. Let’s make sure our local economy grows. Let’s feed it, let’s nurture it, help it along, so it becomes strong, healthy, and delicious.

[Upbeat music]

Words on the screen: Thanks for visiting the Perfect Place. Thanks for visiting Richmond, British Columbia. Tourism in Richmond:

• Is the largest industry (retail, accommodations, attractions, transportation).
• Results in $650 million in economic output.
• Directly employs more than 7,400 people earning $220 million in wages.
• Contributes $250 million in non-accommodations spending.
• Brings in excess of 4 million person nights.
• Generates $135 million in taxes: $76 million federal, $44 million provincial, and $15 million municipal.
• Supported an 123% increase in the number of hotel rooms over the last 15 years.

Dave: Tourism is vital to us. Like beef to Alberta, like potash to Saskatchewan, or manufacturing to Ontario. Without marketing funding, many visitors will find the perfect place somewhere else. Tourism pays for everyone.

Words on the screen: Brought to you by Tourism Richmond.

Throughout the rest of this textbook, you will have a chance to learn more about the history and current outlook for tourism in BC, with in-depth coverage of some of the triumphs and challenges we face as an industry. You will also learn about the Canadian and global contexts of the tourism industry’s development.

Media Attributions

• Red and White Train on Rail by Andy Holmes is licensed under the Unsplash Licence .
• Chairlift by Pamela Saunders is licensed under the Unsplash Licence .
• Switzerland vs. Canada by s.yume is licensed under a CC BY 2.0 Licence .
• CTC’s Boardroom by LinkBC is licensed under a CC BY 2.0 Licence .

Video Attributions

• “ Tourism Pays ” video and transcript by Tourism Richmond. All rights reserved.

The first recognized provincial government organization responsible for the tourism marketing of British Columbia.

Also known as a destination management organization; includes national tourism boards, state/provincial tourism offices, and community convention and visitor bureaus.

A phenomenon observed by some industry insiders whereby the tourism industry is unable to work together towards common marketing and lobbying (policy-setting) objectives.

A term used by some in the industry to describe the makeup of the industry in a positive way; acknowledging that tourism is a diverse compilation of a multitude of businesses, services, organizations, and communities.

Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality in BC - 2nd Edition Copyright © 2015, 2020, 2021 by Morgan Westcott and Wendy Anderson, Eds is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

• All Members

TIABC Members

Through your membership, you will part of a strong, collective voice while helping to support TIABC’s advocacy efforts, policy development, programs, and activities that benefit the sector's sustainability, development and growth.

(Gray Line) Westcoast Sightseeing

4VI (formerly Tourism Vancouver Island)

Accent Inns

AFK Business Consulting Inc.

Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort

Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE)

Allied Golf Association – BC

Ascent Fraser Valley Guides & Mountain School

Aventur Marketing

Backcountry Lodges of BC Association

BC Craft Brewers Guild

BC Fishing Resorts & Outfitters Association

BC Hotel Association

BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association

BC River Outfitters Association

BC Taxi Association

Beattie Tartan

Better Table

Black Ball Ferry Line

Blue Ice Communications

Britannia Mine Museum

Butchart Gardens (The)

Canada West Ski Areas Association

Canadian Mountain Holidays

Canadian Staycations

Canopy Collective

Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park

Capilano University

Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism

Chemistry Consulting

Chinese Canadian Museum

City of Coquitlam

City of Langford

Coast Hotels

Coastal Wilderness Adventures

Commercial Bear Viewing Association

Connect Media

Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society

Cranbrook Tourism

Cruise Lines International Association

Crystal Cove Beach Resort

Crystal Lake Resort

Deborah Kulchiski Consulting

Destination Greater Victoria

Destination Osoyoos

Destination Vancouver

Discover Canada Tours

Discover Langley City

Discover Surrey

District of Mission – Tourism

Douglas College

Eagle Wing Tours

Elysian Projects Inc.,

En Route Canada (ERTCU Group)

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairmont Hotsprings Resort

Five Star Whale Watching

Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC

FRS Clipper

Gaining Edge (Paul Vallee)

Greater Vancouver Zoo

Greater Victoria Harbour Authority

Guide Outfitters Association of BC

H2 Accelerator

HeliCat Canada

Hostelling International Canada – Pacific Mountain Region

Hotel Association of Vancouver

Hotel Grand Pacific

Huntingdon Hotel & Suites

Huu-ay-aht First Nations

Indigenous Tourism BC

JTB International (Canada) Ltd.

Knight Inlet Lodge

Kootenay Rockies Tourism

Langara Fishing Adventures

Laura Plant Consulting

Lion’s Gate Consulting

Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Resort

Long Beach Lodge Resort

Malahat Skywalk

Maple Leaf Adventures

McArthur Glen Designer Outlets

Mountain Skills Academy

Munday Design and Media

Nanaimo Hospitality Association

Navigator Multimedia

Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism

Nemiah valley lodge.

Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort

Nisga’a Nation

Noise Digital

Nootka Marine Adventures

Northern BC Tourism

Ocean Pacific Adventure Sports

Okanagan College

Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country

Oliver Tourism Association

Pacific Coastal Airlines

Pacific Destination Services

Pacific Gateway Hotel (Vancouver Airport)

Pacific Whale Watch Association

Parkbridge Resorts

Parkside Hotel & Spa

Prince of Whales

Quaaout Lodge

Reo rafting, glamping & yoga retreat.

Richmond Olympic Experience

Rocky Mountaineer

Rogers Sports & Media

Royal BC Museum

Royal Roads University

Salmon Arm Folk Music Society

Seekers Media

Sicamous Houseboats

Sonora Resort

Southern Gulf Island Tourism Partnership Society

Spirit of the West Adventures

Sport Fishing Institute

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

St.Eugene Golf Resort & Casino

Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre

Sunshine Coast Tourism

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

Thompson Rivers University

Tinhorn Creek Winery

Tofino Resort and Marina

Tourism Abbotsford

Tourism Big White Society

Tourism Bowen Island

Tourism Burnaby

Tourism Cafe Canada

Tourism Campbell River & Region

Tourism Chilliwack

Tourism Cowichan

Tourism Dawson Creek

Tourism Fernie

Tourism Golden

Tourism Harrison Hot Springs

Tourism Hope

Tourism Innovation Lab

Tourism Kamloops

Tourism Kelowna

Tourism Langley

Tourism New Westminster

Tourism Parksville Qualicum Beach

Tourism Prince George

Tourism Prince Rupert

Tourism Revelstoke

Tourism Richmond

Tourism Rossland

Tourism Smithers

Tourism Squamish

Tourism Sun Peaks

Tourism Terrace

Tourism Tofino

Tourism Valemount

Tourism Vernon

Tourism Whistler

Town of Princeton

Travel Local

Travel Penticton

Vancouver Airport Authority (YVR)

Vancouver Aquarium

Vancouver Attractions Group

Vancouver Community College

Vancouver Convention Centre

Vancouver Island University

Vancouver Lookout

Vancouver Visitor TV

Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism

Vardo Creative

Victoria Harbour Ferry

Watermark Beach Resort

Web Advisors

Wellness Travel BC

Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association

Whitewater Ski Resort

Wickaninnish Inn

Wilderness Tourism Association

Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce

Wilson's Transportation Ltd.,

Wine Growers of BC

Wood Lake RV Park and Marina

Ziptrek Ecotours

Drawing more visitors to P.E.I. over the next 5 years? Tourism industry has a plan for that

As an island, 'you can never take your foot off the pedal when it comes to air access'.

Social Sharing

The tourism industry on Prince Edward Island has a new five-year strategy that includes developing more tourism initiatives involving the sports and leisure, culinary and wellness industries, as well as continuing to stretch the season well beyond the summer months.

The 28 points in the strategy include goals like lobbying for more air access to the Island, addressing "workforce challenges" as businesses compete for staff, drawing in more entrepreneurs and investors, and pushing for more "niche package experiences" during the fall, winter and spring seasons to draw visitors in non-traditional ways. 

Another important pillar of the strategy is making sure Indigenous tourism offerings are identified and promoted, said Corryn Clemence, the CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of P.E.I.

Events like the annual Mawi'omis presented by local First Nations are one example, she said.

• Young generation proud to showcase Mi'kmaw culture on P.E.I.
• Lennox Island begins new tradition with Christmas Mawi'omi

"We really want to put a focus on helping them and supporting [the] growth and development of that product because we know there's a big interest really across the world on experiencing and learning about Indigenous culture," she said. 

"We have a number of communities here on the Island, between Scotchfort/Abegweit and Lennox Island, and both are really working hard to develop and grow that."

Clemence said hopes are high for the province's recent deal with the National Hockey League, which includes declaring P.E.I. the league's official travel destination and promoting the Island at NHL arenas.

She said the province's meetings and conventions business should grow as a result of the deal, and marketers will use the hockey platform to promote sport-based tourism in the region, including golf.

• Tourism P.E.I. shoots and scores NHL marketing partnership
• Westjet's return brings direct flights between P.E.I. and 3 Canadian cities this summer

John Cudmore, who's the general manager of the Holman Grand Hotel as well as the president of the Hotel Association of P.E.I., said operators knew the Canada Games bump in the first quarter of 2023 was not going to be repeated this year, but the industry is still optimistic.

"Everyone's leaning into it, the whole tourism industry this year," he said. "There seems to be a good push towards special events and sports tours and golfing, that sort of thing."

He said the NHL deal will mean exposure in key Northestern U.S. markets and beyond.

The strategy also mentions the importance of people being able to travel to the Island by plane, not just in a vehicle or cruise ship. 

Clemence quotes the consultant who delivered the five-year strategy at an event on Friday as saying: "You're an island, and you can never take your foot off the pedal when it comes to air access."

Last year, the Charlottetown Airport welcomed a record number of passengers, and officials hope this year will top those records.

Doug Newson, the CEO of the Charlottetown Airport Authority, said adding seats will help accomplish that. 

"We did have one airline, Swoop, that has been merged into WestJet. WestJet is adding some flights to Toronto we didn't have last year to make up for that change in schedules. We've got Flair growing as well," he said.

"Overall we're expecting total seat capacity to be similar, maybe up slightly, compared to last year."

With files from Tony Davis