The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) just updated the status report on Phase 2 of the Community Tourism Program.

Please click here to see full report.

The U.S. economic downturn is expected to result in a 15-per-cent drop in the number of American tourists to Whistler this winter, according to a Tourism Whistler spokesman.

Please click here to read article published in The Vancouver Sun.

1. Commit.  Decide for yourself that tourism matters enough to you to get involved in the political process.
   
2. Be Informed. Make use of the materials provided by COTA www.cotabc.com and TIAC www.tiac.travel in our respective Federal Election Toolkits. The above ‘Tourism Matters’ fact sheet is a quick guide to the numbers.
3. Take Action. Introduce yourself to candidates as a tourism professional. Share any part of this kit with those campaigning in your community.  Contact candidates’ offices with the “Tourism Matters” fact sheet. Make your views known to your local media (print, radio, television) and utilize new media (i.e., Internet blogs, email lists, etc.). Encourage your tourism colleagues to communicate our “Tourism Matters” message.
   

Please click here for details on this position.  The closing date for applications is October 8th, 2008.

Cyclists throughout British Columbia will benefit from new, safe and high-quality cycling trails, bike lanes, bike lockers and more, thanks to Bike BC, a $31-million program for cycling infrastructure, Premier Gordon Campbell announced.

Please click here for more information.

Non-profit groups have been selected to provide homeless outreach services in Mission, Hope, Cranbrook and Revelstoke, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman announced.

Please click here for more information.

Nominate an Outstanding Tourism Business Today!

Tourism British Columbia and the Council of Tourism Associations (COTA) are calling for nominations for the 2009 BC Tourism Industry Awards, which will take place on February 12, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver. 

For further details click here.

Americans travelling to Canada still a big revenue generator; meetings and convention visitors mark a growing niche.

Despite border challenges, high gas prices and the strongest loonie in decades, Canada continues to be a major destination for travellers from south of the border, Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) research shows. Americans make up 75% of all international visitors to Canada each year, and Canadians welcomed more than 13 million American visitors in 2007, according to CTC Research.
 
While overnight leisure trips from Americans driving into Canada have decreased in recent years, the number of Americans flying in and staying overnight in Canada increased by 4% in 2007.
 
One big, bright spot is the US meeting and conference travel niche. Revenue from American leisure and business travellers has significantly jumped—from $3.9 billion to $7.1 billion since 1996; an increase partly due to a growing market for meetings, conventions and incentive travel (MC&IT) in Canada. US MC&IT visitors to Canada spend an average of $260 per night, well over double what the average leisure visitor spends ($116 a night).

Skidegate, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia – After 15 years of planning and development, the people of Skidegate fulfilled their dream and officially opened the Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay on Saturday, August 23rd.  The Centre sits on land that had been set aside for this purpose for over 30 years, on the site of the old Haida seaside village of Kaay Llnagaay.  The Centre has been operational since July of 2007, but this official Grand Opening Ceremony marks the full completion of the facility, including new exhibits on Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site.

Please click here for complete release.

The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) just updated the status report on Phase 2 of the Community Tourism Program. Please click here to see full report.

Vancouver International Airport remains the most efficient and cost-competitive airport in Canada and the ninth best in North America, despite a rising Canadian dollar that gives a competitive advantage to U.S. airports.

Please click here to read more.

Are you experiencing difficulties recruiting locally/in Canada?
Are you seeking employees eligible for the Working Holiday Program?
Do you currently have, or are in the process of obtaining, an approved LMO or E-LMO?
If you answered yes to any of those questions, here is an opportunity to participate in/recurit at job fairs in South Korea and Europe coming up this year.

Please click here to find out more.

For Immediate Release
July 23, 2008

VANCOUVER – At a press conference in Vancouver on July 22, 2008 representatives from the business community and government in the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) called on the Governments of Canada and the United States to take immediate action to improve the management of the Canada-US border. 

The PNWER members recommended more than a dozen areas in which both federal governments need to work in order to address mounting issues of border lineups and delays, as well as increasing confusion around documentation requirements and general border policies and procedures.

COTA was one of ten signatories of the “PNWER Border Charter,” which will see the creation of a “Border Solutions Coordination Council” – a group tasked with gauging progress made on the various recommendations.  The Council will also release an annual Border Report Card to assess this progress. 

The PNWER recommendations mirror those made by the Canadian and US Chambers of Commerce in their joint February 2008 report, entitled “Finding the Balance: Reducing Border Costs While Strengthening Security.” 

The new PNWER Border Charter places particular emphasis on the need for the two federal governments to ensure a convenient and welcoming border crossing experience for travellers prior to, and during the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

To review the Border Charter, click here.

"The border is often the first experience travellers have of a country, and the more we can do to make this experience positive for them, the more likely we are as a region to encourage travel and see long-term benefits from major events like the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games," said Stephen Regan, President and CEO of COTA.

Some of the specific recommendations adopted by PNWER include:

• Ensure a secure, convenient and welcoming border crossing experience for 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, including an integrated and tested plan for handling peak flow traffic at border crossings and a pre-clearance program, designated special lanes and information for Olympics border crossers; 

• Reduce congestion and streamline flows of legitimate trade and travel, including increased staffing levels and traffic capacity, more use of technology for pre-clearance and processing prior to physical arrival at the border and improved signage directing traffic towards less congested border crossings and lanes, and improved procedures for frequent business travellers; 

• Increase outreach and expansion of frequent border crossing programs to improve security by focusing resources on higher-risk traffic through increased use of Nexus cards, designated flexible lanes, and improved public communication on document requirements in partnership with the tourism industry, border communities and regional organizations. 

"The 2009 World Police and Fire Games and the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are just two of the region's next major tourism opportunities. But congestion and delay at the border could sour their benefits if we don't act now to streamline and improve day-to-day travel and trade in advance of these events," said John van Dongen, BC’s Solicitor General.

The 18th PNWER Annual Summit is in Vancouver, B.C., and continues through July 24, 2008.

The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER), with its network of private and government officials, is a best practice in organized regional cross-border cooperation.  Members come from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

For more information about the Border Charter or COTA’s other activities relating to border issues, contact Peter Larose, COTA’s Director of Policy and Planning at 604.685.5996.

Victoria - To help celebrate Parks Day this weekend, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced the B.C. government is investing close to $11 million this year on upgrades to BC Parks infrastructure to improve the camping and day-use experience for park visitors. Read more...

An industry-government framework for action (click here to read) was presented by COTA Board Member David Butler at the Green Tourism Forum (GTF II) held April 22nd and again to COTA Council members during Tourism Day at the Legislature on May 5th, 2008.

A Letter of Understanding (click here to read) was signed between the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts, COTA and Tourism British Columbia to establish and guide a stand-alone agency that will have a specific mandate to achieve results that enhance B.C.’s reputation as a world leader in sustainable tourism practices.

From October 27-29, 2008, over 500 industry leaders and individuals interested in sustainable tourism from across Canada, the United States and beyond will meet in Vancouver to attend The International Ecotourism Society (TIES)’s third annual conference, the Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference 2008 (ESTC 2008). 

Hosted by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, the BC Sustainable Tourism Collective and the Council of Tourism Associations of British Columbia, the conference will provide opportunities for business leaders, travel and tourism professionals and community members to gain knowledge of the latest trends in ecotourism and sustainable tourism, learn practical skills, and participate in invaluable networking and knowledge sharing opportunities. 

The ESTC 2008 will be held at the legendary Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, and will also include pre and post-conference trips to Whistler and Victoria.  Registration is now open.  To learn more about this conference, please visit www.ecotourismconference.org.

The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) just released a status report on Phase 2 of its Community Tourism Program. Please click here to see full report.

go2 - BC's tourism industry human resource association - is pleased to announce their 2008-09 Board of Directors.

Three new directors were elected, four existing directors were reappointed and six directors continue into the second year of their two-year terms.

New Directors
Susan Barcham - Director of Business Development, Oak Bay Marine Group
Greg Lee - President, Capilano University
Ian Powell - Managing Director, Paul's Restaurants Ltd. & GM, Inn at Laurel Point

Reappointed Directors
Kate Dodd - Director of Finance, Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Rob Fussey - Director of Operations, Western Canada, A&W Food Service of Canada Ltd.
Walt Judas - Vice President, Marketing, Communications & 2010 Strategies, Tourism Vancouver
Rusty Noble - Director, Guest Experience and Resort Operations, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Continuing Directors
Kirby Brown - President and COO, Panorama Mountain Village
Simon Evans - CEO, BC Human Resources Management Association
Kimberly Haakstad - Executive Director, Alliance of Beverage Licensees
Rick Lemon - Vice President, Visitor Experiences, Tourism BC
Heather Schroeter - General Manager, Manteo Resort
Mark von Schellwitz - Vice President, Western Canada, Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association

go2 is also pleased to announce the Officers of the Board for 2008-09:
Chair: Rob Fussey
Vice Chair: Ian Powell
Past Chair: Mark von Schellwitz

The go2 board represents a cross-section of BC's tourism industry including tourism operators, industry associations and educational institutions from a variety of regions of the province. The board provides leadership to support go2's mandate of assisting BC's tourism industry with the labour shortage and other HR issues. 
  
Author: Kimiko Nomura
Organization: go2
E-mail: knomura@go2hr.ca 

This year's BC Aviation Council Annual Conference will take place on Monday, September  29 to Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at the Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel (3550 Cessna Drive, Richmond). This year's theme is 'Air Tourism: The Legacy Beyond 2010'. Being a new member of COTA, the BCAC is offereing COTA members the BCAC membership registration fee. COTA members are encouraged to participate in this event to share their insights and seek greater understanding of the issues associated with air transportation. We need to let our colleagues, who work directly in air transportation, know that the tourism sector supports and appreciates their efforts and dedication.

For more information about the 2008 BC Aviation Council Annual Conference, please click here and follow the links.

Scott Deveau,  Financial Post 

TORONTO -- Age-old restrictions on the Canadian airline industry could be lifted if the federal government decides to act on the recommendations of the Canadian Competition Review Panel, which also opened the door to the possibility of increased competition in the domestic market in the years ahead.

In perhaps what would be the biggest shake-up to the industry, the panel suggested that Ottawa seek public input and issue a policy statement by December 2009 on whether it would allow a foreign-controlled company to establish a domestic-only airline in Canada using facilities and labour here.

So-called "right of establishment" carriers already are allowed in countries like Australia and New Zealand, but they would almost certainly increase competition in the Canadian market and would likely also break up the comfortable duopoly currently enjoyed by Air Canada and WestJet Airlines Ltd. here.

The panel also recommended that Ottawa fast-track its ongoing Open Skies discussions with the European Union, and that it also lift its foreign ownership limits on Canadian airlines from 25% to 49% of voting shares for countries with which it has existing bilateral agreements.

"The legacy of flag air carriers has contributed to industry overcapacity," the panel said in its report, noting that there are more than 1000 airlines globally. "Industry experts predict a wave of consolidation in the large US and EU markets.... Maintaining the existing 25 percent foreign ownership restriction could exclude Canadian air carriers from future consolidation transactions that would result in global carriers."

The Minister of Transport was not immediately available for comment on the report, but sources in Ottawa confirmed to the Financial Post earlier this year that the federal government was already interested in raising the foreign ownership cap to 49%, but was waiting for the panel to release its recommendations.

Lifting the restrictions to just short of a controlling interest, however, is not likely to be too well received by the International Air Transport Association, which has been encouraging governments to lift ownership restrictions entirely to allow for broader consolidation in the industry.

"The panel was presented with no evidence that foreign-controlled airlines would be any more or less inclined than Canadian firms in servicing Canadian routes; airline capacity typically matches the economic opportunities available in a community whether they are large or small," the report states.

British Columbia's first Green Tourism Forum (GTF I) was co-hosted in October 2007 by the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts, the Council of Tourism Associations (COTA) and the BC Sustainable Tourism Collective. The forum brought together 41 sector and government leaders who began laying the foundation for the establishment of a made-in-BC Green Tourism Strategy for Sustainability.  The report detailing proceedings from the meeting, Green Tourism Forum: Charting BC's Sustainable Direction Report, was released on January 7, 2008.

Following GTF I, a joint Sustainable Tourism Working Group (STWG) was established to develop a practical course of action by which to proceed. Under the leadership of COTA Board member, Dave Butler, the STWG developed a Framework and Plan for Action.   The Action Plan lays the framework for further enhancing BC’s reputation as a world leader in sustainable tourism, through the development of strategic actions to enhance tourism's environmental, economic and social sustainability here in BC.

To implement the Action Plan, a dedicated joint venture agency – the BC Partnership for Sustainable Tourism - will be established to focus resources on specific initiatives that will achieve clear sustainable tourism goals. The agency will be financed by tourism industry partners, Tourism BC, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, and will initially be housed within the auspices of COTA.

The Action Plan was released on April 22, 2008 (Earth Day), during the second Green Tourism Forum.  At the forum, 51 tourism and sustainability leaders provided valuable insights and feedback that will help shape the implementation of the Action Plan and inform the development of strategic actions to enhance tourism's environmental, economic and social sustainability here in BC. The Green Tourism II Forum: Report was released on June 18, 2008.

For more information about COTA’s involvement in developing a sustainable tourism strategy for the BC tourism industry, the BC Partnership for Sustainable Tourism, or how to get more involved, please contact Stephen Regan, COTA’s President and CEO, at 604.685.5910.

With less than a year away until the official opening of the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre's (VCEC) new expansion, the VCEC has added and welcomed back a key member to its leadership team.

Bringing over 20 years of experience, Claire Smith, CMP, has been appointed Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, where she is responsible for strategic business development, leading and directing the VCEC sales department, as well as positioning the facility in the global marketplace.

"It is certainly a pleasure for us to welcome back Claire to the VCEC, "says Warren Buckley, President and CEO, PavCo, the crown corporation which manages both the VCEC and BC Place Stadium.

"As our former Director of Sales & Client Services, Claire played an integral role, managing sales, marketing and event services. She has strong industry ties with an extensive global network and will be a great asset as we advance our marketing initiatives to attract business to our new facility," added Buckley.

For the last three years, Claire has been the principal of her own consulting firm where she provided business development strategies for convention venues, bureaus, associations and event management companies. She has worked with convention centres around the world and until her appointment at the VCEC, worked with Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the industry's largest association with 24,000 meeting professionals worldwide, as their VP, Marketplace Performance.

Claire is a recognized expert in her field and has been a featured speaker and session facilitator at ASAE, MPI and PCMA. She was Meeting Professionals International (MPI) British Columbia Chapter President in 1996/97 and has actively participated on various International committees and Advisory Boards.
 
Author: Deborah Carty
Organization: Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre
E-mail: dcarty@vcec.ca 

Tourism Day at the Legislature was held on May 5th, 2008.  In total 46 delegates, divided into six ‘teams’, participated in nine (9) meetings with key Cabinet Ministers, seven (7) meetings with senior government staff and hosted a breakfast with Opposition MLAs and an evening reception with government MLAs and staff.  Our overarching agenda was simply to communicate to government that the tourism and hospitality ‘industry’ in B.C. is cohesive, professional and well organized.  Feedback on this score has been positive.

In addition, we set out to engage government on a range of issues such as transportation infrastructure, taxation and regulation, land use and planning, crime and public disorder, and strengthening commitments to cooperate on addressing federal issues. 

During the Tourism Day activities, COTA members met with the following Ministers:

Minister Bell, Minister of Agriculture and Lands
Minister Falcon, Minister of Transportation
Minister Hagen, Minister of Tourism, Sport and the Arts
Minister Hansen, Minister of Economic Development and the Olympics
Minister de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
Minister Oppal, Attorney General of BC
Minister Penner, Minister of Environment
Minister Thorpe, Minister of Small Business and Revenue
Minister Van Dongen, Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations

Progress on EU Open Skies Spells Promise for Canada

Click here to read more.

The 32nd installment of Rendez-vous Canada is about to begin, running from May 24 - 28 in Vancouver, B.C.

Over an intensive five days, nearly 580 of Canada's largest tourism businesses and marketing organizations and 413 international tourism buyers (from more than 10 countries) will hold about 20,000 appointments and book upwards of $350 million in sales for Canadian tourism operators.

Hosted every May in a different Canadian city, Rendez-vous Canada is the industry's premier marketplace. This year the host province and city will welcome buyers from Canada's major markets including Asia/Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the U.S. and Canada.

Rendez-vous Canada is a contract marketplace. The key to the success of Rendez-vous Canada is the program of pre-scheduled, computerized 12-minute appointments which brings together Buyers, Sellers and DMOs over a four-day period. Participation in the event is by invitation only.

The Canadian Tourism Commission holds the Official Mark for Rendez-vous Canada and has been responsible for the event since 1977. As of 1998, Rendez-vous Canada has been staged by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in cooperation with the Canadian tourism industry including provincial, territorial and municipal/regional tourism authorities and the private sector.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission
E-mail: tourism@ctc-cct.ca 

Destination Osoyoos has unveiled a major new three-year Tourism Market Development Plan for 2008 that sets bold new goals designed to increase tourism and make Osoyoos an even more popular year-round resort area for visitors from across Canada and around the world. Read more...

A new satellite visitor centre, which was recently opened by Tourism Vancouver in the downtown Vancouver Art Gallery plaza, is the first of 12 that will be ready in time for the 2010 Olympics and Paralympic Games, reports the Vancouver Sun's Bruce Constantineau. These centres are expected to help hundreds of thousands of tourists in the 12 months surrounding the 2010 Games.

The 2.4-metre-by-3.7-metre structure provides travel information and is equipped to sell tourism products currently available at Tourism Vancouver's permanent visitor centre, Constantineau says.

The permanent centre normally serves about 300,000 tourists a year, but the addition of the satellite centres is expected to boost that total to about one million visitors.

Tourism BC is funding the $500,000 capital cost of the project -- with each structure worth about $40,000 -- while Tourism Vancouver will cover the operating costs.

Tourism Vancouver vice-president Janet Carson said the second satellite centre will open at the Pacific Coliseum for the ISU Four Continents figure skating championships in February 2009.

The others will open near Games venues like Hillcrest Arena, GM Place and the UBC sports centre between late 2009 and early 2010. Carson said tourism officials will also work with the City of Vancouver to identify any high-traffic pedestrian corridors that could benefit from a visitor centre during the games.

The centres will be staffed by about 300 volunteers and 50 employees during the Games. About 30 staff members will be co-op students on paid internships from Capilano College's tourism management program.

After the games are over, the visitor centres will be redeployed to communities throughout B.C. for use as seasonal visitor centres.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission
E-mail: tourism@ctc-cct.ca 

(CBC News) - The number of foreign visitors to Canada in March was the lowest since record-keeping began in 1972, Statistics Canada said Tuesday.
About 2.26 million visits to this country were recorded that month, down 12.6 per cent from the same month a year earlier.

A big drop in American visitors was behind the decline. Only 730,000 same-day car trips were made by U.S. motorists in March. That was down 2.5 per cent from the month before and a 24 per cent plunge from a year ago as the price of gas, a high Canadian dollar and a weak U.S. economy kept Americans close to home.

The number of overseas visits fell by three per cent to 384,000.

"Travel declined in eight of Canada's top 12 overseas markets, with the strongest decreases in travel from Mexico, Germany and Hong Kong," said Statistics Canada.

Canadians, on the other hand, were showing no reluctance to travel, as the number of out-of-country trips rose in every category.

Canadians made 2.1 million same-day car trips to the U.S. in March, up 1.5 per cent from February and an increase of 9.5 per cent from year-ago levels.

The total number of trips to the U.S. rose to 3.8 million.

"The level of Canadian travel to the United States observed in the past six months has been the highest since 1998," Statistics Canada reported.

Overnight plane trips to the U.S. hit a new record high for the fourth month in a row.

Travel by Canadians to countries other than the U.S. also hit a record high.

Tourism offers the only sustainable development opportunity for many developing and least developed countries, and should be part of mainstream government policy, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) said at a recent United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), according to the International Travel Daily News.

Tourism is one of the top exports for many countries. Last year, international tourism arrivals topped the 900-million mark and generated US$730 billion. Since 2000, developing countries have led international tourism growth and reached a current market share of 40%: In that time, tourism to the 50 least developed countries grew by 110%, and by 20% in developed countries.

UNWTO recommends that government work with local communities and other stakeholders to develop tourism, and that sustainable tourism be incorporated into broader development policy.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission
E-mail: tourism@ctc-cct.ca 

A report released by the US-base Environmental Grantmakers Association recently (2008) investigated 'Ecotourism as a Conservation Strategy for Funders' and provides useful points of intervention for Funders. The Association was set up in 1987 and represents over 225 foundations from North America and worldwide including the Rockefeller Family Fund, the Ford Foundation and the Tiffany & Co Foundation to name a few.

The report suggests "the tourism industry has diluted the concept of ecotourism by adopting small, cosmetic, and often cost-saving steps rather than fundamental reforms that constitute socially and environmentally sensitive practices, and has become rampant with greenwashing, as companies attempt to ride on the crest of the ecotourism wave." With proper application ecotourism can be a very useful conservation tool. The report goes on to state that Foundations can play a unique and constructive role to assist the ecotourism sector in maturing as follows:
* Promote worldwide adoption of effective sustainable and ecotourism certification programs
* Support community-based ecotourism projects
* Use program-related investments to provide 'patient' or risk capital for projects that allows for longer holding periods and higher degrees of risk inherent in financing small or medium enterprises, and which allows for triple bottom line accounting with more distant time horizons
* Through travelers philanthropy

As quoted in the report "if tourism is to become an industry truly grounded upon sustainable development, it must all be based on ecotourism principles and practices."

Where do we stand on ecotourism principles and practices in Canada?
 
Author: Mike Robbins
Organization: the Tourism Company
E-mail: mrobbins@tourismco.com 

Tourism Richmond announced that it has been awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP). DMAP is an international accreditation program developed by the Washington, DC based Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI).

In earning the DMAP accreditation, destination marketing organizations (DMOs) communicate to their community, buyers and potential visitors that their DMO has attained a significant measure of excellence. Tourism Richmond is only the 2nd DMO in Canada to achieve this accreditation after Montréal.

"Tourism Richmond is honored to receive the Destination Marketing Accreditation from DMAP," said Tracy Lakeman, Executive Director. "We are very pleased to be recognized in the destination marketing community for providing outstanding services in accordance with international standards and benchmarks in this field."

"By applying for and receiving DMAP accreditation, Tourism Richmond has demonstrated a commitment to quality programs and services," said Barry Biggar, CDME, DMAP Board Chair.
"Earning DMAP accreditation tells the Richmond community and potential visitors that your DMO has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well placed and their business in good hands."

DMAP accreditation standards cover a wide variety of topics including governance, finance, management, human resources, technology, visitor services, group services, sales, communications, membership, brand management, destination development, research/market intelligence, innovation and stakeholder relationships.

DMAP is an independent international accreditation body and a leader in defining quality and performance issues in destination marketing.

www.destinationmarketing.org
 
Author: Elizabeth Kim
Organization: Spectacular Ink
E-mail: elizabeth@spectacularink.com 

By SUZANNE GAMBOA
© 2008 The Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Congress has focused on fortifying the nation's borders to crack down on illegal immigration. But officials from border communities say more money and attention also needs to go to beefing up legal entry points for those who cross daily for business and pleasure.

Members of the Border Trade Alliance gathered for a two-day conference in Washington Monday to discuss the latest strains on cross-border traffic and commerce.

Some of the needs are as simple as placing bathrooms near inspectors' booths in Pharr so vehicle lanes are not shut down when an inspector needs to take a break, Maria Luisa O'Connell, Border Trade Alliance president, said Monday. Other needs will take more money, such as filling thousands of port staff vacancies.

A new Calgary-based Canadian airline will be trying to lure business travellers from Air Canada's executive seats, come spring.

Corporate Jet Air's all-business class flights will use Bombardier CRJ 200s, which have been reconfigured to 18 roomy seats from the original 50, and will launch with 3x daily service between Calgary and Toronto. Other business amenities include limousine service to and from the airports, access to a private lounge and check in only 20-minute before departure.

Customers are required to buy tickets in bulk: $16,000 for a package of 10 one-way tickets, good for a year, competitively priced against Air Canada's executive service and private jet charters. Tickets for individual flights will not be sold. Nearly 60% of Corporate Jet Air's capacity has already been sold, and to protect travellers, has been placed in a trust. Future expansion under consideration includes Vancouver-Toronto and Calgary-Houston.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission

The number of U.S. travellers to Canada hit a record low in January, dragging overall travel to the country to the lowest level since 1972, when record keeping began, Statistics Canada reported Thursday.

Travellers made about 2.38 million trips to Canada in January, down 1.4 per cent from December. The number of trips from the U.S. hit 1.97 million, failing to reach two million for the first time on record. Same-day car travel from the U.S. also hit a record low of about 794,000 trips, the first time such trips have not totalled more than 800,000.

Even a record number of overseas travellers, at 391,000 overnight trips, was unable to compensate for the dip in U.S. travel. Only five countries — Switzerland, Hong Kong, China, Mexico and France — recorded increases in Canadian travel in January, with Mexico seeing the largest boost at 9.3 per cent. Japan saw the largest decrease in travel, dropping seven per cent.

The number of Canadians travelling outside the country also lagged in January, with roughly 4.4 million trips, down 0.2 per cent from the previous month. An estimated 653,000 of these trips were to overseas countries.

Same-day travel by car to the U.S. also dropped to 2.1 million trips, while overnight travel slipped by 0.2 per cent.

But Canadians did take a new record high number of overnight trips by plane to the U.S., with a 3.2 per cent increase to 525,000 trips.

The Canadian dollar averaged 98.9 US cents in January, down 0.8 per cent from December. The dollar's value also dropped against the euro and the yen during this period.

The Guide Outfitters Association of BC (GOABC) has registered a complaint with the BC Forest Practices Board regarding the negative impacts of excess salvage logging of mountain pine beetle infested stands, impacting land values and interests, such as wildlife habitat and visuals.  The FPB report found that some of the complaints were valid, though it was difficult to establish situations in which specific violations occurred. 
To read the report, click here.  http://www.fpb.gov.bc.ca/complaints/IRC135/IRC135.pdf

The Union of BC Municipalities just released a report on local government spending initiatives on Phase 2 of the Community Tourism Program. Click here to read report.

When the world's largest, most experienced heli-hiking company teams up with an accredited child-friendly retreat hotel in Canada's famed Banff National Park, there are serious memories to be made on this summertime family dream-vacation! Read on...

A pilot program announced by BC Economic Development Minister Colin Hansen comes as welcome news for the province's hospitality and tourism employers, who are struggling with a severe labour shortage.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) semi-skilled pilot project will enable hospitality and tourism employers to offer permanent positions to employees that have come to Canada as temporary foreign workers. Semi-skilled occupations such as food counter attendant and line cook were previously excluded from the PNP program.

"The BC government listened to our industry and clearly understands we are facing a people shortage, not just a skills shortage," says Mark von Schellwitz, Western Canada vice president for the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA). "This pilot project will allow some of the exceptional temporary foreign workers in the foodservice industry to succeed as new permanent Canadian residents. We're confident the program will be a success and these occupations will be added to the permanent PNP eligibility list."

In British Columbia, more than 168,000 people - or close to 8% of the provincial workforce - are employed in the foodservice industry, according to Statistics Canada. Labour market studies project an additional 32,000 to 44,000 foodservice industry employees will be needed by 2015.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission
 

International Gateway Kelowna, Kelowna's premier English as a Second Language training facility is twinning with a number of local companies like Bellstar resorts to provide much needed assistance in the hospitality and service sector during the peak tourist season.

Students receive intensive English language training at IGK for 3-9 months before being placed in both paid and unpaid internship positions depending on their Visa status and skill level. Working Holiday and Work and Study Visa student can typically work and study for up to one year. IGK works together with the student and the host company to find the best match for each party.

Dale Lockhart, Director of IGK, has seen an increased need for seasonal workers in the Okanagan and he feels that international students may help to fill some of the gap. Dale believes that international stduents bring unique skills that can compliment any business. In addition to English, IGK students speak a variety of languages including: Japanese, Korean, Spanish, German, French, Czech, Italian and Mandarin Chinese.

During 2007, IGK students were placed at local restaurants, hotels, non profit organizations, retail shops, community centres, wineries and tourist attractions.

www.igcanada.com 
 
Author: Dale Lockhart
Organization: International Gateway Kelowna
 

CKNW News reports that the best of BC and Canadian culture, business, tourism and industry will be on display at the BC-Canada pavilion in Beijing in anticipation of the Beijing games this summer.

Premier Gordon Campbell unveiled the pavilion's unique design and business partners recently. "It will be nestled near the forbidden city in Tiananmen square - 21-thousand square feet. It will welcome, we expect over 400-thousand visitors to its three floors of exhibition space and meeting places between May and September of this year."

BC companies will be given the chance to promote themselves and build relationships in growing Asian markets through the pavilion, according to the report. 
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission

According to an article in the Globe & Mail, the Vancouver Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games are pushing to be the first carbon-neutral Games, at a cost the organizing committee plans to cover in fundraising.

The David Suzuki Foundation had released a report outlining recommendations worth about $5-million to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions associated with the Games. The Globe & Mail quotes Linda Coady, vice-president of the Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee's sustainability project, as saying, "we're looking at it internally, and looking at creative ways to generate the funds". The report, commissioned and funded by VANOC, shows that air travel, transportation at the Games, and energy use are the three largest sources of emissions.

The report's figures were obtained from VANOC, which estimates the Games' total carbon emissions will be 328,485 tonnes.

The report also outlines how the organizing committee can manage greenhouse-gas emissions associated with the Games and meet its bid target, and recommends measuring and reducing carbon emissions and purchasing carbon offsets that are verifiable by a third party.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission

On February 6, David Emerson, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics, and John Furlong, Vancouver 2010 CEO, unveiled the Vancouver 2010 Countdown Clock in Ottawa alongside Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The new clock is an enduring reminder to all who see it that in just two years, Canada will welcome the world.

Earlier in the day, James Moore, Parliamentary Secretary for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics, set the tone for the celebrations with a statement in the House of Commons declaring the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games as Canada's Games. "Let us all be inspired by the power of the Olympic and Paralympic Games - the power to promote friendship and respect, stir dreams and tell a story about our country and our people," said Moore.

At the Countdown Clock unveiling event, Minister Emerson noted, "In two years, the eyes of the world will turn towards Canada on the occasion of the 2010 Winter Games. This is a perfect time to re-affirm our commitment to make these Canada's Games and to encourage all Canadians to get engaged as we prepare to host this once-in-a-generation event."

"With nearly two years from the opening of the 2010 Winter Games, the Olympic and Paralympic spirit and anticipation are spreading all across Canada," said Gordon Campbell, Premier of British Columbia. "This clock in our nation's capital is a reminder of all that we have achieved in bringing the Games to B.C. and Canada, as well as the legacies that will be shared by all for years to come."

The Government of Canada is a major and committed partner in delivering successful, well-managed Winter Games in 2010. Total federal investment in the 2010 Winter Games is $578M.
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission

Victoria - British Columbia is launching a two-year pilot project aimed at foreign workers to help offset serious labour shortages in the tourism/hospitality and trucking industries, Economic Development Minister Colin Hansen announced today.

Read on...

A new brand and an expanded marketing strategy to attract more visitors and business investment has been unveiled by the Town of Osoyoos and Destination Osoyoos - the community's Tourism and Economic Development agency. 
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Victoria Airport Authority today announced new non-stop service from Victoria (YYJ) to San Francisco (SFO) on United Airlines, beginning June 5, 2008.

Read on...

The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) announced a Contributing Province/Territory Program (CPTP), which offers a structured avenue for all provinces and territories to participate in the 2010 Winter Games.

This program provides the opportunity for all of Canada's provinces and territories to showcase their uniqueness to a global audience of approximately three billion. VANOC developed this new program in response to interest demonstrated by Canada's provinces and territories outside of BC to allow for greater involvement in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Ontario is the first province to officially take part in the program, signing a memorandum of understanding with VANOC. The Government of Ontario identifies a number of potential areas of collaboration that will help VANOC successfully deliver on its mission to "touch the soul of the nation and inspire the world". Under the CPTP, Ontario will invest $5 million to support Canadian athletes, participate in the Cultural Olympiad and help welcome the world in 2010.

"Between (these memorandums of understanding) and the Contributing Province and Territory Program, we will ensure every region of Canada is showcased on the world stage and benefits directly from the power of the 2010 Winter Games," said John Furlong, VANOC Chief Executive Officer. "Through these programs, each province and territory that participates will create and gain from its own 2010 legacy -- a legacy that will last well after the Olympic and Paralympic Flames are extinguished."
 
Author: TOURISM staff
Organization: Canadian Tourism Commission

Bruce Constantineau reports in the Vancouver Sun that a US economy threatening to plunge into recession has BC tourism officials dreading the possibility of yet another year of falling US tourist traffic.

"We're concerned but the important thing is not to over-react prematurely," Tourism BC president Rod Harris said in an interview. "We have contingency plans available if the effect becomes more serious than we expect." He said a weakening US market could prompt BC officials to divert even more of their marketing dollars to Canadian markets, a strategy that began several years ago: "Western Canada looks to be remaining in pretty good economic shape so redeploying our resources into some near-in markets could be very important."

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Vancouver, B.C. – go2, the B.C. tourism industry’s human resource association, officially announced today the launch of PROPEL, a new division of go2.

Recently branded as PROPEL, this division of go2 was sanctioned by the Industry Training Authority (ITA) to take on an industry-driven training mandate for British Columbia’s tourism sector. The apprenticeship programs for cook, baker and meatcutter currently fall under the jurisdiction of PROPEL.

Labour shortages in the foodservice sector are at a crisis point and there is a severe lack of trained workers in the cooking field and other foodservice occupations. 

With an ultimate goal of easing the labour crunch through increasing credential completion, PROPEL is gathering input from the industry on the program standards and delivery models to ensure the programs are designed to meet the needs of employers.

“We’ve done extensive research and employers have told us they want workers with more practical experience as part of their entry-level and apprenticeship training programs,” says Kate Dodd, chair of go2’s industry training advisory committee. “They want people who know what’s involved in the trade, and can hit the ground running.”

She adds that the students are looking for more on-the-job experience so they can understand the realities of the trade, earn while they learn, and complete the training faster so they can start their careers.” 

Today, PROPEL was launched at the B.C. Foodservice Expo at B.C. Place as part of a black box cooking competition dubbed “The Culinary Face Off”. Working closely with the B.C. Chefs’ Association, the contest was designed to show the value of the practical experience that comes from on-the-job coaching and the industry working together to achieve results.

It pitted Kirk McLean, Vancouver Canucks Alumnus and co-owner of So.Cial at Le Magasin Restaurant against Colin Hansen, B.C. Minister of Economic Development, with coaching from prominent local chefs Jeffrey Van Geest, chef/owner of Aurora Bistro in east Vancouver, Robert Belcham, chef/owner of Fuel Restaurant on Vancouver’s west side and hands-on assistance of young chefs from the junior chapter of the B.C. Chefs’ Association, Max Wang (president) and Rachel Webster (incoming president).

Kirk McLean won the face off by one point. Hansen made an excellent showing and had much praise for PROPEL.

"We need a training culture in B.C. in order to be successful and that requires active involvement from industry," said Colin Hansen, Minister of Economic Development. "By forming PROPEL, the tourism industry's success can only continue to grow and the programs they offer will expand accordingly."

“Industry leadership like what we’re seeing from PROPEL is critical to the success of B.C.’s industry training system,” says Kevin Evans, ITA chief executive officer. “Apprenticeship is predominantly work-based, with about 80 per cent of training done on- the-job. Giving tourism and hospitality employers the opportunity to define the skills needed for success and productivity in today’s workplace will ensure that they get a positive return on their training investment.” 

About the Industry Training Authority
The Industry Training Authority (ITA) was established in 2004 to significantly expand training participation in B.C. through the development of an industry-led training model. Industry Training Organizations (ITOs) are the principal way in which the leadership is being delegated and have been launched in six key B.C. industry sectors to date.

About go2
Established by the B.C. tourism industry in April 2003, go2’s mission is to assist the tourism industry address challenges in attracting employees and retaining its workforce in order to support industry growth. For more information about go2 visit www.go2hr.ca. For more information about PROPEL, visit www.go2propel.ca.

Anthony Everett, CEO of Northern BC Tourism is pleased to announce the appointment of Jillian Greenwood as Manager Industry Relations and Trade.

Based out of the newly created Northern BC Tourism Association satellite office in Prince Rupert, Greenwood will provide stakeholder relations for the region and will be responsible for the delivery of Northern BC's travel trade program.

An active member of the BC tourism industry, Greenwood was most recently the Director of Marketing for Tourism Prince Rupert, and her background includes roles in marketing, public relations and sales in both the private and non-profit sectors.

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Jillian holds a Bachelor's Degree in European Business Studies from the University of Guelph, where she is currently completing an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management, and has studied International Business Management at the University of Montpellier, France.

An enthusiastic traveller with an adventurous spirit, Greenwood has lived in France, England and Fiji and is perfectly poised for her new position. "This region offers incredible experiences to both visitors and residents and I am constantly amazed by the people and places of the north" she explains. "I am very excited to work with our operators and stakeholders as we introduce northern BC to first-timers and showcase all the reasons to return - again and again."

"We are delighted to have this new satellite office of the Northern BC Tourism Association located in Prince Rupert," says Bruce Wishart, Executive Director of Tourism Prince Rupert. "This will help our organization work even more closely with the regional organization, but I also believe that having Jillian Greenwood located here will be of great benefit to the tourism industry in northwestern BC. The close relationships that Jill has developed with tourism stakeholders in this area over the past few years will help these people better capitalize upon the marketing opportunities offered by NBCTA."

www.northernbctourism.com

Mission Hill Family Estate makes another mark on the international stage. The Terrace Restaurant receives a prestigious honour that includes it in the company of the most renowned winery estates in the world.

In its February 2008 issue, Travel + Leisure magazine names Mission Hill Family Estate's Terrace Restaurant one of the top five winery restaurants in the world. In an article titled "Top Winery Restaurants" the industry leading publication refers to Mission Hill Family Estate as "the centerpiece of the Canadian wine tourism industry" and the Terrace as "one of the most glorious dining experiences around."

The international recognition places Mission Hill Family Estate's Terrace Restaurant in the most exclusive culinary company. This award follows the winery's proclamation as Canadian Winery of the Year by Wine Access Magazine in December 2007 along with a second consecutive vintage of its signature wine, Oculus, being sold out prior to its official release date. The highly allocated Oculus is widely recognized as one of the very best red wines produced in Canada.

The esteemed list of winery restaurants celebrated by Travel + Leisure magazine demonstrates the highest level of culinary artistry:

* Étoile at Domaine Chandon in California's Napa Valley - The restaurant at Domaine Chandon has a 30-year history and is lauded by Travel + Leisure for its friendly service, bucolic setting, and robust French-influenced American menu

* Buca Lapi at Marchesi Antinori in Tuscany, Italy - Fine dining at one of Italy's most legendary wineries includes "the finest steak in Florence"

* Hotel Marqués de Riscal Restaurant at Herederos del Marqués in Rioja, Spain - "Starkly urbane" décor is complemented by innovative cuisine

* Tokara Estate Restaurant at Tokara Estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa - Travel + Leisure declares the cuisine to be "part South African, part French, and defiantly original"

Travel + Leisure is one of the world's premier travel magazines. A lifestyle publication devoted to exploring business and vacation travel destinations, it also focuses on leisure pursuits, hotels, restaurants, wines and spirits, and hobbies and entertainment. With a global readership of 4.6 million, its highly-regarded recommendations reach a wide audience and showcase destinations of the highest standards in the travel world.

Confirmed speakers Peter Yesawich, John Furlong (CEO VANOC), Tamara Vrooman, (CEO VANCITY), Jim Faccette (CEO Canadian Airports Council) award winning journalists Heather Hanson and Kim Lisagor, and Dr. Roberta Bondar are examples of the exceptional presenters lined up for this year's BC Tourism Industry Conference, Feb 20-22, 2008 at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver, BC.

Truly the number one tourism industry networking event of the year, tourism key influencers will converge in Vancouver for this annual conference where decisions are made, relationships are built and in depth, insider knowledge is shared.

"We are seeing that markets are down, border crossings are delayed and finding skilled labour is an issue. Yet, many operators are telling us they are experiencing record results. It is a volatile time in our industry, with incredible opportunities on our horizon," says Council of Tourism Associations BC President & CEO, Stephen Regan. "We have worked hard at bringing the best minds to Vancouver, including students from across the province who are interested in working in the industry. This conference has built a reputation for being one of the best investments of the year for tourism operators and owners and we have worked hard to ensure the program this year continues to deliver."

Keynotes include an update on 2010 and the resulting human legacies that will continue to propel B.C. forward as a top tourism destination, and a review of emerging lifestyles and travel trends and the implications for marketing B.C. to the world, by perennial favourite Peter Yesawich. Concurrent sessions will cover recruitment and retention of valuable employees including reaching into foreign markets for skilled labour, how B.C. can lead in sustainable tourism, an update on the opportunities in aboriginal, sport, heritage and arts tourism, and the latest award winners will be announced at the eighth annual B.C. Tourism Awards.

www.bctourismindustryconference.ca

On January 24, nearly 200 people gathered to offer their best wishes to Lorne Whyte, who recently retired after serving as Tourism Victoria's President & CEO for 19 years.

The retirement party, held at The Fairmont Empress, was attended by past and present staff members, board members, industry colleagues and personal friends - all of whom gathered to offer their congratulations to Lorne and his wife Ayn Marie. City of Victoria Mayor Alan Lowe, Tourism British Columbia CEO Rod Harris, Tourism Victoria Chair Roger Soane and Past Chair Christine Stoneman, as well as Tourism Victoria's Interim President & CEO Melissa McLean were among those speaking at the event in honour of Lorne.

Lorne's 30 year tourism industry background also includes owning and operating successful companies throughout the Pacific Northwest in both the tourism publishing and distribution business.

Over the past two decades Lorne has been a true leader in the tourism industry. Under his tenure at Tourism Victoria a hotel tax was implemented in two Greater Victoria area municipalities, and Victoria's annual tourism revenues grew from $500 million in 1989 to more than $1.2 billion in 2007. Lorne also made it a priority throughout his career to forge strong partnerships with tourism marketing organizations throughout North America.

He served on the board of the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Bid Committee, and was a major supporter in the formation of SportHost in Victoria, with Tourism Victoria as a founding member. Lorne also partnered Tourism Victoria's management and staff with the 1994 Commonwealth Society to create the Home Stay Program ensuring accommodation for all visitors that year.

After Lorne's retirement at the beginning of this year, Tourism Victoria's Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications Melissa McLean was named as Interim President & CEO. The organization is now fully engaged in the recruitment process, with the aim of naming a permanent President & CEO by late February.

News Release

For immediate release

Transat renews its program to support

sustainable tourism projects

Four projects to protect the environment and heritage

were accepted for the 2007 edition

Transat A.T. Inc., one of the largest integrated tourism companies in the world, with a strong presence in Canada and France, is renewing its program to provide financial support for sustainable tourism projects proposed by communities or not-for-profit organizations in any of the company’s approximately 60 destination countries.

The program, launched in 2007, is designed to help organizations that need financial support to develop projects with a sustainable tourism approach and that have the potential of increasing a community’s tourism possibilities. Projects are eligible for financial support of up to $50,000, or 35,000 euros, each.

“Our program achieved its objectives in 2007; that’s why we decided to continue it this year and to expand its reach,” said Jean-Marc Eustache, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat. “The concept of sustainable development is gaining ground in the tourism industry, both in our source and destination countries. We are very pleased to support communities that are taking control of the preservation and enhancement of their cultural and natural heritage.”

Sustainable tourism entails respect for nature, as well as for host communities and their values; it combines positive socio-economic benefits for local populations with an enriching experience for travellers.

Transat is the largest tour operator in every region of Canada, with a strong market presence under the Transat Holidays, Nolitours and Air Transat brands, among others. It distributes its products through thousands of travel agencies, including under its own brands: Marlin Travel, Club Voyages, Voyages en liberté, TravelPlus, exitnow.ca and tripcentral.ca. In 2007, Transat sold more than a million sun destination vacation packages to Canadians.

With a major presence in France since the company was founded in 1987, Transat is the parent of tour operators Look Voyages, Vacances Transat, Brokair and Amplitude Internationale. Transat is also involved in holiday distribution in France through nearly 70 travel agencies operating under the Club Voyages and Look Voyages brands. In Europe, Transat also acts as an outgoing tour operator for travel from the UK to Canada (Canadian Affair) and an incoming tour operator in Greece (Tourgreece), in addition to selling packages and air fare to Canada in some 10 other European countries.

2008 edition of the program

Sustainable tourism proposals can focus on natural or cultural heritage, including the restoration, protection, conservation or improvement of a natural site or ecosystem, environmental enhancement or rehabilitation of an existing tourist site, restoration or development of a heritage or historic site or building, with a view to preserving it, as well as projects aimed at diminishing the negative impacts related to tourism. The application form and all details of the program can be found on Transat’s website (www.transat.com) in the “Philanthropy” section under “About Transat.” Applications will be reviewed and their merit established by two committees composed of Transat staff members in Canada and Europe. Applications must be received by this April 14, and the names of the selected projects will be announced in the fall of 2008.

Results of the 2007 edition of the program

In 2007, Transat announced on November 14 that it had decided to help fund four sustainable tourism projects in Canada and Cuba.

It is supporting the World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWF-Canada), which is working with the Cuban government on a three-year project to lay the groundwork for a sustainable tourism policy to help protect that country’s ecosystems.
It is funding a green-accreditation project being implemented by the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve (a UNESCO biosphere reserve located in Ontario), aimed at the area's businesses and organizations.
Transat is joining forces with the Seigneurie des Aulnaies, the interpretation centre of the most complete seigniorial system in Quebec, for the implementation of its five-year plan to, among other things, protect and maintain its historic buildings and modernize its reception structures.
Finally, Transat is supporting the citizens group Les Amis du marais of Saint-Antoine-de-Tilly, near Quebec City, which has been working for the past 10 years to protect and develop the recreational-tourism potential of a marsh area and trail along the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

About Transat

Transat A.T. Inc. is an integrated international tour operator with more than 60 destination countries and that distributes products in over 50 countries. A holiday travel specialist, Transat operates mainly in Canada and Europe, as well as in the Caribbean, Mexico and the Mediterranean Basin. Montreal-based Transat is also active in air transportation, destination services, accommodation and distribution. (TSX: TRZ.B, TRZ.A)

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The Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council presents the 7th Annual Tourism HR Forum.

The Tourism HR Forum brings together HR executives, educators and corporate trainers to discuss solutions to issues facing all human re