Indigenous Tourism
TOTA is committed to working towards Indigenous truth and reconciliation by collaborating with Indigenous tourism companies in the Thompson Okanagan region and Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC).
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) acknowledges that the Thompson Okanagan region is situated on the unceded, traditional territory of three Interior Salish Nations: the Syilx, Nlaka'pamux, and Secwépemc Peoples.
TOTA continuously works to cultivate credible relations with the 33 Indigenous communities throughout the Interior and endeavours to develop economic opportunities that progress Indigenous Tourism within the region, whilst maintaining respect and cultural authenticity.
Alongside strategy implementation, TOTA will plan and support Indigenous cultural events and initiatives in gateway locations and acquire unique stories for marketing ventures.
Together with ITBC, TOTA is excited to share this journey as the past rejoins the future.
Accessible & Inclusive Tourism
TOTA is committed to becoming a world-renowned accessible tourism destination and to promoting “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Access & Inclusion = Everyone
Experiences that are inclusive and accessible provide equal opportunity and participation for everyone - regardless of age, ability, size, gender, or culture. Living, working, playing, and travelling with and alongside family and friends is an essential piece to everyone’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Travelling together nurtures a sense of belonging and understanding for everyone involved.
In line with and inspired by the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and with a focus on Goal #9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Goal #10 - Reduced Inequalities, and Goal #11 - Sustainable Cities & Communities, TOTA has embarked on the journey of making this beautiful region more accessible to all people.
Regional Access & Inclusion Liaison
In partnership with Spinal Cord Injury BC, TOTA’s Regional Accessibility Specialist is eager to spark the conversation around accessible tourism. She works to increase awareness and provides consultations to enhance accessible travel and tourism services, products, and experiences in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Rail Trails
The Thompson Okanagan enjoys an extensive Rail Trail network as a result of decommissioned Railway lines throughout the region. These “Rail Trails” as they are developed will provide an opportunity to attract cycling and hiking enthusiasts of many ages and abilities to the region.
Key to the attraction of these trail networks is the less than 3% grade or incline at any point along the trails, making them easily accessible for to a wide range of cycling or hiking abilities.
There are three primary rail trails within our region with a fourth currently in the process of being developed.
The Kettle Valley Rail Trail (Midway to Hope)
The Columbia & Western Rail Trail (Castlegar to Midway)
The Okanagan Rail Trail (Coldstream to Kelowna)
And the yet to be named Rail Trail from Armstrong to Sicamous
The rail trail corridors are managed either by a local municipality, a first nation community, provincial parks or the BC government, through the Ministry of Forest, Lands, Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development.