Travel Trade

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association works in partnership with Destination BC to work with the Travel Trade, building destination awareness in our key markets, The United Kingdom (UK), the United States (US), Mexico, Germany, Australia, China, and Canada.

Regional Partnerships

TOTA works with the following regional partners  to share story ideas, new product announcements, and hosting Travel Trade in region:

• Tourism Vernon

• SilverStar Resort

• Tourism Kelowna

• Big White Resort

• Tourism Valemount

• Tourism Wells Gray

• Tourism Sun Peaks

• Tourism Kamloops

• Explore Gold Country

• Tourism Merritt

Focus & Strategy

• Attract new business and increase overnight stays by targeting key accounts that bring tour groups and FIT (Free Independent Travelers) to the region.

• Provide research, travel planning, new product bulletins, sample itineraries, destination information, and trade familiarization (FAM) trips.

Partnerships

• Collaborate with Destination BC, Destination Canada, Indigenous Tourism Canada, and Indigenous Tourism BC on domestic and international trade initiatives.

• Maintain regional partnerships with various tourism organizations and resorts to share stories, promote products, and host travel trade professionals.

• Work with private PR firms, industry associations, and cross-promotional partners (e.g., Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism and North Central Washington Economic Development District).

Marketplaces & Events

• Attend major travel trade marketplaces, including Rendez-vous Canada, Explore BC, CITAP, and other domestic and international trade events.

Export-Ready Product Support

• Inform the travel trade industry about new products, transportation updates, and renovations to existing tourism offerings.

• Provide resources and guidance for businesses looking to become “travel trade ready.”

Hosting Travel Trade Familiarization (FAM) Tours

• Partner with Destination BC and Destination Canada to host key tour operators and travel planners for short but impactful visits to the region.

• Focus on promoting travel to different sub-regions during shoulder and low seasons.

• Work with stakeholders to develop customized itineraries.

Destination Information & Media Support

• Supply tour operators and agencies with destination information, images, and b-roll through an online travel trade planner and provincial image library.

Travel Trade CRM & Communications

• Maintain a CRM system to track and manage travel trade accounts, ensuring continuous engagement and updates after trade events and meetings.