GoMedia Roadshow

A Warm Welcome to Kelowna & the Thompson Okanagan from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Team

Nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada, the Thompson Okanagan region is an incredibly diverse destination in an area roughly the size as Ireland.

The stunning landscapes provide a playground for outdoor exploration and adventure, with a vibrant culture in communities both large and small. Incredible agricultural abundance guarantees a wide selection of farm fresh food, exceptional culinary experiences, and world class wine, cider, and spirits.

The beauty of the Thompson Okanagan is rooted in the diversity and well-being of the natural spaces that surround us, as much as the people and communities calling it home.

A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Tourism

Our commitment: To create a strong and healthy tourism economy whilst minimizing the impact on our natural and cultural resources.

From green and responsible tourism, to inclusivity, accessibility and Indigenous tourism - our approach to sustainability aims to be all-encompassing, built upon the four pillars of sustainable tourism: Profit, People, Place, and Partners.

The Thompson Okanagan website invites visitors to be mindful as they explore the region. Through stories and business features, we share our passion for sustaining all that makes this region so special today - and for generations to come. Each visit is an opportunity to learn more about sustainable tourism practices while appreciating the abundance around us.

Accessibility & Inclusion

Accessibility and full inclusion allows equal opportunity and participation for people with diverse abilities. It nurtures a sense of belonging and well being for everyone.

We are working with key partners to become a world-renowned accessible tourism destination offering fully inclusive experiences, products, and services throughout the Thompson Okanagan region.

Indigenous Culture

We respectfully acknowledge that the land which the Thompson Okanagan is established on is in the traditional territory of the Syilx, Secwepemc, and Nlaka'pmux Nations.

We work with Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) to cultivate relations with the 33 Interior Salish communities in the region. Together, we endeavour to develop economic opportunities that progress Indigenous tourism within the region, whilst maintaining respect and cultural authenticity.

Regional Pledge

The Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge, “Seven Affirmations for Seven Generations,” was created to inspire responsible travel in the region. The sustainable tourism guidelines are based on the Seven Generations Principle, rooted in Indigenous philosophy: The decisions we make today will have an impact for as many as seven generations to come.

International Connections

TOTA is an affiliate member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). In October 2019, after a lengthy application process, the Thompson Okanagan region became the first Canadian destination to join UNWTO International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).

We are committed to ongoing monitoring and reporting of nine core areas of sustainable tourism development including Seasonality, Employment, Local Satisfaction, and Energy Management.

Supporting Our Industry

Empowering tourism businesses through resources and tools to successfully navigate all aspects of sustainability, as well as the plethora of challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, is one of our top priorities.

Together, we are working to build a stronger, more sustainable, resilient industry and destination.