As British Columbia gears up for the annual Tourism Week from April 15-19, 2024, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of the province’s tourism industry. Despite facing unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry has demonstrated resilience and growth, emerging as a vital contributor to BC’s economy.
The Value of Tourism by the Numbers
In 2022, BC’s tourism industry showcased a significant recovery, with the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth soaring to +44.9%. The industry contributed a staggering $7.2 billion to BC’s GDP, outshining other primary resource industries. With a total tourism revenue of $18.5 billion, marking a +56.5% increase over 2021, the industry’s revival is evident. The sector also generated $2.1 billion in provincial and municipal taxes, a +45.3% increase from the previous year. Furthermore, the industry supported over 16,900 tourism-related businesses, employing 154,366 individuals, which is a +94.5% increase over 2021. These businesses paid $5 billion in wages and salaries, reflecting a +57.4% increase over 2021.
Public Perceptions of the BC Tourism Industry
The public’s perception of the tourism industry remains overwhelmingly positive. A significant 94% of BC residents believe in the industry’s crucial role in the economic well-being of the province and their individual communities (80%). The industry is recognized for creating career opportunities, being an important investment for BC’s economic growth, and generating substantial tax revenues. Residents also appreciate the social and economic benefits tourism brings to their communities, such as cultural diversity, support for local businesses, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The pandemic has heightened the appreciation for tourism, with 61% of residents acknowledging its value more than ever.
2024 BC Tourism Week: A Time to Celebrate and Promote
BC Tourism Week 2024 is a celebration of the industry’s achievements and its importance to Canada’s economy. The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and Destination BC have prepared a comprehensive toolkit to assist industry partners in celebrating tourism across the province. The toolkit includes key messaging, a Tourism Week fact sheet, suggested social media posts, graphic tiles, and resources from various organizations, including the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and go2HR.
The week-long celebration is an invitation for all tourism partners to come together, share their stories, and promote Canada’s diverse destinations. It’s a time to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of tourism businesses and employees who contribute to making BC a vibrant and welcoming place for visitors.
Hidden Gems in BC: Beautiful, Lesser-Known Destinations
Haida Gwaii: Often called the “Galapagos of the North,” this archipelago boasts rich Indigenous culture, verdant rainforests, and diverse wildlife, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Nelson: Tucked away in the Selkirk Mountains, Nelson charms visitors with its vibrant arts scene, well-preserved historic architecture, and array of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking.
Cathedral Provincial Park: Situated in the Similkameen region, this park is a haven for hikers, featuring breathtaking alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, and distinctive rock formations.
The Sunshine Coast: Just a short ferry ride from Vancouver, this tranquil area is known for its scenic coastal towns, art galleries, and outdoor pursuits such as hiking and kayaking.
Wells Gray Provincial Park: Renowned for its striking waterfalls, including the majestic Helmcken Falls, this park in the Cariboo Mountains is perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
Tofino: A surfer’s haven on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Tofino is also the gateway to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, offering a plethora of outdoor adventures.
Desolation Sound: A paradise for boaters, this area north of the Sunshine Coast is famed for its serene waters, picturesque fjords, and abundant marine life.
Kootenay National Park: Famous for the Radium Hot Springs, this park provides stunning mountain views, diverse hiking trails, and a variety of ecosystems.
Salt Spring Island: As the largest of the Southern Gulf Islands, it is celebrated for its artisanal foods, local markets, and laid-back lifestyle.
The Great Bear Rainforest: One of the largest temperate rainforests in the world, this area is home to the elusive white Kermode (Spirit) bear and offers a truly wild experience.
Bowron Lake Provincial Park: Known for its canoe circuit through a series of lakes and portages, this wilderness area is a paddler’s dream.
Squamish: Dubbed the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” Squamish offers a plethora of activities, including rock climbing, windsurfing, and hiking.
Valhalla Provincial Park: This rugged and remote area in the West Kootenays is famed for its alpine scenery and challenging hiking trails.
Barkerville Historic Town: A well-preserved gold rush town in the Cariboo region, Barkerville offers a glimpse into BC’s early history and pioneer life.
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve: A remote and pristine area in Haida Gwaii, accessible only by boat or seaplane, known for its ancient Haida village sites and unspoiled nature.
Atlin: A hidden gem in the far northwest, Atlin is a small town surrounded by stunning wilderness, offering a peaceful retreat and outdoor adventures.
The Broken Group Islands: Part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this archipelago is a kayaker’s paradise, featuring sheltered waters and untouched natural beauty.
Mount Edziza Provincial Park: A volcanic landscape in northern BC, this park is known for its striking geology, hot springs, and backcountry hiking.
Kyuquot Sound: A remote and rugged coastal area on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Kyuquot Sound is perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure in the great outdoors.
Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park: A vast and untouched wilderness area in northern BC, Spatsizi is known for its diverse wildlife, including caribou and grizzly bears.
Nootka Island: A remote island off Vancouver Island’s west coast, Nootka offers pristine beaches, old-growth forests, and a rich Indigenous history.
The Chilcotin Plateau: A lesser-known region in central BC, the Chilcotin Plateau features rolling grasslands, deep canyons, and a sense of endless space.
Princess Louisa Inlet: Accessible only by boat or plane, this fjord is renowned for its sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and serene beauty.
Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park: Often referred to as the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” Mount Assiniboine is a striking peak surrounded by alpine meadows and pristine lakes.
The Skeena River: Flowing through northern BC, the Skeena River is a vital waterway with a rich history, offering excellent fishing, rafting, and cultural experiences.
These hidden gems offer a chance to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of British Columbia, providing unforgettable experiences for those who venture off the beaten path.
Join the Celebration
As we look forward to Tourism Week 2024, let’s join hands in spreading the message that #BCTourismCounts and celebrate the industry’s resilience, growth, and positive impact on our communities and economy.
For more info on the value of tourism, visit Destination BC’s website.
To access the full toolkit and resources, visit the TIABC website.