For Immediate Release
January 18, 2023
Tourism Professionals Invited to Attend Thompson Okanagan Tourism Summit: Biospherology Master Class at Thompson Rivers University
February 21 - 22, 2023
Kamloops, B.C. - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) announces the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Summit: Biospherology Master Class. Tourism professionals are invited to attend a unique immersive Summit at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops, on the unceded territory of the Secwépemc Nation. The Master Class commences on the evening of February 21 with an opening reception, followed by a full day of sessions on February 22, 2023.
The Summit focuses on continuous education for industry professionals through interactive sessions, insights from global and regional leaders, and networking opportunities with colleagues across the region and province. “Biospherology” is the branch of knowledge reflecting development and implementation of sustainable tourism practices, recognizing that global ecosystems are made up of interconnected relationships. The name-sake is inspired by Biosphere Tourism, a sustainable tourism system created by the Responsible Tourism Institute, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Learn more about the Thompson Okanagan being a Biosphere Gold Certified Destination and TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program.
Attendees can expect to gain insights into the latest trends and developments in destination management, climate action, access and inclusion, Indigenous tourism, and more. The events aim to educate all tourism stakeholders to understand the impact of responsible and sustainable tourism development, how to elevate visitor experiences, strengthen businesses, regenerate communities, and reduce impacts within the surrounding environments. All kicking off with the Intro to Gastronomy & Mixology welcome party.
View the schedule here.
TOTA’s Biospherology Master Class is open to all tourism stakeholders in the region and province in roles of; tourism and hospitality leaders, executives, team members, sustainability coordinators, government, not-for-profit organizations, students, and anyone with an interest in sustainable tourism development.
Learn more and register at TOTABC.org/Summit
Rates:
Tickets are $99 per person. Special room rates are available for bookings before January 31 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops and Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel. Air Canada has provided a discount code for flights to and from YKA Kamloops Airport from February 14 to March 1.
Sponsorship is courtesy of Air Canada, Telus, Fortis BC, Tourism Kamloops, Thompson Rivers University, Sandman Signature Kamloops, and Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops.
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About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key TOTA initiatives include; Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Affirmations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.
For more information about TOTA visit totabc.org, or visit the consumer facing website thompsonokanagan.com. Connect socially at @thompsonokanagan
Media Contact:
Krista Lochhead
krista@hatchhos.com
778.227.2396
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