TOTA joins global initiative on safe travels
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has received a designation that it says will help rebuild tourism and eventually allow for international guests to return to the region.
TOTA has has been recognized by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) as a Safe Travel Destination.
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the WTTC, the global body representing the travel and tourism sector, produced safety and hygiene protocols and guidelines for re-opening tourism that have been embraced by over 1,200 major tourism companies in over 80 destinations around the world.
The WTTC also introduced a Safe Travels Stamp which enables travelers to recognize destination authorities and companies that have implemented and aligned with the WTTC’s Safe Travels Protocols.
TOTA president and CEO Glenn Mandziuk said B.C.’s guidelines for the tourism sector not only meet but exceed those of the World Travel Council.
“The guidelines established in British Columbia through tourism sector partners and endorsed by WorkSafe BC not only meet but exceed those of the WTTC,” Mandziuk said. “We believed it was important to secure this designation as we begin to build back tourism and eventually welcome guests from around the world.”
“British Columbians have worked hard to flatten the curve and help make it as safe as possible to travel in our province,” Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Lisa Beare said. “Congratulations to Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association for this recognition and their work in helping keep visitors, workers, and communities safe during COVID-19.”
Communities, CDMO’s and tourism management organizations in the Thompson Okanagan are able to use the Safe Travels Stamp under this agreement. Contact TOTA at recovery@totabc.com.
Individual tourism stakeholder businesses can also request the use of the Safe Travels Stamp by completing the Safe Travels – Business Request Form.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected board of directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region.