Destination Development: Building Kamloops’ Vibrant Future Together
Riverside Park
Dylan Sherrard
At Tourism Kamloops, we’re not just about showcasing the beauty of our city – we’re about building its future. Here’s what’s happening with our Destination Development team and the exciting initiatives reshaping Kamloops for visitors and locals alike.
Iconic Infrastructure: Phase One of Investment Attraction
When it comes to shaping the future, we’re blowing things wide open. After receiving 10 expert Expressions of Interest, Tourism Kamloops selected consultants CBRE, who have kicked off Phase 1 of a game-changing project.
Our steering committee, representing key partners from the City of Kamloops, Kamloops Wine Trail, Venture Kamloops, Tk'emlups te Secwepemc, and more, is exploring iconic infrastructure ideas – from wellness attractions to travel-trade-ready gems like a Malahat SkyWalk-inspired venture.
CBRE is now in private meetings with developers and stakeholders, while also diving into Kamloops’ unique opportunities during an immersive FAM tour, hosted by Tourism Kamloops. This initiative underscores a pivotal shift: Kamloops is stepping up as a prime player in tourism infrastructure development, with a coordinated vision driving us forward.
Travel Trade and Global Connections
Our team isn’t just talking about Kamloops – we’re shouting it from the global stage! Recently, Jada Glen, Destination Experience Coordiantor, presented to 170+ travel agents as part of Destination Canada’s Canadian Specialist Program, connecting with markets in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. The reach is only set to grow, with session recordings expected to surpass 1,000 views per market.
Meanwhile, our CEO, Erik James Fisher, represented Kamloops at Canada Showcase Europe in Paris. Over 50 appointments with European tour operators put Kamloops on the map for authentic Canadian adventures like horseback riding, hiking, and Indigenous tourism experiences.
In the coming weeks, Jada and Lisa Strachan, Director of Destination Development & Trade Relations, will be attending the CITAP Trade show in Richmond to promote Kamloops to even more international markets!
What’s next?
Online training programs to equip global tour operators with insider knowledge about our city.
At Tourism Kamloops, we’re not just imagining what could be – we’re making it happen. These initiatives are a testament to our commitment to elevating Kamloops as a vibrant, must-visit destination.
Stay tuned as we continue to build unique, unforgettable experiences!
