The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve and is having a direct and significant impact on the tourism industry in Kelowna and around the world. Our plan is to help preserve our local visitor economy during these unprecedented times. When it is safe to do so, we will make an additional push to help local businesses recover, and will then develop our ongoing planning to promote our destination.

In order to continue to support our stakeholders in this crucial moment, we have put together some resources and ideas to assist during the preserve stage.

  1. Stay Informed: The situation is changing daily and it can be difficult to keep track of everything that is happening. In an effort to support our partners in a time when up-to-date information is crucial, Tourism Kelowna has created some resources on our website:
    • A COVID-19 Information Page with industry-related local, provincial, and national resources.
    • An Industry News Centre post that will be regularly updated with further details on government support available for businesses and services, as well as individuals.
    • Destination BC also has a COVID-19 page, which breaks down the Federal and Provincial Response Plans, as well as lists resources for tourism businesses which include finance and operations, Indigenous support, and guides and tools.
  2. Align your Message: We are encouraging travellers to stay home and follow the advice of health authorities; however, since people have been connecting virtually while staying at home, we have introduced a new hashtag—#exploreKelownafromhome—to provide visitors (and locals) with a virtual travel experience. Click here for the full Message Guidance Document to align your message with Tourism Kelowna’s.
    This messaging is also in line with Destination BC's (DBC) #exploreBC....Later campaign. You can find DBC's messaging framework and guidance by clicking here. 
  3. Update and Expand your Online Presence: As in-person interaction is minimal, or non-existent, for most businesses it is important to keep your website, social media, and online accounts accurate with your most up-to-date information. Include any changes in your hours or distribution systems. Highlight new releases or any new ways users can experience your products or services. This is the time to inspire and stay top of mind until we enter our recovery phase. There is a wide selection of webinars and tutorials available to help create online shopping portals, update your Google My Business pages, or expand your social media for business knowledge. Check out these links: 
  4. Share your story: Our community and industry are changing and adapting to these extraordinary times, and Tourism Kelowna is looking to capture and share some of these stories. Please let us know if you are offering any special promotions, virtual tours, or inspirational stories. Please send me your information at sara@tourismkelowna.com or tag us on social media: