From February 9 to 11, I represented Tourism Kelowna—the only Canadian destination in attendance—at Camp Cascadia, this year’s camp-themed MPI Cascadia Educational Conference hosted at Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, Washington.  

As part of the hosted buyer program, I connected with meeting planners, suppliers, and fellow destination management organizations. The conference began with a candle-making experience, which facilitated informal introductions and relationship-building. I also attended the First-Timers Reception, providing additional opportunities to connect with both planners and suppliers in a more relaxed setting. 

During the event, I was given a few minutes to present Kelowna as a destination, during which I focused on some of the key advantages for US-based groups to meet in Kelowna:

• Short, direct flight access from Seattle
• Favourable exchange rate and increased buying power
• Destination Canada resources that support cross-border planning and customs processes

The presentation also highlighted Kelowna’s recent designation as Canada’s first and only UNESCO City of Gastronomy, as well as the region’s key economic sectors, which offer opportunities for planners to move beyond traditional business-event programming. Many attendees were unfamiliar with Kelowna’s location and accessibility, and there was noticeable interest and curiosity following the presentation

Although there were fewer qualified buyers with programs currently positioned to travel to Canada, attendees were engaged and provided positive feedback about Kelowna, reinforcing the long-term potential in the Pacific Northwest market that our team will continue to nurture.

We extend our thanks to all the event organizers and look forward to seeing everyone again at next year’s event!

If you have questions about Tourism Kelowna's business development activities in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest, connect with me at nicolem@tourismkelowna.com.