Regional Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) are gearing up to welcome 2SLGBTQIA+ travellers to the Thompson Okanagan as part of ongoing initative Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan (TOTO).
The collaboration is shared among Tourism Kamloops, Tourism Vernon, Tourism Kelowna, Visit Penticton, and Destination Osoyoos, with support from Destination British Columbia, to spread the word about safe and welcoming travel experiences in the region.
"Our team is thrilled to see this initiative lead the way for more 2SLGBTQI+ folks to enjoy a safe and fun-filled vacation to one of Canada's most beautiful and dynamic regions," said Sarah Evalina, Chief Operating Officer, Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce.
"Kelowna, Kamloops, Vernon, Penticton, and Osoyoos are leading the way by walking the walk, with each community's Destination Management Organization and numerous regional tourism businesses being accredited as 2SLGBTQI+ inclusive through our Rainbow Registered accreditation program.”
After establishing the initiative in 2023, which included the launch of the website and social media channels, Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan is excited to continue to showcase the diversity of the people and the tourism experiences that can be had in the region through an events calendar, blog articles, destination profiles, and trip ideas with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in mind.
“For many, an important benefit of travel is sharing, connecting, and learning about places, people, and cultures. Visitors want to travel to places where they are respected and valued,” says President & CEO, Lisanne Ballantyne.
“Tourism Kelowna and our entire destination is committed to inclusivity and delivering an experience that makes 2SLGBTQIA+ visitors feel welcome through this new collaboration with our regional partners."
Travelling Out in The Thompson Okanagan hopes to create the foundation for years to come for fun, safe, and unforgettable travel experiences for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The partnership stands as a beacon of progress, inviting all travellers to explore, embrace, and cherish the vibrant diversity of the Thompson Okanagan region with open arms.
About Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan
Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan (TOTO) is a collaborative marketing initiative between Visit Penticton, Tourism Kelowna, Tourism Vernon, Destination Osoyoos and Tourism Kamloops, with support from Destination BC, which fosters inclusivity, celebrates diversity, and aims to promote the Thompson Okanagan area as an exciting and welcoming place for all.
