Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Tourism Region Shares
a Message from Minister Beare 

Good afternoon,

I’m reaching out to you today with the latest communication regarding COVID-19 from Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region, managed under the direction of Destination BC. We know this is a very trying time for the industry, and we understand that COVID-19 is top of mind for travellers and businesses globally.

You’re receiving this email because you’re not currently subscribed to Destination BC’s Directions newsletter, which contains important updates from the province as it relates to COVID-19. For the foreseeable future, Destination BC will be sending out these regular bulletins in place of our monthly Directions newsletter. We are working hard to gather information from partners and officials on new developments as they relate to our industry, and will provide you with detailed COVID-19 updates through this newsletter. We are in this together, and these emails are meant to help keep you informed as we navigate this situation. You can subscribe to Destination BC’s newsletter here.

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and Destination BC are here to support BC’s tourism industry. Please know that we are here for you, and we are rallying our staff and resources to ensure we are best suited to address the needs of our industry.

For more information and to find a repository of resources to support your tourism business, go to destinationbc.ca/news/coronavirus-update, and please check back often for updates.

Best Regards,

Peter Harrison

Director, Industry Partnerships and Visitor Services

Destination British Columbia

I’ve been in regular contact with tourism sector leaders and my federal counterparts to ensure they are aware of what is happening here in B.C. The federal government has assured us that there will be support for British Columbians who have been impacted by COVID-19.  

We are also working on ways to support businesses and organizations affected the most by the restrictions on travel and gatherings. I am speaking with my Cabinet colleagues daily so they are well informed of impacts to people and businesses in the tourism economy. 
We also know tourism is one of the most resilient industries in B.C. and I have no doubt that we will come through this together. As an industry, we must start looking ahead now so that we can be ready for when the travel restrictions lift. We are having these discussions now within my ministry and across the sector. The latest information specific to the tourism sector is available through Destination BC: destinationbc.ca/news/coronavirus-update/

The government’s priority continues to be on delaying, containing and preparing the province to minimize serious illness and economic disruption. We must all do our part to prevent transmission of COVID-19 and I ask that you all follow the advice of the provincial health officer. 

Finally, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that this is a stressful time for everyone. I encourage you all to take care of yourselves, your families and your friends during the difficult days ahead. 

Sincerely, 

Lisa Beare

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, responsible for Sport