In an open letter to the tourism, arts, culture, creative and sport sectors, Minister Melanie Mark reflects on the challenges of the past two years and celebrates the people and businesses who have battled through the pandemic to keep their industries alive and the people of British Columbia safe. On February 15, the Premier and Provincial Health Officer announced the lifting of many Provincial Public Health Orders, some of which have been in place to varying degrees for two years.

Minister Mark’s letter applauds the industries under her jurisdiction, and offers encouragement for a strong recovery and a brighter future. 

READ THE LETTER →

UPDATE: INDUSTRY MESSAGING GUIDANCE

As of February 15, most pandemic-related restrictions in BC have been lifted, including a return to full capacity for indoor personal gatherings, indoor and outdoor organized gatherings, and indoor seated events. Restaurants, bars and nightclubs can also return to full capacity, with no table size limits and inter-table mingling once again allowed. Attendees must continue to wear masks while not seated and show their BC Vaccine Card.

The Federal Government has also adjusted current border measures as the country moves towards a more sustainable approach to long-term management of COVID-19. Effective February 28, fully vaccinated travellers can now enter Canada with a pre-arrival antigen test, and if they are selected for a random on-arrival test, they will no longer have to quarantine while waiting for the results. Travellers will still need to upload documents via the ArriveCAN app before crossing the border. In addition, Canada’s travel advisory will be adjusted from a level 3 to a level 2, which means the government will no longer recommend Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes.

Both federal and provincial updates to current restrictions and border measures are reflected in Destination BC’s Winter Travel Guide, which provides key messaging, information and infographics, and resources for BC’s tourism industry as it relates to travel to and within BC.

READ THE GUIDE →