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Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Nov. 2025 Newsletter
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Cheekye Ranch in Brackendale offers horse therapy and glamping yurts.
(Destination BC/Hubert Kang)
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Vancouver Named One of the Best Places to Visit in 2026 by National Geographic
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Vancouver has been named one of National Geographic’s Best Places to Visit in 2026, standing out as the only FIFA World Cup 26™ host city in North America to make the list. The feature spotlights attractions such as Grouse Mountain’s new mountain bike park and alpine coaster, the timeless charm of Stanley Park, and culinary experiences like the Michelin-starred Published on Main, Granville Island Public Market, the Surrey Spice Trail, and the Gastown Brunch Foodie Tour.
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National Geographic hailed Vancouver as the best of the FIFA World Cup 26™ North American host cities.
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Two dining spots in the VCM region were honoured among North America's best. (Baan Lao website)
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Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Restaurants Named Among North America’s Best
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BC’s culinary excellence is gaining global recognition. The team behind The World's 50 Best Restaurants has launched a new list celebrating North America’s top dining spots—and two restaurants in the VCM region made the cut. Baan Lao in Richmond and Published on Main in Vancouver have been named among the continent’s best, highlighting not only their world-class talent but also the depth and diversity of BC’s food scene.
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Seair’s New VancouverーVictoria Route has Taken Off!
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Big news for travel within BC! As of Oct. 20, 2025, Seair Seaplanes commenced scheduled service between downtown Vancouver and Victoria’s Inner Harbour.The seamless, scenic experience brings added convenience and reliability to visitors and daily commuters. Flights are primarily operated using modern Cessna 208 Caravan turboprop seaplanes—renowned for their spacious cabins, smooth and quiet ride, and reliability in all types of coastal weather.
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Seair's Vancouver–Victoria route is 30 minutes of scenic travel time.
(Seair Seaplanes)
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"Cultivating Community" celebrates the people and culture behind Whistler's unique spirit. (Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane)
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Tourism Whistler Launches New “Cultivating Community” Video Series
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Tourism Whistler has debuted “Cultivating Community,” a new video series celebrating the people, traditions, and organizations that contribute to Whistler’s unique character and cultural identity. Building on the success of the “Whistler Changemaker” series—which spotlighted local businesses leading in sustainability—this initiative furthers Whistler’s commitment to storytelling that goes beyond adventure to highlight the heart and soul of the destination.
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Planning Evolves for Village of Lytton's Community Hub
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The Village of Lytton and architecture firm O4A plan to share concept designs for Lytton’s new Community Hub later this fall. Envisioned as an accessible and inclusive gathering space for residents of the Village of Lytton and surrounding areas, the Community Hub will replace infrastructure lost during the 2021 fire. Funded through the federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, the Hub will include a net-zero and fire-resistant public building, outdoor market and event space, and swimming pool.
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Lytton will soon share designs for an inclusive gathering space replacing infrastructure lost during the 2021 fire.
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(L to R): Heather McGillivray, VCM; Ebony Medway, Fraser River Lodge; Bryan Fogelman, REO Rafting Resort; Greg Rushton, Metta Eco Experiences; Lise Hines, Chew On This Tasty Tours
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Travel Media Relations & Travel Trade Update
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The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region was well represented at the inaugural BC Accelerator Program in Kelowna (Oct 20-22). This educational market development initiative supports export-ready tourism businesses across British Columbia in building capacity to work with the international travel trade. The pilot event brought together 40 BC sellers with 40 buyers from key global markets. Representing the VCM region were Vancouver Water Adventures, Taste Vancouver Food Tours, The Adventure Group (TAG), Whistler Photo Safaris, Fraser River Lodge, REO Rafting Resort, Metta Eco Experiences, and Chew On This Tasty Tours.
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BCEDA Launches DisasterSmartBC.ca
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The BC Economic Development Association (BCEDA) has introduced DisasterSmartBC.ca, a new online platform designed to help First Nation and local governments, businesses, and local leaders strengthen their economic resilience in the face of natural disasters. The platform offers tailored guidance, access to the Red Cross Ready Rating Program, and a free Community Economic Readiness Assessment Tool.
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The upgrades to Rolley Lake Park will ensure more people can get outside and enjoy nature. (BC Parks website)
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More Campsites Coming to Rolley Lake Park to Expand Outdoor Access
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Thanks to a $4 million investment from the BC government, 32 new campsites will be added to Rolley Lake Park, enhancing access to nature and outdoor recreation. Construction is set to begin soon, with completion expected by spring 2026, bringing the total number of drive-in sites to 95. This expansion follows the addition of 17 walk-in sites in May 2024, along with upgrades including 30 new parking stalls, a communal shelter, bear-proof storage, and more. The new sites are being built with universal design standards to improve accessibility and ensure more visitors can enjoy this popular park.
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Discover SuperNaturalBC.com: Destination BC’s New Digital Home
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The newly launched SuperNaturalBC.com—formerly HelloBC.com—marks a major milestone for Destination BC and the province’s tourism industry. This reimagined digital marketing platform introduces the refreshed Super, Natural British Columbia brand® alongside six new destination brands, creating a more cohesive and inspiring online experience. Designed to better connect global travellers with BC’s diverse regions, the site offers streamlined navigation, in-context travel tips, immersive terrain visuals, and personalized trip planning.
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Submit the most Beautiful Seats in your community by Nov. 30! (Destination BC/Local Wanderer)
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Discover BC’s Most Beautiful Seats, No Ticket Required
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As Vancouver prepares to host FIFA World Cup 26™ matches next June, BC is poised to capture the world’s attention—not just for the action on the pitch, but for the breath-catching landscapes that define the province. Destination BC’s “Beautiful Seats” campaign invites you to showcase BC’s most spectacular “seats”, from beach blankets and park benches to paddleboards and mountain ledges. It’s a reminder that with or without a ticket to the match, visitors can still enjoy a front-row experience in nature. Submit your photos or videos by Nov. 30, 2025.
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Marketing Resources Now Available for BC’s Iconic Destination Brands
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Destination BC’s global rollout of the six Iconic destination brands—Rainforest to Rockies, The Great Wilderness, The Infinite Coast, Birthplace of Adventure, Nature’s Heartland, and Valleys & Vineyards—is gaining traction worldwide. As momentum grows, we encourage our tourism industry partners across the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region to amplify this messaging across your channels.
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Help amplify BC's Iconic destination brands with new marketing tools and resources.
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To support your efforts, Destination BC has developed easy-to-use marketing resources:
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Visitor services are a vital part of BC's $22.1 billion tourism economy. (Destination Vancouver)
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Visitor Services: Making First Impressions Count
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Behind every unforgettable trip to British Columbia is a welcoming first impression… and often, it starts with Visitor Services. From personalized tips at local Visitor Centres to helpful responses online, these touchpoints shape memorable experiences and encourage discovery. In 2024 alone, over 2.2 million visitors were supported through 135 community-led Visitor Centres across the province. At the heart of this work is Destination BC’s Visitor Services team, working to keep these essential services strong, consistent, and collaborative.
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BC Named One of the Top 25 Travel Destinations for 2026 by Lonely Planet
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British Columbia has once again captured the world’s attention—this time earning a prestigious spot on Lonely Planet’s list of the 25 Best Destinations to Visit in 2026. Celebrated as “Best for Embracing Nature,” BC stands out as a must-visit destination for nature lovers and conscious travellers. Notable mentions include BC’s seven national parks, Whistler, and Vancouver’s role as a FIFA World Cup 26™ host city.
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This latest accolade affirms that BC’s commitment to values-driven travel is resonating worldwide. (Prince of Whales Whale Watching)
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Condé Nast Traveler's 2025 Readers' Choice Awards named Victoria the #1 Best City. (Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe)
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BC Shines in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards
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BC is once again in the global spotlight, helping Canada land a spot among the top 10 countries in the world in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Voted on by hundreds of thousands of travellers worldwide, these rankings celebrate excellence in travel—and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains destinations stood out across multiple categories.
Victoria claimed the #1 spot for Best Cities, while Vancouver ranked #7. Also recognized: YVR (Best Airports), Rocky Mountaineer (Best Train Trips), and Four Seasons Hotel Whistler (Best Resorts).
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Sponsorship Opportunities Available for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference
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The 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference (TIC) returns March 4-6 at the Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna. As BC's premier annual gathering for tourism professionals, TIC offers a valuable platform to connect with industry members from across the province. Sponsorship opportunities are now available—to get involved, email [email protected]. Learn more about sponsorship here.
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Learn how to become a sponsor of the 2026 BC TIC here.
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Discover progress and opportunities shaping Indigenous tourism at the ITBC AGM & Indigenous tourism gathering.
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Register Today: ITBC AGM & Indigenous Tourism Gathering (Nov. 12–14)
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Tourism professionals are invited to attend the Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) AGM & Indigenous Tourism Gathering from Nov. 12-14 at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in Vancouver. This annual event brings together ITBC stakeholders, First Nations leaders, and industry partners to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration in advancing Indigenous tourism across BC. Highlights include networking socials, workshops, an industry night, and the AGM, along with a keynote address by Shayla Oulette Stonechild of Muscowpetung First Nation, who is a Luluelmon global ambassador and founder of the Matriarch Movement.
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Holly Jolly Chilliwack (Chilliwack): Step into a storybook setting at Holly Jolly Chilliwack! This charming celebration transforms Chilliwack into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, and holiday magic. Stroll through decorated streets, sip warm drinks at local cafés, and discover heartwarming moments around every corner. Dates: Nov. 3–24
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Artful Pints (Port Moody): Tap into your creativity at Artful Pints—monthly art nights paired with your favourite local brews. Each session features a hands-on project led by a local artist, ideal for all skill levels. Held at The Parkside Brewery, it’s the ideal mix of art, fun, and community. Dates: Nov. 5, Dec. 3, Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 4, Apr. 1
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Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Festival (North Vancouver): Join the kick-off celebration on Nov. 7 at The Pipe Shop in The Shipyards, featuring tastings from local craft breweries, a cidery, and a distillery—plus live music and a chance to support North Shore makers. Dates: Nov. 7–20
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Blackberry Winter Arts Market (Port Moody): Celebrate over 28 years of local creativity at the Blackberry Winter Arts Market, a curated holiday shopping experience featuring original art, crafts, jewellery, homeware, and more, all from BC makers. Dates: Nov. 13–Dec. 22
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Fog Fest (Hope): Hope comes alive with Fog Fest—three themed weekends of fun and festive charm. Enjoy “Romance in the Mist” (burlesque + cozy escapes), “Girls Gone Foggy” (live music + girls’ getaway vibes), and “Foggy Little Christmas” (theatre, princesses, and a Santa dance party). With local deals and discounted stays, it’s the perfect time to experience the magic of the season in the heart of BC. Dates: Nov. 14–30
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Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week (Vancouver): Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week celebrates fashion as a powerful expression of Indigenous identity, resilience, and cultural connection. Through experiences like the Red Dress Event, Couture Night, Hip Hop & Streetwear, and the Spirit of the West Coast, the week fosters dialogue and understanding. Guided by a Wisdom Circle—a core advisory of 12 Indigenous Elders, artisans, changemakers, and community leaders—the event is supported by key partners including Destination Vancouver and other community allies. Dates: Nov. 19–22
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New West Experience Final Pitch Event (New Westminster): Join Tourism New Westminster for the New West Experience Final Pitch Event, an evening of innovation, creativity, and community spirit. Held at Anvil Theatre from 5:00pm–8:00pm, the event will spotlight entrepreneurs, students, and local changemakers as they pitch bold ideas to elevate the city’s visitor experience. Finalists will compete for funding, mentorship, and promotional support to turn their visions into reality. Date: Nov. 27
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