Destination development is the strategic planning and advancement of defined areas to support the evolution of desirable destinations for travellers, with a focus on the supply side of tourism, by providing compelling experiences, quality infrastructure, and remarkable services to entice visitation.
Destination BC offers destination development planning assistance, in partnership with Indigenous Tourism BC, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and Regional Destination Marketing Organizations, to support the ongoing viability of BC’s tourism sector. Across the province, multiple 10-year destination development strategies have been created, along with regionally specific strategies. Provincially, the Invest in Iconics Strategy is a long-term strategy to responsibly grow tourism in more places in British Columbia at more times of the year.
Through destination development, we envision BC as a world-class tourism destination which offers remarkable products and experiences that are authentic, driven by visitor demand, and exceed expectations. By working together with a wide variety of partners, the strategies will guide the long-term growth of tourism experiences and revenues within the province.
Destination development in your area could include working with individuals and partners from the following organizations:
The following collection of 12 case studies showcases the social, cultural, and economic advantages of tourism through destination development initiatives, highlighting their positive impact for both visitors and residents. These compelling stories engage communities and local partners interested in destination development and its many benefits for communities across BC. Featuring two projects from each of the six tourism regions in BC, the series illustrates community destination development through collaborative regional and local partnerships. These stories inspire and offer valuable insights and learnings that can be adapted to support future tourism endeavours in other areas or communities. This case study series was created by Destination BC through collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport and the six Regional Destination Management Organizations in BC.
Destination Development strategies have been created for various planning areas across BC. Use our planning area look up tool to see which planning area and tourism region your location falls within. This tool captures all First Nations communities, Municipalities, and Regional District Electoral Areas across British Columbia.
Destination BC continues to work with communities across the six tourism regions on destination development strategies that pull together planning, policy, and capacity building efforts. Explore how each of the tourism regions are working together, and with various partners, to address impediments to tourism growth and strengthen relationships to capitalize on future tourism opportunities.
To find out more about the Destination Development program or to determine the best way for you to participate, contact us at DestinationDevelopment@DestinationBC.ca
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