Osoyoos Times: TOTA wins responsible tourism award

For the second year in a row, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) was recognized by the World Travel Awards (WTA) as the 2019 North America’s Responsible Tourism Award.

“This recognition is such an honour as it comes from tourism industry leaders from around the globe and reinforces the association’s commitment to advancing the region as a leader in sustainable responsible tourism,” said TOTA president and CEO Glenn Mandziuk.

“As always, TOTA’s success wouldn’t be possible without the leadership, support, and innovation shown by our Provincial Tourism Ministry, Destination British Columbia, Community Tourism and First Nations partners, and the over 4,500 member industry stakeholders from across the Region.”

The Thompson Okanagan Region is rapidly becoming known for its collective work to strive to grow the tourism industry in a manner that respects its social, cultural, environmental, and economic foundations.

“We have such a great team of professionals at TOTA. From the Board and Staff to contractors and agency partners who are a huge part of this and a true reflection of their strong efforts. Further, to be recognized back to back in successive years is truly special for us all,” noted Mandziuk.

The award was announced at the 2019 Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony held in Jamaica on January 28. World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.