Kelowna Capital News: Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association cited for responsible tourism again

In a repeat of last year’s win, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has once again been recognized by the World Travel Awards as the 2019 North American Responsible Tourism Award winner.

“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.”

TOTA won the same award in 2018. In December, the association also won the WTA’s international award for responsible tourism in Lisbon, Portugal.

Mandziuk said the 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,” he said. “From the board and staff to contractors and agency partners who are a huge part of this (the award is a) true reflection of their strong efforts. Further, to be recognized back to back in successive years is truly special for us all.”

The award was announced and presented at the 2019 Caribbean and North America gala ceremony held in Jamaica Jan. 28.

World Travel Award was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.