ANNUAL REPORT 2015/16

“A look back”

“A leap forward”

www.SunPeaksResort.com/Tourism Annual Highlights

MARKET DEVELOPMENT to 266 FAM participants, that equates to a 15% increase over the previous year. Post Winter efforts to increase brand awareness FAM surveys indicate the delivery of FAM President’s Year In Review through coop and direct marketing in our experiences is one of, if not the best in our key overseas markets have shown success region and province. according to travel trade reports from SPR Tourism Sun Peaks activities are guided for growth and is entirely dependent on all LLP. These efforts include comprehensive In preparation of Mountain Travel Symposium by the association’s Board of Directors. businesses consistently delivering high levels marketing campaigns with select operator being hosted in Canada once again (Banff), Three year directives and annual targets of service. The US currency exchange rate partners, consumer direct campaigns both TSP has partnered with Revelstoke to deliver are established and direct helped attract American guests, stand alone and in partnership with industry another MTS FAM building on the success association activity. The four and simultaneously kept Canadian (Destination BC, Destination Canada) and from the MTS Whistler FAM in 2015. This key strategic areas of the current guests in Canada which converted consumer shows. Overall Sun Peaks saw partnership will increase our chance to three-year plan are: bookings from regional and the a 16% growth over 2015/16 of destination attract the very best in the industry once Ontario and Quebec market. guests through travel trade. again. A new twist will be conducting two 1. Awareness for Sun Peaks parallel FAM’s, one focusing on travel trade 2. Events The success realized this past year Summer continues to show positive and and one catering to ski club and ski council 3. Research is the result of effort by our entire sustainable growth. Our escorted tour market representatives. 4. Advocacy community. Our Volunteer Board is facing challenges with compression in the of Directors, and the leadership lower mainland and in the Rockies which is Trade and consumer shows are an integral Through this focused approach, of Chair John Douglas, deserves resulting in new opportunities for multi-night part of our marketing mix and with careful Tourism Sun Peaks is pleased to be recognised. Community stays in our region. TSP is working with planning TSP was able to increase the to report that Sun Peaks visitation hit record volunteers deserve endless praise for making TOTA and DBC to highlight new itineraries number of shows attended by 27%, while levels of visitation in summer 2015 and this many of the events possible. to reflect this demand. We also continue virtually maintaining the existing $95,000 past winter. Summer performance exceeded to work with select RTO’s and wholesalers budget. The show matrix includes 44 43,000 resort wide booked room nights, a Business sector innovation is to be celebrated from proven markets to further develop our international trade and consumer shows and 20% increase over the previous year. This as it provides guests with rewarding FIT business through the summer months, 33 domestic. While overseas show efforts success was due to several factors including experiences. Finally, I would like to thank the including attending international travel trade revolve mainly on consumer ski shows and new marketing and sales initiatives, an Tourism Sun Peaks team for their hard work, shows and participating in summer focused summer trade events, our domestic efforts increasingly confident marketplace, and integrity, and honouring the values of Tourism coop marketing. encompass more diverse consumer facing the continued investment of the provincial Sun Peaks. shows like wedding, outdoor, adventure and government’s Resort Municipality Initiative MC&IT strategies continue to evolve after of course ski. funds into the summer concert strategy. Thank you. our first full year of dedicated budget to this market segment. We have laid a foundation Two big wins in 2015/16 was the successful Winter occupancy exceeded 75,000 room to build upon and have been adjusting partnership between Sun Peaks and Crystal nights, an 14% increase over last winter, tactics based on key learnings through Ski in the UK and the significant growth and marks a new benchmark for Sun Peaks the year. TSP is now focused on the higher (winter) from Quebec. Crystal is the largest winter visitation. Sun Peaks continued its yielding and underserviced corporate and outbound ski tour operator on the planet and successful positioning as the 2nd largest ski incentive geo segments to compliment has committed to feature Sun Peaks starting area in Canada. This has proven to capture Christopher Nicolson member’s efforts. in the 2016/17 season. Sun Peaks is the only the attention of skiers and snowboarders that President, Tourism Sun Peaks new resort being launched in North America. have not visited Sun Peaks in past. Return Familiarization tours continue to be a Likewise, Sun Peaks has now seen significant visitation and referral is also a key strategy significant aspect of our market development growth from the Quebec market in both strategy. Through unrivaled member support, group and FIT business. This market, while both financially and with partner hosting, not new is now reaching the same volume TSP has been able to invite more decision as Germany. This growth is expected to makers and key clients than ever before. continue to grow as we leverage the renewed More than $67,000 of in-kind product and interest in Quebec and as brand awareness services contributed to a very successful FAM grows. strategy. This year the members were able to showcase their products and experiences

2015–16 Year in Review 3 Lastly, TSP has shifted the communications In the lead up to the winter season a video Editorial Coverage RESORT EVENTS department (traditional media) to fall under based, online campaign in partnership with Sun Peaks continued its success garnering Market Development to closer align efforts. SPR, Sun Peaks Sneak Peek, generated coverage in international markets. Following Concert Series Weekend From an international perspective TSP will be high engagement. This humorous webisode a FAM tour in February, Sun Peaks was Our Summer Concert Series saw the addition able to realize some cost savings along with series of 13 videos and Opening Day profiled in a 2-page feature on Australia’s of a Friday night band for both events, creating efficiencies as traditional media and contest ran on our social media platforms largest independent women’s website, “Platinum Blonde” and “Lou Gramm, The market development activities overlap and from October 19 to November 15. Through mamamia.com. Also, with support from Voice of Foreigner” kicked off the series complement each other in many aspects. organic engagement and sharing, plus paid Destination BC and Destination Canada in July, while “Barney Bentall” and “Colin advertising, the campaign generated 11,624 sponsored Chinese Media FAM, Sun Peaks James” closed the series in August. ADVERTISING views to the contest platform, 372 entries, received coverage in the popular Chinese Over 5000 people were in resort during 37,912 organic video views and 378,541 paid publication Rise Weekly. those weekends, spending money in hotels Regional Advertising, Summer 2015 video views on Facebook. and businesses, and solidifying Sun Peaks as The regional drive markets focused on This winter, Sun Peaks received coverage their go to summer destination. Kamloops and surrounding area (through Consumer Database from a variety of top North American to Salmon Arm), the Okanagan (Vernon The Tourism Sun Peaks e-mail database snow sports magazines. Sun Peaks was Retro Concert Weekend through Penticton), the Cariboo (including continues to grow year to year. This past year profiled in a 3-page feature in SKI Magazine, The 6th Annual Retro Concert Weekend Prince George), and the Fraser Valley. saw a growth of 2,348 recipients bringing largely considered to be one of the top ski took place at the base of the Sundance Secondary markets included highly targeted us to over 11,200 members. E-newsletters publications in North America. Ski Magazine chair over the August 14 – 16 weekend with tactics in Edmonton and Seattle. Consumer are sent bi-weekly during the winter and also published an additional 3-page article tribute bands playing all weekend long and direct advertising programs from May to summer seasons, and include a variety online titled “Where to Ski Next?”, where Sun attracting approximately 1500 people to September exceeded $144,000. The Free of content which is proactive, timely and Peaks is recognized as a top family friendly the resort – prepared for the weather with Concert Series funded by the Provinces’ strategic. The E-newsletter maintains a ski destination. umbrellas but dancing in the rain anyway! Resort Municipality Initiative was used as strong average open rate of 35%. There is a primary motivator, in conjunction with a continued focus on strategies to grow the Television Coverage While continuing to enhance our current positioning the alpine setting and variety of database with qualified customers through In the world of broadcast, Tourism Sun annual events, we also saw the addition of outdoor activities. sign-up on the website, Central Reservation Peaks secured three major TV segments two new events to our summer lineup. bookings, contests, and other tools. from popular media outlets both nationally Regional Advertising, Winter 2015-16 and abroad. After a successful Destination Sun Peaks Uncovered Regional geographic target markets Experience BC’ Ski Campaign continues. Canada sponsored FAM in January, the “Sun Peaks Uncovered: Flashback Weekend” remained the same from the winter prior, Sun Peaks and other destination ski resorts Australian-based TV show, Explore TV, aired took place in July putting a spin on our with the Lower Mainland, Greater Toronto have partnered with Destination Canada a ‘Signature Canadian Experiences’ episode already popular “Retro Weekend” by Area, Seattle and area, and Edmonton as and Destination British Columbia (DBC) to which showcased Sun Peaks and the variety targeting a female crowd for a girls weekend. the primary focus. The consumer direct activate over $2.5 million in marketing into of ski and non-ski activities that we have This event proved to be very popular and will advertising campaign had an investment the United States and Ontario for the coming available. Reaching over 1.4 million homes continue as “Flashback” in 2016. exceeding $475,000 which covered a winter. Marketing messages in the US will in Australia and New Zealand, this segment marketing mix of traditional and online feature favorable currency exchange rates garnered significant media exposure in both Midnight Sun & Art Festival media focusing on being Canada’s second and snow quality to motivate American of these budding target markets. The Green Arts Festival Association took largest ski area in the country across all skiers. over a weekend in August to start their first channels. Terrain is a primary motivator for TSP also hosted a “Sports Access” show annual “Midnight Sun Art & Film Festival” guests, and this positioning continued to MEDIA presented by Accessible Media Inc (AMI). which also proved to be very popular grow in momentum for Sun Peaks. All of AMI’s programming is made to be showcasing a diverse combination of artists, Familiarization Tours (FAMS) accessible to people whom are hearing and/ designers, academics and outdoor film Social Media This winter with the support of our or visually impaired. The segment featured screenings. We are looking forward to the TSP has seen strong growth across all membership, we hosted 74 journalists from a “learn to ski” and “learn to snowboard” 2nd annual event this upcoming summer. social channels this past year. Facebook across the globe. This is a 15% increase over story profiling the work at Adaptive Sports has grown by 22% to 37,184, Twitter has the 2014/15 season and the highest number Sun Peaks. Sports Access has a national Santa’s Alpine Village grown 13% to 10,898 and Instagram has since 2008. The journalists we supported on viewership of 30 to 50 thousand viewers per Sun Peaks Village hosted its 4th Annual grown 94% to 12,851. The focus on timely these familiarization tours (FAMS) were from week, airing on 18 carriers accessible with Santa’s Alpine Visit in December which saw photo and video content of conditions identified core and emerging markets such basic cable across North America. Santa in the village taking approximately this winter yielded strong engagement as Australia, UK and China. Over half were 160 group photos compared to around 95 online and helped increase awareness of from Canada including 14 from Quebec, as group photos in 2014! There was a small Sun Peaks as a destination, as well as keep part of our collective efforts developing that craft market, delicious Maple Taffy samples, interest all season amongst local markets. geographic market. displays and demonstrations from our Winter

4 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 5 Activity operators and live music by the 2014(+1%)...... 188,857 Kelowna/Inter Resort Carriage Rides, as well as Day Trips, Zipline Anita Eccleston Quartet. Coloured lighting Summer Room Nights Transportation Sales at Chase Canyon with Tree Top Flyer, White and wandering Christmas characters like 2015...... 1,424 2015/16(+54%)...... 81,626 Water Rafting at Adams River and River Isbjorn the Polar Bear, added to the holiday 2014...... 1,509 2014/15...... 52,950 Safari in Blue River. atmosphere. Recorded gross sales were $41,747. Summer Lodging Bookings Kamloops Seat Sales Winter Okanagan Wine Festival 2015...... 653 2015/16(+14%)...... 7,331 Winter 2015/16 This years’ Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan 2014...... 711 2014/15...... 6,439 The Sun Peaks Adventure Centre is located Wine Festival was declared a success with 9 in the Village Day Lodge during the winter sold out events and other events almost at Winter 2015-16 Kelowna Seat Sales months. This past winter we made changes capacity. Tickets for the progressive tasting Annual revenue for the winter of 2015/16 2015/16...... 74 to the scheduling and the hours of operation sold out over one week before the Friday recorded gross sales of $2,714,623, an 2014/15...... 67 with a two man team open from 8am to evening event with 650 participants. increase of 19% over the previous winter. 6pm daily. This new schedule and reduced We continued with live music throughout The total lodging sales increased by 20% and Inter Resort Seat Sales product offering allowed for us to service the village streets which gathered crowds accounted for 62% of our total sales. 2015/16...... 274 the guests more efficiently. The great snow dancing in the snow and provided a great 2014/15...... 208 conditions attributed to the sales increases atmosphere throughout the village. Winter Lodging Revenue in many products such as Dog Sledding, 2015/16...... 1,684,229 ADVENTURE CENTRE Snowmobiling Tours, Snowshoe Tours and the Village Communication 2014/15...... 1,398,218 weekly evening Fondue Dinner. In addition to events, we have been busy Summer 2015 producing the weekly village vibe which Winter Room Nights In the summer of 2015, Central Reservations Adventure Centre revenue for the winter of is the most utilized informational piece 2015/16...... 6,497 facilitated the Adventure Centre at the 2015/16 recorded gross sales of $555,718 an throughout the resort with an average of 2014/5...... 5,858 administration office. The product offerings increase of 29%. Total sales do not include 500 copies printed, and picked up by guests were as follows: Canoe/Kayak Rentals, mountain lift tickets. on a weekly basis. This number increases to Winter Lodging Bookings Nordic Pole Walking Clinics, Stand Up Paddle 800+ copies over the busier weeks. While 2015/16...... 1,785 Boarding Lessons and Tours, Segway Tours, Total Sales it takes time to compile each week, it has 2014/15...... 1,713 Voyageur Canoe Tours, Horseback Trail Rides, 2015/16...... $555, 718 proven to be an important guide for guests 2014/15...... $430,088 and locals alike. This winter season Central Reservations saw 78% of guests were from the regional market Research (BC, Alberta and Washington State). 52% of Summer Room Night Occupancy TSP also partnered with TRU to conduct the nights booked were from BC, 17% were 45000 resort experience surveys throughout from Washington State and 9% were from 40000 the village. Guests were encouraged Alberta. The additional nights were from 35000 to participate in the online survey by Ontario 12% and another 10% were from 30000 automatically going into the draw for a the clasification of Other - Canada, US and 25000 weekend getaway in Sun Peaks. The findings International direct bookings. 20000 of the survey were presented to businesses 15000 10000 on a bi-weekly basis and were used to help TRANSPORTATION 5000 improve service levels resort wide. 0 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Transportation revenue for the winter of CENTRAL RESERVATIONS 2015/16 recorded gross sales of $394,976 on both routes respectively. This was an increase Summer 2015 of 21% over the previous year. Winter Room Night Occupancy Summer annual gross sales was $267,533. 80000 There was a lodging increase recorded of Total Transportation Sales 70000 1%. Central Reservations still continued to 2015/16(+21%)...... 394,976 60000 play an intricate roll in summer events and 2014/15...... 325,909 50000 activities, sales in adventure centre/golf/lift/ 40000 concerts/events/workshops. Kamloops Transportation Sales 30000 2015/16(+14%)...... 313,349 20000 Summer Lodging Revenue 2014/15...... 272,958 10000 0 2015...... 190,937 2006–07 2007–08 2008–09 2009–10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16

6 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 67 Skier Visits Financials

400000 350000 300000 Revenue Sources 250000 200000 150000 100000 26% Business Assessments 50000 29% Sun Peaks Resort LLP 0 05–06 06–07 07–08 08–09 09–10 10–11 11–12 12-13 13-14 14-15 15-16 16% Central Reservations

10% Common Assessments

15% Accommodation Tax

4% Adventure Centre Resort Flow: People in Resort

140,000 Resort Flow -­‐ Total People In Resort 120,000 Revenue Allocation 100,000 2011 2012 80,000 2013 2014

# of people 60,000 2015 44% Winter Marketing 40,000 2016 24% Summer Marketing 20,000 16% Administration

-­‐ 11% Central Reservations Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 3% Sports Centre

2% Adventure Centre Market Origin

Winter 2015–16 Summer 2015 Revenue Allocation Including RMI Funds

27% British Columbia

39% British Columbia 7% Europe

11% Rest of Canada 7% Rest of Canada 40% Winter Marketing 6% Asia Pacific 5% Asia Pacific 10% United States 4% United States 21% Summer Marketing 4% Europe 1% Other International 14% Administration 0% Other International 50% Unknown Market Origin 30% Unknown 11% RMI Summer Events & Marketing

10% Central Reservations

1% Sports Centre 40% Independent Travelers 74% Independent Travelers 60% Group Travelers 3% Adventure Centre

26% Group Travelers

8 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 9 Summer 2015 Advertising – Samples Winter 2015–16 Advertising – Samples

Digital Billboards Kamloops, Abbotsford Online Advertisements BC, Alberta, Ontario and Washington State

Bathroom Boards Kamloops

Midnight Sun Art & Film Festival August 7–9, 2015 By the Green Art Festival Association Outdoor film screenings, live music, art & photography workshops, wine tastings, kids classes, and exhibits.

‘Get Retro’at

SEPTEMBER 12 Mountain 50km & Relay SEPTEMBER 26 August 15 and National 50km Championship SPARTAN BEAST & SPARTAN ULTRA BEAST SEPTEMBER 13 SEPTEMBER 27 1K Walk • 5K Run • 10K Run The North Face Dirty Feet Mountain Run SPARTAN SPRINT & SPARTAN JUNIOR

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

FREEFREE GENERALGENERAL ADMISSIONADMISSION › Special Front Stage Access (FSA) tickets available for $65 per weekend pass › FSA tickets $25 each when booked with a 2-night stay with Central Reservations NONO TICKETTICKET REQUIRED!REQUIRED! › Two night packages with tickets start at just $140 per person*

Coast Mountain Culture Magazine North West Travel Magazine

NATURE’S CANVAS OUR TRAILS INSPIRATION FOR NEW ADVENTURES LEAD TO MORE THAN YOU’D EXPECT

Hiking among the alpine wildflowers on Altitude XC trail on Tod Mountain Tod Mountain; trails accessed by chairlift.

Photos: Steve Riffel, Royce Sihlis, Kevin Hagell, Kelly Funk

Prince George Edmonton On the hunt for new trails? Look no further. Myriad cross country bike trails When the snowline recedes at Canada’s second largest ski area, a JO’S ROAD RACE and a downhill mountain bike park are just a sampling of what Sun Peaks is Jasper vibrant summer landscape is revealed. Snowy ski runs are swapped for THE NORTH FACE DIRTY FEET all about. Hiking trails take you to awe-inspiring views and meadows of alpine Alberta hiking and mountain biking trails among lush foliage and are just some TRAIL RUNNING RACES & 50K Wells Gray NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPs wildflowers, try your swing on the 18 hole course, and so much more. But Provincial Park of the many exciting adventures that await. Make the most of fresh mountain air in the cozy pedestrian village. Passionate entrepreneurs what really makes Sun Peaks your ultimate getaway are festivals and free Banff concerts hosted in the cozy pedestrian village. Relax on a patio, enjoy the Sun Peaks invite you to over 30 restaurants, cafés and boutique shops; relax on a

SUMMER KICK-OFF COUNTRY fresh air, and take it all in. Now’s the time to discover Canada’s Alpine Village, Calgary patio, sip wine made in the region, and admire local art! With hotels Whistler FREE outdoor just 45 minutes north of Kamloops. Kamloops and lodges, chalet rentals, and RV parking, there is plenty of choice for concert seriesFEST your home away from home. British Columbia REEBOK SPARTAN RACES Book your getaway today! Vancouver Festivals, concerts and sporting events ALPINEMOUNTAIN BIKE RACES RETRO CONCERT WEEKEND 1.800.807.3257 every weekend—learn more, book today! Victoria BLOSSOM FESTIVAL SunPeaksResort.com/Explore 1.800.807.3257 Washington SunPeaksResort.com/Explore

Seattle Photos: Kelly Funk, Adam Stein

10 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 11 Winter 2015–16 Advertising – Samples Media Coverage – Samples

Billboard Ontario Ski Magazine October 15, 2015 Ski Canada Winter, 2016 GoWHERE TO GO. WHAT TO DO.

HIGH-SPEED CHAIRLIFTS

Sometimes snowghosts are your only companions travel at Sun Peaks, Canada’s 3 second-largest resort. EXPERT TERRAIN Skytrain Posters Vancouver, British Columbia Skytrains (PERCENTAGE) Sun Peaks, B.C. Three peaks above a cozy British Columbia town offer killer terrain for skiers more focused on the family than the flask. BY JESS THOMSON

THERE IS NO PANTY TREE AT SUN PEAKS RESORT. FOR ANYONE WHO’S skied a major resort since, say, 1980, this may seem like a serious oversight, but Sun Peaks, which holds bragging rights as Canada’s second-largest ski area (behind only Whistler Blackcomb), has defined itself not by al fresco vodka bars or rowdy restaurants at the base area, but by what’s up top—reliably good LONGEST TRAIL snow, generous high-quality grooming, and endless tree skiing, much of it steep. (MILES) For those of us whose vacation priorities focus more on interesting pistes than on getting pissed, Sun Peaks is the new Holy Grail. It’s not that I spent so much of my 20s flinging my underthings onto snow- covered branches. I did, however, know a time when I had the energy to drop STOCKCOURTESY CREDIT OF SUN PEAKS RESORT 5 a shot of whiskey into a beer after a full day of skiing, lose a mitten or a hat

{ October 2015 } SKI MAGAZINE 43

Rise Weekly Fall 2015

RISE WEEKLY A19

WestJet Magazine December 2015 Ski Canada Magazine January 2016

via WestJetFly to Kamloops,or Air Canada BC

CANADA’S SECOND CANADA’S LARGEST SKI AREA! WestJet Daily Non-Stop Mt. Tod 2,152m (7,060') SECOND LARGEST Service to Kamloops (YKA) T-BAR T BOWL WES via Edmonton and Calgary Kamloops 15 16 IT’S JUST YOU AND THE MOUNTAINS Or, fly to Kelowna Airport (YLW) and take our resort shuttle L YSTA R C

EY ALL EN V DD HI 1

9

URFIELD B Mt. Morrisey ELE 1,675m (5,495') 7 VA 8 Sundance

TIO 1,730m (5,676')

N 6 2 3 4 5 10

11

ESS 12

PR 11 Photos: Adam Stein, Kelly Funk EX

12 SUNBURST NCE EXPRESS

M 14 O SUNDA RRISEY EXPRES 13 With the second largest amount of ski terrain in Canada—a whopping 12

S ET P 4,270 acres—at our doorstep, you get to enjoy the pristine environment of CAR Village Base 1,255m (4,117')

the mountains. Renowned light, dry snow, an award-winning ski-through TTER LIFT IME LIFT PLA TUBE T RRISEY LIFT MO CARPET PLATTER VILLAGE

TIME village, and big smiles from friendly longtime locals are the fabric of this TUBE special place. It’s time for you to explore Sun Peaks, in BC’s Interior.

www.SunPeaksResort.com/WJ 1.877.521.2077

East Village

Explore 4,270 acres of terrain flowing conveniently into the award-winning, slopeside village.

SPRING BREAK SKI+STAY FREE 4 FOR 3! Restrictions may apply

SunPeaksResort.com/Ski 1.855.975.6788 Adam Stein Photo Kelly Funk Photo

12 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 13 Media Coverage – Samples Media Coverage – Samples

Skimag.com September 2015 International Traveller May 2016 WestJet Magazine December 2015 The Telegraph UK October 2015

11/10/2015

5/13/2016 OneNote Online

WESTJET STEAL ME! The Ul뛕mate Sun Peaks Ski Guide ‐ Interna뛕onal Traveller WESTJETMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER • DÉCEMBRE 2015 6/23/2016 OneNote Online PRINT DIGITAL Friday, May 13, 2016 5:18 PM

MAGAZINE Sun Peaks ski resort: Whistler without the crowds ‐ Telegraph Thursday, June 23, 2016 9:20 AM Sign‐in or Register NEWSLETTER SIGNUP VOLEZ-MOI! Sign‐up to receive daily updates, news, tips and more! ARTICLES DE FOND Your Email Address sign­up EN FRANÇAIS GEAR RESORT LIFEPERFORMANCE No resorts found TRAVELLERS FOR GUIDE | A GIFT SECRETS | CARIBBEAN CANADA IN FUN WINTER WELCOME TO

Where to Ski Next: Sun Peaks, B.C. SUBSCRIBE comment Three peaks above a cozy British Columbia town offer killer terrain for skiers more focused on the family than the flask. By Jess Thomson winter posted: 10/08/2015 15 WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SNOW ACROSS CANADA related tags: Family Ski Resort Life Lodging Dining Apres ski Canadian Rockies family Nancy Greene Travel Ideas wine festival British Columbia Canada Sun Peaks

FOR THE SUN-SEEKERS PALM SPRINGS MIAMI AND THE CARIBBEAN'S BEST-KEPT SECRETS

DECEMBER DECEMBER Most Recent SKI Videos • D É CEMBRE 2015CEMBRE | VOLUME 11 | VOLUME 12 ISSUE WESTJETMAGAZINE.COM |

A TRAVELLER'S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE (Photo: Sun Peaks Resort)

There is no panty tree at Sun Peaks Resort. For anyone who’s skied a major resort since, say, 1980, this may seem like a serious oversight, but Sun Peaks, which holds bragging rights as Canada’s second­largest ski area (behind only Whistler Blackcomb), has defined itself not by al fresco vodka bars or rowdy restaurants at the base area, but by what’s up top—reliably good snow, generous high­quality grooming, and endless tree skiing, much of it steep. For those of us whose vacation priorities focus more on interesting pistes than on getting pissed, Sun Peaks is the new Holy Grail. https://onedrive.live.com/edit.aspx?resid=A5FD90821829E940!213&cid=a5fd90821829e940&app=OneNote&wd=target(Quick%20Notes.one%7Cf31589ae­bdc3... 1/6 It’s not that I spent so much of my 20s flinging my underthings onto snow­covered branches. I did, however, know a time when I had the energy to drop a shot of whiskey into a beer after a full day of skiing, lose a mitten or a hat in the ensuing fray, dance https://nimbus.everhelper.me/client/recent/note/XuJNC81NtW0BHERc 1/6 https://onedrive.live.com/edit.aspx?resid=A5FD90821829E940!213&cid=a5fd90821829e940&app=OneNote&wd=target(Quick%20Notes.one%7Cf31589ae­bdc3… 1/5

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Home » Life » Travel » Destinations TRAVEL Ski with Canadian Olympic legend Nancy Greene at Sun Peaks B.C. ski resorts boosting avalanche Resort skills awareness STEVE MacNAULL, Special to Postmedia Network ADAM BISBY Wednesday, January 27, 2016, 12:00 AM The Globe and Mail Published Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015 2:49PM EST Last updated Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015 11:35AM EST Let it snow 0 Comments 33 16 17 A A We arrive at Sun Peaks fresh (or not so fresh) from the overnight VIA Rail train from On the northeastern flank of British Columbia’s 2,408­metre Terminator Peak, a group of 10 skiers, some with avalanche transceivers in hand, Vancouver. Despite my sleepy head, the sight charge into a small stand of pines. that greets us on arrival has me bright eyed “Over here!” shouts Martha Handford of Canmore, Alta., as soon as her IN THE KNOW and bushy tailed. The village is cloaked in a beeping device locates a buried target. Her Australian rescue partner, Scott blanket of thick white snow. Soft flakes fall LIFE Burley, immediately deploys an extendable probe and begins stabbing it into steadily, quietly dancing around in the crisp, the snow in a spiral pattern. A direct hit is made in less than a minute, Why we can't stop talking about Vogue's Justin prompting the pair to start digging like crazy. and Sophie photo mountain-fresh air. The surrounding pastel- It’s a scene that would send chills down the spine Secret coloured buildings are topped with snow so of any back­country veteran; thankfully, this isn’t GLOBE INVESTOR thick it looks like marzipan icing. Carrick best reads: Ottawa’s TFSA changes are a real rescue. There are no physical signs of an After an early check-in to our hotel, we historic avalanche and two ski patrollers in red jackets head straight out to discover this cute alpine shout instructions from a groomed trail nearby. If MULTIMEDIA NEWS village. We trudge through fresh snow to Tod any doubt remains, it evaporates when a member What’s new on the ski What impact will pricing carbon have on of the group pauses to snap a selfie. Mountain Café, just a few minutes’ walk down slopes for the 2015­16 Canadians at the pump? snow season The skiers are in the midst of a weekend­long the village walkway. We’ve heard the breakfast avalanche skills training (AST) course run by crêpes are delicious (our tremendously friendly Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. The six men and GLOBE DRIVE cab driver gave us an extensive run down of How we squandered fuel economy advances on four women, from the ages of 23 to 63, aren’t the village on the 45-minute drive here from locals or staff. All of them are here on vacation. bigger vehicles Kamloops). At the counter, an Australian girl Until quite recently, most resorts did little or business Olympic gold medalist skier Nancy Greene hams it up at the top of the Sunburst chairlift at Sun Peaks Resort, asks us what we would like to order (the first nothing to educate visitors about avalanche MOST POPULAR VIDEOS » Tucked away in the Interior of BC, Canada, is a little known gem of a resort Beginner’s luck TRAVEL avoidance and survival. Ski areas such as Kicking of many familiar accents we are greeted by Portes du Soleil’s sprawl just north of Kamloops, B.C. STEVE MACNAULL PHOTO Horse spend hundreds of thousands of dollars Words Megan arkinstall here at Sun Peaks); I choose a spinach, feta, I’m waiting at the Rendezvous Area near with blues – I’m beaming! Indeed, the of resorts between France each year on snow­safety measures such as tomato and avocado crêpe, which I gobble the base of the Sunburst Chairlift for my ski ultimate blessing of skiing in the country’s and Switzerland are a forecasting, signage, fencing and ballistics, but down with a decent coffee. skier’s heaven on Earth they aren’t technically responsible for the terrain article e’ve got a secret to share with you. There’s a hectares of 133 well-designed runs, catering to beginners, instructor. I have butterflies in my stomach: second-largest ski area, is the wide, well- outside their boundaries or for lift­ticket holders NEWS REPORT ON BUSINESS little ski resort that you probably haven’t heard intermediates and experts alike. To top it all off, this region A good snow day will get you moving back home, the precocious kids in Milo vests groomed runs that you practically have to Two families of Syrian Are these really the top who choose to enter it. So safety training for of hidden in the south-central interior of British experiences consistent light, dry powder and more than quickly. Thirty minutes later I’m being fitted instilled in me a fear (and slight humiliation) yourself and there’s plenty of room for more refugees arrive in places to work in W guests was typically left to third­party outfitters My ski companion tells me to keep my head up and stop fixating on the tips of the skis. Columbia, halfway between the Rockies and the Coastal 2000 hours of annual sunshine, which means frequent for skis. I’m a complete beginner at skiing – when I was learning to snowboard; the kids advanced skiers and snowboarders to fly and alpine organizations. Toronto, thank Canada Canada? mountain ranges.It’s nowhere near as crowded as the big- bluebird powder days. Amazingly, this little Eden of skiing I’ve dabbled in snowboarding a few times here are even more naturally gifted in the past as I learn. Even better, there are no lift What has changed? Back­country skiing has exploded in popularity in the names of Whistler or Banff (read: no queues for the lifts and delights is just 45 minutes’ north of Kamloops airport. and let’s just say, I wasn’t a natural. snow, whipping around on skis and boards queues, so plenty more time is spent up the past decade, so now many of the resorts that tacitly enable the inherently I immediately correct my gaze to the horizon, my stance improves and I start gliding down the risky activity are working harder to educate resort skiers on back­country wide runs practically to yourself), with a small and relaxed Its name: Sun Peaks Resort. Whether you’re an “Are they meant to feel like this?” I seemingly before they can walk. mountain (and in Sunburst Lodge enjoying safety. Most of British Columbia’s big resorts – Kicking Horse, Revelstoke, slope smoothly with confidence. European-style village of pastel-coloured, low-rise gabled amateur or intermediate wanting to scrub up on your skills, apprehensively ask Sam, a young Australian But my instructor Axl, who comes from one of the fresh cinnamon buns; the aroma Whitewater, Sun Peaks and Whistler Blackcomb, to name a few – have all guy, as he fits my boot. Apparently, yes. He NEWS NEWS roof buildings. an expert in double blacks schussing your way around the Sweden, puts me completely at ease. After is just irresistible and the views up here been expanding their snow­safety education programs over the past five Take a tour through the Bald eagle nips at But when it comes to the mountain, this little-known country, or a family wanting a fun-filled waits for me as I robot-walk to the sales desk. a few practice slides down a bump of a hill, aren’t bad either). years. Pearson terminal Trump during I have the best instructor on the planet ­ Olympic gold medalist Nancy Greene. resort is a serious contender for the best skiing in Canada. snow adventure, Sun Peaks is a fantastic all-rounder Looking longingly out the window at the falling he takes me up the carpet to the top of There’s something so cool about skiing “We’re at the start of a shift in resort mentality,” says Sean Nyilassy, a reopened to accept photoshoot snow, it’s obvious he’s counting down the member of Kicking Horse’s mountain safety department who leads the Surrounding the ski-in, ski-out village, its three towering and a little gem among Canada’s ski resorts. Gentle Giant for a few runs, some great straight back to your accommodation – no Syrian refugees weekend­long programs. “From our boundaries, you can instantly enter mountains boast the country’s second largest ski area We experienced the best it has to offer in one moments till he knocks off. “I’ve heard it’s pointers and lots of encouragement. Before buses, no laborious walks with your ski uncontrolled back­country terrain, where inexperienced or uneducated skiers (Whistler Blackcomb is the biggest) with more than 1700 perfect winter wonderland day. wicked up there today,” he says. I know it, I’m heading up the quad lifts and gear... it’s so simple. I store my skis and 1/3 coming down green runs that intertwine head straight to my room. « 1/4 106 www.internationaltravellermag.com www.internationaltravellermag.com 107

14 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 15 International Marketing – Samples International Marketing – Samples

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2016 EARLYBIRD FLY/CRUISE Sagway PT： 玩一把平衡游戲

到了旅游勝地，每個人都想盡情地玩，人好像一 下子變得年輕起來。有一種游戲項目叫Sagway，是 一種兩輪車，考驗人的平衡能力。在太陽峰度假村， 經常看到一群人，腳蹬這種兩輪車，在景區小徑或街 道上悠悠行過，一看就覺得很好玩。想玩可以找教練 2016 HOLLAND AMERICA CRUISES SUN PEAKS HIGHLIGHTS 學。 教練會一對一地教你，先學會把一隻腳放上踏 7 Nights Alaska Cruise + Air from $3,799pp/ts^ 4 Days/3 Nights from $299pp/ts 板，再放另一隻腳，保持身體挺直。往右傾斜車會往 右拐，往左傾斜車會往左拐。教練再教你怎樣把車停 2016 Alaska cruise & cruisetours are now available! Get in early Enjoy your stay in Sun Peaks at the Hearthstone Lodge in a 住，這是非常關鍵的步驟。學完這些就可以上路了。 for the best deals. Air Canada Earlybird fares are on sale until Kitchen Suite. Hiking in alpine meadows, golf, Spa, canoeing & 這個游戲很好玩，學會了還容易上癮呢。 31 Dec 15. horseback riding available. Includes a Horse Drawn Carriage tour. 動物園：充滿愛的動物庇護所 Laura在跟教練學習Sagway。 走進卑詩野生動物園，如果你想看到很多種不同 種類的珍稀動物，你可能會失望。它在動物園中屬於 遊玩景點推薦 另類，打破了我們平時對動物園的概念，不是人類為 農場 了自己的好奇心，對動物進行捉捕和圈養。而是用滿 名稱：Tranquille Farm Fresh 滿的愛心，拯救遇到危機的動物，為他們重新營造一 地址：4600 Tranquille Road，Kamloops, BC 個溫暖的家。 電話： 250-574-7474 網站： www.tranquillefarmfresh.ca 業務發展經理John Stark對每一個動物都很熟 悉。見到一個貓頭鷹，他告訴我們這個貓頭鷹的兩個 野生動物園 翅膀都折斷了，不再適合野外生存，所以動物園把他 名稱：BC Wildlife Park 收養了。另一個房間的白頭鷹也是折斷了一隻翅膀， 卑詩動物園的小熊在洗澡。 地址：9077 Dallas Drive, Kamloops, BC 就成了這里的住客。看到兩個野牛，他說，野牛是兄 電話：250-573-3242 轉 225 網站： www.bczoo.org JASPER HIGHLIGHTS BANFF HIGHLIGHTS 妹，來自育空地區，他們的媽媽掉進礦坑摔死了，失 通，往左往右往前行，怎樣停住。剛剛知道簡單規則 去了母親還在嬰兒時期的小野牛，就來到卑詩動物園 的一群人就這樣上路了。 馬場 4 Day/3 Nights from $499pp 4 Day/3 Nights from $599pp 這個新家園。他們出生只有三個星期，體重只有12磅 騎馬走過的小徑很美麗，有平緩的山路，旁邊是 名稱：Erin Valley Riding Stables 左右，飼養員要用奶瓶喂它們。現在，這對兄妹12歲 茂密的樹林。Andy來自德國，是很帥氣的女教練，騎 地址：8825 Barnhartvale Road, Kamloops, BC SkiMax Co-op Website Takeover Stay in the heart of Jasper and enjoy wildlife sightseeing and In the heart of Banff stay at the rustic Brewster Mountain 了。 術不俗，她在隊伍中糾正隊形，指導還不熟練的新騎 電話：250-573-5442 網站：www.erinvalleyridingstables.com a Maligne Valley tour and cruise. Lodge and explore the area. Sightseeing tours included. 一路走過，記者看到晨起坐在岩石邊搔癢的大白 手們。騎在馬上走完近一小時，初學者也有了些許自 熊，舒服地在水池享受飛泉淋浴的小棕熊。林間散步 信。 其他信息請看： 的麋鹿，形象趣致的拉瑪，還看到慵懶晚起的駱駝， 這個馬場也提供騎術課程，幫人養馬，還出售馬 www.hellobc.com 他顯然是遠方的來客。john說，這個動物園剛開的時 匹，適合各種水平的騎馬愛好者。 www.SunPeaksResort.com 候，也曾經從其他動物園買來老虎斑馬等動物，後來 www.skisilverstar.com 這些動物死了，就沒再購買新的，專註于拯救動物。 超過65個北美動物物種在這個動物園得到了保 農莊：乘拖拉機遊古老莊園 護，這裡也是穴居貓頭鷹在北美最成功的飼養場地。 從中國大陸來加拿大的中年移民，小時候見過拖 卑詩動物園為了幫助更多的動物，歡迎愛心人士認養 拉機的人不少，但也不是每個人都坐過。城市出生的 動物。 年輕人，恐怕從沒見過這種跟農業有關的交通工具。 在甘露市附近的Tranquille Farm Fresh，游客們可以 體驗乘拖拉機游覽的樂趣。 騎馬：穿越山林享受馬背快樂 Tranquille Farm Fresh是有150年歷史的農莊， 很多朋友們在第一次騎馬的時候，希望教練講的 1865年啟動，成為當時著名的農業生產基地。在其鼎 比較清楚，也希望有專業教練跟着以免發生危險。艾 盛時期，可以為在1000名農場工作人員和附近醫院的 CALGARY & GLACIER NATIONAL PARK CALGARY STAMPEDE 琳谷馬場（Erin Valley Riding Stables），可以滿足初 病人提供食品和奶制品。農場在1985年被政府關閉， 管理農莊的Tim McLeod在講解。 學者的這些要求。 20年后的今天，農場被投資者們購買，將會讓它有脫 5 Days/4 Nights from $699pp/ts 4 Days/3 Nights from $1,199pp 遊客約好時間來到馬場的時候，一群馬已經上好 胎換骨式的改變。宏偉的古老穀倉已經得到修復，成 裝的伴娘伴郎，還有穿着婚紗西裝的新郎新娘。 鞍子，整裝待發地準備迎接客人。據介紹，這個馬場 為週末農夫和工匠市場的場地，也定期展示當地音樂 農莊中有一座老建筑，原來是當地的醫院。對 Explore Calgary and travel south following the spine of the Your stay includes the rodeo, Chuckwagon races, the world 擁有卑詩省最好的跑馬小徑。 家、名師廚藝和手工藝者作品的場地，開發商們還將 歷史有興趣的來賓們還可以參觀農莊中的地下通道， Canadian Rockies to Glacier National Park. Includes car rental. famous Grandstand show & 2 day thrill package. 女教練Andy和男教練 Nick熱情地迎接客人們。 在這一帶建獨立屋和城市屋。 1930年代建成，廢棄已久的通道黑洞洞的，要提着燈 他們根據客人腿的長度幫每個人選馬，高個子的騎高 管理農莊的Tim McLeod，帶來賓們游覽農莊。 或打着手電筒才能進去。這個通道，過去是為醫院的 頭大馬，小巧玲瓏的女士騎稍微矮小一點的馬。Nick 他指一個建筑說：“我女兒就在這里舉辦的婚禮。” 員工和病人做食物和洗衣物的。走入黑洞洞的地下通 1300 79 49 59 @ [email protected] 幫助每一位客人上馬，然後告訴他們怎麼樣跟馬溝 記者在農莊中，還真遇到了舉辦婚禮的一群人。有盛 道，可以找尋到些許舊日時光的影子。 12 2015年8月21日 CANADIAN CITY POST 都市報 Terms & conditions: All prices are based on per person twin share. Cruise is based on 07 May 2016 departure in an Inside MM Category Stateroom on Holland America flying Air Canada. ^Holland America Cruise package includes airfares, accommodation plus air and port taxes. Other travel dates and Stateroom upgrades are available upon request. All services are subject to availability at time of booking. Please contact us for further package details. Visit us by appointment on Level 6, 59 Goulburn Street, Sydney. 9747

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Travelplan Coop Canada’s West Campaign

SKI SUN PEAKS

UP TO 15% OFF LIFT PASSES KIDS 12 & UNDER SKI AND RENT FREE* Sun Peaks is now the 2nd largest ski resort in Canada, at over 1700 hectares of ski terrain! The consistent snow quality is also amazing, not to mention the 100% ski-in/ski-out village. For an extra special experience, take part in the Sun Peaks Family Cup – All Nations Celebrations (Jan 9 & 10) and don’t miss the renowned 18th Annual Sun Peaks Winter Festival of Wine (Jan 15-24). GREAT FAMILY SKI PACKAGES! BEST PRICE POLICY!

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CMH Heli-Skiing Steins Group Ski Tours Ski Improvement FREE WORLD’S BEST HEARTHSTONE LODGE SUN PEAKS GRAND SKI HOLIDAYS BROCHURE STUDIO WITH DEN FROM 2 BEDROOM RESIDENCE FROM Call or email us for a copy of our 2015 PER PER brochure for full details of our available deals. $649* ADULT $1115* ADULT PER PER BOOK NOW $205* CHILD $672* CHILD for great ski fares STAY 7 PAY 4 STAY 7 PAY 6 with Air Canada! Ski Packages include 7 nights stay in January, 6 day lift pass and taxes. *Family packages based on 2 adults and 2 children up to 12 years. Costs valid as at 24 June 2015. Kids Ski/Rent Free: one free child per equal adult purchase of 5+ days, excluding Dec 21 – Jan 1. Early booking and other conditions apply. TPN3305

email [email protected] Call 1300 754 754 visit www.travelplan.com.au Offices in Sydney and Melbourne. ATAS Accreditation No: A10479.

16 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 17 Strategic Direction 2016-2018 Tourism Sun Peaks Organizational Chart

Tourism Sun Peaks Board of Directors establishes a three year strategic direction that outlines Board of Directors key result areas to meet organizational objectives around visitor growth goals. These provide (See below) Tourism Sun Peaks with a framework in which to direct and invest human and financial resources. The strategies are reviewed annually by the Board to allow for adjustments and President ensure relevance to the marketplace. Christopher Nicolson

Consumer awareness is the single most critical step to attract the necessary new Manager, Director of Manager, Awareness Manager, Central Reservations Market Destination Manager, Events visitors to fill resort capacity and is the primary focus of TSP. Finance & Adventure Centre Development Marketing Janice Hoppenreys Stephanie Avery Theresa St. Louis Colin Brost Jennifer Lestander Events Execute events and attract 3rd party event producers to drive visitation. Administration Events Assistant Research Increase research and data analysis on investments, new market opportunities, and and Accounting Specialist, Market Specialist, Media Connie Williamson Assistant Development Relations guest experience for the benefit of businesses. Ashleigh Capper Megan Nelson Kyle Taylor

Coordinator, Advocacy Monitoring and or participating in advocacy to influence policy. Supervisor, Adventure Centre Digital Media Central Stacey Harmond Sam Loxton Reservations 3 Agents Jennifer Nield (Seasonal)

Tamara Carder 3 Agents (Seasonal)

2015–16 Familiarization Tours Contracted Services: IT Support, Rhinotech Computer Services, Darrin Rein Creative Design, Harv Craven, Lindsey Benson Media Relations, Brandi Schier In-Market Rep, UK (Ashmore Marketing), Dave Ashmore Meetings, Corporate and Incentive Travel, Jackie Frederick

2015–16 Board of Directors Tourism Sun Peaks Directors serve the Board on a voluntary basis for two year terms. Directors also participate in Board committees, including Audit, By-law, Marketing, and Transportation.

Reiner Brecht, Past Chair James Bingham Non-Hotel Lodging Director Hotel Lodging Director

John Douglas, Chair Petr Duda, Secretary Hotel Lodging Director Residential Director

Vivek Sharma Peter Ernst Single Owner Hotel Lodging Director Commercial/Tenant/Independent Operator Director

Silvia Erler Amy Blackeney, Treasurer Non-Hotel Lodging Director SPR LLP Appointed Director

Darcy Alexander Aidan Kelly, Vice Chair SPR LLP Appointed Director SPR LLP Appointed Director

18 19 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report 2015–16 Year in Review 18 We welcome your feedback and ideas anytime of the year.

Visit us at the Tourism Sun Peaks office located in The Residences at Sun Peaks Grand, open Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm.

Contact information is available online at SunPeaksResort.com/Tourism Photo: Adam Stein

Suite 13–3250 Village Way, Sun Peaks British Columbia, Canada V0E 5N0 Tel 250.578.5380 Fax 250.578.2552 www.SunPeaksResort.com/Tourism 20 Tourism Sun Peaks Annual Report