From our pristine lakes, rushing rivers, world-class golf courses, relaxing spas and charming towns and people, it’s a no-brainer that the Shuswap is truly an incredible place to call home. August is ‘Staycation’ month in B.C., an opportunity to consider staying close to home and experiencing the beauty and adventure that can be found right here in the Shuswap and North Okanagan.
There are so many events taking place here this month from the Roots & Blues Festival featuring a great line-up of artists this year and the famous Caravan Farm Theatre in Armstrong that is guaranteed fun and laughs for your family. Camping and RV’ing is spectacular here, or maybe consider a quick getaway at one of the many fine bed and breakfasts in the Shuswap.
When you choose to staycation, it means that you are supporting one of our most important economic generators – tourism. The sector impacts our households either directly or indirectly through jobs, summer employment opportunities for students, or increased sales at restaurants and locally-owned shops from tourists and visitors coming to our region all year round.
Tourism is one of the eight key sectors of our BC Jobs Plan as it is one of one of the largest economic drivers in the province. Throughout B.C. tourism contributes $7.1 billion to our GDP and funds $1.2 billion in tax revenue funding programs and services to all British Columbians.
So if you are considering to staycation here, be sure to check out Destination B.C. at hellobc.com. You can also follow them on social media at Facebook.com/hellobc or twitter @HelloBC for some great trip ideas.
And finally, while you are exploring your own backyard, be sure take a picture and use the hashtag, #StaycationBC and #exploreBC to show the world the beauty and wonder of what the Shuswap has to offer.
Submitted by Shuswap MP Greg Kyllo