Dear editor,
On the evening of Sunday, May 31, we had the good fortune to have a representative of Audley Travel of Great Britain spend the evening with us. Sam was on a 40-day familiarization tour of the west coast of Canada, including Alaska and the Yukon. This company has 360 travel agents located in Europe and the United States. He came to Willow Guest House B&B at our request.
In his travels, Sam had spent time on the Sunshine Coast, Tofino, Campbell River and the more remote areas on the north island and outer islands. He had travelled through the Comox Valley but had not stayed here. When asked why, Sam told us that the Comox Valley is the “black hole” on Vancouver Island in terms of tourism.
After touring Sam about the area for only two hours he was impressed with the possibilities as a tourism destination, referring to the Comox Valley as potentially the new Tofino.
Tourism is a multi-million or perhaps billion-dollar industry and after Sam left I was left with questions. Why are we a “black hole” in tourism? Is tourism not being promoted in our area? Who is responsible for tourism to this area? What action plans to promote this industry are in place here? How can the tourism industry help shape a sustainable and environmental future for all to enjoy here in the Comox Valley?
Warren McDonald
Willow Guest House B&B
Courtenay