Marriott Bonvoy has a diverse and exceptional portfolio of hotels in British Columbia that offers an array of meeting and event space options, from convention hotels in urban centers like JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre to Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort in Victoria or Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort in the mountains around Kelowna.
Fortunately, the meetings and conventions business in British Columbia has rebounded faster than any other market in Canada. This can be attributed to its proximity to the western U.S., as well as it being a gateway to eastern Canada. There is also a strong focus on sustainability, technology, and finance within the market here, and we’re seeing exponential growth in incentive travel due to all the incredible experiences the province offers.
One of the trends we’re seeing among meetings is the food and beverage experience. Groups are looking for more creativity with events, and hotels are meeting the demand by creating a sense of place with menus that focus on local products and seasonal ingredients. The lobby of The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver, is home to a hydroponic garden with fresh herbs and microgreens and an on-site apiary that produces honey used in the hotel’s restaurants and event menus.
The future of meetings in British Columbia looks bright. Vancouver is a world-class destination, and Marriott continues to invest in the market through planned developments in the region. These include a variety of brands such as Courtyard by Marriott, AC Hotels, Residence Inn by Marriott, Autograph Collection Hotels, and Le Méridien.
British Columbia is a great destination for both work and play, especially for those who want to extend their trips when traveling for a meeting or event. Attendees want accessible pre- and post-meeting options, and the province features many wonderful possibilities—like the world-renowned ski hills of Whistler or the unspoiled beaches of Tofino. The Okanagan Valley, which includes Kelowna and surrounding areas like Vernon, offers an incredible range of wineries and outdoor adventures for eventgoers to enjoy.
