What are up and coming areas in BC for someone wanting to start a tourism based business?

Greetings
3 BC cities that are predicted to have large growth are
1) Fort St John
2) Prince George
3) Kamloops
Tourism is a bit of a hobby for many folks at the moment since US visitors are not traveling as much, Europeans are not traveling, so income from tourism is not what it used to be.
The reason I listed 3 areas of predicted growth is that these will be areas where incomes will rise and there will be development. Perhaps, you can market to the locals and ride the wave of growth there.

Good luck Tiffany

Steve

*** dont forget to sign up for your chance to win $25000 at www.mikamloops.ca

As with any business, success will depend on the size of the surrounding existing population and tourism. The Lower Mainland of BC is mainly served by Whistler and when there is enough snow, the North Shore Mountains. The eastern part of the Fraser Valley has been neglected, even though there are within 2 hours of downtown Vancouver great ski areas (Manning Park and Hemlock Valley), access to all kinds of hiking and climbing, numerous lakes and rivers for water sports and excellent fishing. Think about it, easy access for a population nearing 3.5 million, with an international airport located right in the heart of the valley, Abbotsford.

Tiffany, great question. As suggested by Steve above, tourism is in a tough spot right now. It does depend, however, on what your exact business model is. I just helped some commercial clients whose business in the tourism industry is booming, but they are focused on packaged tours anywhere in the world.

If you are looking for an area-specific tourism business, KNOW THE AREA! I cannot stress this enough. What works on the North Shore won't necessarily work in Surrey or Kelowna. Much of the tourism industry right now is reliant on intra-province "staycations" right now. This is where you want to capitalize.