Culinary Tourism

Research tells us that the potential for culinary tourism in British Columbia is vast. There is a growing demand for travel experiences that include food.  More travelers are seeking locally sourced foods and information about the characters responsible for their growth and presentation.  The BCCTS is taking a leadership role in developing and maintaining a preferred culinary tourism brand and program for British Columbia. 

Our goal is to promote the BCCTS culinary tourism brand and experience in all regions of British Columbia, and to form partnerships with industry to support the growth of this brand and exemplary culinary tourism experiences across BC.

Quick Facts:

• Cuisine is a saleable experience.
• Dining is the most memorable tourism experience.
  
• Nearly 100% of tourists dine out when traveling.
  
• Dining is consistently one of the top three favourite tourist activities.
  
• The higher the dinner bill, the more likely the patrons are tourists.
  
• Many culinary tourists are affluent individuals earning above average incomes.
  
• Interest in cuisine in travel is not reserved to a particular age, sex, or ethnic group.
  
• Unlike other travel activities and attractions, cuisine is available year-round, any time of day and in any weather.
  
• Cuisine is "experiential" as it satisfies new traveler demands for hands-on, interactive experiences.
  
• Dining is a way to experience local culture.
  
• Directing tourists to exemplary cuisine experiences adds value to tourist’s trips resulting in increased tourism spending, longer stays and repeat visits.