Quebec City—As it celebrates its 100th anniversary, the Champlain, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac’s signature restaurant, is unveiling a new river-inspired dining experience rooted in local terroirs and guided by a spirit of hospitality that brings people together. Honoring a century of culinary tradition, the Champlain is reinventing itself through a concept that revisits the journey of Samuel de Champlain, brought to life by the cuisine of Chef Tristan Ratcliffe Lambert and his brigade.

At the heart of this new vision is the St. Lawrence River, which serves as the primary source of inspiration. It guides a gastronomic journey through Québec’s terroir, celebrating the bounty of its river and sea alongside  exceptional culinary craftsmanship. This renewed approach further establishes Champlain as a must-visit culinary destination.

Over the coming months, a series of new offerings, events, and exclusive experiences will accompany this new chapter, celebrating both the Champlain’s 100-year legacy and its future.  

THE RIVER AS A GUIDING THREAD 

At Champlain, the St. Lawrence River is far more than a breathtaking backdrop. It is the source of inspiration behind a culinary approach that extends to the diverse regions and communities along its shores. Seafood and fish, a hallmark of Chef Tristan Ratcliffe Lambert’s cuisine, are showcased through a gastronomic philosophy that celebrates seasonality, the authenticity of local ingredients, and the richness of Québec’s terroir. 

“I have always been inspired by regions and cuisines that tell the story of their land. At Champlain, the St. Lawrence River provides a natural connection between these landscapes, producers, and areas of expertise. Tides of Terroir is our way of sharing this richness with our guests, one plate at a time,” adds Tristan Ratcliffe Lambert, Chef of Champlain at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. 

Inspired by the spirit of exploration of Samuel de Champlain, after whom the restaurant is named, the discovery menu retraces his journey along the St. Lawrence River. Through six distinct chapters, The Gulf, The Estuary, The Fjord, Île d’Orléans, Québec, and The Territory, it invites guests to explore the landscapes, flavours, and traditions that define the region. Fishermen, oyster farmers, growers, livestock producers, cheesemakers, foragers, and local artisans play a central role in this culinary vision, which celebrates the provenance and quality of ingredients while bringing contemporary techniques into dialogue with tradition.

“Champlain holds a unique place within our culinary offering here at the Château. The St. Lawrence River is its primary source of inspiration, and the restaurant serves as a showcase for our gastronomy, allowing both local and international guests to discover the very best of Québec’s terroir,” says Simon Renaud, Executive Chef at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, who works alongside Chef Tristan Ratcliffe Lambert in bringing this gastronomic experience to life.

Signature dishes, including the iconic tableside Lobster Wellington, embody this approach while preserving the art of service that has long defined Champlain’s identity. Epicurean guests can also experience this tribute to the river and Québec’s terroir at their own pace through an à la carte menu that allows them to create a personalized culinary journey. True to the spirit of inclusive hospitality that defines Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the menu can also be adapted to accommodate individual preferences and dietary restrictions, ensuring a tailored experience for every guest. 

THE ART OF HOSPITALITY, REIMAGINED

The connection to the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding territories extends to every detail of the experience. From menus crafted with Manicouagan marine clay to the monumental suspended sculpture by artist Marc Bouchard, inspired by the topography of the St. Lawrence River, every detail pays homage to the river and the territories that surrond it. At the table, river-inspired linens, cutlery evoking shoreline pebbles, and utensil rests fashioned from copper reclaimed from the Château’s former roof extend this narrative, creating a dining experience deeply rooted in place.

The journey continues through a cocktail and non-alcoholic beverage program inspired by the region’s natural riches, alongside a curated wine selection enhanced by Riedel glassware chosen specifically for each varietal. In the background, a carefully curated soundtrack evolves throughout the evening, moving between French-language classics, international influences, and lounge-inspired melodies to create an atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the destination. 

“Today, luxury lies in the attention paid to details and in the quality of the moments we share. Champlain is no longer simply the restaurant with a view of the St. Lawrence River; it has become the restaurant that tells its story. It is an experience that sparks curiosity, inspires discovery, and leaves a lasting impression long after guests have left the table,” says François Bouffard, Director of Food & Beverage at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

BOLLINGER CHAMPAGNE EVENING

Champlain’s 100th anniversary celebrations will unfold over the coming months through a series of exclusive events highlighting the heritage, craftsmanship, and art of hospitality that have defined the restaurant for a century. Among the featured events, the Bollinger Champagne Dinner on October 29, 2026, will bring together Champlain’s culinary excellence and the refinement of one of Champagne’s most prestigious houses. Guests will be invited to discover a specially curated five-chapter tasting menu, created exclusively for the occasion and paired with Bollinger’s iconic champagnes served in magnum format. Tickets are available online here. 

ABOUT CHEF TRISTAN RATCLIFFE LAMBERT
Born into a family of restaurateurs, Chef Tristan Ratcliffe Lambert developed a passion for gastronomy at an early age. At just 14 years old, he began his culinary journey within the family business before pursuing formal training at École hôtelière de la Capitale. His career subsequently led him to several renowned establishments, including Laurie Raphaël, Sonoma Resort, and Groupe Germain. Appointed Executive Chef of Bistango at only 25, he refined a culinary signature deeply inspired by Québec’s terroir and local producers. Following notable tenures at Fairmont Empress in Victoria and Marilena in Vancouver, he joined Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in 2025. Today, he showcases his talent through a refined contemporary cuisine that highlights the bounty of the sea while remaining firmly rooted in Québec’s rich culinary landscape. 

ABOUT CHAMPLAIN RESTAURANT
A true gastronomic institution and one of Québec City’s most iconic dining destinations, Champlain has welcomed local residents and travelers from around the world at the heart of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac since 1926. Recommended by the MICHELIN Guide 2026 and the recipient of Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for more than a decade, the restaurant showcases the flavors of Québec’s terroir, the bounty of the St. Lawrence River, and an exceptional wine cellar. Blending heritage, refinement, and the art of hospitality, Champlain offers an experience where cuisine, service, and attention to every detail come together seamlessly. A thoughtful, sincere, and personalized approach to hospitality accompanies every visit, with the St. Lawrence River serving as a stunning backdrop. The renowned Sunday Brunch further enriches this culinary experience, offering an essential gathering place for celebrating special occasions, connecting with loved ones, and creating lasting memories in a setting that is as iconic as it is timeless.  

ABOUT FAIRMONT
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts: where the intimate opens onto the infinite. The brand brings together more than 90 exceptional hotels, places where life’s greatest moments are celebrated, pleasures are shared, and memories remain long after the stay. Since 1907, Fairmont has created magnificent destinations filled with emotion, rich in character, and deeply connected to the history and culture of the places they call home. Its portfolio includes some of the world’s most iconic addresses, such as The Plaza in New York, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs in Canada, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, and Fairmont The Palm in Dubai. Renowned for its attentive service, grand public spaces, locally inspired cuisine, and iconic bars and lounges, Fairmont also takes pride in its pioneering role in luxury hospitality and its leadership in sustainable development and responsible tourism practices. Fairmont is part of Accor, a global hospitality leader with 5,400 hotels in more than 110 countries, and the ALL – Accor Live Limitless ecosystem, a loyalty program offering a wide range of benefits, services, and experiences.

The acclaimed Elora haven evolves with 100-acre private nature conservation, a historic Canadian manor for private escapes, a museum-worthy collection of 7 figure gemstones in the hotel walls, and an elevated culinary programme of rotating star Chef dinners including newly arrived Royal Chefs.

Elora/CNW/—Kat Florence Hotel, the intimate luxury retreat built by seven-time world record-breaking rare gemstone artist Kat Florence, unveils its most significant evolution since opening. On September 1, the hotel will introduce The Kat Florence Reserve, a private 100-acre wilderness sanctuary; the Imperial Jade Manor, an exclusive, 1870's Canadian heritage residence featuring jaw-dropping restorations like a 6-figure custom stone hot bath beneath the stars and Canada's first Top Chef Winner as guests' Private On-Site Chef; an evolving collection of some of the world's most extraordinary, multi-million-dollar Kat Florence gemstones imbedded in the hotel's very walls; and a series of stay-inclusive, nightly culinary experiences led by internationally acclaimed celebrity and Royal Chefs.

Together, the additions represent a natural evolution for the celebrated boutique hotel, further establishing it as one of Canada's most high end, private, ultra-rarity-seekers' travel destinations where fine artistry, royal hospitality, and nature's beauty exist in remarkable harmony.

"Everything I make, I make because it exists only once," says Kat Florence. "That's true of the stones I set, and it's true of this hotel. I do not build for more guests. I build so the guests I do have receive something that can't be repeated anywhere else. Every layer I've added is something I'd want for someone I love staying under my own roof."

At the heart of the experience is the Kat Florence Reserve, an exclusive 100-acre private nature sanctuary that extends the guest experience beyond the hotel's historic limestone.

Accessible only to selected hotel guests and by invite-only, the Reserve estate includes Kat's personal residence, and encompasses protected forest and wildlife, 2500 linier feet of secluded riverbanks and 100 acres of a private natural reserve of the famous Elora Gorge. Invited guests will experience the grounds with Kat's Private Reserve Guide, exclusively one couple or suite at a time (to protect the land), to enjoy restorative forest walks, local wildlife spotting, and luxury picnics at the Gorge river. The conservation is not and will never be intended for the masses; Kat Florence passionately purchased this land in her hometown to ensure it never gets corporation-developed on, and that this sanctuary of her childhood remains lovingly cared for but vastly untouched for the plant and wildlife within.

Imperial Jade Manor

Complementing the introduction of the Reserve is Imperial Jade Manor, a meticulously Kat-restored heritage residence (formerly Rosemount Cottage, est. 1870's, and later Saint Margaret's All Girls School) the artist personally lived in and hosted numerous VIP gem clients and celebrities in over the years. The acre estate was raised in the Italianate Revival style from limestone quarried close to home - the same stone that has given Elora its character since the mid-nineteenth century.

In addition to expected grandiose elements like in-residence spa facilities, 6-figure custom stone hot bath beneath the stars, 60 foot swimming pool and much more, the Imperial Jade Manor houses its own, celebrity Private Chef to cater to those staying in residence: Chef Dale Mackay, Canada's first Top Chef winner, the formerly youngest ever recipient of the Relais & Chateaux Grand Chef designation, former Head Chef for Gordon Ramsey in New York and Japan, former Executive Chef of Daniel Boulud's Dinex Group and many more.

Nightly, Star Chef Dinners Included For All Hotel Guests (And The New, Royal Chef)

Every stay at The Kat Florence Hotel is accompanied by a multi-course tasting dinner each and every night, prepared and led by a team of her rotating Master Chefs. Renowned names of her Chef fleet including Anthony Bish (as seen on Master Chef, Iron Chef, cooking for royal families and more) and Chef Marc Collyer (formerly of twice Michelin starred The Manor House UK), and newly arrived to the fleet is Private Chef to the stars and royals around the globe as well as international television personality Neill Anthony. Chef Neill comes from decades of Michelin fine dining abroad (with Gordon Ramsay, Marcus Wareing and Alyn Williams), and has cooked for an endless list of the world's most private and wealthy include Britain's King Charles, Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, Elton John, Madonna, U2, Paul McCartney, been on tour with Middle Eastern Royal families as their private on-call Chef, and much more.For those fortunate to get an invite, royalty-regular Chef Neill will be cooking at Don & Kat's Private Dining escape on the river, a tranquil riverside space, with private terrace overlooking the Grand River.

The new Library on the River offers an additional peaceful setting for hotel guests to read, work, relax and take in the surrounding landscape. Complimentary Sundowners happen once or multiple times during your stay inspired by luxury safari lodges of Southern Africa, where guests gather and mingle for outdoor drinks before supper.

When you stay at the house of Kat Florence, you never know which of her Master Chefs will be entertaining you that evening, or what inspired ingredients and flavours you'll be experiencing. You just know you'll be sitting down to the rarest of elite Chef dining experiences on Earth, every night you're staying in her haven – her gift to all her guests.

A Living Gemstone Gallery

Art has always been at the heart of Kat Florence's vision, and beginning this season, guests will discover an evolving collection of museum-worthy, 7 figure value gemstones displayed throughout the hotel's original 1848 limestone walls, transforming the historic building's Living Room into a living gallery unlike any other in North America.

Carefully curated from the Kat Florence Atelier, the rotating collection includes the largest, flawless 424.8 carat Royal Velvet Blue Tanzanite ever offered at auction, the largest matching pair of Flawless Unheated Paraiba earrings to ever go to auction and the world's largest flawless 52.48 carat Jeremejevite set in D flawless diamonds. Rather than sitting behind traditional museum displays, these extraordinary works instead provide inviting moments of unexpected discovery as guests move through the property.

Since opening, Kat Florence Hotel has earned international recognition for its intimate, highly personalized approach to ultra-rare travel experiences and royal hospitality. This expansion builds on that vision while further establishing both the hotel and Elora as one of Canada's most compelling, exclusive tourism destinations.

About Kat Florence Hotel (www.katflorencehotels.com / @katflorencehotels)
Nestled along the banks of the Grand River in the heart of Elora, Ontario, Kat Florence Hotel is an intimate prestige retreat founded by world-renowned jewellery designer and seven-time world record-breaking rare gemstone artist Kat Florence. Housed within a meticulously restored 1848 limestone building, the hotel seamlessly blends heritage architecture with contemporary luxury through thoughtfully designed accommodations, exceptional dining and deeply personalized service. 

All guest stays at Kat Florence Hotel famously include:
*Chef's Tasting Dinner by one of Kat's world-renowned star Chefs every night you stay
*Breakfast baskets, freshly baked & delivered to your room each morning, just-made by Chef Marc Collyer (formerly of Michelin "The Manor House" in The Cotswolds)
*Chilled welcome bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, love Kat x
*60 Minute, La Mer-infused massage in your suite by Kat's personal, Master Masseuses
*Outdoor Nordic spa hot & cold therapy pools, sauna and fireplace
*Limitless, day to night access to edible art at the hotel's 'Infinity Patisserie' by Chef Marc
*Rolls Royce & Bentley chauffer and valet service
*Personal concierge service for your every errand or need

The Incentive Research Foundation announces the release of Maximizing CVB / DMO Value for Incentive Travel Programs, a new study examining how Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) support incentive travel programs. The research explores when and how incentive travel professionals engage these organizations, the value they provide, the barriers that can limit collaboration, and opportunities to build stronger partnerships.

“CVBs and DMOs can be powerful partners in creating the distinctive, highly customized experiences that make incentive travel memorable,” said Stephanie Harris, IRF President. “The research shows that engaging these organizations early can give planners greater access to local expertise, unique experiences, financial support, and faster, more confident destination decisions.”

Maximizing CVB / DMO Value for Incentive Travel Programs combines a quantitative survey of incentive travel program owners and third-party planners with in-depth interviews with CVB and DMO representatives in North America and Europe.

Key insights from Maximizing CVB / DMO Value for Incentive Travel Programs include:

• CVB/DMO support can influence destination selection: 68% of incentive travel professionals indicated they have made a destination decision based on the support or quality of a CVB/DMO.
• Distinctive local access is a key differentiator: Incentive travel professionals place the greatest value on unique experiences, followed by destination selection assistance and financial support.
• Early engagement benefits both sides: When a destination is first under consideration, CVBs/DMOs can locate options and availability, and 53% of planners engage them during early discovery and feasibility.
• Financial support is widely used: 74% of incentive travel planners reported that their programs benefited from CVB/DMO financial incentives, such as room-night rebates, off-peak room discounts, and complimentary airfare for planners conducting site visits.
• Misconceptions can prevent engagement: Some planners assume CVBs/DMOs only focus on large programs, duplicate the role of DMCs, charge for their services, or offer limited value when the planner already knows the destination.
• Barriers remain: One-third of incentive travel planners reported at least one friction point when collaborating with CVBs/DMOs, including responsiveness, coordination, and uncertainty about the organizations’ roles.

To download a copy of the full study, please visit the Maximizing CVB / DMO Value for Incentive Travel Programs webpage.

Source: Incentive Research Foundation 

Brussels—The Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) today announced the publication of the third edition of the JMIC Global Manifesto, an updated and expanded version of the industry's flagship advocacy resource for positioning business events as drivers of economic, social and professional transformation. 

First published in 2020 to support the sector's post-pandemic recovery, and revised in 2023 to build the industry rationale for business events as agents of growth, this third edition draws on the latest data from the Events Industry Council's 2026 Global Economic Significance Study alongside a wide range of association and sector sources. It sets out 15 ways in which business events create strategic advantage for governments and destinations, from building trust and community legacies to supporting talent development, sustainability and measurable ROI. 

A key addition to this edition is the integration of case studies and legacy narratives from The Iceberg, JMIC's impact storytelling platform. Where economic data demonstrates the scale of the industry's contribution, The Iceberg's case studies illustrate the lasting, often less visible legacies that business events leave behind in host communities. Together, the two resources give industry professionals and policymakers both the figures and the stories needed to make the case for business events as strategic policy tools. 

The Manifesto also sets out ten practical steps for delivering the industry's message locally, reflecting JMIC's position that a single global narrative must be adapted and owned by national, regional and local stakeholders to be effective with their own governments and public authorities. 

Working Group

The third edition was developed by a JMIC working group whose members contributed their time, expertise and sector networks to the project. JMIC thanks:

• Martin Boyle, CEO, IAPCO (Working Group Lead)
• Gemmeke De Jongh, Senior Manager Education and Impact, ICCA
• Alex Alles, Senior Director Advocacy & Sustainability, ICCA
• Peirui Tan, Programme Manager Advocacy and Alliances, UFI
• Gregor Bischkopf, Executive Director, IFES
• Bettina Reventlow-Mourier, Deputy Convention Director - Head of Congress, Copenhagen Convention Bureau

James Rees, President of JMIC, said:

"JMIC’s role in supporting the global business events industry is to provide a platform where the world's business events associations and industry stakeholders speak with one voice. The Global Manifesto is a detailed manifestation of such a platform which, having supported the industry in its recovery from the pandemic, has rightly been designed and adapted for the world in which we now operate and will be an invaluable tool for colleagues and stakeholders across all regions to support their advocacy work and demonstrate the powerful, lasting impact and legacy of business events.”

Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO and lead of the working group, said:

"This Manifesto takes a truly global perspective, while recognising that successful advocacy is ultimately delivered through relevant local messages. Drawing on research data from the Events Industry Council (EIC), the member associations of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) and others across the meetings and events sector, it has been designed as a practical and accessible guide, equipping meetings industry professionals with clear, adaptable messaging to support advocacy initiatives and stakeholder discussions, whether speaking as a member of one of our global meetings and events industry associations or advocating as an independent company. As CEO of IAPCO, we will be using the Manifesto ourselves, but will also be leveraging its content by sharing it with all of our members as we support them through their own grass-roots advocacy work."

The full JMIC Global Manifesto, 3rd Edition, is available at https://www.themeetingsindustry.org/global-manifesto/

Further case studies and legacy narratives are available at www.the-iceberg.org 

About JMIC
The Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) is the global umbrella body for the major associations representing the business events industry. JMIC advocates for the recognition of conferences, trade shows and conventions as strategic economic assets, and leads the industry's Net Zero Carbon Events initiative targeting net zero emissions by 2050.

https://www.themeetingsindustry.org/ 

Media Contact
Dorian Kronenwerth, Executive Director, JMIC
dorian@themeetingsindustry.org 

After the final whistle, one tournament ended. Vancouver's next chapter now begins.

Vancouver, BC/CNW/—When the final whistle blew on Tuesday afternoon in Vancouver, and Switzerland emerged victorious, FIFA World Cup 2026™ concluded its seven matches in the city. But for Destination Vancouver, the work of converting the world's biggest sporting event into years of future visitation, investment, and economic development is only beginning.

"Cities are remembered through defining moments," said Royce Chwin, President & CEO of Destination Vancouver. "Expo 86 introduced Vancouver to the world. The 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015™, cemented our place on the global stage. FIFA World Cup 2026 has introduced Vancouver to an entirely new generation of future visitors around the world. Our job now is to turn that inspiration into opportunity."

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games demonstrated how global events can elevate a city's international profile long after the closing ceremony. In the five years that followed, Vancouver experienced sustained growth in overnight visitation.

FIFA World Cup 2026 presents a similar opportunity to build on Vancouver's reputation at a time when destinations around the world are competing harder than ever for visitors, investment, talent and major events.

"Every year, Vancouver welcomes visitors from around the world. But being a Host City gave us something different. It gave us the opportunity to introduce Vancouver to millions of future visitors who may never have considered our city before," continued Chwin. "And Vancouver delivered a spectacular performance."

Meetings & Conventions

On July 10th, the Vancouver Convention Centre welcomes its first post-tournament citywide conference (a citywide is defined as more than 1000 out-of-town delegates). That marks the return of the meetings, conventions and events sector that forms the backbone of Vancouver's year round visitor economy, supporting hotels, restaurants, attractions, and local businesses across the region.

That momentum is reflected in an exceptionally strong business events pipeline. Destination Vancouver and the Vancouver Convention Centre are currently at 61% of their annual citywide bid win goal, while citywide lead volume is tracking at 125% of pace year-to-date.

Looking further ahead, 2027 is on track to become the busiest year on record for citywide conferences, surpassing the previous high set in 2018 by close to 20%. Momentum is continuing into 2028, with the team already at 85% of its annual target.

"One of the greatest measures of success is what happens after the spotlight moves on," said Chwin. "A few days after the final match, Vancouver returns to doing what it does best: welcoming delegates, attracting major international meetings and filling our convention calendar. That's exactly what a resilient visitor economy looks like. Major sporting events and business events aren't separate stories. Together they strengthen Vancouver's reputation, support local businesses and create year round economic opportunity."

On top of a strong conference schedule, Vancouver is seeing a record cruise season with 358 ship calls scheduled this year and more than 1.4 million passengers forecast. That's up from 300 ship calls last year and 1.2 million passengers.

The Beautiful Dome

One of the tournament's defining images became The Beautiful Dome, the transformation of Science World's iconic geodesic dome into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Match Ball.

Conceived as a globally recognizable visual symbol of Vancouver's Host City presence, the installation generated international broadcast exposure while connecting one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, originally built for Expo 86, with another historic moment in Vancouver's story.

The project exemplified how tourism, government, cultural institutions and industry can work together to create destination assets whose impact extends well beyond a single event.

"Tourism is one of the few industries where reputation creates demand," said Chwin. "Every broadcast image, every social media post and every visitor experience during FIFA World Cup 2026 contributes to Vancouver's reputation as a destination people aspire to visit."

Strengthening Long-term Demand

Analysis has shown that destinations that successfully host globally significant events strengthen not only tourism demand, but also international reputation, investment attractiveness, and long-term competitiveness. FIFA World Cup 2026 demonstrated Vancouver's ability to deliver one of the world's largest sporting events while showcasing the creativity, collaboration and hospitality that define the destination.

This degree of international attention will be pivotal to building the value of Vancouver's visitor economy from $9 billion to $11 billion over the next few years

"People often ask whether hosting an event like the FIFA World Cup is worth it," said Chwin. "There's a better question to ask. The real question is what happens because of it. If a family books their first trip to Vancouver next summer, if an international association chooses Vancouver for its convention, or if another global event decides this is the city it wants to call home, that's the legacy we're building."

Hotel Occupancy

Visitor patterns during major events can differ from typical travel periods, and it will take time to fully assess the economic and tourism impacts across the destination. Hotel occupancy has been a continuing story throughout the tournament and Vancouver has been one of the better-performing host cities.

As of June 27, hotel occupancy for downtown Vancouver hotels was 75% (compared to 91% for June of last year).

While June hotel performance reflected the unique dynamics of a mega event, forward looking indicators point to strength through the remainder of the summer.

Occupancy for July and August is forecast to exceed 90%
Short-term rental demand is currently pacing up double digits over last year from July through to September.
Although occupancy softened during June, ADR remained significantly higher than last year during tournament weeks, reaching more than $500 during the latter half of June, roughly 30% above 2025 levels which reinforces that demand remained valuable even if room nights shifted.

About Destination Vancouver

Destination Vancouver is the non-profit, member-based destination marketing and management organization for the spectacular city of Vancouver, British Columbia. Our purpose is to transform our communities and our visitors through the power of travel and to be thoughtful leaders, advocates and ambassadors for our city. We work with our partners in Vancouver's $9 billion visitor economy to attract major conferences and destination events to the city, develop compelling experiences and offerings for our visitors, and to promote Vancouver in key Canadian, U.S., and international markets. The responsibility to build a sustainable and resilient visitor economy is the foundation of everything we do.
Visit www.destinationvancouver.com

SOURCE Destination Vancouver

For further information: Suzanne Walters, Destination Vancouver, Director, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement, T 604.561.9145, E swalters@destinationvancouver.com

The metropolis holds first place in the Union of International Associations ranking for the ninth consecutive year 

Montréal/CNW/—Another year at the top: according to the latest ranking from the Union of International Associations (UIA), Montréal once again hosted more international meetings than any other destination in the Americas in 2025. This marks the ninth year in a row the city has led the continent. 

With 89 international meetings meeting the UIA's criteria, Montréal ranked well ahead of other major North American hubs such as Washington (68) and New York (54). This strong performance also keeps Montréal among the world's most sought-after destinations for international meetings and conventions. Earlier this year, the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) also named Montréal the top North American city for international association meetings for the tenth consecutive year. 

Leadership built on a strong ecosystem

Over the years, Montréal has developed recognized expertise in hosting major international events. The city boasts a dynamic scientific community and a deep pool of experts in key fields such as life sciences, technology, artificial intelligence, aerospace, and engineering. Its engaged tourism industry also plays a vital role, helping Montréal stand out in a highly competitive global market. 

This success results from close collaboration among Tourisme Montréal, the Palais des congrès de Montréal, the city's business, academic, and association communities, and a broad network of local leaders who work together to attract international events to the metropolis. 

Quotes

"Nine consecutive years at the top of the Americas show Montréal's lasting ability to stand out among the world's leading destinations. This consistency reflects the quality of what we offer, the strength of our partnerships, and the commitment of an entire ecosystem working every day to elevate the city's international profile."

-- Mylène Gagnon, Vice President, Sales and Convention Services, Tourisme Montréal

"This ranking reflects the full commitment and work of our ecosystem partners' teams in helping make Montréal one of the world's leading business destinations. This collective effort, and the synergy that drives it, give our city a powerful edge in attracting events whose positive impact on Montréal and Québec continues well beyond the events themselves."

-- Emmanuelle Legault, President and CEO, Palais des congrès de Montréal

About Tourisme Montréal

Tourisme Montréal is a 100-year-old private, non-profit organization that works to position Montréal as an international-calibre leisure and business travel destination. To this end, the organization is piloting innovative hospitality strategies with a two-fold objective: ensuring that visitors enjoy a memorable experience and maximizing tourism economic spin-offs in a sustainable way with long-term impacts for the city. Uniting more than 1,000 businesses and organizations working directly or indirectly in tourism, Tourisme Montréal plays a leading role in the management and development of Montréal's tourism business, and makes recommendations on issues surrounding the city's economic, urban and cultural development. For more information, go to www.mtl.org.

About the Palais des congrès de Montréal 

A creative solutions centre and a showcase for the city's spirit and expertise, the Palais des congrès de Montréal has been promoting and hosting large-scale events since 1983. Generating significant economic, social and intellectual benefits, it encourages innovation and acts as a force for progress for both Montréal and Québec. The Palais is firmly committed to sustainability and takes numerous innovative, concrete steps to make it a central component of its business development. With one of the highest customer satisfaction rates in the world, the Palais actively contributes to the international reputation of Montréal, the top host city for international events in America for ten years in a row. congresmtl.com

SOURCE Tourisme Montréal

For further information: Sources: Aurélie de Blois, Senior advisor, public and media relations - Tourisme Montréal, 514 918-5290 / adeblois@mtl.org; Sébastien Zickgraf, Communications and public affairs advisor and editor - Palais des congrès de Montréal | 514 871-5849 / medias@congresmtl.com

Victoria, BC—The Parkside Hotel & Spa is closing out one of the most recognized years in its history. From national hospitality publications to the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the accolades that have arrived in 2026 reflect what the team at The Parkside has quietly built over nearly two decades: A hotel where sustainability is not a strategy, but a way of being.

On June 11, at the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards, The Parkside Hotel & Spa received two of the evening’s top honours: Business of the Year (40+ Employees) and Business Person of the Year, awarded to General Manager Trina White. The recognition from the Chamber, the region’s most established business community, marks a meaningful milestone, celebrating not only the hotel’s operational and environmental achievements, but its role as a committed, community-rooted business in Victoria.

These two awards join a remarkable collection of recognition earned earlier this year. In May, The Parkside received the Green Leadership Award in the Hotel Category from Kostuch Media Ltd., publisher of Hotelier magazine and Foodservice & Hospitality, presented at the Top 30-Under-30 Summit in Toronto. The award recognizes exceptional leadership in sustainable hotel operations across Canada and places The Parkside among the country’s most forward-thinking hospitality businesses.

In April, the hotel earned a double honour at the 2026 BC Hotel Association Awards Gala, taking home both the Sustainability Champion and Accommodation of the Year awards, a pairing that speaks directly to The Parkside’s founding belief that responsible operations and exceptional guest experiences go hand in hand. And earlier this year, in February, General Manager Trina White was presented with The IMPACT Award at the 2026 IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit, recognizing her outstanding leadership in sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship over a career spanning more than 25 years.

“I am deeply grateful for every one of these recognitions, and I want to be clear: they belong to our entire team. The people who show up every day at The Parkside – who carry our values into every guest interaction, every decision, every detail – they are the reason we are here. To be recognized in the same year by our own community, by our industry, and by national peers is something none of us take lightly. It fills me with so much pride for what this team has built, and so much gratitude for the guests, partners, and community who have supported us every step of the way. And we’re only halfway through the year,” said Trina White, General Manager, The Parkside Hotel & Spa.

The Parkside team extends its gratitude to the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the BC Hotel Association, Kostuch Media Ltd., and the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit for their continued celebration of leadership, community, and responsible business in British Columbia’s tourism sector.

For more information, visit www.parksidevictoria.com.

ABOUT THE PARKSIDE HOTEL & SPA
Located in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia, The Parkside Hotel & Spa combines urban sophistication with the serenity of a Pacific Northwest retreat. As Canada's first member of the Beyond Green global portfolio of hotels, The Parkside proudly upholds its foundational mission to sustainability, achieving carbon neutrality in its operations. This all-suite hotel provides guests with a luxurious home away from home, featuring spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and versatile meeting and event spaces. Guests can rejuvenate at The Parkside Spa, complete with an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center, savour local flavours at Tre Fantastico Bistro, or relax on the stunning rooftop patio complete with gathering spaces and cozy firepits. With Victoria's vibrant attractions just steps away, The Parkside Hotel & Spa provides an unforgettable experience for business and leisure travellers alike, blending exceptional service with a distinctly West Coast vibe. Learn more at www.parksidevictoria.com.

ABOUT BEYOND GREEN
Beyond Green is a global community of bold leaders advancing sustainable travel. Operated by Preferred Travel Group, the brand includes Beyond Green Hotels, a portfolio of rigorously vetted member hotels, resorts, lodges, and unique accommodations evaluated against more than 100 sustainability indicators aligned with global best practices and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and Beyond Green Consulting, which provides strategic advisory services to destinations, hospitality brands, and mission-aligned organizations to build sustainability strategies, strengthen storytelling, and design impactful travel experiences. By fostering a culture of bold leadership, collaboration, and shared learning, Beyond Green empowers travelers and industry stakeholders to make informed choices that benefit both people and the planet. For more information, visit www.StayBeyondGreen.com.

Hotel Media Contact:
Lisa Roughley
The Parkside Hotel & Spa 
250.686.4762
lisa@roughleyspeaking.com

Beyond Green Media Contact: 
Hannah Nelson                                                             
Senior Director, Global Communications & Media Relations
303.885.7186                                                    
hnelson@staybeyondgreen.com  

IRF and SITE, with research partner Oxford Economics, deepen the industry’s most comprehensive global survey with new lines of inquiry on geopolitical risk, AI, destination management companies and practitioner sentiment.

The Incentive Research Foundation (IRF) and SITE , in partnership with Oxford Economics, have announced the launch of the 2026 Incentive Travel Index (ITI), the most comprehensive and longest-running annual study of the global incentive travel industry.

Now in its seventh edition, ITI is a joint initiative of IRF, SITE and Oxford Economics. Its global sample includes corporate end users, agencies, destination management companies (DMCs), suppliers and destination marketing organisations (DMOs) across more than 90 countries. The 2026 edition builds on the Index’s longitudinal view of the sector, helping the industry distinguish enduring shifts from short-term market conditions, while introducing new lines of inquiry that reflect the issues practitioners are navigating now.

The 2026 survey retains the four established pillars that have anchored the Index since its inception: budgets, benefits, programme design and destination selection. These provide the year-on-year comparability that makes ITI a strategic planning tool for organisations across the incentive travel supply chain.

For 2026, the survey adds dedicated new questions on destination risk and geopolitics, the role of the qualifier voice in destination evaluation, how teams are using artificial intelligence in practice, and the future of the DMC sector. It also introduces more refined budget granularity and a closing Lightning Round of sixteen short, candid prompts designed to capture the unvarnished view from the practitioner’s desk.

Stephanie Harris, IRF President, said: "ITI is the only research instrument that examines the global incentive travel market from every angle, taking in source markets and destinations, end users and intermediaries, suppliers and DMOs. Its value lies in that completeness and in its continuity. Seven editions now give us a longitudinal view that allows us to separate enduring industry shifts from passing weather. For 2026 we have built carefully on that historical foundation, while making space for the questions our industry is genuinely wrestling with right now."

Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, CEO of SITE, added: “Working with Oxford Economics, we have sharpened the 2026 survey considerably. Budgets, benefits, programme design and destination selection remain core, but we have opened up new lines of inquiry that reflect where the industry’s attention is actually focused. Practitioners are being asked not just how they feel about disruption, but what concrete actions they have already taken in response to risk and geopolitical uncertainty. We are also asking whether the destinations we choose are aligned with what qualifiers themselves would choose if given a free hand, and how teams are using AI in practice across destination research, sourcing, content, personalisation and programme design. These are no longer theoretical questions. They are practical ones.”

Hasan Dinc, President of SITE, said: “Speaking with SITE members across more than twenty-nine chapters and affiliates, the conversations have changed materially over the last eighteen months. Members are navigating destination risk in real time, weighing geopolitical signals against the commercial reality of programmes that have been months or years in the planning. The 2026 ITI gives them a structured way to share that experience, compare notes with peers across markets and bring a global evidence base back into the rooms where destination decisions are made. I encourage every SITE member to contribute, and I encourage chapter presidents to make this a priority conversation at their next chapter meeting.”

The 2026 ITI survey has opened is available in English, Spanish and Chinese until 31 July. The survey takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete and is fully anonymous.

Further details are available on the ITI website and on the home pages of IRF and SITE.

About Incentive Travel -  Incentive Travel, the "I" in MICE, is the fastest growing sector of the Business Events industry, with the highest per capita spend and the widest supply chain. Accounting for about 8 per cent of all Business Events activities, the Events Industry Council's Global Economic Impact study estimated the global incentive travel industry to be worth around 116 billion dollars.

About IRF -  The Incentive Research Foundation (TheIRF.org) funds and promotes research to advance the science and enhance the awareness and appropriate application of motivation and incentives in business and industry globally. The goal is to increase the understanding, effective use, and resultant benefits of incentives for businesses that currently use them, and others interested in improved performance. 

About SITE - The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) is the only global network of incentive travel professionals dedicated to strengthening and supporting the incentive travel industry. SITE serves a worldwide network of professionals committed to delivering exceptional motivational experiences that drive business results.  Through advocacy, research, education, and networking opportunities, SITE connects professionals to create better business opportunities, drive corporate success, and promote the long-term value of incentive travel.

To be removed from this SITE press list (managed by Soaring Worldwide) please email adam@soaringww.com 

Adam Baggs
Managing Director
Soaring Worldwide

Toronto hosts more than 500 buyers from 24 international markets over three days: May 26 to 29, 2026.

Collaboration between SITE and Maritz reveals a shifting qualifier profile, stronger business case and clear design imperatives for the future of incentive travel

SITE, the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence, and Maritz today released headline findings from Investigating the Power of Incentive Travel Across Generations, a major SITE and Maritz collaboration. The study is the most current and comprehensive research into how Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z respond to incentive travel, reward and recognition.

The study shows that incentive travel continues to work powerfully across every generation. However, it also reveals that the profile of the people earning travel, the assumptions behind programme design and the meaning of the reward are all shifting.

Travel remains the leading non-cash motivator

When respondents were asked to rate nine reward types for motivational power, individual travel scored highest in the average rating for all generations, with 61% of all respondents describing it as “extremely motivating”. Group travel was second most popular at 50% and both forms of travel outperformed cash, gift cards, points, private and public recognition.

Responding to the headline results, Annette Gregg, CEO of SITE commented: “This research confirms that travel is not under threat from cash. If anything, it is the other way around - cash is under threat from travel. Incentive travel remains the dominant non-cash motivator across every generation.”

The Business Case

The data also demonstrates the business case for incentive travel is both measurable and strong. Among respondents who attended a trip in the past three years, 89% said they were more likely to stay in their job after winning, 89% felt stronger loyalty to the sponsoring company and 93% were eager to win again. More than half, 54%, described the meaning of a group travel experience as “a feeling of achievement”, showing that the intrinsic value of winning can be as important as the trip itself.

Sarah Kiefer, Vice President, Brand at Maritz said: “This data matters because it moves the conversation beyond opinions and gut assumptions. Incentive travel isn’t just a nice reward. It’s a real driver of retention, loyalty and future performance. These findings give program owners a strong business case which reinforces something we see all the time — the emotional side matters. When more than half of people say a group travel experience feels like an achievement, it’s clear the impact goes beyond the trip to create deeper connections within the organization.”

A Modern Workforce

The findings also demonstrate that the workforce motivated by incentive travel today is wider, younger, less remote and more operationally focused than the traditional industry stereotype. Based on 1,000 US respondents, with 960 records forming the core analytical base, the research found that today’s incentive travel qualifier is broader than the industry assumes. 60% of qualifiers in the study work in operations or technology, while fewer than 10% work in sales. 80% earn less than USD 150,000 a year, 60% hold a college degree, roughly three-quarters have been with their company for less than 10 years and fewer than 10 per cent work remotely.

The study also challenges a recent, simplified, anecdotal narratives around Gen Z that say they are disengaged from incentive travel. In fact, 40% of Gen Z respondents had won four or more trips in the past three years, compared with 26% of Gen X and Boomer respondents. Group travel is however less universally appealing to Gen Z. 13% of Gen Z respondents said they dislike group travel or travelling with colleagues, compared with 6% of Gen Y and 7% of Gen X. Gen Z respondents were also less likely to agree that winning a trip made them feel valued or appreciated or more likely to stay in their job. The conclusion is clear: Gen Z is qualifying, Gen Z is travelling, but Gen Z needs programmes designed differently.

Design for Success

In response, the study identifies five design imperatives for incentive travel organisers:

• Guest inclusion and flexibility is the strongest driver of how valued, special and loyal a winner feels.
• Novelty also matters, with first-time destinations consistently outperforming repeat destinations.
• Recognition must be deliberately designed into the trip, particularly for Gen Z.
• Trips of five nights or more, beach, island or adventure themes, moderate group sizes of 11 to 50 and an all-inclusive plus activity format all perform strongly.

Programme eligibility should expand beyond traditional sales roles to reflect a workforce that is now operations-heavy, technology-heavy and multi-generational.

“The next generation of incentive travel will need to be more intentional, more flexible and more inclusive. Guest choice, first-time destinations, built-in recognition moments and experiences that reflect a broader workforce are not ‘nice to have’ design details. They are the factors that determine whether a trip feels personal, motivating and worth pursuing,” added Kiefer. “The message from the research is clear: incentive travel works, but the best-performing programs will be those designed around current and future qualifiers, not who the industry designed for in the past.”

Gregg adds: “This research gives our industry a more sophisticated and more compelling story to tell. Incentive travel continues to outperform other non-cash rewards across every generation, but the data also shows that programme design has to evolve. The workforce being motivated by travel today is broader, more operationally focused and more multi-generational than many traditional models assume. That creates a major opportunity for buyers, DMCs, agencies, destinations and incentive professionals to build programmes that are more inclusive, more intentional and more effective. Most importantly, it gives the industry the evidence it needs to defend incentive travel in the C-suite, not as a discretionary reward, but as a strategic tool for motivation, loyalty and performance.”

The research was undertaken by SITE and Maritz as equal research partners, supported by Hilton and the SITE Foundation.

Jonathan Richards, president of the SITE Foundation concludes: “SITE Foundation is committed to funding research that advances the incentive travel industry and gives professionals the evidence they need to demonstrate value. This study moves the conversation beyond anecdotes, showing how incentive travel motivates a changing workforce and how programmes can be designed to deliver stronger outcomes for participants, businesses and the wider industry.”

Download the report via - https://siteglobal.com/research/maritz-site-research

Notes to editors

Investigating the Power of Incentive Travel Across Generations is a SITE and Maritz co-market study, supported by Hilton and SITE Foundation.

The study surveyed 1,000 US respondents born between 1946 and 2005, all of whom had had the opportunity to earn travel through an incentive or recognition programme in the previous three years. The survey included 57 questions, 186 variables, 11 short-answer text boxes and three long-answer comment boxes. Fieldwork took place from 30 January to 6 March 2026. Following data cleaning, 960 respondent records form the core analytical base.

About SITE
The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) is the only global network of incentive travel professionals dedicated to strengthening and supporting the incentive travel industry. SITE serves a worldwide network of professionals committed to delivering exceptional motivational experiences that drive business results. Through advocacy, research, education, and networking opportunities, SITE connects professionals to create better business opportunities, drive corporate success, and promote the long-term value of incentive travel.

For more information, visit www.siteglobal.com
About Maritz

Maritz is a 132-year-old leader in business and human performance that elevates human potential through tailored solutions in channel partnerships, loyalty, employee rewards, sales incentives, automotive and meetings & events. We use our deep knowledge of behavioural science, combined with data insights and analytics, to solve business challenges for our Fortune 500 clients.

For more information, visit www.maritz.com

To be removed from the SITE press list, please contact adam@soaringww.com

Adam Baggs
Managing Director
Soaring Worldwide

Mob. 07970 507151

adam@soaringww.com
www.soaringww.com

New wins across Indigenous, engineering, energy and science events point to growing sector strength and future repeat business

Rogers Centre Ottawa is building on a strong year as a growing number of first-time conferences choose the venue, creating fresh momentum in sectors where the centre already has a foothold and helping open the door to future repeat business.

This year’s conference mix includes a notable number of new-to-centre events, alongside established repeat business that continues to perform strongly. Among the upcoming conferences are the International District Energy Association Conference,  International District Energy, PlantBiology 2026, International Conference on Residency Education and just recently, the Canadian Nuclear Association’s CNA2026 conference, reflecting a healthy blend of new opportunities and repeat relationships.

For Rogers Centre Ottawa, growth is particularly strong in sectors where one successful event has led to others. Indigenous events are a strong example. Following WAVES 2025, the Global Indigenous Languages Summit at the centre last summer, the venue has seen growing interest from organisers looking for a convention centre that can support cultural protocols and create a more thoughtful delegate experience. Rogers Centre Ottawa works with clients on considerations such as smudging, drum circles, Indigenous chefs and culturally relevant menu offerings, helping events feel authentic to the communities they serve.

Engineering and technology conferences are another area where momentum is building. IEEE events have helped demonstrate the strength of Ottawa’s research, innovation and technical talent, while also showing how a more focused account management, with sector specialists, can build confidence and deepen relationships over time. That is helping create new opportunities in sectors where the city already has strong credentials and long-term appeal.

The rise in new business is also contributing to a busier calendar overall, with early summer dates attracting particularly strong demand. Months that were once seen as more negotiable are now drawing significant interest from organisers looking for a capital city destination that offers accessibility, walkability and value, without sacrificing profile or experience.

“Rogers Centre Ottawa is seeing real momentum from conferences that may never have considered Ottawa before, alongside organisers who arrive for one event and leave seeing the city as the right fit for another,” said Carly Grace, Vice-President of Sales at Rogers Centre Ottawa. “When a sector sees that the venue, destination and local expertise all align, that success tends to build on itself. That is exactly what we are seeing now.”

Working closely with Ottawa Tourism, hotel partners and stakeholders across the city, Rogers Centre Ottawa continues to convert that interest into long-term relationships that support both the venue and the wider visitor economy.

As more organisers look beyond the largest gateway cities for availability, value and a more connected delegate experience, Rogers Centre Ottawa is increasingly well positioned to benefit, offering a combination of flexibility, partnership and destination appeal that is helping new sectors grow.

ABOUT THE ROGERS CENTRE OTTAWA
The Rogers Centre Ottawa - Canada’s Meeting Place - is an internationally renowned convention centre located on the Rideau Canal in downtown Ottawa, Canada’s capital. With bold, modern design, a naturally lit interior, and magnificent views, the Rogers Centre offers an unparalleled and environmentally responsible setting for conventions, conferences, meetings and exhibitions of any size. Since opening in 2011, the Centre has hosted thousands of events, generating millions of dollars of economic impact for the city of Ottawa and the province of Ontario. In 2020, it was named the world’s best convention centre by the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC).

The Ottawa Convention Centre Corporation is an agency of the Government of Ontario. For more information, visit rogers-centre.ca