It has been an “interesting summer” for tourism operators in the Kamloops area, according to the Director of Industry Relations with Tourism Kamloops.

Monica Dickinson says that is not just due to COVID-19 restrictions on travellers, but also the smoky skies in the area because of the wildfires.

“Definitely a situation that isn’t common for normal tourism especially when we consider this a peak season,” she said, on the NL Morning News. “Unfortunately, the air quality due to wildfire has challenged many of our attractions and events partners. I mean, we saw the rescinding of Music in the Park as quickly as it began. And then too, our own project, The Concession at Riverside Park, has certainly been challenged as well.”

“But it is not all doom and gloom. Our accommodation partners are seeing great occupancy especially in the last eight weeks or so. Golf has also persevered and done exceptionally well in the area and I know our wineries have seen some decent uptake in visitation.”

Dickinson says it is a little disappointing that B.C. did not move to Step Four of its COVID restart plan this past Tuesday, given the increase in cases across the province. In fact, the province has had to bring in more restrictions in areas that are seeing higher COVID transmission.

“Certainly, it is a different environment today that we originally anticipated at this time,” she said. “Obviously, we were planning and looking forward to Step 4 of the plan for September 7 but that is certainly not the case now.”

Still, heading into the fall, now that the smoke has cleared up, Dickinson is hoping for a shot in the arm for tourism related businesses.

“September and October normally are fabulous here in Kamloops and with that we highlight much of our outdoor activities so hiking, mountain biking, golf, fishing, and of course our wine and beer, our craft beer scene is fabulous as well,” she said.

Dickinson says Tourism Kamloops will continue to target active retirees from the Lower Mainland as well as couples looking for a weekend getaway.

“Fall weather is usually pretty nice in our area and along with that, there’s no shortage of things to do,” she added.

– With files from Bill Cowen