Cultural Tourism: How British Columbia’s Hotels Are Embracing Local Traditions

I recently visited the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia which displays world arts and cultures, in particular works by First Nations of the Pacific Northwest. This visit led me to explore how the hospitality industry is contributing to the preservation of local traditions.

British Columbia is steeped in the rich history and culture of its Indigenous peoples.
The region is home to several First Nations, each with unique traditions, languages, and stories that have been passed down through generations. These communities have lived in harmony with the natural environment for thousands of years, developing intricate knowledge systems and cultural practices deeply connected to the land and sea. Despite the challenges of colonization, including the impact of residential schools, Indigenous communities in BC have shown remarkable resilience and are actively working to preserve and share their heritage.

The hospitality industry is also doing its part to honor and preserve this rich cultural heritage. Here are two outstanding examples:

Photo Courtesy of Kwa'lilas Hotel

Kwa'lilas Hotel

Owned and operated by the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations, the The Kwa'lilas Hotel’s design and operations reflect the rich traditions and history of these communities.

From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by a design that pays homage to traditional big houses, featuring local cedar and a distinctive smoke hole at the top. This thoughtful touch is a nod to the tradition where the sight of smoke rising meant a warm welcome to visitors.

Inside, you’ll find a striking copper piece that stands out as a focal point in the lobby. This artwork reflects Indigenous symbolism and depicts history and legends of their people. The hotel’s decor is filled with handcrafted artifacts and woven textiles that tell stories of the community’s heritage.

Dining at Kwa’lilas is a journey in itself. The menu celebrates Indigenous flavors with dishes made from local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Guests are invited to join hands-on workshops that explore the cultural significance of various foods.

They can also participate in storytelling sessions and workshops on traditional crafts like beadwork and weaving, gaining a deeper appreciation of Indigenous arts and practices.

Kwa’lilas Hotel is committed to more than just providing a memorable stay. It actively supports Indigenous communities through outreach programs and cultural preservation projects. A portion of every stay contributes to these initiatives, helping to sustain and revitalize cherished traditions.

Photo Courtesy of St Eugene Resort

St Eugene Resort

St. Eugene Resort is a profound symbol of cultural resilience, having been transformed from a site of cultural oppression to one of healing and celebration of Indigenous heritage. The Ktunaxa Nation, alongside other First Nations, took ownership of the former residential school and, rather than demolish it, chose to turn it into a resort that honors their culture and history.

The resort now includes the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre, where visitors can engage with the community's rich cultural traditions through storytelling, educational tours, and traditional crafts. The programs offered, such as the "Speaking Earth" experience, immerse guests in Ktunaxa culture, showcasing traditional practices and spiritual teachings.

The resort also stands as an economic driver for the Ktunaxa Nation, providing employment and training opportunities for Indigenous people.

By transforming the site into a place of hospitality and cultural education, the Ktunaxa Nation has reclaimed their narrative, and turned a dark chapter of history into a beacon of hope and cultural pride.

A Strategic and Ethical Imperative for Hotels

At VERTU, we place a lot of importance into cohesion and harmony. We ensure our managed and affiliated hotels are seamlessly integrated into their environments, reflecting the unique cultural and geographical characteristics of their locations.

For the hospitality industry, integrating with the local community is crucial for fostering both social and economic success. Hotels that actively engage with and empower their surrounding populations create a ripple effect of benefits. This approach not only enhances guest experiences through authentic local interactions but also drives economic growth by creating jobs and supporting local businesses.

When hotels align their operations with the values and needs of the community, they contribute to a sustainable business model that reinforces social responsibility and builds stronger, more resilient societies. This is not just a strategic advantage but a moral imperative in today’s global landscape.