Interview of Nathalie Boye, resident of Vancouver since 2006 and member of Destination Vancouver
In this final chapter of my Vancouver series, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nathalie Boye, a long-time resident who has called this vibrant city home for the past 18 years. Nathalie works with Destination Vancouver, where she plays a key role in promoting the city’s diverse and ever-evolving tourism landscape. With her unique perspective, Nathalie shares insights into how Vancouver has transformed over the years, revealing some hidden gems and the untapped potential for future growth.
1/ Can you share your journey of living in Vancouver for 18 years? How has the city's tourism landscape evolved in that time?
I moved to Vancouver in 2006 and have seen remarkable changes in the city's tourism over the years. Initially known for its natural beauty, with popular spots like Stanley Park and Grouse Mountain, Vancouver's appeal has since expanded. The 2010 Winter Olympics put the city on the world stage, sparking growth in luxury hotels, fine dining, and eco-friendly tourism. Areas like Granville Island and Yaletown have become more vibrant, attracting both locals and tourists with new attractions and restaurants.
The shift to digital tourism has also transformed the landscape. When I first arrived, guidebooks and personal recommendations were key, but now, social media and online reviews guide visitors to popular, Instagram-worthy spots. This shift has increased the focus on immersive, visually captivating experiences, helping Vancouver continue to attract visitors from all over the world while blending its natural beauty with a thriving urban culture.
2/ What is the purpose of Destination Vancouver? Has volunteering with them shaped your perspective on the city?
Destination Vancouver promotes the city as a top spot for leisure, business, and event tourism by showcasing its natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and world-class dining. The organization plays a crucial role in supporting Vancouver’s tourism industry, highlighting everything the city has to offer to both local and global audiences.
Since volunteering with Destination Vancouver in 2013, I've gained a deeper appreciation for the city's diversity and resilience. Working alongside passionate individuals has shown me the significant impact tourism can have on Vancouver's economy and community, especially in areas like cruise tourism. This experience has strengthened my sense of pride in Vancouver and underscored how tourism fosters cultural exchange and sustainability while shaping the city’s global identity.
3/ What are some emerging trends in Vancouver's tourism industry that you think hospitality professionals should be aware of?
Vancouver’s tourism industry is seeing key trends that hospitality professionals should watch. Culinary tourism is gaining momentum as visitors seek more immersive dining experiences that connect them with the city's diverse cultures. Beyond just enjoying a meal, travelers want to engage with local chefs, explore farm-to-table dining, and hear the stories behind the food, making authentic culinary experiences a major draw for food enthusiasts.
Wellness tourism is also booming, as people look for opportunities to recharge through spa services, retreats, or outdoor activities. Vancouver’s natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for these experiences, offering activities like hiking, kayaking, or simply unwinding in nature. In addition, the demand for digital convenience continues to rise, with travelers expecting seamless interactions from booking to check-out, making it essential for hospitality professionals to adopt technology that enhances guest experiences, such as mobile check-ins and personalized recommendations.
4/ Based on your interactions with tourists, what are some of the most common expectations or misconceptions they have about Vancouver?
Many first-time visitors to Vancouver are often surprised by how distinct Canada is from the USA, despite some cultural similarities. One of the most striking differences they notice is Vancouver's diversity, particularly its large Asian population. The city’s multiculturalism is woven into its fabric, with strong influences from East and Southeast Asia evident in its food, cultural festivals, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Richmond. This diversity adds vibrancy and depth, making Vancouver an exciting place to explore.
Another unexpected aspect for visitors is the weather. Contrary to the common perception of Canada as cold and snowy, Vancouver enjoys a relatively mild climate. Winters are typically rainy rather than snowy, and summers are warm and pleasant, allowing for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and beach visits nearly year-round. This combination of cultural richness and natural beauty often pleasantly surprises visitors and makes Vancouver a unique destination.
5/ What unique aspects of Vancouver do you believe are most underappreciated by tourists? How can the hospitality industry highlight these?
One of Vancouver’s most underappreciated aspects is the diversity and charm of its neighborhoods and nearby towns. While tourists often flock to popular spots like downtown and Stanley Park, areas such as Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and Commercial Drive offer unique atmospheres worth exploring. Kitsilano has a relaxed beach vibe with local shops and cafes, Mount Pleasant boasts an eclectic mix of art galleries and craft breweries, while Commercial Drive offers a rich multicultural experience with its variety
of global cuisine. Each neighborhood provides a distinct slice of Vancouver’s local culture that often gets overlooked.
Neighboring towns like Steveston and White Rock are hidden gems that also deserve attention. Steveston, a historic fishing village, offers waterfront dining and a perfect spot for day trips, while White Rock boasts stunning coastal views and a beach escape from the urban hustle. The hospitality industry can highlight these areas by encouraging visitors to explore beyond the typical tourist spots through curated neighborhood guides, local tours, and packages that showcase these diverse communities, giving travelers a more authentic experience of Vancouver and its surrounding region.
6/ How do you think Vancouver's hospitality industry can better cater to the growing demand for personalized and authentic travel experiences?
Vancouver’s hospitality industry can better cater to the growing demand for personalized travel by offering more budget-friendly options. Many visitors seek unique and immersive experiences but are often deterred by high accommodation, dining, and activity costs. By providing affordable alternatives, the city can make these experiences accessible to a wider range of travelers without compromising on authenticity. Collaborating with local guides, artists, and chefs to create small-group experiences or offering self-guided walking tours of diverse neighborhoods can help visitors connect meaningfully with Vancouver on a budget.
Additionally, accommodations could introduce flexible packages that cater to different budgets, such as boutique hostels or homestays that maintain a personal touch. Leveraging the shared economy through vacation rentals or locally hosted food tours can also provide more affordable, personalized options for visitors. By focusing on affordability and local connections, Vancouver can attract a broader spectrum of travelers while still delivering the authentic, memorable experiences they seek.
7/ Which annual events or attractions do you think are essential for hospitality professionals to highlight to their guests?
Some of Vancouver’s annual events that hospitality professionals should spotlight include the Cherry Blossom Festival, Halloween, and the Festival of Lights at Christmas. These events showcase the city's natural beauty and vibrant culture, offering unique experiences for visitors. The Cherry Blossom Festival in spring highlights Vancouver’s parks and neighborhoods with stunning cherry trees in bloom, making it ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors who want to explore the city’s scenic charm.
Halloween in Vancouver brings a playful, immersive atmosphere with events for all ages, from haunted houses in Stanley Park to festive celebrations on Commercial Drive. Hospitality professionals can guide guests toward themed activities and lively spots for seasonal fun. Meanwhile, the Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden during Christmas transforms the gardens into a winter wonderland, creating a magical holiday experience. It’s a family-friendly event perfect for visitors seeking holiday cheer and cozy, festive vibes.
8/ Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Vancouver's tourism and hospitality industry? Are there any untapped opportunities that professionals should explore?
Looking ahead, my hope for Vancouver’s tourism and hospitality industry is to grow sustainably and thoughtfully, avoiding overtourism. Vancouver offers so much, but it’s crucial to balance welcoming visitors with preserving the city’s natural beauty, cultural integrity, and quality of life for residents. Promoting off-peak travel and encouraging exploration of lesser-known neighborhoods and nearby towns, like Mount Pleasant, Commercial Drive, Steveston, and White Rock, can spread tourism throughout the year, offering visitors more authentic experiences while easing congestion in tourist-heavy areas.
There’s also a great opportunity to develop Indigenous tourism and sustainable travel options, as interest in meaningful, eco-friendly experiences grows. Vancouver can tap into this by partnering with Indigenous communities for cultural tours and promoting eco- conscious accommodations and activities. By focusing on responsible growth, the city can ensure visitors leave with a genuine sense of Vancouver’s character, while protecting its environment and community for the future.
9/ What are some of your favorite hidden gems in Vancouver that you recommend to friends and visitors?
One of my favorite hidden gems in Vancouver is Queen Elizabeth Park. Perched on Little Mountain, it provides breathtaking views of the city and mountains, alongside beautifully landscaped gardens and the impressive Bloedel Conservatory. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or simply relaxing in lush surroundings.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park near the University of British Columbia is another gem, offering serene forest trails perfect for peaceful hikes or quiet walks away from the city’s hustle. It’s a great way to enjoy Vancouver’s natural beauty without the crowds. Commercial Drive stands out with its eclectic vibe, featuring unique shops, cozy cafes, and a diverse range of international cuisines. It’s a vibrant area to experience Vancouver’s multicultural spirit and savor local flavors.
Lastly, Steveston Village in Richmond is a charming historic fishing village with a picturesque waterfront, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect day trip to explore local history and enjoy great dining with beautiful views.
10/ If you could offer one piece of advice to hospitality professionals in Vancouver, what would it be?
If I could offer one piece of advice to hospitality professionals in Vancouver, it would be to focus on providing more budget-friendly and family-friendly options. While luxury experiences are valuable, there is a significant demand for affordable, accessible options that cater to families and travelers on a budget.
Investing in budget-conscious accommodations, family-friendly activities, and affordable dining options can make a big difference. This might include offering special family packages, promoting local parks and free attractions, or providing discounts for extended stays. Partnering with local businesses to offer cost-effective experiences or deals can also attract a broader range of visitors.
By making these adjustments, hospitality professionals can ensure that Vancouver remains an inclusive and welcoming destination for all types of travelers, enhancing the overall visitor experience and supporting a diverse and sustainable tourism industry.
Conclusion
VERTU Travels would like to thank Nathalie Boye for her contribution to this Vancouver series and interesting perspective on the hospitality industry.
As I bid farewell to Vancouver and its stunning combination of natural beauty and urban charm, my journey now takes me across the Pacific to Taiwan. I’m looking forward to exploring new horizons and share experiences from this incredible destination.