Kamloops hotels promote ‘staycations’ in COVID-times

Hotels target couples and families, providing a safe environment to relax

Having spent a year living under the added pressure of COVID, many British Columbians are extremely keen for a vacation. 

Yet that’s not easy (or for that matter, allowed) under current provincial restrictions and recommendations. 

As a way to generate revenue during this difficult period, local hotels are filling the gap, offering reduced room rates and packages aimed people who live in the Kamloops region. The idea is for people to enjoy a “staycation”—that is, a vacation in one’s own backyard.

Over at the Thompson Hotel and Conference Centre, there has been a big push to attract families looking for a safe environment to spend some quality time. In December, the independently owned hotel transformed one of its conference rooms into a small movie theatre. 

As part of a package deal, families can book this theatre. Families are also given the opportunity to book time at the hotel pool and games room. 

Pav Moore, co-owner and operations manager at the Thompson, said that families are loving the opportunity to do something novel and fun in a way that ensures their health and safety. 

“They’re loving that they can enjoy some time with their family, not cooped up in their homes, but not feel like they’re putting themselves at risk,” said Moore.   

Moore said that the theatre is an excellent draw, with guests invited to select from an in-house selection of films or bring their own if they prefer. She added that the package has gotten lots of buzz by word-of mouth and through social media posts. 

The hotel is also offering a package called Dinner and Dance. It includes a dance instruction session with an instructor from Let’s Move Dance Studio. 

Moore said that the packages are largely sold out, but there is some availability mid-week for March.  

Over at the Delta Hotels Kamloops, staff cooked up a sexy package in honour of Valentine’s Day. But instead of relegating it to the week of the 14th, they’ve offered the package throughout the month. 

Aptly named the Couples Escape Package (because at this point, who doesn’t need to escape) the package includes a one night accomodation in a king guestroom or one bedroom suite, Prosecco, a mini charcuterie board, a $75 gift certificate for Cordo Resto & Bar and an in-room movie. 

But the pièce de résistance has been the opportunity for couples to have a chance to enjoy the hotel’s rooftop jacuzzi all by themselves.  

Due to the popularity of the promotion, the hotel has extended the package until the end of March. 

The hotel is also offering a family-focussed package geared at families, beginning in March. It includes a night’s accommodation in a two-queen guest room or family suite, a $75 room dine-in credit or gift card for Cordo Resto Bar, a guaranteed rooftop pool and jacuzzi reservation and an in-room  movie and snack pack. 

With provincial restrictions in place, hotel staff are making the best of it, offering fun ways to relax close to home. 

“Our target area right now is within Kamloops and about 50 kilometers outside of the Kamloops market for the next couple of months,” said Darcia Ball, marketing director of the hotel. 

For a full list of good travel deals, the good people over at Tourism Kamloops have put out a handy resource list to check out.