b'WESTWARDBRITISH COLUMBIAOur spotlight on Western Canada begins BOUND in B.C., where cultural hotspots, scenic vistas and world-class venues draw groups from all sectors. From Burnaby to Surrey, Vancouver to Kelowna, the province is replete with destinations that offer a mix of big-city amenities, scenic views andCorporate meeting destinationscultural flavour.Victoria Island is among B.C.s go-to in the Prairies and beyond event destinations. Here, planners can access a host of venues (Victoria Conference by Matthew Bradford Centre, G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre), explorable districts (Fishermans Wharf,WesternCanadahasahistoryofattractingvisitorsChinatown, Ogden Point), cultural fromacrosstheglobeincludingcorporateeventattractions and outdoor exploration.Incredible eco-adventures are groups heading west for natural backdrops, bespokeliterally steps away, says Courtney Walsh, experiences and vibrant industry communities. AheadCoordinator with Business Events Victoria. is a snapshot of what awaits planners when they turnHere, you can hop on a whale-watching their attentions west. tour, zip through an old-growth forest, head out on a salmon fishing charter, kayak around the harbour or take a coastal hike through old-growth rainforests. Then, when youre done, have your group relax with a glass of local wine or craft ale, fresh seafood and island cuisine.Whats more, says Walsh, Victoria provides incoming groups with a chance to tap into a burgeoning tech sector. Our reputation as a community of leaders in future technologies also provides a strong business case for bringing a program to Victoria, she notes.More destination options lie across the Strait of Georgia, including the urban mecca of Vancouver and Whistler, a world-renowned spot for outdoor enthusiasts and groups looking for a cozy retreat.What makes Whistler ideal for meetings and events is the village, its surroundings and our hospitality, notes Preston Miller, Director of Conference Sales and Services with Tourism Whistler. When you step outside and onto the village stroll, you are at the foot of the mountains and in the centre of the action with hundreds of shops, restaurants, activities and nightclubs.Whistler also hosts a diverse selection of accommodations, including mountain townhomes, alpine chalets and furnished condominiums. Wherever planners decide to set up, they will be close to Whistlers unique restaurants, retail experiences and Whistler, B.C.28 CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS corporatemeetingsnetwork.ca'