Hotel and resort guests in B.C. who are unable to finish their glass of wine before last call in the on-site bar or lounge soon will be able to drain the glass in the privacy of their rooms.
The provincial government will change liquor regulations Jan. 23 to allow hotel guests to finish their drink at their own pace and in the comfort of their suites. Changes also will allow hotels and resorts that own a bar or pub on-site to provide guests with a complimentary, standard-sized alcoholic beverage upon check-in.
“Throughout the Liquor Policy Review process, it was made clear that both British Columbians and industry wanted commonsense changes to bring B.C.’s liquor laws into the 21st century,” said John Yap, the parliamentary secretary responsible for reform.
The changes are the latest in a series of measures addressing the accommodation sector, including allowing hotels with restaurants and bars to offer guests liquor via room service 24 hours a day.
“Removing these small but significant restrictions will help our industry provide the best possible service,” said David MacKenzie, president of the B.C. Hotel Association.
Skeena Queen due for refit
B.C. Ferries’ Skeena Queen, which runs between Swartz Bay and Fulford Harbour on Salt Spring Island, will undergo a five-week refit for preventive maintenance starting Jan. 3.
“This refit will be the last work performed prior to a significant midlife upgrade for the Skeena Queen,” said Mark Wilson, B.C. Ferries vice-president of engineering.
“Conducting this work is important to maintaining safe, reliable service, and we have planned this work for what is traditionally the lowest traffic period of the year.”
During the refit, service on the route will be handled by the Bowen Queen and the Queen of Cumberland. Because the vehicle capacity of the Bowen Queen is lower than that of the Skeena Queen, B.C. Ferries will deploy the Queen of Cumberland during weekday mornings to meet expected demand.
Accent Inns shuffles the deck
Accent Inns is shuffling its deck with additions and new positions in its executive ranks.
Trina Notman takes over as vice-president of sales and marketing after five years at Tourism Victoria. John Espley, who has been handling marketing for Accent Inns, will assume the role of director of connectivity. He will be responsible for public relations, community engagement and sponsorship.
Chris Campbell will jump from director of operations and sales to senior vice-president of operations. Campbell will be assisted by manager of operations Peter Dohan, who joined the company this year.
Lee Yakubowich, who also joined this year, will be the new director of finance, responsible for accounting, financial technology and reporting.
