Kla-how-ya: Welcome Aboriginal Tourism to the Pan Pacific Vancouver

From February 12-28, the lobby of the Pan Pacific Hotel will be transformed into an Aboriginal village called “Kla-how-ya,” a word recognized by Aboriginal Nations meaning “welcome.”

A partnership between the Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC (AtBC), the Pan Pacific Hotel and Terasen Gas, the stunning 16-day showcase of Aboriginal art, performances, and culture is free to residents and visitors during the upcoming 2010 Games.

Working with the governments of Canada and British Columbia, the aim is to share the cultural richness, stories and traditions of British Columbia’s Aboriginal people, and promote Aboriginal tourism across British Columbia.

“Aboriginal tourism is a growing part of our province’s tourism sector, particularly as more and more visitors look for authentic Aboriginal experiences,” explained Dr. Linnea Battel, CEO of Xaytem Longhouse Interpretive Centre and Co-chair of AtBC. “We have more than 60 members in our Association, from resorts and wineries to galleries and adventure tours. The caliber of the visitor experience is exceptional. Today, we’re the fastest growing tourism sector in British Columbia, and we’re looking forward to giving the world a taste of what they can experience when they visit.”

The spectacular lobby of the Pan Pacific, overlooking the harbor and mountains, will be transformed by Kla-how-ya.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Aboriginal Tourism BC to our hotel, and to provide this world class experience for our guests and our community,” said Tim Tindle, General Manager of the Pan Pacific Vancouver. “Our Executive Chef, Daryle Nagata is well known for his creativity and his passion for local foods, so this authentic Aboriginal experience will extend into our kitchens and onto our menus with many incredible surprises.”

During the 16-day showcase, Kla-how-ya will feature traditional dancing, cedar bark weaving, Aboriginal fashions, birch bark chewing, moose hide tufting, jewelry making, carving, storytelling and an opportunity to explore the harvesting of wild herbs for traditional medicines.

Key to the success of the cultural tourism sector is the support of the federal and provincial governments as Aboriginal entrepreneurs gain necessary skills and experience.

The collaboration with Terasen Gas is one example of what can happen when two organizations come together, each with a genuine desire to learn and work together.

“Our relationship with AtBC began in a quiet way with an emphasis on building goodwill and a better understanding of each other,” said Doug Stout, Vice President, Marketing and Business Development, Terasen Gas. “It has definitely evolved over time to reflect our social and environmental sustainability values, and those of the Fortis Inc. family. From skills training to supporting their marketing initiatives, Terasen Gas is proud to invest in the ongoing success of AtBC and in Kla-how-ya, helping foster an important games time legacy in communities across B.C.”

Kla-how-ya opens to the public on February 12th. Though vehicle access will be restricted, the Pan Pacific Hotel remains open for foot traffic and is accessible by transit, including SkyTrain, SeaBus and the Canada Line. The hotel’s dining room and lounges provide front row viewing of Kla-how-ya.

About Kla-how-ya:

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