The travel landscape for Canadians is shifting, and the “snowbird” status quo is getting a serious makeover. As the weakened Canadian dollar makes southern escapes more expensive, we’re seeing a major reversal: Canadians who once represented 13% of all foreign U.S. property purchases are now selling their homes in Arizona and Florida and reinvesting right here at home.
Leading this domestic charge is Kamloops, B.C.—Canada’s third-fastest-growing city and the rising star of “Nature’s Heartland”. We spoke with Nic Zdunich, Destination Development Manager for Tourism Kamloops, to find out why this city is the ultimate place to make memories—and smart investments—in 2026.
The Economic Window: Reclaiming Domestic Capital
While cross-border travel has dropped, Kamloops is seeing a surge in international visitors, with overseas visits projected to jump from 6% to 9% this year.
“The strategy is not to compete with Florida or Arizona on climate,” Zdunich explains. “It is to offer something those markets cannot: experience-driven projects in a growing Canadian city where the infrastructure pipeline and investor-readiness framework are already aligned”.
Three “Iconic” Concepts Ready to Change the Game
Kamloops has cleared feasibility analysis for three major projects designed to turn the city from a “stopover” into a “must-stop” destination:
- The Iconic Tower & Adventure Park: A high-impact architectural landmark featuring ziplines and ropes courses. “It provides a compelling reason for highway travellers to pause, stay longer, and engage more deeply with the region,” says Zdunich.
- The Skywalk over Hoodoos: A culturally immersive, glass-bottomed cliffside experience developed in partnership with the Scwén̓wen Economic Development Corporation.
- The Nordic Spa: A restorative wellness retreat that answers the massive global demand for wellness tourism. “Our dry climate, desert landscape, and four-season lifestyle provide an authentic natural setting that aligns seamlessly with a wellness spa model,” Zdunich notes.
Investment-Ready: De-Risking Your Next Move
Kamloops isn’t just dreaming big; it’s building big. The city is investing $140 million in a new arena multiplex, signaling a massive infrastructure commitment that lowers the risk for private partners.
For hospitality and tourism investors, the city’s location at the junction of three major highways translates into dependable, year-round traffic. “In Kamloops, we understand that tourism is business,” Zdunich emphasizes. “Development opportunities here are anchored in an established movement corridor with proven volume rather than speculative demand”.
The Future: More Than Just a Tournament Capital
The ultimate goal is to evolve Kamloops’ legacy as Canada’s Tournament Capital into something even broader.
“We want Kamloops to be a place people not only compete, but a place they explore, unwind, and return to visit—year after year,” Zdunich concludes. —Noa Nichol
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February 24th, 2026 at 3:11 am
Snowbird U-Turn: Why Kamloops Is The Hot New Spot For Your Next Homegrown Investment
Kamloops, British Columbia, is emerging as a prime destination for homegrown investors and “snowbirds” looking for smart real estate opportunities. This article explores the factors making Kamloops attractive, including affordable property prices, strong rental demand, lifestyle amenities, and natural beauty. Learn why both short-term vacation rentals and long-term property investments are gaining popularity, and discover tips for maximizing returns while enjoying the city’s vibrant community and outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or first-time buyer, Kamloops offers a unique combination of growth potential and quality of life.