Telegraph Cove Resort | Truly Independent

Today we speak with Marilyn, from the Telegraph Cove Resort on Northern Vancouver Island.

Q: Share with us some history about your property, and what makes it an experience for guests?

Telegraph Cove's history goes back to 1912 when it became the end of the Telegraph Line traveling up Vancouver Island.  It later became a sawmill community, building boxes to transport fish to Japan, and was taken over during WWII as milling lumber became important during this war. By 1979 the mill was no longer productive.

When the road from Campbell River north opened up we realized we had few boat launching, mooring and camping facilities on Northen Vancouver Island.  Thus began our 40 years of acquiring this boardwalk community and turning it into a highly rated tourist facility, eventually adding to the marina and campground with a store, restaurant, pub and lastly two years ago a lodge.  

The attraction for tourists revolved around ocean fishing, mostly salmon.  A whale watching company started up here as well, the first on the West Coast.  We have an exceptional whale museum.  Whale watching, kayaking and grizzly bear tours are now the most popular attractions.  We also have a great hiking trail. As urbanization has put most people in cities we are pleased to offer the fresh air of the ocean, the peaceful boardwalk community, great food and outdoor activities that cannot be found elsewhere.

Q: As an independent property, what are some of the challenges you face? 

The challenges we face are those of a small business having to create our own community with all that entails from water systems, sewage systems, garbage pickup etc.--all things that other business' have at their fingertips when part of a larger community.  At this time we are remaining closed to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lack of revenue that entails.  

Q: Your resort also offers a Grizzly experience. What would the typical day tour look like for your guests?

A typical Grizzly Bear Tour day would mean setting off from the dock in a 12. passenger boat with a qualified captain and biologist.  Coffee and muffins and fruit are provided as you head across  the beautiful waters of Johnstone Strait and up Knight Inlet to Glendale Cove where the grizzlies feed along the estuary.  The boat docks there.  Passengers move to a viewing skiff where they view bears along the shore. Lunch is provided on the dock.  Travel back to Telegraph Cove, arriving back around 4 pm.

Q: What advice would you give to those in the hotel and resort industry, especially during this challenging time?

Take advantage of whatever the government can offer to help you get through this financial hardship, and keep a positive outlook for the future.  People are always going to want to have a vacation retreat, especially after being isolated for a lengthy period.  

To view more information on the Telegraph Cove Resort, please click the below link.

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Truly Independent | The Grove Hotel Feature

Welcome to the second edition of “Truly Independent”

We recently spoke with Jennifer at the Grove Hotel in Kingsville, Ontario.

Q: Share with us some information about your property, and what makes it an experience for guests?

STAY WEIRD.  If you are looking for a unique & memorable destination, you need to look no further than 12 Main Street East in Kingsville, Ontario.  THE GROVE HOTEL is a small boutique hotel, that’s giant on personality. They've transformed an 1854 building into 18 rooms of fun, each as different as its guests, to offer a memorable visit each and every time. THE GROVE HOTEL, in Kingsville, Ontario is so seriously sweet, that you’ll never want to leave!

Q: As an independent hotelier, what are some of the challenges you face? 

SHOW ME THE MONEY!  The biggest challenge that we have faced as an independent hotelier and small business owner, has been meeting the ongoing monetary demands.  Not only were the initial renovations a substantial investment, but the daily demands of operating a small hotel and unexpected repairs and maintenance within a 1854 building has certainly been a challenge.  That is why for us, any penny saved from fabulous suppliers like True North Hospitality is such an important part of our day to day decisions.

Q: Are there any special amenities or “extras” that the hotel offers?

We provide all the comforts of home, including high speed wi-fi (with our neighbour’s password), sparkling bathrooms (cleaner than you’ll ever see at home – no offence) and beds and pillows made from clouds (we’re pretty sure). Next door, we’ve got THE GROVE BREW HOUSE – an award-winning craft brewery and taproom that will definitely make you feel that BEER is always the answer (even if you can’t remember the question). 

Q: The food looks incredible, what item from the menu generates the best reviews? 

The Grove Brew House is craft brewery and tap room located right next door to The Grove Hotel.  Not only, does the Grove Brew House serve their award-winning beer (9 provincial and national brewing awards) and cocktails, but their menu is also outstanding (and also award-winning).  The menu could be described as comfort food with a certain twist to make it their own.  With everything from wood-fired pizza, burgers and tacos to delicious dinner entrees and homemade desserts, there is sure to be something for even the most sophisticated palate.  One of the "must try" items is the EL DIABLO BURGER - named 2019 Must-Try Burgers by Windsor Eats.  Fair warning, this burger is going to make you sweat. A ground chuck patty topped with smoked bacon, chipotle cream cheese mousse, spicy peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, spent grain kaiser bun.  Can you say "WOW!"

To learn more about The Grove Hotel or book your stay visit here

Truly Independent | Mercer Hall Feature

Welcome to the first of a series of questions we ask of independent hotels across Canada.

We recently spoke with Shelley at the Mercer Hall in Stratford, Ontario.

Q: Share with us some information about your property.

A: We purchased the restaurant and hotel in May 2015.  A boutique hotel of 14 guest rooms located on the top 2 floors of a historic building in downtown Stratford Ontario.  Former home of the Beacon Herald newspaper.

Q: As an independent hotelier, what are some of the challenges you face?

A: Not having ‘brand recognition’ is a hurdle, you have to create your own brand and rely on your own budget for all sales and marketing initiatives, social media and online presence. Which sometimes can be a blessing too.    The OTA costs to a non branded hotel are high and despite the cost, you have to play in that market or your online presence isn’t there.  In a smaller hotel, your manager is also your guest service desk worker, your revenue manager, your customer service and guest relations manager, your sales and marketing and group coordinator and sometimes room attendant too which may be hard to find the right employee that is capable of wearing every hat. 

Q: What advice would you provide to owners or managers of an independent hotel?

A: Be involved from an ownership perspective, be hands on and manage with a high level of engagement.  Invest in a solid sales and marketing approach and use your local tourism association/Chamber of commerce and everything they have to offer to the max.  Give back to your community.  Be a community advocate and get involved.  People do business with people they know and like and will become a cheerleader for your property. 

To learn more about the Mercer Hall, or book your stay visit here