2023 RICHMOND EPIC TOURISM WINNERS ANNOUNCED

One of the many highlights of the Tourism Richmond Year End Celebration was the announcement of the 2023 EPIC Tourism Awards winners. 13 extraordinary finalists vied for the coveted winners title in 4 award categories, symbolizing Tourism Richmond’s corporate values of Excellence, Passion, Integrity and Collaboration (EPIC). 

The awards were announced by Move 103.5FM’s morning show host Drew Savage, who presented the winners with their certificates. 

EPIC finalists also had photos with their colleagues and enjoyed the congratulations given by their industry peers 

Congratulations to those who won their category, and a very honorable mention to all the finalists. The judging panel were so impressed with the quality of all the nominees! 

The full list of winners and runners up: 

Excellence Award for Innovation – Panda Pod Hotel 

As the first capsule hotel in Greater Vancouver, Panda Pod Hotel provides guests with a secure, personal, yet sociable space. From its home in Richmond, Panda Pod is already in the process of building a franchising network across Canada and the USA. 

Runners up: The Story Café, Flow Thai Massage and Spa 

Passion Award for Individual Achievement – Crystal Lalonde – Fairmont Vancouver Airport 

Crystal consistently demonstrates outstanding dedication and commitment to the success of Fairmont Vancouver Airport hotel. Crystal is a true gem within the team, and her remarkable contributions make her an invaluable asset to the hotel. 

Runners up: Q Duong (Richmond Conference Centre), Emily Robertson (A Monkey Tree Emporium), Peggi Li (Versante Hotel) 

Integrity Award for Community Participation – Steveston Hub 

Steveston Hub supports, hosts, and creates events and programs that promote community engagement, community wellness, and creative collaboration. It also collects food for the Steveston Food Cupboard, organizes Christmas food hampers for low-income families, and supports social justice causes within the Village. 

Runners up: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Little Mexico Cantina 

Collaboration Award for Successful Partnerships – The World of Kidtropolis 

This summer, Kidtropolis launched the Family Fun Passport in collaboration with 15 other Richmond businesses. Aimed at families visiting Richmond during the summer, the passport provided unique experiences and high-quality entertainment options to young families. 

Runners up: Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine, Steveston Merchants Association