Despite lower levels of snowfall in British Columbia, The Josie Hotel is anticipated to be in high demand this ski season.
Robert Murray, general manager of The Josie, part of Marriott International's Autograph Collection, said demand during this ski season is projected to surpass 2019-20 levels.
"Regions along the West Coast and throughout British Columbia have observed lower snowfall. However, there is optimism among resorts in the western U.S. and Canada as weather models indicate a return to our typical snowy conditions," he said via email. "Looking into 2024, we are anticipating a positive outlook as well as seeing a trend in increased corporate travel."
The Josie opened in 2018 in Rossland, British Columbia, with 106 rooms and is slopeside at Red Mountain Resort in southern British Columbia. It is 2.5 hours north of Spokane International Airport, with nonstop service to 19 destinations, making Canada and the U.S. the hotel's primary feeder markets.
Murray said The Josie stands out as the the only luxury ski-in, ski-out hotel at Red Mountain.
Guests can partake in guided catskiing, single-run skiing, snowshoeing and fat-tire biking.
Amenities on property include a ski concierge with equipment storage, a bike valet, cedar barrel slopeside saunas and the Velvet Restaurant & Lounge with outside fireplaces.
"Our attention to detail is reflected in the little things. From personalized services to anticipating preferences, we cherish the relationships we've built with families who have been visiting us since our opening in 2018," Murray said.
For non-skiing-related activities, guests can experience the Social Hour at The Josie, with a complimentary cocktail a guide sharing insights into the history of The Josie and Rossland.
Mountain yoga, slopeside s'mores and an artist-in-residence program are also on The Josie's list of daily experiences.
Under New Management
The Josie recently joined the Crescent Hotels & Resorts portfolio, which Murray said has enabled the property to introduce more streamlined operations.
Implementing a dynamic scheduling system for its associates has allowed the hotel to adapt to shifting hotel occupancy levels.
Enhancing the hotel's digital presence has also been crucial in creating a more immersive and seamless guest experience, he added.
"We're also prioritizing associate training that remains central to our efforts, emphasizing continuous improvement in the guest experience. We're also eagerly anticipating the launch of Marriott International's mobile dining for added guest convenience," Murray said.
The Return of Groups
There's been growing interest in incentives, retreats and weddings at The Josie.
Murray said the hotel lends itself well for weddings, social and corporate group partial hotel takeovers at a competitive rate.
Refining Food and Beverage
In efforts to revamp its approach to dining, The Josie is collaborating with local wineries, breweries, distilleries and growers to curate engaging special events, intimate dine-and-learn opportunities and themed culinary experiences, Murray said.
To meet a rise in demand for zero-proof beverages, The Josie's health-forward menu is designed to include non-alcoholic drinks as well as sustainable and plant-based food options.
Furthering its wellness initiatives in 2024, the hotel is working on revamping its spa offerings to include rejuvenating treatments tailored to enhance recovery.
"Our wellness program takes center stage," Murray said.
Goals for 2024
As The Josie's general manager, Murray said he's focused on improving staff training, sustainability efforts, energy reduction and curating community events in 2024.
"Entering the new year, there will be a strong focus on cross-training initiatives for associates across various departments to ensure year-round retention," Murray said. "Collaborating with local colleges to develop culinary programs is also important for us in 2024."