Whistler, What to know before you go !
Whistler is a year round destination, featuring two majestic mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb. Just prepare to be wowed by everything; superb skiing, fabulous restaurants, lively bars, excellent shopping, plus a huge range of accommodation to suit every budget and some great off slope activities too.
The village is located at the base of the mountains, and is relatively traffic free, it is no wonder Whistler is considered one of the top resorts in the world as it really can offer the best of everything. Where you choose to stay will very much depend on your budget. If you want to be totally blown away I would choose the Four Seasons resort. The rooms are so luxurious, the service so attentive and the attention to every detail so outstanding. It has a wonderful friendly atmosphere and a concierge service second to none; elegant, sophisticated but not stuffy. If it is a special occasion or within budget this would definitely be my first choice.
As a second choice I would probably choose The Fairmont Chateau Whistler. A huge hotel, buzzing with life, a great lively bar area and impeccable service. Along with very luxurious rooms, this hotel even offers an on-site wedding chapel.
If these hotels are a little beyond budget it does not mean that Whistler is, there are so many superb hotels in Whistler village that don't require deep pockets. I would recommend the Crystal Lodge, Pan Pacific, Delta Whistler Village Suites and The Listel, to name a few. I visited so many of these hotels on my recent trip and am confident in personally recommending something that will be perfect for you. I will let you into a secret, the best time to book your skiing holiday to Whistler is by the end of July/August, the hotels offer up to 50% discount for early bookings, so don't delay get your skiing holiday sorted early and save a fortune.
So what about the skiing? Well what can I say, there are over 8,100 acres of snow covered slopes, they are beautifully groomed. Whistler is a cultural mecca for mountain sports and was voted the No.1 overall ski resort for 2014/2015 in North America by readers of Ski Magazine. The season runs from around the last week of November to around 20 April. Whistler has great slopes for most abilities with a combination of high open bowls and woodland trails and feels every bit an Alpine resort.
If spa and relaxation is the order of the day, most of the hotels have unbelievably good health and fitness suites, luxury spas, outdoor/indoor pools and whirlpool/Jacuzzis, but for something extra special you simply must try the Scandinavian Spa, a haven of peace and tranquility. It is nestled within a cedar forest and is an outdoor spa with waterfalls, eucalyptus steam baths, wood burning saunas, hot baths, freezing plunge pools and an oasis to de-stress and refresh. It is very romantic and perfect for couples.
If you can manage to tear yourself off the slopes for an afternoon or morning I would really recommend you try the Ziptrek Bear tour. You need a head for heights and a sense of adventure. This is just so exhilarating you MUST give it a go. Five incredible ziplines joined by a network of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails. It offers stunning views over Fitzsimmons Creek and is an experience you will never forget. Absolutely amazing! So what about the nightlife? Well voted the number 1 resort for après ski 2015! An abundance of bars, restaurants, clubs and live music. Whatever you want, Whistler can offer. From a classy cocktail lounge, to dancing your socks off on the dance floor.
There is one particular restaurant that I must mention and I would highly recommend. You just must try 'the Bearfoot Bistro. It is a premier, fine dining restaurant, with the most amazing wine cellar where you can be taken by the knowledgeable sommeliers to learn about the wines and Champagnes and actually have the opportunity to Saber a bottle of Champagne. You would think I was an expert. It was a truly wonderful experience. And that is not all. This amazing bistro also has the Ketel One Ice room, the coldest vodka tasting room in the world. What an experience! You make a reservation even before you depart because it is an absolutely delightful culinary experience. I am happy to make a reservation for you on your behalf.
I would also recommend that you consider twining this ski holiday with a few days in the city of Vancouver. It is a vibrant city with fantastic shopping on Robson street, a wonderful waterfront, fantastic bars, restaurants and amazing hotels. Once again, I liked the Four Seasons, Vancouver. Bang in the centre of the city, but if you prefer the Waterfront, the Fairmont Waterfront or the Fairmont Pacific Rim make great choices.
So what to do whilst in Vancouver. I would definitely recommend the new attraction Flyover Canada. You can see Canada like never before. This is a flying experience simulation ride and, I know you may be thinking "not for me", but I would honestly say, it was one of the highlights of my trip. Another must do is a Vancouver foodie tour. This takes place at Grenville Island, it is noisy, chaotic yet really atmospheric and an authentic way to taste the best food and drink Vancouver has to offer. You have a guide who takes you around the market providing tasters of the most amazing mouthwatering food and drink on offer, with an insight to the producers and their produce. The foodie tour is fantastic value for money and definitely worthwhile.
And just a final trip for getting back to the airport from Vancouver city, as I mentioned earlier the traffic is a problem but your journey back to the airport can be completely stress free. I would highly recommend taking the Canada line train which goes from the heart of Vancouver right into Vancouver international airport, it is fast efficient and fantastically reasonable.
I loved Whistler and Vancouver and can not wait to go again, I have a wealth of information and recommendations and look forward to hearing from anyone wanting to give it a try.