How to Make the Most of your Whistler Holiday

November 13, 2013
Snowboarder in Whistler

When you’re heading out on a holiday, it’s always nice to have a local insider to provide you with tips and tricks for making the most of your trip. Whistler Real Estate Company is happy to share some extra little-known secrets to help you experience Whistler in all its glory. Who knows – you might love it so much that you’ll want to move here!

Whistler Holiday Tips:

Accommodations

1. Hotels are the most obvious option for accommodation, and they’re often a good bet. Those situated right at the base of the mountain offer a clear perk, but most hotels offer free shuttles to and from the mountain. You can save some money by choosing a hotel that’s slightly further from the lifts.

2. Save even more money by making a few meals yourself. Seek out a hotel that offers equipped kitchenettes.

3. Alternatively, forego the hotel experience and rent a condo, townhome, or even a chalet. You’ll get many perks, like more space and a full kitchen.

Transportation

4. If you’re planning on sticking to Whistler Village for your trip, you really don’t need a car. Save on gas and parking by taking a bus or shuttle up to Whistler – that way, you can focus on the view, not the drive!

5. Day lots 4 and 5 offer free parking, while lots 1, 2, and 3 charge a fee. Sure, lots 4 and 5 are further away from the lifts—but there’s a free shuttle on weekends and holidays!

6. Day lots 6, 7, and 8 are other free options. They’re situated just up Blackcomb Mountain and fill up a little slower than the other options (but your best bet is always to go early).

7. You can park for free at Creekside too – and these lots are underground and covered, meaning no scraping snow off your car at the end of the day.

Skiing

8. Weekends and holidays are always going to be busy on the mountain. Aim for mid-week if you have the choice.

9. Even if you’re a whiz on skis or a snowboard, signing up for a lesson is a great way to get a private or semi-private guide to the mountain. The mountains are huge and this is a great way to make sure that you experience a little bit of everything.

10.  Generally speaking, the earlier you can get up the mountain, the better – in terms of both lift linesand fresh powder.

11.  Abide by the rules. It might be tempting to skip the line, but you won’t be doing yourself any favours.

Food

12.  The on-mountain lodges are supremely busy around lunchtime. Try starting your day off with a bigger breakfast and seeing how long you can wait until lunch. Or skip lunch altogether and fill up during après.

13. Whistler is home to some pretty spectacular high-end restaurants, but we’ve got an equally impressive selection of affordable options. Check out the tacos at La Cantina, the Australian meat pies at Peaked Pies, and the pizza and pasta at Pasta Lupino.

14. Make reservations whenever you can. If you have to break them, be sure to phone ahead and let the restaurant know.

Activities

15.  Look online before booking activities – you can often find deals that way.

16. If your guide does a great job, feel free to tip them as an extra “thanks”!

17.  Since most Whistler activities take place outdoors, be sure to dress for the weather.

Did we miss any? Feel free to comment on your tried and true tips for enjoying Whistler!


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