Last winter I checked out Whistler Blackcomb, both as a prince and a pauper. What could one day of skiing cost you at Canada’s premier ski resort?  Well it depends…somewhere between $250 and $10,000!

Getting there

Hi – From YVR (Vancouver International Airport) it’s a quick shuttle to the Helijet terminal. My five passenger helicopter ride to Whistler cost $3,590 or $718 per person if you are fortunate enough to have fellow travellers.

Lo – Look for the Pacific Coach Lines shuttle bus just outside YVR’s International Departures Area. After $72 and a brief stop in downtown Vancouver it is a pleasant three-hour drive to Whistler Village.

Accommodations

Hi – The opulent yet cozy presidential suite at the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Whistler will set you back at least $3,000 a night.

Lo – Once used to house athletes during the 2010 Winter Games, the Hostelling International hostel at Cheakamus Crossing is an affordable $39 a night. My cheery room came with three bunk mates and a shared bathroom.

Learning to ski

Hi – Who better to give me a lesson as I hit the slopes than an Olympian? I spent my day with Britt Janyk, one of several athletes who participate in the Snow School’s exclusive Ski With An Olympian program. She gave me great tips and some fun Olympic insider insights. Cost $899 plus lift ticket.

Lo –   Head to the top of the Whistler Village Gondola for your complimentary tour of the mountain with a Mountain Host. Offered daily, don’t expect a ski lesson, but do expect to get your ski legs by getting oriented around this massive ski resort while hearing some local lore.  Lift ticket packages vary in cost, but plan to pay $100.

Eating out

Hi – Araxi Restaurant & Bar is reputedly Gordon Ramsay’s favorite restaurant in Canada. During the Olympics medalist were invited to come in to this award-winning Whistler favorite for a glass of champagne. My five course meal included BC sablefish and saddle of rabbit. Cost varies, but expect to pay $150 per person.

Lo- When you enter the Whistler Visitor Centre, head to the back of the circular building and meet Rosie. The owner of Sushi to Go may barely eat sushi herself but her creations are legendary in the village. You can eat in or take out.  A few pieces of sushi and a dynamite roll cost me $12.

Book your holiday before November 15th and take advantage of the current early bird booking packages; Save up to 42% on the lowest rates of the season.

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