by D. Warnaar

Created on: July 24, 2008   Last Updated: July 31, 2008

Although Whistler was pioneered by British Naval Officers in the 1860s, Whistler Mountain didn't open to skiers until over a century later in 1966 with Blackcomb Mountain opening in 1980. The Vancouver businessmen that masterminded the plans behind Whistler Ski Resort originally hoped that the site would one day be selected to host the Winter Olympic Games. Their dreams became reality when in 2003, Whistler, British Columbia was chosen as the official Alpine skiing venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Within a few moments of arriving to this travel destination hot spot to which more than two million people visit annually, it is easy to see why.

Nestled in between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, the idyllic ski town of Whistler, British Columbia is the ultimate winter vacation spot for skiers and non-skiers alike. My now-husband took me to Whistler for our first vacation. While he is a lifelong avid telemark-skier, I hadn't been skiing in almost a decade. (Note to those that fall into this category with me: budget a few hundred dollars for morning ski lessonsthey are well worth it!). Whistler currently features over 200 ski runs and 33 ski lifts.

Accommodations vary greatly in size and price but you will likely spend very little time in your room anyway so opt for the smaller room with the outdoor hot tub. Climbing into the hot spa after a cold day of skiing with a glass of wine totally merits the substantially smaller room.

As a year-round resort destination, Whistler offers season-appropriate activities and attractions that will appeal to everyone. Aside from the breath-taking mountain views, the wilderness areas around Whistler offer many hiking trails and waterfalls. Don't miss out on venturing to the rainforest on Blackcomb Mountain where, in the winter, a snowcat will take you to a quaint cottage where you will begin a Zip Trek EcoTour adventure between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. For those of you who don't find skiing down the 7,156 foot Whistler Mountain exciting enough, heli-skiing and heli-boarding should satisfy any thrill-seeker!

The summer months offer plenty to do as well including mountain biking, ATV tours, river rafting and "barely legal" motorsports. Families may prefer more low-key activities such as a Peak Adventure to the top of Whistler Mountain, the Adventure Zone at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, a day at the Beach at one of several area lakes, horseback riding or a mountain-top barbeque. If money is no object, check out the area's luxurious spas, signature golf courses, one-of-a-kind shops or sign up for a helicopter tour to get a bird's eye view of the Whistler area.

The pedestrian-only Whistler village features many shops, boutiques, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Foodies will not be disappointed with the over ninety restaurants, lounges and bars with options from budget-friendly to fine dining cuisine options from all over the world. Nightlife lovers have plenty of late-night options ranging from dance clubs to live music pubs to mellow wine and car bars.

For a change of pace, Vancouver, a city rich in art and culture, is just 75 miles south of Whistler and is well worth a day trip or over-night visit. Wherever your interests or athletic skills lie, a visit to Whistler will not disappoint and will be a trip you'll remember fondly for years to come!

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