by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: November 13, 2009

On February 12, 2010, the Olympic cauldron will be lit over Vancouver British Columbia, a city known for a somewhat temperate climate compared to other places so far north . Nonetheless, many of the winter events will take place in the mountains, and the temperatures up in those mountains will be much colder than the temperature closer to sea level. It is a good idea to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at the spectators.

Here are some suggestions that will help you know what you will need to take if you plan to attend the Olympics in Vancouver.

*Dress in layers -

Instead of wearing a really heavy winter coat, wear an insulated waterproof coat and wear layers under it. If you are attending an event at an indoor venue, you will want to be able to remove your coat easily. If you start to feel too warm, you'll want to be able to take off an excess layer. Wear layers that are easily removed.

*Protect yourself from wind -

Most coastal places are subject to some pretty windy conditions. You never know whether some fierce cold front will blow down from the Gulf of Alaska, bringing ferocious winds with it. Make sure that you can protect yourself from biting winds.

*Be prepared for rain -

Winter in the Pacific Northwest is known for rain. Bring a rain coat, a rain slicker, proper rain shoes and an umbrella.

*Don't forget your feet -

If you will be walking from venue to venue, you will want to have some comfortable shoes. If you intend to go up into the mountains to see the the events that are held up there, you will need to have some warm, waterproof and well insulated boots or shoes. You might want to get some sort of sock liner that can keep your feet warmer and drier.
Be sure to bring shoes that you can wear in bad weather.

*Be comfortable -

Choose pants that are comfortable, practical and warm. Jeans are okay for some things, but you may want to wear knit pants for greater wind protection and comfort. Bring things that are easy to wash and that won't take long to dry in case you need to do laundry.

*Protect your ears, hands and head -

Whether you are in the city walking around or up in the mountains where the temperatures will be significantly colder, don't forget to protect your head. Make sure that your hat covers your ears. Wear something that is warm and waterproof. If your coat has a hood, you can use that to cover the hat. Be sure that your ears and neck are also protected.

Be sure to bring waterproof and insulated gloves

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