The Whistler Insider
A shot of the Pan Pacific Village Hotel in Whistler in the winter.
In Village Life

Dear Locals: Why You Need a Whistler Staycation

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BC’s public health officials have strongly recommended that all social and recreational travel be avoided in British Columbia until further notice. This means all non-essential travel into, out of and within British Columbia should be postponed until the travel advisory is lifted.

That said, you could consider a staycation where you holiday close to home with your household bubble. People often want to do things like the locals when they travel, but if you flipped that on its head and acted like a tourist in your hometown, just think of the adventures that open up. In Whistler, that’s quite a few.

We teamed up with the local travel agents over at Whistler.com to get their thoughts on some of the reasons you might want to consider a Whistler Staycation. And, because they’re such a lovely bunch, they’ve sweetened the deal even further by offering a $25 dining voucher when you book – a yummy bonus (currently available to Sea to Sky locals only). The absolute best deals can be found midweek with up to 40% off.

1. You’re Bored of Your Surroundings

You might now be eating, working, playing and sleeping in your home. That’s a lot of time looking at, and being within, the same four walls – you need to break the monotony. A study done by New York University and the University of Miami found that having new, diverse experiences every day is linked to positive emotions and enhanced happiness, and we have just the ticket.

How about opting for a room with a view? A cozy fireplace? What about a big, king-sized, bouncy bed? Better yet, a room someone else cleans? Very, very diligently right now.

Suggestions: Fairmont Chateau Whistler ticks a lot of boxes here, with its luxurious beds, recently renovated rooms (including the stunning upgrades to the Gold Floors), fireplaces, slopeside view options, pool and spa facilities. Another option, in a more central location, is opting for one of the larger, lofted suites at the Crystal Lodge. They’ve recently undergone a rebrand and the results are Scandi-style with contemporary furniture and artwork by indigenous, interdisciplinary artist Sonny Assu.

 

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2. You Need an Escape

You love them dearly, but you need a little break from the household bubble you’ve been with since March 2020. Quarantine rules and regs have put an unprecedented burden on relationships and being together nonstop could be a bit more than you bargained for – who knew your other half was such a loud chewer? Why don’t two-year-olds get the concept of quiet time?

Get some much-needed you-time, so that you can be reunited with your household bubble as a refreshed and reinvigorated person.

Suggestions: Nita Lake Lodge has that tranquil, lakeside vibe going for it with a spa that includes a nail bar where you can order Moet. They also have a range of new treatments, with a tech edge, involving lasers and injectables. There’s also an on-site bar, restaurant and cafe, plus you’re right on the Valley Trail for a relaxing morning stroll.

3. You Covet Amenities

Ok, so maybe you haven’t actually had enough of that household bubble and you want to bring them with you, or maybe you have to because it’s a PD day (Monday, March 1) or the dog sitter is overloaded. The experts at Whistler.com can help you find accommodation that comes with a pool, which is an obvious winner with the fam jam, and options where you can bring your pooch (to the hotel that is, they can’t come to the pool!).

Suggestions: Blackcomb Spring Suites is a family favourite for its large pool area, ski-in / ski-out location and apartment-style rooms that come with full kitchens. They are up the hill a bit, but the free shuttle picks up right outside the front entrance if you fancy a trip to the Village. It’s also a dog-friendly option. Pan Pacific Mountainside is another place that boasts a great pool area, kitchenettes and easy access to the slopes. We love their floor-to-ceiling windows and Aveda salon amenities.

Be aware that you might have to reserve your spot at the pool or gym, so double-check the policy of the place you want to splash about at.

4. You Yearn for Slopeside Access

Most of us locals don’t live slopeside and schlep all our gear (and sometimes whinging kids) to the hill when we want to ski or board. However, if you opt for a staycation in a slopeside location, you won’t have to worry about things like tantrums, parking woes or slipping in your ski boots en route to the slopes.

 

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Suggestions: First Tracks Lodge and Legends, located in Creekside, are great slopeside options that also have pools, kitchens and fantastic views. They’re also close to some great Whistler restaurants like Rimrock Cafe and Red Door Bistro, as well as fun places to shop like Get the Goods and Bach & Co. The Westin Resort & Spa is a great option for a Whistler Village location, which also has a pool, kitchenettes and their signature Heavenly Beds.

5. You Want More Adventure

Remember we said you should consider being a tourist in your own town? Well, what have you always wanted to do in Whistler but haven’t had the chance to experience yet? Has your other half or the kids wanted to do something but you’ve never found the time? Well, that time is now as there are some great deals to be had.

Suggestions: The Adventure Group has a buy one get one 50% off deal on their snowmobile, snowshoe and zipline tours if any of those are on your bucket list. If you book your Vallea Lumina experience seven days in advance you can get 10% off, with kids five and under free it’s a great family option. Ziptrek does a similar thing with an advanced booking saving you 15%. Canadian Wilderness Adventures currently has 25% off their snowmobiling and snowshoe tours as well. Find more activity deals on Whistler.com.

6. You Dream of a Celebration Staycation

Celebrations, like birthdays and anniversaries, have been pretty low-key affairs recently, but you could up the ante with a staycation celebration. Combine all of the above and you have a recipe for an incredible, memorable celebration.

Remember the $25 dining voucher, so if you’re thinking of hitting up some of the dining specials happening around town it gives you more bang for your buck!

There’s plenty to do safely and responsibly just outside your door and we hope this has inspired you to support (and stay) local. For more tips on a safe and responsible winter on the slopes take a look at Ski BC Strong and be the reason we keep the season. If you can’t be with us right now, Whistler is ready and waiting – we can’t wait to have you back.

Author

You can often find Dee exploring all Whistler has to offer with her three-kid tribe in tow. Originally from the UK, Dee enjoys balancing out high-thrills adventures with down-time basking in the beauty of the wonderful place she now calls home.

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