A Brief Guide to Whistler

Venue for the Winter Olympics 2010, this resort is more than just a one hit wonder. With some stunning scenery, superb runs and pistes and a whole lot of powder on tap most winters, why wouldn't you come here?

Anyone with even a passing interest in sport knows that the 2010 Winter Olympics are almost upon us. But while they're being referred to as the Vancouver Games, the various events will actually be shared with the resort town of Whistler, which resides around 80 miles north of Vancouver.

The Olympic journey has been a long one for Whistler; officials first came up with the idea of the resort playing a part in hosting the Winter Olympics back in 1960. After three unsuccessful bids to host the games, Whistler finally had cause to celebrate in the late '90s when it teamed up with Vancouver and successfully pitched for the 2010 event.

If you're heading out to Canada to experience the games first hand, you'll want to brush up on your knowledge of the resort and make sure you're organised for your journey. Read on for a few tips to make sure you make the most of your trip.

Know Your Travel Options

The nearest airport to Whistler is Vancouver International Airport. Shuttle buses offer a door-to-door service in around three hours - but if you're feeling a little more flash you could always charter a helicopter and do the journey in just over half an hour, providing weather conditions allow.

Be Prepared

Being the organised type can often pay dividends - and a trip to Whistler is no different. Book your lift passes at least four days before you arrive and you'll save up to 30% on the regular price.

Cover Yourself

It's easy to forget about travel insurance as you get swept up in the excitement of your impending trip, but it's incredibly important. Make sure you're covered for cancelled flights and the loss of expensive personal items if you're taking any with you. It's one thing to get home and realise that all those idyllic snowy snapshots are gone forever but if you then have to fork out for a new camera on top it'll be a double blow. And be sure to shop around for the best deal - cheap travel insurance is easy to come by if you do your research. Some providers even offer additional ski and winter sports cover.

Avoid Money Worries

The national foreign currency of Canada is the Canadian Dollar, but if you've got any American Dollars left over from a trip to the US then be sure to take them along - the US Dollar is widely accepted in Whistler. There are also several banks and ATM machines scattered around the resort so you shouldn't ever get caught short of cash.