We're shifting gears this week from the Portugal content and traveling west instead to Canada. Kendall and Sara on the team, spent a week in Whistler and Vancouver, checking out why this area of North America is considered a great year round destination! From ski season to summer activities, and even traveling in "off season," western Canada has something for everyone. They are taking over this week's article to share their top 5 highlights from the trip.
Top 5 - Whistler and Vancouver
1. Four Seasons Resort Whistler (above and below)
On Canada’s breathtaking west coast, just north of Vancouver, Four Seasons Resort Whistler is one of North America’s top year-round mountain resorts. The resort features 273 newly renovated guest rooms, suites and townhouses – along with a selection of modern private residences, all designed to feel like a modern mountain lodge. During ski season, there is a ski concierge service for guests which lets them store their gear right at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and enjoy warmed boots the next morning. Keeping true to the Four Seasons philosophy, the service here is incredible. From complimentary daily wine tastings to a hot chocolate bar in the courtyard, there’s no shortage of cozy on-site experiences to take advantage of! Not to mention the breathtaking views from the majority of their rooms and suites (pictured below). As members of the Four Seasons Preferred Partner program, we are able to offer our clients additional amenities that make the experience even more memorable.
2. What is Whistler? (above and below)
While it’s best known for being the site of the 2010 Winter Olympics and a popular ski resort, Whistler is a great year round destination. Ski season usually begins around US Thanksgiving, so we were able to experience a less crowded Whistler traveling just one week prior to the start of the season. Early-mid November proved an ideal time to visit for anyone who considers themselves to be a foodie. The Cornucopia Food & Wine Festival takes place, and many restaurants offer tasting menus of their most popular dishes at a heavily discounted price. The main part of the town, Whistler Village, is within walking distance of all the main resorts and is lined with local and mass market stores, restaurants, and bars. In the summer, Whistler offers tons of outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking trails, rafting, and so much more. Whistler is located only 1.5 hours from Vancouver, so it’s the perfect destination to pair with a city stay which our next three highlights will talk more about.
3. Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel (above)
It's not usual to feature an airport hotel, but this was an unexpected highlight for us. With a late arrival into Vancouver making it impossible to go straight to Whistler, we opted for one night at the only airport hotel at the Vancouver airport. Located inside the terminal at YVR, it’s a short 5 minute walk from the international arrivals hall. We were greeted with a soundproofed room and a great view of the runway and mountains in the background. We hate long layovers and flight schedule changes just as much as anyone, but this airport hotel truly makes any travel complication, late arrival, or early morning flight much more bearable!
4. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (above and below)
Right in the heart of downtown Vancouver sits the iconic Fairmont Hotel Vancouver where you can experience the hustle and bustle of all the city has to offer. The prime location boasts effortless walking access to any attraction one could want including luxury shopping on Robeson Street, the seawall, and plenty of excellent restaurants. The central location also offers a short drive to YVR airport, Stanley Park, Grouse Mountain, and Granville Island. The hotel gleams with a glamorous yet timeless feel, featuring contemporary amenities which are present throughout the property. You will surely feel like royalty staying here and it’s no surprise that past British Royalty have chosen to stay here as well during their visits to British Columbia. We had the chance to spend time with our main contact at the property, Kim, who helps make all of our clients' experiences special!
5. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (above and below)
A short drive from downtown Vancouver sits British Columbia’s most popular attraction–Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. With many attractions for visitors of all ages and a stunning setting amongst a coastal rainforest, we immediately recognized why it attracts so many people. We were lucky enough to visit during the glittering Canyon Lights exhibit where the whole park is turned into a winter wonderland for the holiday season and would highly recommend this experience. Enjoy crossing the large suspension bridge, walking through the treetops, or simply strolling through the temperate rainforest all while sipping on some decadent hot chocolate.
If you've been wanting to experience this side of North America, let us know by clicking the button below. We'd love to plan an unforgettable experience to show you how special these destinations are!
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