Canada

Vancouver offers a lot of great choices when it comes to hotels. Choose one near Stanley Park or the boardwalk for great views and central access. Our favorite is the Shangri-La thanks to exceptional service and our favorite restaurant, MARKET.

Frankly, no matter the time, hotels in Whistler are on the higher end of the spectrum. It’s worth the splurge for properties like the Four Seasons Blackcomb, Chateau Whistler or even the Westin right at the base of the Gondola. It’s common to see 4 star hotels starting at $400 in peak season.

There are a few options for getting between the airport (YVR), Vancouver downtown and Whistler. You can take a private transfer through companies like Canadian Craft Tours, or you can take the express bus through SkyLynx or Epic Rides. The buses are about $35 per direction and tickets can be purchased directly online.

In the major cities, like Vancouver, you’ll find that many of the top restaurants are heavily focused on incorporating elements from the local area, like fine wines, local vegetables and meat. Our favorite experience was at MARKET by Jean George at the Shangri-La.

Once you get into the resort towns, like Whistler, you’ll find increased prices, but a lot of incredible restaurants. Whistler is also home to the Ketel One Vodka Room inside the Bearfoot Bistro – which is an absolute must do. We recommend booking reservations at restaurants in advance, particularly during ski season.

The birthplace of Lululemon and many exceptional sportswear brands, Canada and its resort destinations are full of outdoorsy shops. Travelers will find seemingly endless winter sports brands, activewear and gear in the resort towns.

Canadians are so friendly, the rumors are true! From our waiters at restaurants to employees at the hotels to the liftees, everyone is just happy to be alive and it’s infectious! Whistler itself is unlike many mountain towns in that it has been a luxury destination for years, bringing in highly trained service staff. This is quite different from many of the destinations in the US, where service is always on the 3-star and below side.