Snowboard Club UK (SCUK) :: View topic - THE Whistler Season Thread

Snowboard Club UK (SCUK)

Abroad - THE Whistler Season Thread

ScottDrummer - Jun 09, 2007 - 06:40 PM
Post subject: THE Whistler Season Thread

Hi,
As there are a fair few people going to Whistler this season, I thought I'd start a topic to catch discussions and questions/advice anyone wishes to ask/give.

As were now into the season, this thread is probably best used for reference and conversation for people in Whistler , but thanks to everyone that contributed up until now, and finally to put faces to (user)names, it has proven to be quite successful for information sharing and to meet new people.

Have fun reading and have a wicked (and hopefully injury-free) season.

Scott. Smile

lez_s - Jun 09, 2007 - 06:57 PM
Post subject: RE: THE Whistler Season Thread

i can't even play the tambourin

ScottDrummer - Jun 09, 2007 - 07:05 PM
Post subject: RE: THE Whistler Season Thread

lol

matt-j - Jun 09, 2007 - 07:11 PM
Post subject: RE: THE Whistler Season Thread

does anyone know how cold it gets compared to european resorts????

ace_mcgraw - Jun 09, 2007 - 07:11 PM
Post subject: RE: THE Whistler Season Thread

I had some friends who volunteered for one day a week and I think they got all the benefits.

dryslopeboy - Jun 09, 2007 - 07:20 PM
Post subject:

They have a night at the Longhorn every Tuesday night called "open mic". I got quite excited by this as i thought it was going to be a weekly M.C battle! However it is actually a band competition where any local bands or seasonaires who meet up can play. At the end of the season they have a proper comp and there are prizes for the winners. A buddy of mine was the lead singer in a band there and they were really good! As far as i'm aware the bar has it's own instruments that you can use or you can obviously bring your own. However if your flying over from the UK and you play Harp or Cello that could be tricky! Apart from the open mic night i don't really dig the longhorn as it is THE most expensive beer in town.

dryslopeboy - Jun 09, 2007 - 07:28 PM
Post subject:

Oh also they have quite a lot of mini jam sessions in the Crystal lounge but that is more for a singer with a guitar rather than a full band.

Any "part time" jobs wth Intrawest have full perks. Exactly how many hours their "part time" work is though i don't know.

In response to the other question about how cold it gets that depends. This season it was an El nino year in the Pacific so most of the weather systems that came in were quite warm and moist. At the very start of the season most of the weather came in from bay of Alaska so it was a lot colder and drier then. The coldest day we had on the hill this season was minus 23!!!! That was pretty harsh but as long as your kits good you can still ride in it. January is normally the coldest month. As a rough rule start of the season at night in the village it is about -8 and during the day up on the hill it's roughly the same.

lez_s - Jun 09, 2007 - 07:38 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

The coldest day we had on the hill this season was minus 23!!!!

when in les arcs a few years ago it got to -30 at the top. canada is known for being cold

ace_mcgraw - Jun 10, 2007 - 02:43 AM
Post subject:

When I was there (05/06), a lot of the time it was hovering roundabouts 0 in the valley, and dropping to about -10 on top.

THe coldest I had it was when we were on the road and we got to Banff where it dropped to roundabouts -30, with windchill approaching -50. My beard and eyelashes were just freezing up as soon as we got outside! Didn't try riding in it but chatted to instructors at Sunshine who said it was bloody uncomfortable.

I reckon in Whistler you're never gonna get as cold as the Rockies, but take good kit and you;ll be fine. The only weather that;ll stop you in whistler is the rain!

Timeless - Jun 10, 2007 - 09:52 AM
Post subject:

Re the temperature in Whistler. I've been in late January, February for the last three years and the posting about it being 0 in the vill and -10 on the mountain is pretty much dead on, with a few exceptional days where it goes seriously chilly up the peak.
Don't believe the postings about the lift lines. It only gets manic for the first upload in the morning or if the weather closes off the top of the mountain. Tip, use the chairs for the first upload instead of the gondolla and you can pretty much walk straight on and get a close up view of the runs to scope out any sweet spots. Whistler rocks, those mountains are sooooo big. Still finding runs I didn't even know existed. Very Happy

pricey74 - Jun 10, 2007 - 07:10 PM
Post subject:

Great idea for a thread ScottD! As for putting a band together, I struggle to clap in time but I'd be happy to pimp myself out as a roadie for a share in the groupies! Beer

A question I have for anyone who's spent time in Whistler before is regarding a gym, a decent sized pool and a climbing wall? Basically any info on accessibility, location, entry fee's, season pass? etc would be appreciated...

Cheers

dryslopeboy - Jun 10, 2007 - 07:58 PM
Post subject:

Some of the larger hotels have gyms that you can pay to use. There is also a gym in creekside which when i was there last winter they were doing some deals on membership. 10 minutes bus ride out of the village on the Alpine Meadows bus route there is the Meadow Parks Sports Centre it's open from 6am until 10pm daily and has a full size swimming pool and gym. There is an indoor climbing wall and gym in the middle of the village underneath the Telus Conference Centre. You can pay to use the wall per trip or they do monthly passes. A 3 month pass was about $230 i think. You can't use any of the facilites free with a season pass.

JIBapproved - Jun 10, 2007 - 09:47 PM
Post subject: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Im an electrician and want to do a winter season but im a bit confused - some say go to the whistler job fair, read local advertisements etc, others say go to an agency here in the uk and they sort it all out for you including accomodation, visas etc - who are these agencies, does anyone have any names of them and contact details? id really like to know - if it could all be sorted out beforehand then life wolud be a lot easier

ace_mcgraw - Jun 10, 2007 - 11:20 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

hey

in terms of visa's I got mine through BUNAC (website bunac.org) They do working holiday visas for people under the age of 35 i think! I;m afraid I don't really know much about any other options.

Accomodation: If you're gonna be there for a long time, the way I did it was sort out the first month, then see what your options are after that. After the first month you hopefully would've made a few contacts and had a chance to look around and see what;s available and where everything is.

I dunno for sure, but I reckon you could get a job easy as an electrician. Ther'e prob be a whole bunch of options there. You could prob work on the mountains - the lift ops team have a whole bunch of electricians who ride around on sleds all day, do a bit of lift maintenance, then sit around and get paid a decent wage!

I;d try and find a directory of electricians in whistler and email a few of them and see if they'r elikely to have any work for you. Put your name around and see what happens!

ScottDrummer - Jun 11, 2007 - 04:40 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

JIBApproved: There are companies such as alpine elements, planet subzero etc.. who provide accommodation, flights, transfer and visa etc... but no job, so thats one route. as Ace mentioned bunac are a company that provide work authorisation forms so you can work in Canada for up to a year legally, They can organise flights, first night hostel and insurance for you but it can be costly, I found flights independantly with Zoom a lot cheaper than what they quoted.
There are also companies such as CCUSA or OWH (which i think are more or less a partnership) you pay a rediculous amount of money (about £300) and they guarantee you a job. which is fair enough if you want to do any crap for next to nothing, they dont give you your visa but i think they can sort accommodation out for you, again this is probably a luck of the draw situation.
Best route is DIY, get your visa with Bunac, sort flights and insurance independantly so you get the best and most customised deal to suite you. go to swap when you land get your SIN, go to resort get a job with either intrawest (and therefore eligible for staff accommodation) or private and beg your way into private accomodation.

JIBapproved - Jun 11, 2007 - 10:22 PM
Post subject: thanks

cheers for that, see you at the lift lol

ScottDrummer - Jun 12, 2007 - 06:02 PM
Post subject: RE: thanks

anyone know of decent insurance for a year long or season stay? that will satisfy bunacs requirements?

Cheers

Dazzler74 - Jun 12, 2007 - 06:25 PM
Post subject: RE: thanks

Whistler can get as cold as -40 so wrap up warm!!

I can play guitar or bass - havent done for a few years but could be a good idea...was in a band for 4 years so know my way round a fret board!!

I also have a strong elbow for lifting pints of beer in the irish bar at th ebottom of the lifts in whistler village - i hop to see you all there

am leaving dec 5th and cant wait to get the hell out of here!!

ace_mcgraw - Jun 12, 2007 - 06:26 PM
Post subject: RE: thanks

As far as I know (at least it was what i did!), you have to take out theirs if you're going as part of their programme? I could be wrong as I didn't research it too hard but I thought that was the case

ScottDrummer - Jun 12, 2007 - 07:58 PM
Post subject: RE: thanks

ye you either have to take out bunacs or find one that matches their requirements, I know of other people who have arranged their own in the past (not sure of the outcome of using them) but as long as they have the same basic cover as bunacs i think they accept it ok.

Denizen - Jun 12, 2007 - 11:30 PM
Post subject:

Yeah you can take out alternative insurance to the BUNAC policy; I've taken out the BMC insurance for next season and they've accepted that.

You will have to sign an indemnity form saying that you know that your cover may be different from Bunac's and such like. E-mail bunac work canada and ask them to send you a copy, they will also send you their insurance guidlines for arranging your own insurance which are:-

Please review your preferred policy and make sure that the following areas are covered:

1. Geographical region. If it is not a fully unrestricted world-wide policy, it must provide cover for the USA and Canada.
2. Period of cover. The insurance must provide cover for the period of your intended stay in Canada as indicated by your booked travel arrangements. Where a policy has a maximum period of less than 12 months it is your responsibility to adhere to the time frame determined by the policy.
3. Medical expenses. Canada does not operate a national health service and as a consequence the cost of medical treatment can be extremely high. You must have adequate cover in this area.
4. Work. The policy must cover you in the event that you have an accident whilst working. It does not need to cover employer liability (this is your employer’s responsibility) or loss of earnings; however, it must provide medical and repatriation cover in the event of an accident in the work place. If your policy includes work, but with limitations, (e.g. no cover for manual work), it is your responsibility to adhere to these policy restrictions.
5. Baggage. The policy must include baggage cover.
6. Winter Sports. If you will be in Canada during the winter, there is every chance that you will be drawn to the slopes. Please ensure that your policy either includes cover for the activities that you will (or may) be doing, or that it can be upgraded to include
them. If you are considering working for a full winter season, check to make sure that there aren’t any time restrictions. Some policies will only allow a percentage of your total trip to be spent skiing, others may impose a maximum period of winter sports cover (e.g. 30 days) that can be included as part of the policy.

You will then have to do the following:

WHAT NEXT?
Based on the information above, when you have chosen your alternative insurance policy you must send us the following documents:

The policy schedule letter. This is the document that will show (among other things) your name, the period of cover, the level of cover, the premium paid and the date of issue.

The policy wording (the small print, sometimes referred to as the policy certificate). This is the document that will confirm specific areas of cover. We ask that you read it carefully before purchasing any policy; pay special attention to the Exclusion sections of the policy, this is where any omissions of the policy will be detailed.
IMPORTANT: Insurance companies tend to provide a summary of cover with their sales literature and prices. This is not the policy wording. You must request, (or download) the full policy wording. Nothing else can be accepted. You must clearly highlight within the policy wording each of the areas of cover as listed above. Failure to do so will result in a delay to the processing of your application.

Insurance Indemnity Form (enclosed with this letter). This letter confirms that you have elected not to take BUNAC’s insurance policy. BUNAC is not responsible for any consequence as a result of your decision.

Hope that helps you and gives you a guide for what they are looking for.

Craig

ScottDrummer - Jun 13, 2007 - 07:48 AM
Post subject:

cheers craig, I assume BMC give a better deal than bunacs?

Denizen - Jun 13, 2007 - 10:32 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

I assume BMC give a better deal than bunacs?

They were about £100 cheaper than Bunac, most things in the policy were pretty similar tbh, but the cover for the skiing and snowboarding was much more exhaustive in the BMC policy, with ski mountaineering and £50,000 worth of SAR cover in comparison to only £3000 for Bunac, which was one of the main reasons I took out the BMC insurance. I wanted the most comprehensive possible cover for the riskiest part of the season; a ride in a heli after getting hurt in the backcountry could easily cost more than £3000 especially if you end up getting evaced straight to Vancouver if it is a serious life threatening injury.

ScottDrummer - Jun 13, 2007 - 11:22 AM
Post subject:

cool ill check em out, heard good things about BMC

lez_s - Jun 13, 2007 - 11:45 AM
Post subject:

how much does BMC cost for the season?

ScottDrummer - Jun 13, 2007 - 12:15 PM
Post subject:

https://www.thebmc.co.uk/Pages.aspx?page=17

31 days - £91.50
Annual - £213.00 + £114.50 for option 2 (removing the 93 day limit on individual trips for annual policies.)
ive emailed them to find out what it covers, i.e working abroad etc...
sounds expensive but could still work out cheaper than bunacs as Denizen says.

lez_s - Jun 13, 2007 - 12:21 PM
Post subject:

let me know what you hear back

Denizen - Jun 13, 2007 - 07:11 PM
Post subject:

It really depends on how long you go for, with the BMC one the price is the same for any trip over 93 days up to a year in length. If you are going only for the winter and not staying for the summer then the Bunac one will almost certainly be better value for money.

Tomahawk - Jun 13, 2007 - 07:28 PM
Post subject:

The bunacs one was very good when i made a claim. paid very quickly wiht no arguments. which is more than most

also for a 6 month seaosn they were very resonable.

i am going with endsleigh ( who bunacs is through) again for my trip to NZ as i was so impressed wiht them.

problem with insurance companies is you never know how good they are till you have to claim.

lez_s - Jun 13, 2007 - 07:41 PM
Post subject:

nice one. i'm going for 6 months.

lez_s - Jun 17, 2007 - 10:02 PM
Post subject:

anyone know if you can buy a season lift pass on line or early to get a discount?

i'm looking at the whistler blackcomb site but cant find anything.

Denizen - Jun 17, 2007 - 10:16 PM
Post subject:

Yeah lez you can get an early bird pass and online; they don't normally start selling them till about the beginning of september though. You have to book before the middle of October to get the early bird rate, will be about £700.

lez_s - Jun 17, 2007 - 10:21 PM
Post subject:

nice one, thanks.

one more question, if someone comes out to whistler for a month and buys a lift pass for the month do they get discount if buy it someone with a season pass? when out in colorado people could.

ace_mcgraw - Jun 18, 2007 - 11:06 AM
Post subject:

I have a feeling that you can get some sort of discount on other passes, but you'd have to check - I'm not too sure as I never tried myself. BTW, have you considered getting a midweek season pass? I had one and there a hell of a lot cheaper, the only thing being you can't use them on the weekends. It gets pretty busy then anyway, so it's probably worthwhile!

lez_s - Jun 18, 2007 - 12:08 PM
Post subject:

i thought if you get a mid week pass you cant ride over xmas?

ace_mcgraw - Jun 18, 2007 - 12:17 PM
Post subject:

that's true, there are certain blackout times. I arrived 30th Dec in Whistler and couldn't ride till the 3rd Jan or something cos of holiday period. I think that's about the only time tho. Depends how keen you are to ride - me and my mate decided that we were gonna be there all season, we were gonna get plenty boarding in anyway, so thought we might as well miss out on those days. Plus, if there was a specific day you wanted to get, I think you get a free or reduced price ticket for that day.

lez_s - Jun 18, 2007 - 04:21 PM
Post subject:

and another question.....

will it work out cheaper to buy new pants and jeacket out in whistler or here in the uk?

i know it would work out cheaper to head out of whistler to buy stuff.

pricey74 - Jun 18, 2007 - 08:01 PM
Post subject:

Depending on what you're after, you should save between 10% - 25% if you buy it in Canada and my plan is to get all my brand new spankin' gear in Vancouver. Ok, now for the nerdy stuff. These savings will obviously depend on how strong the £ is vs the CAN$ at the time, but the worse case scenario is that you'll still save a couple of ££.......

ace_mcgraw - Jun 18, 2007 - 08:31 PM
Post subject:

You should be able to save some. I bought all my stuff in Whistler and still saved a heap compared to over here. For instance - Venue Onyx 161 - over here for £300, bought over there for $350 - ie about £175.

Just remember when you check out the prices in Canada, you've got to add on the sales tax - equivalent to our VAT, but the display prices don't include it. In BC you have provincial and genereal sales tax (PST and GST) which were about 7% each, tho may have gone up now. You can claim this back tho if you make the purchase within either 3 or 6t months of leaving, and it was worth more than 60 bucks! Just remember to add it on in your head cos you get a bit of a shock when you have your money ready, then get asked for another 50 bucks!

Don't forget, with your season pass you'll get a locals discount for stuff, normally about 10% in a whole heap of shops such as Showcase or Westbeach. And if you get a job with the mountain you get a whole heap more money off - eg 45% off sunglasses and stuff like that!

lez_s - Jun 18, 2007 - 09:11 PM
Post subject:

thanks guys. do you recommend any shops, if so do they have web sites?

ace_mcgraw - Jun 18, 2007 - 09:17 PM
Post subject:

my faves were showcase or westbeach. Not sure about westbeach, but showcase is www.showcasesnowboards.ca. Comor is a pretty good shop, and there are a bunch of others who i can't remember! All those ones above are owned by intrawest tho, so you gotta swallow hard and realise you;re feeding the corporate machine!

matt-j - Jun 19, 2007 - 07:06 PM
Post subject:

to those who have done a season or planing to do a season with enough money saved, how did you go about it?? was easier kept in your uk bank?? travellers cheques??? cash??? im pretty sure my bank is going to sting me if i withdraw out in canada

ace_mcgraw - Jun 19, 2007 - 09:59 PM
Post subject:

I tended to just get cash out on my card. I think the bank I was with charged me a fixed amount per transaction, so if you took large amounts of cash out at a time it works out slightly cheaper. You could take over a whole heap of cash or travellers cheques I guess and open an account over there. It's dead easy to do, just beware of all the options cos you always have to pay a monthly charge, and if you go for a really cheap account, generally you only get a couple of free transactions a month, after which you gotta pay for more!

Denizen - Jun 19, 2007 - 10:32 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Just remember when you check out the prices in Canada, you've got to add on the sales tax - equivalent to our VAT, but the display prices don't include it. In BC you have provincial and genereal sales tax (PST and GST) which were about 7% each, tho may have gone up now. You can claim this back tho if you make the purchase within either 3 or 6t months of leaving, and it was worth more than 60 bucks!

Unfortunately you can't claim your tax back anymore ace, the canadian government decided to stop the visitor tax rebate program at the end of this march.

More info here:

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/nonresidents/visitors/qa-e.html

In better news though last july the canadian government reduced the gst from 7% to 6%, although the pst in BC is still 7%. Basically means that you will have to add on 13% to most of the prices you see in the shops.

Oh and for everyone going abroad this season not just to whistler; OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT WITH NATIONWIDE. They do not charge for you to get your money out abroad, and there is no minimum limit either; I bought plenty of $1 cookies on my card last season and never got charged a penny to do it.

Tomahawk - Jun 20, 2007 - 09:21 AM
Post subject:

^ seocnd that nationwide is the only wat to go.

only bank that dosent charge a penny for withdrawerls and card payments also no loading fee built into exchange rate its true.

so yea definatly only way to go.

ScottDrummer - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:04 AM
Post subject:

Do whistler companies and intrawest accept paying into a UK bank account?
And do you get income tax applied to your wages?

ace_mcgraw - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:15 AM
Post subject:

Don't know about other whistler companies, but intrawest require a Canadian account.

Dead easy to to set up tho - few forms of ID, and away you go! Takes about 20 mins at most! I got my account with TD Canada Trust and they seemed an ok bank, but jsut look around and see what's cheapest as there is no such thing as free banking over there!

And yes you do get charged income tax, but you can claim some of it back.

ScottDrummer - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:24 AM
Post subject:

so if Intrawest require a Canadian bank account and you get charged on withdrawals can you transfer from the Can bank to the Uk bank and withdraw from the UK bank for free?
Do you get a bank card i.e debit card and is there a charge when using this rather than withdrawals.

lez_s - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:28 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Do whistler companies and intrawest accept paying into a UK bank account?
And do you get income tax applied to your wages?

wouldn't the bank charge a commission fee to change currency from CAD to GBP into your account and then when you take it out from GBP to CAD - just a thought because you'll be coming out with less then what you would get paid.

lez_s - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:31 AM
Post subject:

oops, you posted as i was writing it. your sounds better.

ace_mcgraw - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:34 AM
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You don't have to pay for each transaction. When you open the account you'll be able to choose how much you wanna pay each month. Basically the cheaper the account, the less the number of free transactions you can do. I think I was on one where I paid about 2 or 3 bucks a month, and got 10 free transactions. So you just need to remember that and perhaps take out big cash withdrawals each time. I think transferring the money about would certainly be a bit more hassle, and may work out more expensive. I can't remember how much the transactions cost when you get charged for them, but they're not that much cos I never really used to notice them! You do get a debit card, but I can't remember if they're included in the transaction limit or not to tell the truth!

ScottDrummer - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:44 AM
Post subject:

I guess its easier just to go with the Canadian bank for wages.

Im just wondering whether to keep my saving in the UK account and use it as and when needed or to transfer it all accross to the Canadian bank account. I suppose it depends on the exchange rate at the time.

ace_mcgraw - Jun 20, 2007 - 11:47 AM
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I cerntainly kept my savings in a UK account, as once I was working I never really had to dip into that one too much!

Dazzler74 - Jun 20, 2007 - 07:09 PM
Post subject:

I have just set up a nerw group on Facebook called:

Snowboarding Season in Whistler 07/08 - Who's in?

enjoy

lez_s - Jun 22, 2007 - 09:12 AM
Post subject:

this was post on another thread by ace_mcgraw. just some info for when we are all out there

Quote:

Anyone who goes to Whistler, nothing is more satisfying than spend the morning blasting deep pow down 7th Heaven, before jibbing your way down the road from the bottom of the lift to the bottom of the solar coaster!

ScottDrummer - Jun 22, 2007 - 09:18 AM
Post subject:

how far is Pemberton to Whistler village, is it feasible to live here as a seasonaire or for the year working in the village?

dryslopeboy - Jun 22, 2007 - 09:41 AM
Post subject:

Only if you've got a car. It's a half hour drive away to the North of Whistler on Highway 99. Early season the hihway can get closed for short periods of time due to snowfall aswell.

ScottDrummer - Jun 22, 2007 - 10:42 AM
Post subject:

is it worth looking into getting property there, im in contact with an owner who is willing to rent for the year and it looks great, just the location is concerning.

ace_mcgraw - Jun 22, 2007 - 11:36 AM
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As my fellow Norfolkonian said, it's only really doable if you have a car. When working as a lifty quite a few people working there lived in Pemberton, but these were supervisors, electricians, long term residents rather than seasonaires. I can't think of any seasonaires that lived in Pemberton.

You've said befor about getting servers jobs and stuff like that, which isn't really that compatible with living in Pemberton. You're not gonna want ot leave the bar at 2am and have to drive at least a half hour home. And because it's north of whistler there isn't much going on in terms of restaurants and stuff.

It is a slice of real Canada, but it is pretty quiet. And Highway 99 can be a pretty sketchy road to travel up and down. It's not quite so dangerous north of Whistler, but even so it can be pretty bad!

I'd def recommend trying to find another Whistler place first.

Will - Jun 22, 2007 - 11:51 AM
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ive heard if you have anything on your permanent record then you cant get into canada? surely thats not right is it, is it only if it is something serious stealing, murder and stuff like that?

Denizen - Jun 22, 2007 - 12:11 PM
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2 of the most common ones that people get refused entry for are possession and driving under the influence. If you have a conviction for either of those you should contact the canadian embassy before you go to make sure you are okay to gain entry. It is not such a problem travelling from the UK as the Canadian Immigration does not have access to UK criminal records; after September 11 2001 the US and Canada started to share Criminal Records between Border Services. Loads of Americans have been denied entry to Canada, because of long forgotten DUI charges or Cannabis possession charges, when trying to cross the border.

Will - Jun 22, 2007 - 12:56 PM
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sound

ace_mcgraw - Jun 22, 2007 - 01:36 PM
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Hello everyone. Just a quick random tip I thought of. Really good books to get hold of are these:

http://amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_ss_w_h_/20 ... istler+ski

They're both written by ski patrollers in Whistler.I'd recommend the advanced one as it has tips for finding loads of off piste stuff. The nona advanced one kinda sticks to pistes, but the advanced one is excellent, and will get you all excited about what to look for when you get there!

ScottDrummer - Jun 22, 2007 - 03:31 PM
Post subject:

excellent cheers ace, will have a look for them in the library aka wh smiths

ScottDrummer - Jun 22, 2007 - 08:39 PM
Post subject:

I think i may have asked this before, but is it worth buying the early bird pass and take the gamble that intrawest will give you a 100% rebate on it? or wait until we get jobs and hope they give a pass with the job otherwise missing out on the early bird prices.
Cheers

Denizen - Jun 22, 2007 - 11:57 PM
Post subject:

Buy the early bird pass; if you get a job with the mountain they will refund you the full amount as long as you haven't used it yet. If you have used it they will deduct a certain amount for each day you've used it to get on the mountain. Can't remember the exact rate but think it is around $50 per day you've used it. So even if you've only used it for a couple of days it would be worth getting rebated.

ace_mcgraw - Jun 23, 2007 - 12:35 AM
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When i got my job i'd used my pass for about 25 days so i got nowt! bugger!

FBBB - Jun 23, 2007 - 12:26 PM
Post subject:

Few questions....

Finding it hard to find reasonably priced accomodation anywhere close to the lifts by Blackcomb & Whistler between Dec26th-Jan12th, any recommendations?

Also, has anyone ever hired skidaoo's in Whistler? And if so do they allow you to go off piste in a group on them?

How far in advance should you book your lift passes to get 20% off?

Thanks in advance....

lez_s - Jun 23, 2007 - 12:54 PM
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it says on their site that if you buy your lift pass on line at least 3 days before arrival you get the 20% off http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/ticket ... /index.htm

FBBB - Jun 23, 2007 - 01:15 PM
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Nice 1 Lez...

lez_s - Jun 23, 2007 - 01:21 PM
Post subject:

no problem.

hiring skidaoo's sounds fun, you doing some back country?

ace_mcgraw - Jun 23, 2007 - 05:03 PM
Post subject:

I know of some ski doo companies, but I think they're more into touring around rather than snowboard access stuff. Have a look at these and they may be able to help you out.

www.canadiansnowmobile.com
www.cougarmountain.ca

FBBB - Jun 24, 2007 - 02:27 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

no problem.

hiring skidaoo's sounds fun, you doing some back country?

Yeah thats the plan....probably build a few nice kickers etc....gota be done...
As long as we can hire the skidaoos but otherwise it will have 2 be hiking & thats just long!

Thanks Ace! Will hit them up...

Laughing

ScottDrummer - Jul 12, 2007 - 11:13 AM
Post subject:

anyone know what sort of costs gas and electric is in Whistler. I know it depends on usage but for an average person or couple but just need a rough idea, I think I have a place lined up but all but these two services are included

Cheers

ace_mcgraw - Jul 12, 2007 - 11:30 AM
Post subject:

I'm afraid i'm not sure as i think they were included in the places i stayed. I get the feeling they don't cost too much tho. Prob $10-20 each a month or something. Bear in mind I could be wrong about that!

ScottDrummer - Jul 12, 2007 - 12:16 PM
Post subject:

ok no worries, as long as its not extortionate. You stayed on spearhead drive didnt you? Is there good access to the village there? I see from googleearth you cant get much closer to the slopes really i cant work out how far it is to the village walking.
one other thing, what are the options when living in a place for internet? I think some places offer wireless througout their building, but alternatively can you just sign up to telus? or are there more than enough open networks to jump on?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 12, 2007 - 12:40 PM
Post subject:

Firstly, I was on Painted Cliff Rd, which is right next to Spearhead. The place where I was was about 2 mins to a little cut through onto the slope, where you could ride down to the bottom of the Wizard Chair. To walk to the village took about 10 minutes, although a bit longer in spring, when I kept having to avoid the bears!

Our place had internet which was free, but was a service that had to be sorted out by our rep, so not sure who it was from. I didn't have a computer myself, just my techno geek friend, so I don't know too much about that! We always used a wire to hook up, but i dunno if that was cos there wasn;t any wireless or what! I reckon you should def be able to find others networks to jump on if you look!

ScottDrummer - Jul 12, 2007 - 01:00 PM
Post subject:

ah cool, looks promising then. thanks ace.

ScottDrummer - Jul 13, 2007 - 01:28 PM
Post subject:

bump on the electricity question, anyone else have any input?

dryslopeboy - Jul 16, 2007 - 01:40 PM
Post subject:

With regards to utilities first of all Water is free in Whistler! It's included in the Strata fees that landlords have to pay. My landlord was shocked when i told him we have to pay for water in England!!

Secondly i can't recall anybodys house that i went to in Whistler having gas? My condo was totally powered on "Hydro" which is what they call electricity. Electricity is dealt with by a company called B.C Hydro you can register on their website to get yourself an account once you know the address of your accomodation.

http://www.bchydro.com/services/getconn ... d1387.html

It's a doodle. I set my account up and you can pay it all online. It cost me $422 for 5 months for a one bedroom condo with 2 of us living there. Our water was heated by electric, electric cooker and electric powered radiators and obviously lights. Bear in mind the 5 months i was there were winter months, summer useage would be very low.

Regarding the internet you can get set up with Wi-Fi via Telus. You will have to get your landlord to do this for you as it has to be set up in the name of the person who is registered for the landline telephone. A 12 month unlimited useage Wi fi package will be about 400 bucks. I had Wi Fi in my condo and i secured my connection. All my neighbours connections were secured too! There are several internet cafes in Whistler which are pretty cheap to use if you didn't want to shell out that sort of money.

ScottDrummer - Jul 16, 2007 - 02:45 PM
Post subject:

excellent advice dyslope thanks.
looking at the pics the cooker seems to be electric so i assume its just electric ill need to pay then. There is a fire in the corner of the room but im not sure if this is elec or gas. again i assume its elec. $400 dosnt seem to bad as were staying for the summer too i guess it will even out.
the internet however is a bit steep initially but again $33 a month isnt too bad.
Do you need a landline to have this? I thought it was all cable in whistler and not DSL. We didnt really want a landline as we will be using skype for international calls.

dryslopeboy - Jul 16, 2007 - 07:15 PM
Post subject:

I think you'll find the fire is probably a real fireplace! We had a real fireplace in our condo but we never used it all my friends house's had them too.

One of the Telus High speed (which is what they call broadband) packages is about $33.95 per month (don't forget that price will be plus G.S.T which is another 7%!) but i think my landlord had to pay a connection charge of 50 bucks or something to set it up and get the modem etc. I just paid my landlord up front for mine so it was all set up and working when i arrived. Considering 400 bucks is under 200 quid for 6 months useage i thought it was ok.

I wouldn't sweat it about having a landline as they are free! I don't know of any landlords that charged anybody for the phone. I think that's why the broadband packages are more pricey than UK packages as you don't have to pay line rental on your phone line aswell. On landlines you just pay for the calls you make on the phone. The other cool thing about landlines is that Whistler comes under the area code of "604" which also covers Vancouver and a bunch of other major towns around the Vancouver area. When you ring any 604 number from Whistler it's totally free from a landline! So if you have friends in Vancouver you can chat to them for hours for free. Weirdly Mobile phones all have the local prefix of where you buy them from. So if you buy a mobile in Whistler it comes with a "604" prefix which means you can also ring 604 mobiles from the landline for free too!!!

"Rogers Wireless" Is the equivalant to Vodafone over in Canada And they have a shop in Whistler as does Bell who are another service provider. If you make sure your mobile is unlocked by your service provider before you go out to Whistler just go into the Rogers shop and buy a Rogers sim card. It will cost you 50 bucks. They do do contracts but i just bought a pay as you go sim for 50 bucks and it was cheap as chips for the credit to keep topping it up.

ScottDrummer - Jul 16, 2007 - 08:23 PM
Post subject:

excellent cheers.

ace_mcgraw - Jul 16, 2007 - 10:12 PM
Post subject:

When I went out there I didn't unlock my phone, mainly cos i didn't realise you had to. I ended up with a Solo mobile phone which I quite liked. A bunch of my friends had the same one, which meant we could use them as walkie talkies up on the mountain, or have cheap convo's when further afield, cos it was basically a buck a day wherever you were in Canada, which you were charged only if you used the walkie talkie thingy! Anyway, all texts were free, as was a pretty decent internet browser, and it only cost 60 bucks all in.

lez_s - Jul 17, 2007 - 01:11 PM
Post subject:

anyone know if there is a 1/4 pipe in any of the parks?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 17, 2007 - 02:21 PM
Post subject:

they tend to change it about a bit, but when I was there they had a 1/4 in the highest level park on Blackcomb fo' shizzle.

They also had kinda 1/4 type things on the Whistler park, associated with jibs of various kinds.

Basically they change stuff about so much it's difficult to say what and where, but rest assured, there's more than enough choice, and if you think of it, they've probably got it somewhere!

dryslopeboy - Jul 17, 2007 - 03:23 PM
Post subject:

This season they had a 25 foot high quarter pipe in the black park on blackcomb for the whole season! Towards the end of the season there was a smaller one on Whistler which they then made into a wall ride.

lez_s - Jul 18, 2007 - 09:33 AM
Post subject:

sure the park changes, but i thought if they had one one season the chance is they would have another one. just about every place i've been theres not one.

25ft cool. thats twice as big as tam. i so hope its that again.

ace_mcgraw - Jul 18, 2007 - 09:48 AM
Post subject:

I think they're pretty much bound to have the 1/4 in the higher level park each year at least. Don't forget for this park you gotta pay a little extra money and sign waivers and stuff, and you have to wear a helmet too otherwise you won't get let in!

lez_s - Jul 18, 2007 - 09:55 AM
Post subject:

i always were a helmet in a park so no problem there.

when you say pay a little extra money, how much? can you get it cheaper if you pay for a week or buy 10 days worth but use them over a month or do you get it cheaper with a season pass?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 18, 2007 - 10:40 AM
Post subject:

I'm pretty sure when I was there it was 15bucks for the entire season, so not much to worry about. I think it's just to reinforce to people that it's not for noobs, and there's some proper gnarly stuff in there. The best thing about it is that it runs right underneath the Catskinner chair, so that if you're doing laps of either the Blackcomb park (Medium level stuff) or the Higer Level park you get to chill out and watch the pro's doing their thing on the way up!

ScottDrummer - Jul 18, 2007 - 12:58 PM
Post subject:

Insurance:
I have travel insurance booked through BMC. however is there a requirement to have home insurance when you rent in BC? I want to insure two laptops when there, possibly on seperate laptop insurance.
does anyone know of a decent company that will cover laptops or specifically laptops worldwide or am i better getting Canadian home insurance to cover it for the year?

Thanks

dryslopeboy - Jul 18, 2007 - 05:28 PM
Post subject:

If you show your season pass you can buy a black park pass which lasts all season for 25 bucks. They have people at the top of the Black park who check to make sure you are wearing a helmet and that you have bought the black park pass. It has your photo on it just like the season pass. As Ace says they charge a nominal fee for the pass just to stop complete learners trying to huck off 60 foot table kickers! One thing i would say though is that this season the park staff monitored the level of people riding in the black park and if they think you are a danger to other park users or youself due to lack of skills or awareness they will revoke the pass. The black park has a lot of stuff in it which could seriously spoil your day if it goes wrong.

Myst001 - Jul 19, 2007 - 11:47 AM
Post subject:

Is it too late to find a long term stay for the season? anyone know?

and if not can someone give me some sites/phone numbers/e-mails for bookings etc,

I am in desperate need of help Smile

lez_s - Jul 19, 2007 - 12:05 PM
Post subject:

have a look at seasonaires.com or seasonit.com and email them. you could try google.

ScottDrummer - Jul 19, 2007 - 12:35 PM
Post subject:

http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/pique/ ... +Term+1428
www.whistlerquestion.com
These are the main places landlords and property owners advertise, although most places advertised now want you in by august and some have a year lease. updated every thurs

Below: although mainly holiday lets, some places are doing long term
www.alluradirect.com - website is a pain as its all javascript, I had to write a macro to batch email all the owners one by one
www.vrbo.com - useful but some replicated from allura
www.ownerdirect.com - can only email 3 at a time
www.ownersdirect.com
www.resortac.com - crappy website, but you can find some great season accom.
seasonaires tend to get some of the places that are set up for season by the owner and add a bit on top, they mainly have properties for groups of 4 or more sharing, they didnt really find me anything for a couple sharing (1 bdrm).

You can also try WHA, the lettings are being handles by mountain country management, you will noticed a lot of the ads on piquenews are let by this company, speak to a lady there call Lee Mcleery. you can get the contact details through www.mountaincountry.ca. or email info@mountaincountry.ca , they should know of a few coming up for next season.

I finally found my accomodation yesterday, I'm staying in the marquise, spearhead drive upper village so im pretty chuffed i can walk to slope within 5 mins.

I know it sounds selfish, It can be competitive with housing as apparently there is a shortage especially for seasonaires, but now that I have found my accommodation im happy to give away some contacts I had, they are mainly landlords who offered me a property in various places in Whistler. I can forward these mails on to anyone that needs them.
ScottBarrowDrummer 'at' googlemail(dot) com

Also check below links for some useful local knowledge and advice.
http://www.mywcss.org/SG_final.pdf
http://www.faqwhistler.com/

You have time, but be quick places start getting booked. non season accommodation which is usually rented out nightly will start getting bookings for next season, which is ok as long as they dont have pre booked dates for when you want to stay there.

Lez_s: what sort of price are you paying for your accommodation if you dont mind me asking. Im just trying to judge if i got a good deal and how much Ill need to work to survive.

lez_s - Jul 19, 2007 - 01:13 PM
Post subject:

i'm staying here. http://www.seasonaires.com/accommodatio ... RTIES_ID=1

i've got some discount but its about £2500. because i'm going out on my own for the first 2 months until caz comes out its a good way to meet people.

ScottDrummer - Jul 19, 2007 - 01:16 PM
Post subject:

ah yes, they offered that to me too, looks great especially the social aspect of it and pool table, but as we were staying for the year we throught it was best for us to have private accomodation. I like my own space lol.
is that £2500 for 6 months or per month?

lez_s - Jul 19, 2007 - 01:23 PM
Post subject:

thats for 6 months. yeah pool table and hot tub. having your own place for a year is the best idea.

living in youth hostels for a year when i was travelling i'm used to sharing with people, plus i have my room to get away from it all.

ScottDrummer - Jul 19, 2007 - 01:40 PM
Post subject:

Anyone getting a Solo phone? just looking at their tarrifs they are rediculously cheap in relation to ours. the tracking on the roadside assistance and (nationwide)walkie talkie features look great. I think i remember BUNAC saying you may get a solo phone when you get to the SWAP office in vancouver.

does anyone have a preference for which bank to bank with which are available in Whistler? As far as i can tell there are about three different banks. Are they all round about the same or do some offer any benefits over others?
Cheers

ace_mcgraw - Jul 19, 2007 - 01:58 PM
Post subject:

I went for TD Canada Trust myself.I can't remember why, I think it was perhaps slightly cheaper than the others. In terms of choice I think there's a TD and a RBC. Can't really remember others, tho I could be wrong.

Dazzler74 - Jul 19, 2007 - 06:29 PM
Post subject:

Is it easy to set up a bank accoun t in whistler?

Also, the season is fast approaching - only 4.5months for me...shabba!!!

Tens - Jul 19, 2007 - 07:44 PM
Post subject:

its killing me, im running out of season related areas to research and make sure i dont have anything to do last minute. I will be the most organised person ever come leaving.
Dazzler, do you know when matt-j is leaving as I saw he was staying with seasonit too but didnt see where (other threads). He also lives pretty near me.

ace_mcgraw - Jul 19, 2007 - 10:36 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Is it easy to set up a bank accoun t in whistler?

Yes. I went to the TD bank in Whistler, prob had my passport and my rental agreement, made an appointment, went up for a chat with someone, and 5 minutes later I had a bank account. Seriously, it's so laid back there - I lost my card literally the day before I was due to head across from Whistler to Toronto. Thinking it was gonna be like the UK and I was gonna have to wait 5 days or something for them to send a new one out, I went in, told them what I'd done, they asked me my date of birth and handed me another card and that was that!

Quote:

its killing me, im running out of season related areas to research and make sure i dont have anything to do last minute. I will be the most organised person ever come leaving.

Think what it's gonna be like for me! Everyone's gonna leave and have a great time in Whistler, and I won't be able to give out loadsa advice and info and be a wise old sage anymore. I'll just fade into obscurity, jaded and forgotten, tearful and jealous, begging for change in a corner.

Or something like that.

lez_s - Jul 19, 2007 - 10:45 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Also, the season is fast approaching - only 4.5months for me...shabba!!!

3 months 13 day for me Razz

Denizen - Jul 19, 2007 - 10:58 PM
Post subject:

75 days and 16 hours to go.

Countdown to Canada

Tens - Jul 19, 2007 - 11:19 PM
Post subject:

I was nearly staying in chalet white gold lez_s. Was ringing up to put my deposit down and the guy at the other end did a sneaky "let me ring you back after i check bookings" after telling me 30 mins before hand there was 2 spaces left.
Rang me up like 5 hours later and said sorry a couple took it a few days ago, might have been telling the truth but its all worked out nicely now.
Am gutted with no pool table and the nice open layout of the lounge area but have an equally if not nicer place with seasonit, was more £££'s tho.

Anyone know how long it takes to get over to banff from whistler and the best/cheapest way to do so?

ScottDrummer - Jul 19, 2007 - 11:21 PM
Post subject:

3 months 2 days for me( for some reason my previous thread has vanished)

lez_s - Jul 19, 2007 - 11:23 PM
Post subject:

show offs

ScottDrummer - Jul 19, 2007 - 11:25 PM
Post subject:

just trying to work out how to get to whistler from vancouver after visiting the swap office. Apparently from the swap office downtown vancouver you have to get the skytrain to the bus station and then bus from there to whistler
My plan is to stay in whistler first night 21st oct go to the swap office 10 mins down the road from the hotel with all our gear and then from the swap office to whistler, but i think we are gonna need a cab from our hotel to swap and then swap to the bus station
anyone got any plans dur the transfer?

lez_s - Jul 19, 2007 - 11:37 PM
Post subject:

so i take it people will be in whistler on nov 12th. it will be my birthday so if anyone up for a few beers i'll sort it out near the time.

ScottDrummer - Jul 20, 2007 - 12:14 AM
Post subject:

sounds good

ace_mcgraw - Jul 20, 2007 - 10:21 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Anyone know how long it takes to get over to banff from whistler and the best/cheapest way to do so?

I did it by car and it was about a 10 hour plus drive. Good fun though. You could prob get a greyhound which costs about $140 plus tax.

norton - Jul 20, 2007 - 11:33 AM
Post subject:

3 Months and 1 day!.

I am the only one who is planning on rocking up and trying to find accomm? Im getting there towards the end of oct.
Have been looking on Pique and around whistler cay you can get a shared room in a house for CAN$500 a month. thats about £220 or so. Sounds exactly what i need to bum the entire season!

ScottDrummer - Jul 20, 2007 - 11:42 AM
Post subject:

ive got mine sorted as I didnt want to risk not getting somewhere.
apparently sept is the time to start looking and ringing people from piquenews as they are still looking for summer lets at the minutes, in sept they will start putting ads for the winter.
im flying the same date as you as far as i can make out.
whats your flight date?

norton - Jul 20, 2007 - 11:49 AM
Post subject:

21st oct with flyglobe. just got an email yesterday saying they scrapped their mid week flights, and now have to stop in calgary on the way over... bit ghey but oh wells.

You're there for a year there though arent you?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 20, 2007 - 11:52 AM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

One word of warning about that, I stayed in a downstairs appartment of a house in Tapleys Farm area (Bottom end of Whistler Cay). It was basically two bedrooms, and me and a friend paid $400 a month each for it, and it was pretty comfy for the two of us.

During the previous winter I was told that there was about 7 or 8 scandi's living in there (One of the rooms had about 4 beds in!) and the price for the appartment was about $2200-$2500 a month, so looking in the Pique now for prices may not be totally accurate guide for the prices during winter.

And be aware, that last year there was pretty much a shortage of houses in Whistler. I had friends heading back for a second season, prob a little later than you're planing, and ending up on peoples couches as there were no homes!

ScottDrummer - Jul 20, 2007 - 12:44 PM
Post subject:

norton, get in touch with Lee McCleary at mountain country management they have some properties coming up for winter they are managing on behalf of owners, a lot of the places on piquenews are managed by them or pam rooms and a few other realtors and landlords. From what i gather there are a few landlords that own/manage quite a few properties in Whistler most of which are on pique.
I was considering renting a property from mountain country management, but something better came up so we took it.
I have the pictures and details of them if you want them and their places look great, give me an email, address and more details are on page 7.

i guess we may bump into each other along the way? we have an appointment at the swap office in vancouver on the mon 22nd, the logistics are looking to be a nightmare with all the baggage we will have to lug about with us.

norton - Jul 20, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject:

sorry for the naiveity but whats a swap office?
I have sent an email to Mountain Country yesterday to see what they say about my request.

Ace when you were there, were many people advertising rooms in shared houses etc??? i mean on shop noticeboards et al?

ScottDrummer - Jul 20, 2007 - 02:36 PM
Post subject:

swap is the canadian sister company to BUNAC (thats if you have a BUNAC visa)
you go to swap when you land there and get a SIN, you are required to have a SIN to get work i believe in addition to your working visa.

ace_mcgraw - Jul 20, 2007 - 02:55 PM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

Yeah, there were quite a few noticeboards up and around the place. The main grocery stores had noticeboards for that sort of thing. Another good place to look whether you work there or not is within the Springs building. This is the staff locker room / employee building type thingy for people working on Whistler Mountain, and there was a big noticeboard in there that they always had rooms and stuff like that on. Thats next to the bottom station of the village gondola and the Salamon Store.

norton - Jul 20, 2007 - 03:03 PM
Post subject:

hmm i wonder whether i need to get anything on top of my aus visa. hopefully not going to use it though as i want to bum it now...
is the SI similar to a NIN?

cheers ace

ace_mcgraw - Jul 20, 2007 - 03:21 PM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

hmm i wonder whether i need to get anything on top of my aus visa. hopefully not going to use it though as i want to bum it now...
is the SI similar to a NIN?

cheers ace

basically, yes!

matt-j - Jul 20, 2007 - 06:45 PM
Post subject:

@tens, im flying out dec 1st, staying at the bon ami. you???

Snowaddict - Jul 20, 2007 - 07:51 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

That sounds like a sweet idea. I play guitar/bass/sax(alto) but i may not be spending my time at Whistler:( I don't know yet.

Whistler sounds like a wicked place though! Everyone has a story/a great time and to even think of setting up a band makes it sound like quite a nice personal place.

Snowaddict - Jul 20, 2007 - 07:52 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Sorry guys, the topic seems to have switched a little and Bam! There i go with an irrelevant post.

ScottDrummer - Jul 20, 2007 - 09:44 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

lol, still ye if your in whistler, ill be looking for some musicians to maybe get a pub slot, if such things exist there.

Tens - Jul 20, 2007 - 10:26 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

@matt-j im heading there on dec 1st (my travel - gatwick) too around lunch im landing (cant remember my time). Need to head to swap office to get my sin like many others here and then be heading up to snow vally lodge (just round the corner of your chalet). Theres a few poeple on here staying in bon ami.
I have only done a few weeks skiing and want to get on a board, might head down to bracknell and do some lessons as they are only £10.

matt-j - Jul 21, 2007 - 12:57 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

im flying lunch time with zoom from gatwick via glasgow, might be an idea to hook up at the airport for a few jars as were flying around the same time. bracknell sounds like a good idea theres a few people that go every wed/thur

Will - Jul 23, 2007 - 11:12 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

does anyone know if BMC insurance cover you for park as well?

cheers

ScottDrummer - Jul 24, 2007 - 07:58 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

mm something i didnt check, but i went with BMC they seemed the best deal and cheapest compared to some others. Ill have a look at my policy

lez_s - Jul 24, 2007 - 09:41 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

anyone heading out nov 3rd from gatwick via glasgow on fly zoom?

also anyone found the best transfers? found a couple but still looking for the cheapest and easiest option.
because i get in to van airport at 18:00 i did think about car hire because of getting out of the airport and to downtown van for 19:30 for the transfer will be very tight.

ScottDrummer - Jul 24, 2007 - 10:34 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

im staying over at a holiday inn, downtown van when i arrive, its only something like $70 there are a few reasonably priced hotels ive found in the area. Were stopping so we can have a quick look around van, get some rest and attend a swap meeting the next day before we head up to whistler. I was planning on looking into the transfers this week actually. I think there are a few companies greyhound, moose travel etc... ill havea look into it and report back. I dont think they are too bad priced but im not sure whether they leave from and at what times. hopefully they have cabs big enough for our gear to take us to and from the hotel to swap and then on to the bus stop

lez_s - Jul 24, 2007 - 10:46 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

i'm heading out on my own and not working out there so dont want to spend $70 for a night. as i've already been to van a few years ago (top place) so i wouldn't mid heading to whistler as i've paid for the chalet from the 1st nov.

greyhound are the cheapest, but you have to get it from down town so i dont think i would have the time to get there. as for moose - top tour company had such a laugh with them on my trip 4-5 years ago. i think i would have to stay over night to get them.

one thought, if i did get a car until late the next day i could drive out of whistler and do some cheap food shopping the next day.

norton - Jul 24, 2007 - 10:47 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

how far is it to whistler.
im hoping one of my lovely friends will drive down and pick me up... though i dont know how likey that will be....

yer if anyone else is flying in on the 21st who wants to catch up / get a taxi to the greyhound station drop me a pm.

ScottDrummer - Jul 24, 2007 - 10:53 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

im flying in on 21st Oct. but as I say im not heading up til the following day.

as for car hire, this might be something worth doing for us actually considering we need to get from the airport to downtown, then to swap (which is only 2 streets away but still with bags..) then to bus stop then to whistler. I can see it being a nightmare. I assume you can use a regular UK driving licence in BC? do you need an IDP?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 24, 2007 - 11:13 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

I got an IDP just in case, but noone actually looked at it, just my regular licence.

As for car hire, be aware that there's only a few companies, so if you're planning on taking it one way you gotta go thru one of them - according to brief research theres Budget, Avis and Hertz. If you want cheap car hire and are planning to return the car to Van try www.rentawreck.ca. Me and a mate hired a car from them for a month on a roadtrip and it was way cheaper than anyone else. And despite the name, the car was ok too - a coupla years old but not too bad.

If you're getting a cab, make sure to ask for a minivan - plenty about, but chances are they'll pick u up in something small!

Greyhounds are about $15-20 or so, and leave from the main rail station - def need a cab from downtown to get there, prob about a 30-45 min walk.

And Norton, Whistler is about 2-3hrs up the road from Van, depending on the weather, which can be pretty bad and can cause probs on the road up. There's lots of work being doen to improve the road for the 2010 olympics so there';s a whole bunch of hold ups!

ScottDrummer - Jul 24, 2007 - 11:16 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Cheers ace, just looking into the hire now, it may work out beneficial to do that.
im guessing were not going to get away from all the olympics hype whilst there, ive already heard enough about it, before even getting there

EDIT: rentareck in Vancouver seems to have closed down, according to their website.

ScottDrummer - Jul 24, 2007 - 11:46 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

ah its look at over $100 inc tax for 1 day hire from budget for an SUV, might not be worth it for the transfer for us.

lez_s - Jul 24, 2007 - 12:08 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

saw one on the avis or hertz web site for about $40. i would only have it from about 7pm to 10am. it was a small car, but its only me and my stuff going to be in it.

ScottDrummer - Jul 25, 2007 - 02:37 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

the boss has just told me he is arranging training for me in my field of IT, im not sure when this would be, but i know its not cheap.
my questions is whether to take the training, give notice and run.
Its obviously beneficial to myself for the future to tell them after training but they wouldnt be too happy with me when I do eventually give my notice
or
advise them in advance before the training and give them a choice whether they want still want to send me on the courses.
Either way if i return to the company afterwards, the training isnt lost, i suppose I could always give them this incentive. However timing is key.
any advice on when to have that golden "5 mins with your boss" is appriciated
Cheers

norton - Jul 25, 2007 - 03:27 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

I've been in that boat before.
My work actually gave me a year leave without pay as they knew i would go if they didnt. That was 2 and half years ago and i havent been back.
Your best bet is always honesty i think, especially if you are on a good wicket. if you take the training and leave, you can lose things like references. And if you have been there a long time then that could count for a lot...

I think giving them ample time to recruit and train someone up to take over from you is important too. I had someone in working with my everyday for 3 months before i went away...

lez_s - Jul 25, 2007 - 03:31 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

just before i went travelling i went away for a week on training (i was told last min, told friday to be there monday). i had already booked flights and couldn't change them. i got back i handed my notice in the 2 week study gap before the exam and was told i couldn't take the exam.

the worst thing could be you are made to pay for it if you quit just after, or they find out you were planned to go away.

if you get on with your boss i would speak to them and say your going away, but would like to rejoin in a years time. you dont have to but if you need a job asap when you get back its there.

you never know, if you've been there a while they might put you on it anyway.

lots of place let people take a year out. my last place was going to send me to thailand for 3 months, but i still left to go contracting.

ScottDrummer - Jul 25, 2007 - 04:20 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

cheers guys, ive only been here a year and half really, so there is no loyalty either way, however I am going to ask if I am welcome back after the year or if I could take a year unpaid leave. I just need to tell them before they go and pay for my training course and not telling me.

Dazzler74 - Jul 25, 2007 - 06:49 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Alright scotty,

I am in the same boat, giong to tell them at the end of august when I get back from 2 weeks in Hong Kong...would love to keep the job but the season comes first... Wink

I ahve only been there for 6 months ..... life moves on..

Tens - Jul 25, 2007 - 07:38 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

well im in a worse situation as I am getting put through to lots of jobs (recruitment companies) for full time and seeing as im off in 4 months who wants to properly employ me. Get to the interview stage and then just before I tell them cos i dont want to waste my own time. I could do the dirty and start work and then 2 months down the line hand in my notice.

lez_s - Jul 25, 2007 - 08:02 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

can you get contract work for 4 months?

Tens - Jul 25, 2007 - 09:53 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

trying but all these recruitment companies just concentrate on the big jobs

lez_s - Jul 25, 2007 - 10:09 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

what you do? where you looking?

Tens - Jul 25, 2007 - 11:00 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

just graduated business IT so anything to do with that, php sql prefered and around kingston/london.

lez_s - Jul 25, 2007 - 11:05 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

have a look at www.jobserve.com or www.monster.co.uk or www.jobsite.co.uk they have contracts in everything

ScottDrummer - Jul 26, 2007 - 10:18 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

following on from a question I asked on GB,
Im in two minds about the early bird pass. Im planning on getting a job with an independant company, in addition to a job with Intrawest for the minimum number of days to get the staff benefits package(for the pass), so I wasnt sure whether to buy the pass now or not. I've heard they refund you the amount you paid for it if they give you one, do you know if thats correct?
Im also not sure whether to buy the Spirit pass or the Intrawest season pass? are there any differences in the benefits/price and times you can use it? I dont understand why the spirit pass is a few hundred dollars cheaper than the Intrawest one?

Cheers

ace_mcgraw - Jul 26, 2007 - 10:45 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Greetings

Firstly, you'll get a full refund on your season pass *only* if you don't use before you get your job! After that, an amount is taken off per day that you've used it, up to a maximum of about 25 days. Which was annoying cos when I got my job and pass I had used it for 28 days, so got nothing!

As for the spirit pass, it's not something that I'd heard of! Having looked into it, it seems relatively straight forward to get, but it's worth noting that I read somewhere that if you leave your job your pass can get cancelled and you have to pay for the days used, which could be bad. It seems the spirit pass is cheaper cos you have to take a customer services course in order to qualify for it. To be honest, if you're looking to get a job with intrawest anyway, there's prob not much point in going through this hassle to get one.

ScottDrummer - Jul 26, 2007 - 10:48 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

excellent, cheers. Do they give you the refund in cash or in your wages? I dont mind forking out £700 for the early bird in sept to get it cheaper, if I know I can get it back when I get there. Nice bonus that is then.

ScottDrummer - Jul 26, 2007 - 11:33 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Just had a call from Zoom, apparently our flight slot on the Sunday has been 'lost'. Im not sure why but has anyone else had to reschedule their flights due to this?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 26, 2007 - 11:37 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

I would think they give you the refund in your wages, although as I was too late to get a refund I;m not sure.

lez_s - Jul 26, 2007 - 11:41 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Quote:

had a call from Zoom, apparently our flight slot on the Sunday has been 'lost'

tell them to check down the back of the sofa Laughing

ScottDrummer - Jul 26, 2007 - 11:46 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

ok were flying two days earlier now, which is a little inconvenient. they didnt seem too willing throw any freebies my way but we have window seats prebooked and no one sitting next to us apparently. Oh and an added bonus of stopping off at glasgow, nice of them.

lez_s - Jul 27, 2007 - 01:20 PM
Post subject:

update about getting a car and driving to whistler who ever is thinking about it. just spoken to someone and was told that you get charged at the airport (cant remember what) also you have to pay a one way fee if you're dropping it off at whistler so it will work out more then getting the bus.

ace_mcgraw - Jul 27, 2007 - 02:37 PM
Post subject:

I checked the greyhound website, and i think the last one from Van to Whistler is 7pm, which may be too late. Prob worth hooking up with Perimeter I reckon. More expensive, but right to your door.

lez_s - Jul 27, 2007 - 02:42 PM
Post subject:

yeah, there is no way i would make the last greyhound bus at 7pm.

so it looks like perimeter will be the one and if i've been travelling all day being dropped at the door sounds good to me.

ScottDrummer - Jul 27, 2007 - 02:45 PM
Post subject:

The next earliest is 5pm, which i know is impossible as I land at 4.15, do you reackon after immigration, baggage collection etc.. there is enough time to get bus at 7?

ace_mcgraw - Jul 27, 2007 - 02:50 PM
Post subject:

Good question - difficult to say. I think I was waiting for about an hour getting my work permit and stuff when I arrived at Van, in addition to waiting for my luggage. It may be tight, as I reckon it'd take about 20-30mins to get from airport to bus station as well!

ScottDrummer - Jul 27, 2007 - 03:00 PM
Post subject:

do greyhound not do a pickup from the airport?

lez_s - Jul 27, 2007 - 03:03 PM
Post subject:

desn't look like it. i've looked at their stie a couple of times.

ScottDrummer - Jul 27, 2007 - 03:09 PM
Post subject:

ah ye, http://www.greyhound.ca/scripts/en/tick ... ity=731521
pacific central train station. bugger.

ScottDrummer - Jul 27, 2007 - 03:16 PM
Post subject:

$67 perimiter
$19 greyhound bit of a difference. what time do you land lez?

lez_s - Jul 27, 2007 - 03:25 PM
Post subject:

if i land on time it will be at 6pm. so once i've got my bag and found where they bring the board bags out and got through immigration lined up for a taxi that can fit my board bag in and got down town i would have missed the bus.

david at seasonaires said its £75 return on perimeter, which is a lot for 3 hour trip each way, but need must.

ScottDrummer - Jul 27, 2007 - 03:37 PM
Post subject:

i suppose an extra £40 odd quid is worth not having to get downtown with your stuff.
I think we may need to do this too

lez_s - Jul 27, 2007 - 04:01 PM
Post subject:

if your in nor rush to get to whistler you should stay in van for a couple of nights and look round, its a cool place. once you've looked round get the greyhound to whistler.

ScottDrummer - Jul 27, 2007 - 04:09 PM
Post subject:

yeah we plan to have a few stays in vancouver over the time were in whistler.
We are actually getting to whistler on the friday and then we have to get back to van on monday for our swap orientation to get our SIN etc..., so we will spend the rest of the day there before going back up to whistler.

on a side note, i think im gonna have to give the game away to the boss on monday, There is a meeting planned to discuss my development and arrange training etc... so I think ill need to tell them not to book anything! Roll on monday Neutral

Will - Jul 27, 2007 - 04:56 PM
Post subject:

is immagration hard to get through in canada?
is there anything they can pull you up on?

ScottDrummer - Jul 30, 2007 - 01:36 PM
Post subject:

well i did it, told my boss that im off to canada in Oct. Didnt go as bad as I thought. Huge weight of my shoulders.
I can get on with it now without having that hang over me.
Sorry Will I cant answer that as ive not had the experience yet. Maybe someone will come along and answer

lez_s - Jul 30, 2007 - 01:41 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

is immagration hard to get through in canada?
is there anything they can pull you up on?

why, what you trying to hide? Laughing

i got asked a couple of questions when i crossed from the USA into canada, such as how long i was staying for, do i know anyone that lives in canada and couple more which were every day things.

Will - Jul 30, 2007 - 06:41 PM
Post subject:

emmmm...nothing haha......

i heard they cant look at peoples perminent records who r from the uk? is that true?

as i am only 16 will i have a problem getting into the country with a mate who is only 17? ( so obv no parents....but we r staying with seasonit so not on our own)

cheers

ScottDrummer - Jul 30, 2007 - 06:56 PM
Post subject:

might be worth getting something in writing to confirm parental sponsorship. Call CIC or the Canadian embassy ask the question, they will advise you what you may require. If you have trouble with them, try BUNAC they are always happy to help and find stuff out about getting in.

Tens - Jul 30, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

will which chalet are you and your chum staying in.
Im in snow vally lodge.

Only asking as there is a fair few poeple staying with seasonit but not in my chalet.

lez_s - Jul 30, 2007 - 08:23 PM
Post subject:

maybe make a list of where people are staying in case people are staying at the same place.

lez_s - Jul 30, 2007 - 08:28 PM
Post subject:

maybe make a list of where people are staying in case people are staying at the same place.

ScottDrummer - Jul 30, 2007 - 08:30 PM
Post subject:

yeah thats an idea,

Marquise - Spearhead Drive - Upper Village

(Append your accomodation)

Will - Jul 30, 2007 - 09:04 PM
Post subject:

me (Will nangle) and my mate (John Barnes) are staying in bon ami

norton - Jul 31, 2007 - 08:41 AM
Post subject:

at the moment im staying in the gutter...
nothing fancy though hope its not for the whole season

Oz. - Jul 31, 2007 - 09:37 AM
Post subject:

Will wrote:

Am sure you I read somewhere that you need to be accompanied by someone over 18 or a guardian. Also am sure Seasonit say you have to be 19 to live in there houses?

edit: I was wrong!! heres the score:

Quote:

travelling alone... ...a) should bring a certified letter of consent - written in English or French - signed by both parents or the guardian(s) plus a copy of the child's birth certificate

matt-j - Jul 31, 2007 - 05:07 PM
Post subject:

will, i have just got off the phone to the embassy and they said its best to get a police check done then go to the embassy and get a tempary visiting permit from them, so if the do pull you up for something you have written permission to enter canada, a bit of a nightmare but i think im going to have to it as i dont want to waste all this money.

Will - Jul 31, 2007 - 11:44 PM
Post subject:

for some reason they are making an acception.....coz we asked really early and booked it then they changed the rules......ive never heard of anyone not gettin into the country...has anyone heard of mates etc gettin knocked bk?

certified meaning official? how would i get that?

who do i contact about the police check?

anything other information anyopne knows i will need to produce to get into the country?

cheers for the help

Tens - Aug 01, 2007 - 11:21 PM
Post subject:

email and ask seasonit, they are well helpful with questions, maybe they will give you another letter or something which may help and also a plane ticket home will help with immig.

ahhh tis still so long away....

Will - Aug 02, 2007 - 07:40 AM
Post subject:

yeh, have been emailing them and your right there are very helpful.
about 90 days to go....

Dazzler74 - Aug 02, 2007 - 01:05 PM
Post subject:

118 days for me.. trappers cabin

ScottDrummer - Aug 02, 2007 - 01:31 PM
Post subject:

79 days for me.
Has anyone got work lined up yet? or planning to work? If so whats your method?

lez_s - Aug 02, 2007 - 01:42 PM
Post subject:

too long for me, not working while there and method out the top of 1/4 pipes Laughing

norton - Aug 02, 2007 - 03:48 PM
Post subject:

whatever scott says i think i'm the same. (though i do remember his flights changing somewhat)

i'll be checking out the job fair. and if i can get part time evening work i will otherwise ill hold out as long as i can without

ScottDrummer - Aug 02, 2007 - 04:45 PM
Post subject:

Having read the leaflet that came with my work auth form/visa the other day, I should tell you that if you intend on working in Whistler you required a SIN (like the UK National Insurance Number).
According to the leaflet, 'you can only get a SIN if you attend a SWAP orientation meeting in Canada(Downtown Vancouver, howe street), the place that issues SIN's will not hand them out otherwise'.
Therefore it goes without saying (but im gonna say it anyway) if you wanna work in whistler you need to get to SWAP in vancouver when you land to get a SIN.

lez_s - Aug 03, 2007 - 02:03 PM
Post subject:

i know its been talked about before, but no idea where in this thread.
i need to get some new boots, would waiting until whistler work out cheaper or getting them here?

ScottDrummer - Aug 03, 2007 - 02:11 PM
Post subject:

I think from recalling reading previous threads, its a little cheaper in Whistler after adding GST, but one thing for sure is you will probably have more of a range to choose from in Whistler than here.
Another advantage is you could save on weight on your baggage by buying over there.

lez_s - Aug 03, 2007 - 02:21 PM
Post subject:

it would suck if i got out there and they didn't sell 32 tm-twos. i ride in them now and love the boots.

because i need half size (9.5) i cant find no one stocks them here so two seasons are looking into it for me, but if i can get them cheaper then £190 i'll wait until out there.

ScottDrummer - Aug 03, 2007 - 02:26 PM
Post subject:

ah, i see. You could always import from the US. I asked the question a few weeks ago on GB regarding how import tax works on buying in from the US and whether it works out cheaper than buying in Canada. I didnt really get a conclusive answer but it might be an option.
I need to buy some stuff in when i arrive i.e a wireless cable router, maybe a new a board as ive only got an bataleon ET atm, which on those powder days isnt gonna hold up. So itd be interesting to find out how much cheaper stuff is over there, adn whether the buying from the US is feasible

ace_mcgraw - Aug 03, 2007 - 02:39 PM
Post subject:

lez - when I was there they sold them in Comor - http://www.comorsports.com/. Might be worth contacting them to see if they're still available there.

lez_s - Aug 03, 2007 - 02:55 PM
Post subject:

nice one mate. just sent them an email.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 03, 2007 - 03:08 PM
Post subject:

in terms of boards, i got a venue onyx 161 in one of their sales for $350 plus about $50 tax, compared to £300 over here. I know a mate got a Atomic Hatchett for $300 plus tax!

norton - Aug 03, 2007 - 03:28 PM
Post subject:

if you look at tightboards.com you can get a decent picture. Im looking at having an evil twin bought in the states and shipped over to whistler to my mate. works out £50 cheaper but thats not taking into account GST etc so not sure what will happen there?

dryslopeboy - Aug 04, 2007 - 12:40 PM
Post subject:

There's also a shop called EVOLUTION in Whistler that sells 32's don't know if they have a website or not, you could try googiling it.

I bought a bunch of stuff off of Ebay from america and some online shops and had it mailed to me in Whistler. There doesn't really seem to be a pattern of how muh import duty and customs charges you pay! For example i bought a brand new Burton Uninc for $200 (U.S) when i picked it up from the post office in Whistler i had to pay another $200 (Canadian) in customs charges, import duties and G.S.T. Still a well cheap board though! I tried to buy what i could off of Ebay Canada but i have to say that the amount of snowboarding kit for sale on there was utter rubbish!

One other thing while i'm thinking of it don't bother taking over your UK/European waxing iron it will not work. Due to the amount of current they use on warm up Canadian 110V just will not cut it and it will burn your iron out.. To buy a step up transformer to run the iron costs more than buying a new canadian iron. All the board shops sell them out there for about $60. I got a really nice Dakine one for about $55 from Ebay Canada (it was the one and only thing i found that i wanted on ebay canada!). No import or customs charges on that either, bonus!

TOA - Aug 06, 2007 - 07:11 AM
Post subject:

Hi guys

Planning a year in Whistler for 08, Have an interview with Intrawest next week through OWH (expensive but I live in Aus)

Not sure what area of Intrawest I’m signed up for but I hope its indoors Razz

Anyway, does anybody have an opinion of Intrawests staff housing (HOUSE??) & would I be better off in a private residence ?

Any tips ?

ace_mcgraw - Aug 06, 2007 - 09:33 AM
Post subject:

I visited a couple of the staff housing places, but never actually lived in any. They mostly reminded me of student halls at universtiy! They're basically big blocks of small flats, normally with about 2 bedrooms, with 2 to a room.

The biggest block is at base 2 on Blackcomb, and can be pretty rowdy, so if you don't mind a party I think this is a good place to be. It is a little way up the hill tho. There is a bus for about 50c which goes up and down the hill, but if you're on a night out you likely face a walk up a bit of the ski run to get back!

There are a few other House places around the town, but the only other one I've been in was Brio, which I think is a little quieter, and the individual appartments seem bigger. Basically it's pretty cheap and chearful, and seems to be a good way of making lots of friends. If you fancy quieter times, prob best to head somewhere else!

TOA - Aug 06, 2007 - 02:51 PM
Post subject:

Thanks ace

Some more questions Embarassed

Do the private residences also have multiple people per room on many occasions & is it significantly more expensive ? (I notice that house is between $300 & ~500 a month)

Intrawest mention 50% off market style restaurants in the job benefits, any idea what's classified as a market style restaurant ?

Any experience with the Gym in creekside ?

ScottDrummer - Aug 06, 2007 - 03:35 PM
Post subject:

anyone know how long it takes to get through customs and immigration at vancouver airport? i land at 3:10pm, and was wondering whether to book the 5:30 bus or 7:30 bus via perimiter. im guessing 7:30 but the perimiter booking bloke reackons we should book the 5:30 bus.

does anyone know if perimiter drop you off at designated spots in whistler or to the door?
Cheers

ace_mcgraw - Aug 06, 2007 - 04:38 PM
Post subject:

Hallo there,

TOA - Private places do have multiple occupancy as well, at least you normally have to to keep costs down. Most private places will be more expensive than house probably, although you may find cheaper with some looking around. Bear in mind fiding a private place will be more work!. I paid about $600 a month for single occupancy and that was considered pretty cheap.

And basically when they say market style restaurants they mean the canteen type places in the mountain lodges. And depending on the job you do, and the friends you make you can get free food anyway!

Scott - I reckon it prob took me 1-1.5 hours I guess, tho never checked that closely! Adn I've never used them, but I believe they go to your door!

frazz - Aug 06, 2007 - 04:44 PM
Post subject:

TOA wrote:

Any experience with the Gym in creekside ?

I stayed at the hotel in creekside where the gym is and although i only used the hot tub at the end of the day i did have a wee look in the gym,nothing flash but def has everything you need for a full body workout,plenty free weights,think it might have been cybex resistance machines,treadmills,bikes,rowers etc

Not sure what the costs are,i'm gonna be using whatever gym is cheaper and easier to get to.

ScottDrummer - Aug 06, 2007 - 04:48 PM
Post subject:

thanks
7:30 it is then, no point in booking 5:30, i dont reackon there is much chance of getting that on time, esp if im going via glasgow.

TOA: Im paying just over $600pppm for a 1 bedroom condo in the marquise. basically $1300 for both me and the gf, theres a gym, hot tub and swimming pool, a few metres to the nearest run and small ride down to the wizard lift from what i can make out.
piquenews and whistler question are your best bet for private non-intrawest accommodation.

alcockcharlotte - Aug 06, 2007 - 05:31 PM
Post subject: Course in Whistler

Hey,

I'm planning on doing a snowboarding course in Whistler in end of Nov/beginning of Dec for 3 or 4 weeks. Just wondered if anyone had been on a course and if they might have any recommendations of who to go with? Also, whether best to do an instructor course or improvement. I have no plan to instruct but I heard the courses may be better??

So far I am looking at Yes! Improvement and Peakleaders.

I'm not a musician!

All advice greatly received!

Charlie

ScottDrummer - Aug 06, 2007 - 07:18 PM
Post subject: RE: Course in Whistler

try http://www.alltracksacademy.com/

ace_mcgraw - Aug 06, 2007 - 10:23 PM
Post subject: RE: Course in Whistler

One of my housemates did a skiing instructor course and had a really good time, although he was really looking for the qualification.

Not too sure about other courses. I know the mountain does a whole bunch of courses aimed at all levels from beginners to back country and park I believe. I shoulda made the most of them, cos working as a lifty if there was a space available I could get the course for free.

Tens - Aug 08, 2007 - 06:59 PM
Post subject: RE: Course in Whistler

im paying half my accom fee next week and after that its a dead cert that im going, was looking around a minute ago at where I could buy my ski season lift pass as I wanted to get this early bird deal thingy saving a little (cant remember the deadline but i know its in a month or 2).

Can you even buy it online, had a frustrating search on the whistlerblackcomb website and cant get close to it. Do i have to phone up and do it or what?

ScottDrummer - Aug 08, 2007 - 07:02 PM
Post subject: RE: Course in Whistler

it becomes available in sept, just keep your eye on the whistler blackcomb website, google for it if you cant find it on there

ace_mcgraw - Aug 08, 2007 - 07:37 PM
Post subject: RE: Course in Whistler

You can def buy it on there cos that's where I got it from. I think early bird is sometime between September and October!

Tens - Aug 08, 2007 - 07:48 PM
Post subject: RE: Course in Whistler

ahhh well thats why I couldnt find it (comes availabel in sept).

nevermind thats cool
thanks for help

bennet - Aug 08, 2007 - 09:20 PM
Post subject: Getting though customs

Hey Scott - Customs normally takes me about 45 minutes to an hour (including deboarding) depending on how quickly I can get my snowboard bag. I always use Perimeter. I would book the 5.30 bus and then if for some reason you miss it they will put you on the next bus. If you get in at 3.10 you should be fine. They are the only company at the moment that does door to door however I have heard that there may be a new company servicing Whistler this winter - not sure who it is yet.

Charlie - if you are thinking about a improving your riding then you can check out Pro Ride Snowboard Camps - www.pro-ride.com - a friend of mine and I have trained with these guys over the past couple of years and have had a great time, my riding has improved a lot plus we have has some great laughs. You can work on your riding and work towards a certification if you like. They do both.

Tens - Here is the seasons pass link for when it becomes available in September - http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com and click on the seasons pass link.

ScottDrummer - Aug 08, 2007 - 11:41 PM
Post subject: RE: Getting though customs

ah sorry its 4.10 i get in, ive booked the 7:30 to be sure, thanks for the advice though, at least I have an expectation as to how long it may take.

Summers250 - Aug 09, 2007 - 12:05 PM
Post subject:

A question for you lot.

My mate is coming over with me for a month in December (I’m there for 3), anyway his last day in our Seasonit Chalet is the 31st December!

He isn’t flying home until the 3rd Jan, do you reckon he should try and book a hotel for a few nights now (will be V.expensive I imagine!) or ride his luck and see if he can sort something out with the people we meet whilst we’re over there?

Cheers
Summers

ScottDrummer - Aug 09, 2007 - 12:08 PM
Post subject:

theres always HI hostel, but these get booked early too, they are cheap so it might be worth him booking a few days there now if the dates are firm.
Does seasonit do checks on the place each day? I mean whats stopping him staying in someones room for a 3 days?

Jaded_Parrot - Aug 09, 2007 - 12:15 PM
Post subject:

The chalet host would notice surely if he bunked in the room?

Might be able to bung him a few $s tho haha

Tens - Aug 09, 2007 - 01:59 PM
Post subject:

there isnt a chalet host but there is a rep, not sure how often they check out each chalet but im sure you could get away with it and if your worried about it just let them in really late and kick them out early morning.

lez_s - Aug 09, 2007 - 02:15 PM
Post subject:

get your mate to hide in a board bag when the chalet host is round.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 09, 2007 - 02:21 PM
Post subject:

Me and my mate who I was travelling with managed to stay in our condo for a week without anyone noticing - We'd arrived back in Whistler off the road a week earlier than planned, and hadn't sorted anything out, so just kept everything in our cases in case we had to disappear quickly!

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 10, 2007 - 12:24 PM
Post subject:

Heres my imput on a couple of the points raised,

Customs - If you are travelling across on a work visa customs shouldnt be a problem as long as you have a flight booked out of canada for within a year of arrival. It may take a while tho as customs is often busy, i would allow 1h30mins at least before catching any buses, and remember the greyhound does not leave from the airport so allow extra travel time.
If, however you are arriving in Canada not to work and on the 6 month holiday visa, and will be staying for a considerable time (4months+) you need to be more carefull. When you arrive at customs have copies of return flights booked, print out of a recent bank statement (showing sufficient funds), know the address and number of where you are staying (if you have paid accom like seasonit have the receipt), and most importantly dont have anything that might suggest you will be working, this includes CV's. All this is more relavent if you have previously been to Canada before, but it is all just to make it quicker for you to get through customs.
For example, on my last trip i was going for 4.5months, not working, had my house sorted with my buddies, return flights booked, and plenty of money to support myself. I though i was all good. So it began, first customs dude said he didnt like how long i was staying with out any source of income, load more questions, get sent to see customs officer, every question immaginable from family, friends in Whis, bank accounts, time spent in Canada, previous jobs, and homes. He honestly stopped just short of calling my friends number to make sure she knew me. OK, i get the nod to go through, but only as far as a complete baggage search (this is where you need to be carefull) I'm nearly away when the last thing he finds is my folder of paperwork, with all my Canadain Bank account stuff, housing lease, snowboarding instructing cards and paperwork and a bunch of CV's, apparantly this makes him not very happy and he takes my passport and tells me to "pack your bags your going back" Get taken back through customs to a very stern looking dude, who once again asked all the same questions and then said "i'll let you go due to your good temprement" but i think it might have been the tear forming in my eye. So i finally walk through customs after 5 hours! Just a warning, it could take you 30mins with nice happy people, but its not always smooth.

Spirit Pass - it is worth it (someone earlier said it didnt seem worth it) If you dont want to sell yourself to the mountain, then most other business around town will offer a spirit pass which is your full dual mountain pass with no restriction for $1000, yes you do have to go to a corny presentation to make you a better citizen, but some of it is actually interesting and you will learn alot about the village you will be calling home.

Perimeter - i have never heard of the doing house drops, i know the stop in creekside and the main village. The use 2 sizes of coach depending on how many people have booked, one is a large full on coach which i cannot see dropping you off outside your house up some windy street. The other is kind of like a people carrier seats about 10 this may be able to drop you off but again i have never seen it (i may be totally wrong about this)

Seasonit guests - i stayed with alan and kasie 2 years ago and they are not against you staying an extra night or two, they may ask for a bit of $$ and a few beers

Hope this helps some people, its just from my experiences.
Belfast

ScottDrummer - Aug 10, 2007 - 01:49 PM
Post subject:

Hi johnny,
great post, very informative thanks for that.
A few more questions following that if you wouldnt mind answering?
Both myself and girlfriend are intending to work for a non-intrawest company for our main source of income, but also a small part time job for intrawest for a different experience, and getting different type of work to our non-intrawest job for the benefits they provide, i.e lift pass, discounts etc...
When the early bird passes become available, am I advised to buy the Spirit pass and just stick with the non-intrawest job or get the Intrawest season early bird pass and get get it reimbursed when getting the job? either way we both with to buy these in advance and hope we get the costs reimbursed when we find a job.
We are going over in Oct so hopefully we should have a good chance ahead of the crowd to get our CV's in.

Secondly, I have BUNAC visa to get in, I assume its ok to carry work papers etc... as the visa is a work authorisation form of visa, is it just the OWH style visas they will question?

ScottDrummer - Aug 10, 2007 - 02:13 PM
Post subject:

one more thing...
Is the fairmont/four seasons hotel worth working for? its literally next door to where im staying, so it may be very convenient. does anyone know if the wages/tips are decent and amount of work? or are we better off working a busy town dedicated restaurant? for both wages and enjoyability of working there.

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 10, 2007 - 03:43 PM
Post subject:

Hey Scott,
some more information that might help or confuse you.
I'll get the easy one out of the way first, yes you will be fine with the bunac visa and too with the OWH visa, all the working stuff will only affect you if you are entering the country with just your British passport as a visitor on the 6 month commonwealth weaver scheme, when working is a big no no.
Ok here goes, i'll just lay down some facts first, Earlybird pass is about $1400 (all prices still need about 15% tax added) and is available to book online up until October 9th at which point it goes up to full price of $1700. The Spirit Pass is NOT available to book or buy, you must first be offered a job at a participating employer to get a code with which you apply online with and book your spot at one of the talks. It costs $1000, but be carefull, i know of people who have not gone to the talk and had their passes revoked.
You said you are thinking of getting a part time job with intrawest, depending on the job you may get a restricted pass, its not the end of the world, just means you cant go up over christmas and new year which would suck a bit. Full time you obviously get a full pass.
Another option, if you get in early enough is to opt for the events volunteer position. You sign up or 25 days work (that works out at once a week) not getting paid, but with that you get a full pass. The work is also more interesting than the paid stuff, you will be helping with the events like races, comps and other things, normally marshalling races and making sure riders are ready. There will be days when you are stood on your own at a gate in blizzard conditions, but on the whole its pretty fun, but make sure you get in early, not many positions and popular with those in the know.
So if you do buy an Earybird and get an intrawest job they will reimburse you so long as you havnt used it for more that 25(ish) days. Bear in mind also that if you get offered an intrawest job in Oct you may not actually start until Dec and if we have another early opening like the last few years there is alot of riding to be done in Nov. I'm not sure of this but i don't know if they reimburse when you are offered the job or when you start the job, just be careful.
Getting there in Oct will be a frustrating time, everyone will take your resume but no one will call you, everywhere will be quiet, they wont need staff but will be on the lookout, and it will rain, all the time.
Looking for a non intrawest job for main income is probably wise, especially if you get into the service industry, bartending and serving are the most popular jobs (therefore harder to get), ride the day, work in the evening and get big tax free tips. There are plenty of jobs going, dispite what people say about it being impossible to get jobs. You WILL get a job, it just may not be as rock and roll glamorous as you hoped. Some are, some arnt. I know instructors that are unhappy because they never get to ride for themselves and i know night cleaners that are happy cause they have every singe day off.
Every employer is different with what they offer in terms of passes, i will say as a generalisation that most shops bars restaurants stores will offer a Spirit pass, some will even give you a free pass. Hotels mostly subsidise your pass like pay for a 50 day pass which you can upgrade to a full pass at some cost(no idea), again some will give you free one. Unfortunately not eveyone is nice and there are some companys that will offer you nothing, not many but they are about, so its worth checking.
Couple of tips for job hunting, get a whistler number, employers arnt going to go round looking for you, they want to call you, SIM cards are cheap enough and you will be able to buy one at your SWAP meeting. Dont just drop off a resume, first ask to speak to a manager, make an impression, and go back again and again and again. I bartend and during Oct, Nov, Dec there are about 15 people a day coming in looking for jobs, no joke.
So to finish up, its up to you, play it safe and buy the early bird hoping you get an Intrawest job and they reimburse you, or wait until you get there and get a job elsewhere with a Spirit Pass or possibly a free one and you wouldnt need to work for intrawest. As for the other discounts, you wont be short friends with staff passes.
So i leave the decision to you, have fun.

ScottDrummer - Aug 10, 2007 - 03:54 PM
Post subject:

Excellent thanks Johnny, im not sure whether this is another option but I could maybe buy an earlybird pass and hope the independant employers reimburse this? I dont know if this is an option but it would take the risk out of buying an early bird pass and not working for the mountain or waiting til I get there. Ill give it some thought. Thanks again, valued advice.

bennet - Aug 10, 2007 - 06:21 PM
Post subject: Spirit Pass

I think that buying the early bird pass would be a smart move and then if you work for an employer who is a member of the Whistler Chamber of Commerce you can then apply for a spirit pass

Keep an eye on this link for more information on this
http://www.whistlerchamber.com/ms-spirit-pass-information.html

Once you have done the spirit course you will receive a refund on the differece - several hundred dollars.

You may also be able to negotiate with your employer to have your pass refunded as some employers offer great incentives - not saying that you should work at Mc Donalds however they are one example of an employer who offers seasons passes for staff.

FYI for Permimeter they definitely do door to door as long as you book at least 4 days before you travel. They do not make this clear on their web site however you can email them for confirmation
res@perimeterbus.com

frazz - Aug 10, 2007 - 08:50 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

I've been thinking the same thing re working for Fairmont/Four Seasons re wages/tips etc or would it be better working at a very high volume place in town like The Old Spaghetti Factory for earning more from tips,certainly not as flash but thought it could be better for tips?I only want to work 3 or 4 nights a week and would prob do weekends too so ideally looking for restaurant/bar work.

Scott did you get an email from Bunac about the Fairmont/Four Seasons recruitment team coming to London and Edinburgh to hold interviews?

ScottDrummer - Aug 10, 2007 - 08:55 PM
Post subject:

lol yes i did

frazz - Aug 11, 2007 - 01:16 PM
Post subject:

Just had another look at the bunac email re Fairmont/Four Seasons recruitment and it says that all successful applicants will be hired on a full-time basis.

Full-time def not for me,been doing that for years!

Just to support what JohnnyBelfast said about there being plenty of jobs in whistler,i recently spoke to hr manager at the Pan Pacific and she told me there tends to be more jobs than people in whistler and it's only when you want a specific job or to work at a specific place that it becomes more difficult.

Hoping to get restaurant/bar work myself.

sotla - Aug 11, 2007 - 08:25 PM
Post subject:

Has anyone who has applied for snowboard instructor had a phone interview yet?
Question

lez_s - Aug 13, 2007 - 02:10 PM
Post subject:

been looking into doing a freestyle camp for a few days but with pro ride its going to cost me $725 (£350ish) for 15 hours of coaching over 5 days.

i was wondering if getting how it would work out getting private lessons off one of the riders from a camp out in whistler. anyone one know about how muuch private lessons are or is it just a case of asking about once i get there?

frazz - Aug 13, 2007 - 03:58 PM
Post subject:

I've been thinking about doing freestyle camp with pro-ride too but if i do reckon i'll leave it until feb/march time,want to make the most of Whistlers terrain and tons of powder (hopefully) in the earlier months,will prob wait until i'm in resort and see what availability they've got.

Anyone interested in doing backcountry with the Whistler Alpine Guides Bureau?

lez_s - Aug 13, 2007 - 04:12 PM
Post subject:

i did think that as well, but couldn't wait until feb to do one. if i learn stuff in the first month by april i'll be doing the stuff i want to.

Quote:

Anyone interested in doing backcountry with the Whistler Alpine Guides Bureau?

yes, tell more.

frazz - Aug 13, 2007 - 05:17 PM
Post subject:

[quote="lez_s"]i did think that as well, but couldn't wait until feb to do one. if i learn stuff in the first month by april i'll be doing the stuff i want to.
[quote]

Yeah i had the same thought too about learning stuff early on and hopefully being pretty decent at it by the end of the season,my mind is running riot with all the things i want to do and try while out there.

re backcountry with whistler alpine guides here's a link to what's on offer

www.whistlerguides.com/winter/backcount ... _tours.htm

ScottDrummer - Aug 15, 2007 - 01:44 PM
Post subject:

For anyone that is renting private (i.e not through seasonaires, seasonit etc...) are you getting home contents insurance aswell as travel insurance? if so who with? im not sure whether I need contents insurane as im renting a property privately.

Cheers

arby - Aug 16, 2007 - 10:59 AM
Post subject:

hey guys just wondering who is going for accomodation with a company like seasonaires etc? can you just put a cheeky comment in your posts so i can get a rough idea. chars

lez_s - Aug 16, 2007 - 11:07 AM
Post subject:

i'm booked with seasonaires - sorry can't think of anything cheeky to put.

TOA - Aug 16, 2007 - 04:19 PM
Post subject:

Any info on bank accounts ?

how about credit cards or Visa/Mastercard debit cards ?

ScottDrummer - Aug 16, 2007 - 04:26 PM
Post subject:

asked previously in the thread, but what is it you need to know?

Tens - Aug 16, 2007 - 11:37 PM
Post subject:

Question: I have just received back my police check thingy, it isnt that impressive and all it says is that they hold no records of me, i wasnt expecting anything to show up but is this all the letter is? £10 and a wait would have thought it was a little more impressive

ScottDrummer - Aug 17, 2007 - 07:43 AM
Post subject:

yup, thats all mine is, complete waste of money, still you wouldnt want it to be anymore exciting than it is.

paulparkie - Aug 17, 2007 - 03:47 PM
Post subject:

i'm a teacher so I had a police check done when I started teaching 4 years ago... but I'm sure I've read somewhere that they need to be within the past 18 months. Also, may be a stupid question, but do you just need them if you're working for the mountain, or do you need them for ANY work you apply for?

ScottDrummer - Aug 17, 2007 - 04:09 PM
Post subject:

yeah has to be last 18 months .
I think i recall reading a few adverts for employement that require a police check, possibly the hotels but its best to get one anyway, £10 saves having to wait once your over there, and IRC you have to be in the UK to apply for the police check- could be wrong but either way worth getting now.

Tens - Aug 17, 2007 - 05:51 PM
Post subject:

you need it for your visa

wolfie - Aug 18, 2007 - 12:16 AM
Post subject:

hey all, a great thread goin, I've been following it for a while on and off. My work gave me the ok for a few months unpaid leave...wahoo...so i'll looking at trappers cabin for Jan/Feb 08 with season-it. Can't wait for it! I've been saving for a bit to avoid working and maximise my time on the slopes.

paulparkie - Aug 19, 2007 - 10:30 AM
Post subject:

hmm... in terms of 'saving' ... how much is everyone budgeting on spending per week... I know it depends on how much you enjoy the night life, and whether you eat three course meals every other night... ! ha...

I'm coming back through South America afterwards, and was hoping to keep most of my savings for that... and was hoping that with a job, I could almost just spend what I earn, only dipping in to savings a little! hmmm is that optimistic?

also, whilst I gabbling on... as I'm flying out start of september (13 days now! woop woop!), I didn't want to lug all my boarding gear around for a month whilst I'm travelling, so I was going to get it flown over once I'm settled in some accommodation... I know stuff is cheap out there, but it can't be cheaper than flying gear over can it? Plus, then if I did buy new stuff I'd have 2 of everything... hmmm... any thoughts?

Porl

lez_s - Aug 19, 2007 - 10:43 AM
Post subject:

money wise i'm taking as much as i can, i dont plan in spending all of it as i will need some for when i get home.

i'm budgeting £400 - £500 a month. i wont be going out every night and i know how to cook for cheap (travelling around to world days) i'll be out there for 6 months, but if i was going for 3 months then i would be spending more.

frazz - Aug 19, 2007 - 12:52 PM
Post subject:

I'm planning on £400-£500 a month too, seeing as accom is paid upfront reckon should still be able to have a good time. I aint use to doing the budgeting/travelling thing so could be a bit of a challenge for me. Gonna be working too so not like i'm gonna be able to go out every night on the lash.

Tens - Aug 19, 2007 - 06:41 PM
Post subject:

saw this on seasonaires.com

not sure how reliable it is....

This is an average breakdown for a one (1) month stay in Whistler. Not being extravagant, but not being tight. You can either spend more or less, its up to you!

Group shop and cook evening meal at home 7 nights a week
[Eeat out at a restaurant, 5 nights a week £120]
£60
Cook your own English Breakfast, every day £45
Make a packed lunch for the Mountain. Roll, Drink, Chocolate bar or A chocolate bar at the cafe. £42
A crate of 6 Millers or 3 litres of Coke
(every single day) £98
Cinema, McDonalds, Ice Skating (once a week) £60
Total Spending for 1 Month £305

arby - Aug 19, 2007 - 08:12 PM
Post subject:

you can def do it cheaper than that if you needed to save. whilst i dont really have a decent idea about canadian prices, no way would i be spending £60 on dinners, 45 on breakfast !!!(more like a fiver for the week for brekki!). slack of the cinema and mcdonalds!!! fair play id probably be getting more than 6 beers a day tho Smile

what im saying is, i think you COULD do it for less a month if you needed to... rice and pasta all the way Smile

im am an incredibly poor student tho who lives on £5 a week spaghetti tho ( + lots of beer) Smile

ScottDrummer - Aug 19, 2007 - 08:37 PM
Post subject:

if there is one thing not to skimp on its good food. good food = good health, which you need when you want to spend everyday playing in the white stuff. Spending food money on beer every night may lead to a crappy season, does anyone know what whistlers nightlife is like? is there a variation? im not big on clubbing, are there any rock pubs, irish pubs? lounges etc...?
thanks

Oz. - Aug 19, 2007 - 10:46 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

to qoute from a blog I read most of the bars are "spit and sawdust" types of places playing lots of rock and stuff.

Anyway best advise I reackon scott is to read through blogs of people who have doen a season there. Should give you a good idea of night life and what doing a season in whistler is like.

Heres one from the top of my head:

http://godleyexploits.com/

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 20, 2007 - 02:48 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

most of the bars are "spit and sawdust" types of places playing lots of rock and stuff.

thats probably about as far wrong as you can get, ever since the dimise of the Boot Pub (RIP) two years ago a spit and sawdust pub just doesnt exist. The closest thing would be the El Furniture Warehouse which opened last year, its cool and great fun but its fake spit and sawdust.
On the most part the bars are all layed back, casual places where dress codes dont exist. Some small, some big, some for a classy martini where you can still walk in with baggy ass jeans and a cap on, and some totally mental bars where you go in to say hi and come out wasted. So basically there are so many places to go that there is literally something for everyone, but most are down the line nice decent bars.
With respest to rock clubs there isnt really, but Garfs one of the clubs has a long standing punk night on Sundays with live bands from all over the place, most of the other places have a mixture of everything thrown in.
And yes there is an Irish bar, called the Dubh Linn Gate, its at the bottom of the lifts in the skiers plaza, again great fun but can be a bit expensive, unless you know someone who works there.

Oz. - Aug 20, 2007 - 06:59 AM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Quote:

most of the bars are "spit and sawdust" types of places playing lots of rock and stuff.

Ha you know the only blogs I have found are from the 05/06 season! So may well be that place then! Although am sure he didnt literally mean spit n sawdust! Trying to find the blog..

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:45 AM
Post subject:

whats the best night yo go out e.g. when seasonaires have the next day off.

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 20, 2007 - 10:57 AM
Post subject:

Every night of the week, no lie.
Monday - 80's in Tommy Africas
Tuesdays - Savage Beagle
Wednesday - Industry Night at Buffalo Bills
Thursday - Locals night at Garfs
Friday and Saturday - Anywhere its all going to be busy
Sunday - Locals night Longhorn
All of these are pretty much the local nights, so whichever one you go too it will be busy. There are heaps of other nights and clubs to go to but as i said these are the main kind of locals ones

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 11:11 AM
Post subject:

I reackon we should start the season off with a SCUK/GB member whistler meetup when there, get some drinks going, share some experience etc...
...yup, Ive got the monday morning, cnba to start work yet , reading blogs and generally getting anxious and excited to go (2 months to go!) mood.
Im starting to look at jobs there now and there is quite a few id like to give a go at, but mainly restaurant would be where I should be for the money.

Johnny could you give a similar overview of the top restaurants there, for theme, good food, popularity, busy? Im aiming for the steak house type places rather than the fine dining cuisine places, as im not silver service trained, but havnt got a clue what places will be suited to send CV's to.

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 03:22 PM
Post subject:

To get an idea on the cost of food etc here's a link for Nesters market in whistler.

http://www.nestersmarket.com/whistler.cfm

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 03:51 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I reackon we should start the season off with a SCUK/GB member whistler meetup when there, get some drinks going, share some experience etc...

i get to whistler on nov 3rd so up for a few drink then, but its my birthday on nov 12th, maybe sort a big night out for then?

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:01 PM
Post subject:

yea, hopefully there enough people going above the legal drinking age of 21 lol. Does anyone know where you get a canadian ID card, ive heard they can be useful, I dont fancy taking my passport with me everywhere I go. im 25 but ive heard theyre pretty strict if you cant prove your age when asked in the bars

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:02 PM
Post subject:

Anyone gonna be in Whistler mid Oct (20th)?

Lez are you staying with seasonaires?

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:04 PM
Post subject:

i arrive Oct 19th.

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:07 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

im 25 but ive heard theyre pretty strict if you cant prove your age when asked in the bars

I've had probs in the states before when i left my passport in my room and there's no reasoning with them, they just don't let you in and i was 30 on that occasion.

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:14 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez are you staying with seasonaires?

yep. are you?

Quote:

I've had probs in the states before when i left my passport in my room and there's no reasoning with them, they just don't let you in

if you look under 30 you get asked. i never got that drunk when i had my passport on me.

Quote:

Does anyone know where you get a canadian ID card

if you find out let me know. like your self dont fancy taking the passport out.

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:15 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

i arrive Oct 19th.

You going on the job hunt when you get there, or have you started already?

I've spoke with hr at the 5* hotels and www.piquenewsmagazine.com has job listings for the winter, jst getting my cv and cover letters ready to email.

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:18 PM
Post subject:

Yeah i'm staying at chalet Jody in Nesters, went for the assigned on arrival option to save some £. Hopefully it'll be a nice place, the rest of their chalets look sweet!

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:22 PM
Post subject:

will do lez.
im going to attend the job fair in nov, but im gonna start sending my cv out this and next week as a feeler.
had any response from anyone so far? I know fairmont and 4 seasons were recruiting but that was for full time work.

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:24 PM
Post subject:

the one with no photos Laughing

i'm staying in chalet white gold, hot tub and pool table and its below blackcomb.

did you get an email to joined their facebook group?

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:29 PM
Post subject:

Not sent my cv to anyone yet but will start sending end of this week, would be good to have an interview lined up before heading out. I'm going for job fair too but would prefer to work for a non-intrawest employer,actually i'd prefer not to work lol!

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:33 PM
Post subject:

same here lol, but I need to eat and live so its unavoidable for me.

frazz - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:36 PM
Post subject:

Yeah the one with no pics, was a bit worried about that when i realised i was staying there but spoke with David and he says it's a nice place, he's gonna have pics online sept sometime and if i really don't like what i see,will poss just pay more to stay in another property.

Yeah i got the email re facebook, i'm a bit wary about facebook, bebo etc think it would be great for keeping in touch with people while away but people i know who use bebo are just nosey buggers (including me lol!),is facebook same idea as bebo?

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:38 PM
Post subject:

where is chalet white gold on the map lez, in relation the nearest lift. cant seem to find it on the maps. im on blackcomb, spearhead drive

paulparkie - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:42 PM
Post subject:

I'll be in Whistler from October 1st... so I'll be up for a few beers too... maybe I'll have scouted a few good bars by then!? * there's a facebook group I'm in called 'Snowboarding Season in Whistler 07/08 - Who's in?' - probably be a good way to keep in touch and organise stuff when we get out there... especially, nights out and the like! does anyone know if they do bag storage at Van Airport?

re: the price breakdown earlier... that makes me feel better, cause there's no way I'll be spending as much on SOME of those things... though beer will be on my shopping list, though I agree with 'scottdrummer', food is an area I'm usually reluctant to skrimp on... good food=healthy body & healthy mind baby!

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 04:50 PM
Post subject:

im planning on getting one of those phones from the SWAP office on arrival, it backs up as a 2 way radio apparently, sounds pretty good and reasonable rates.
Ill be using this when out and about but skype on my lappy will be my main phone home tool, im not sure how many of you lot are taking laptops or planning on getting a pay as you go sim when out there etc..could be a good way of getting a night out going.

Tens - Aug 20, 2007 - 05:30 PM
Post subject:

scott i might be getting mixed up here but if you get a phone from vancouver then you will have a vancouver area code or sommit like that, (dial 1 first from whistler if im right) and if you get a phone from whistler like many people may have it will all be in the same area code.

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 05:32 PM
Post subject:

i think whistler shares the same area code as vancouver, IRC from what ace_mcgraw said

paulparkie - Aug 20, 2007 - 05:55 PM
Post subject:

ooo... what are these phones from SWAP of which we speak? and how much might one (namely ME) purchase one for?

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 20, 2007 - 06:18 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

yea, hopefully there enough people going above the legal drinking age of 21 lol

the drinking age is 19, whey have the "if you look under 25 you will get asked" policy, but not overly strict on what forms of id, i have used driving licence, old student card and for most of last year a photo copy of my passport.

Scott here is that restaurant list:
Steak houses :- Rics Grill - classy steak house, good decor, great food. The Keg - awesome steaks reasonably priced, comfortable surroundings, amazing staff (i work there, lol). Hys Steakhouse, upmarked place, more expensive, fine food
Sushi :- Sachi - fantastic sushi, so fresh reasonably priced. Sushi Village - hugely popular great food and again reasonably priced. Samarai - cheaper food but still high quality
Tapas :- 21 Steps - firm favourite with the locals, relaxing atmosphere, comfortable, great foodbut dont overlook the starters. Elements - urban funk chilled and huge range of tapas, bit of a hidden gem.
Fine Dining :- Rimrock - delicious food and comfortable place. Araxi - only drank there never eaten, but the food looks mind blowing (you'll pay for it though). Bearfoot Bistro - heard my good things. Teppan Village - Japanese Steakhouse, quite expensive but worth it all, to watch them juggle your food.
Happy favourites :- Old Spaghetti Factory - relaxed friendly decent food. Milestones - welcoming tasty food, not overpriced. Thai one on - great stir-frys for pretty cheap

Above is a tiny fraction of places to eat, i have only included strictly restaurants, there are many more bars and pubs which all sell great food. All of the restaurants are of a pretty high standard. Dont get me wrong there are still plenty of cheap places to eat as well.
This may be of no help whatsoever, oh well. lol

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:03 PM
Post subject:

no thats a start anyway, give me some places to try, do you reackon you could get me and my girlfriend in The keg? Wink

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:20 PM
Post subject:

To be honest you are arriving when everywhere is quiet, but still nice and early. Best thing is just to get out there and pester the hell out of everyone. The keg (and many other places) will hold a job fair kind of thing, normally ours is at the end of Oct start of Nov. Just come along, dress up, talk alot, and show that you know what you are on about. Unfortunately serving in most of the restaurants is a hard job to break into, mostly reserved for locals and people working themselves up through the ranks. But that said, it can be done just be persistant and dont get annoyed when all you are getting offered is in the kitchen or bussing tables.
Many of the pub/restaurants are a bit more open to foreigners, so have at least 50 copies of your CV and get out there. If you are not giving out 10 CV's a day your not trying hard enough! lol

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:34 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Yeah i got the email re facebook, i'm a bit wary about facebook, bebo etc think it would be great for keeping in touch with people while away but people i know who use bebo are just nosey buggers (including me lol!),is facebook same idea as bebo?

people you dont add as friend cant see your profile and if you do add them your can stop them seeing some of your profile.

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:38 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

where is chalet white gold on the map lez, in relation the nearest lift. cant seem to find it on the maps. im on blackcomb, spearhead drive

found it on google maps -
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ie=UTF-8& ... =wl&q=
look about a 5 to 10 min walk.

edit: the link didn't work Confused

enter this British Columbia V0N 1B7, Canada and thats where i am

Tens - Aug 20, 2007 - 09:42 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

i think whistler shares the same area code as vancouver, IRC from what ace_mcgraw said

I think you are wrong but I am only going on what I have been told, on natives there is a guy who lives very near and just checked again what he wrote.

Would prefer it not to be the case tho.

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 09:44 PM
Post subject:

ah cool, not far from us then, I guess your local lift will be the wizard lift

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 09:45 PM
Post subject:

ah cool, not far from us then, I guess your local lift will be the wizard lift

Tens - Aug 20, 2007 - 09:45 PM
Post subject:

edit: double post

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 09:51 PM
Post subject:

mm, i cant find anything from a google search, i cant remember the name of the cell phone company swap recommend, but I was told the area code depends on the place you buy the handset. and that whistler was the same area code as vancouver , gimmie a sec and ill find the post

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 10:00 PM
Post subject:

Ah my apologies Tens, it was infact dryslopeboy and it was landlines he was refering to, got my lines crossed - see below
I think the phone Swap give you is on Solo http://www.solomobile.ca/

dryslopeboy wrote:

ScottDrummer - Aug 20, 2007 - 10:06 PM
Post subject:

so surely if you buy a mobile phone in whistler and you get a whistler dialing code being 604 that should be the case for mobiles? I dunno im just guessing but worth looking into. I dont know anyone in vancouver but if you could get free calls cell to cell in whistler that would be useful and more reliable than a walkie talkie

lez_s - Aug 20, 2007 - 10:22 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

ah cool, not far from us then, I guess your local lift will be the wizard lift

yeah looks like it. just hope its not too far to walk or only a short bus ride.

paulparkie - Aug 20, 2007 - 10:29 PM
Post subject:

um... another question... how does everyone go about getting a visa to work a second season? I'm sure I remember Bunac saying that I'm only allowed to apply for one visa...

phones from SWAP sound like a really good idea if they allow free calls cell to cell *

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:48 AM
Post subject:

I'll explain the phone thing,
It works different to the UK in that, calls are charged no different between landline and cell phones, only by area code. Both Vancouver and Whistler are 604 and classed as the SAME region, so a phone bought in Van will still work on local rates in Whis. Calls from your cell to a 604 number be it cell or landline will be charged at local rates, sorry no free calls. If you are calling outside of the area then it is classed and charged as a international call, but for most people in Whistler there will be no need to ever do this.
Another big difference is that you are charged to RECEIVE calls, even from local numbers. So this means that if you have no credit on your phone you will not be able to receive calls, only texts. One decent thing is that a text to the UK only costs 10p.
On pay as you go phones the top up method is a bit different too. The more money you put on your phone the better rates you get eg put on $10 and calls are 30cent/min, put on $20 and calls are 15cent/min. The last thing i can think of too, is that your credit can expire, $10 gives you 15days, $50 gives you 120days.
Hope this clears thing up.
Johnny

walnuts - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:01 AM
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Hey Peepls....

I've been living/working in Vancouver for a couple o' months now. We're on the Bunac programme, so hopefully I can be some help to others with all the usual bank-account/SIN number/mobile phone questions.

Summer seems to have abruptly ended today (ie. it's pissing it down out there).... so thoughts have turned to the imminent Whistler season.

I'm planning on heading up to Whistler for a couple of days with my girlfriend next week to get a feel for the place. Then we'll be heading there for the season in Oct/Nov. We've no work/accomodation sorted yet, so maybe we'll be able to get a head-start while we're there.

Other than that, just hoping to meet some British fools looking for some mad backcountry riding.

Anyway - HELLO! and roll on the winter....

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 07:58 AM
Post subject:

Hi Walnuts,
do you know of any cheap tennants or home content insurance providers, ive emailed a few for quotes and filled in forms but they seem to take forever to get back to you. Could you recommend anyone?

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 11:28 AM
Post subject:

just to let anyone know about baggage that are flying with Zoom:

You are allowed 2 bags up to 20kg
then it is charged at $10 per kg

no charge for sports equiptment
You are allowed one ski bag which cannot exceed 32kg (not part of 20kg
limit)
but you are ONLY allowed to carry sports equiptment in it (not sure if they check this)

Hand luggage: must not exceed 5kg and must be within 9 x 16 x 20
inches and one small item such as a laptop briefcase or purse

lez_s - Aug 21, 2007 - 11:46 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

You are allowed 2 bags up to 20kg

i take it that it means a max of 20kg total and not per bag.

Quote:

You are allowed one ski bag which cannot exceed 32kg (not part of 20kg
limit)
but you are ONLY allowed to carry sports equiptment in it (not sure if they check this)

never had mine opened before. i put all my boarding stuff in the boardbag, jackets, pants, boards, boots etc

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 12:00 PM
Post subject:

ye ive emailed snowangel (dani) to see if zoom checked her board bag on sunday for non sports equipment. I cant imagine them doing this. I usually stuff all my board related stuff in there except helmet.
yea i think its 20kg shared between both bags.
Dani did say they charged her £114 for going overweight and they are clamping down on it apparently. So ill be attempting to weigh my suitcase on a pair of scales before i go, not keen on paying overweight baggage fees. still if my suitcase is over ill put what i can in the roller bag
and take the risk.

paulparkie - Aug 21, 2007 - 12:21 PM
Post subject:

cheers for that Scott... that was actually on my list of things to check. So just to clarify: it's two bags that total 20kg between them PLUS you're allowed a third smaller bag as hand-luggage?

If anyone's interested, I found that there is bag storage at Van Airport at $7 a day. From what I can gather, you can store them upto 3 months, but charges stop after 10 days... so the charge will be the same for 11 days or 30 days (from what I can make out - I hope that's right) - anyhow, I'll be taking advantage of it as I'm travelling around for a month before and a month after the season and don;t fancy lugging my boarding gear around with me! ha

Think I got my accomm sorted today though which is one less thing to think about now... White Gold with seasonairres... erm, and Swiss Chalet I think during October.

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 12:29 PM
Post subject:

Just found this on my e-ticket:
"Each passenger (excluding infants without seats) is allowed checked baggage up to but not exceeding 20kg (44lbs) in total per person for economy seating and 30kg (66lbs) in total per person for Economy - Premium Service Supplement seating. Please note that any one piece of checked baggage can not exceed 32kg (70 lbs). You may also carry onboard one standard article with a maximum weight of 5kg (11lbs) and with maximum dimensions of 23cm x 41cm x 51cm (9"x 16" x 20") and one personal or business article such as a purse, laptop or briefcase, etc. Any items exceeding these limits will be subject to applicable excess baggage charges. "
its dosnt say about ski equipment, however they did say on the phone there is no charge

Will - Aug 21, 2007 - 01:18 PM
Post subject:

Hey, does anyone know what the maximum weights are and what you can have luggage wise for British Airways flights?

lez_s - Aug 21, 2007 - 01:35 PM
Post subject:

check http://www.britishairways.com/travel/ba ... blic/en_gb

wolfie - Aug 21, 2007 - 01:57 PM
Post subject:

Can any one recommend a reasonably priced nice apartment in whistler, for a week let? I'm planning for my girlfriend to fly out for a couple of weeks after I move out of the seasonit accommodation.

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:15 PM
Post subject:

try piquenews magazine or contact mountain country management (http://www.mountaincountry.ca/) who manage a lot of the rentals for owners there. or alluradirect - which is where most of the owners advertise weekly rentals

wolfie - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject:

Cheers, had a quick look on Alluradirect, plenty of choice, not to pricy either.

wolfie - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:29 PM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

If anyone's interested, I found that there is bag storage at Van Airport at $7 a day. From what I can gather, you can store them upto 3 months, but charges stop after 10 days... so the charge will be the same for 11 days or 30 days (from what I can make out - I hope that's right) - anyhow, I'll be taking advantage of it as I'm travelling around for a month before and a month after the season and don;t fancy lugging my boarding gear around with me! ha

Yeah that sound like a good idea. I was planning to do a couple of weeks visting a few sites around BC after my 2 month stint. Have you got any ideas on where you are going to go?

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:29 PM
Post subject:

there are some good ones there, market place seems to be one of the budget end condo areas. I can put you in touch with a few people who i contacted when i was looking for long term rental, Email me.
There is a place owned by the owners of the tandori in market pavillion. They said for every week i rented off them, i would get a $25 dollar voucher to use at their restaurant, which was very tempting.

Will - Aug 21, 2007 - 02:38 PM
Post subject:

cheers lez for the link

paulparkie - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:18 PM
Post subject:

wolfie wrote:

paulparkie wrote:

Yeah that sound like a good idea. I was planning to do a couple of weeks visting a few sites around BC after my 2 month stint. Have you got any ideas on where you are going to go?

Beforehand, I'm doing a moose travel network tour... not sure which one yet, but they usually take in a lot of the sights. Afterwards, I think I'm heading down to South America. What about yourself?

lez_s - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:32 PM
Post subject:

moose travel gets my vote. i went with them 5 years ago and love it. met some many cool people and the driver, matt i think was really good and knew his stuff.

i remember we stopped off at whistler so maybe you can get picked up there and droped off after your tour. if you want to stop off anywhere for a day or two there is another bus a day or two behind.

walnuts - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:53 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

I don't but I can find out from some people here for sure.

Not sure what you'd want it for though? Are you planning on buying a lot of valuable furniture or something? Your general belongings should covered on your travel insurance.

wolfie - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:57 PM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

Beforehand, I'm doing a moose travel network tour... not sure which one yet, but they usually take in a lot of the sights. Afterwards, I think I'm heading down to South America. What about yourself?

South America, that should be cool, like one extreme to another....assuming you got a hot bit.

I've got no specific ideas at the moment but would probably like to take in some more of the countryside. is it easy ot get a bout on public transport. Perhaps even a day or so in Vancouver before I fly back. I wouldn't mind doing a bit of mountain biking if there is is any at that time of the year. Do they do that crazy biking down the piste out there like I've seen at tinges.

ScottDrummer - Aug 21, 2007 - 03:59 PM
Post subject:

we are renting a private property for a year, and im not sure the contents (as in furniture, tv, bathroom etc...) are covered under our travel insurance or covered by the landlord/owner on their insurance.
either way we need insurance to cover the cost of our laptops, camera gear and snowboard/ski gear. I was told by the company im renting off that I would require contents insurance.
If you could give any advice that would be great.

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 21, 2007 - 06:23 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

So just to clarify: it's two bags that total 20kg between them PLUS you're allowed a third smaller bag as hand-luggage?

I'm pretty sure its two bags of 20kg each, so 40kg in total. I have flown with many airline but not zoom, and have never had my board bag checked, it weights 32kg and has most my clothes in it too.

Quote:

Hey, does anyone know what the maximum weights are and what you can have luggage wise for British Airways flights

Again pretty sure its two bags of up to 32kg for international travel, BA rule with baggage allowance!

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 21, 2007 - 06:47 PM
Post subject:

ok so i just checked with zoom, and its 20kg in total, haha thats rediculous, you'll barely get 2 sets of clothes and a jacket in that weight! That just confirmed why i never fly zoom, their flights may be a bit cheaper but for £100 more (in my case) i get to fly BA in comfort and have a 62kg bag allowance, you know, cause i actually have stuff to bring!

ace_mcgraw - Aug 21, 2007 - 07:28 PM
Post subject:

I dunno, I go away for a weekend, and suddenly there's another 5 pages added to look through!

When I headed out with Zoom, I had a big back pack and a freakin huge board bag, as well as a daypack for hand luggage, and got by fine for the entire season. My board bag was so heavy that at first it was over the weight limit for the baggage handlers to carry, so I had to carry my snowboard boots on as hand luggage as well! So in all I prob had about 65kgs luggage and didn't pay for any of it. They didn't check any of my bags, despite my snowboard bag was bulging with stuff, so you should be able to take anything you like with you!

As for the mountain biking question (Sorry, forgot to note who asked the question!), I can't remember when you're heading across but the actual bike park opens some time in May I think. The bike park itself is all lift serviced (By Fitzsimmons chair, lower portion of village gondola and later in the season, the Garbanzo chair), and is all downhill stuff, with some pretty gnarly trails, but with some pretty easy trails. I'd never done it before, but after two days of doing it you get pretty good and it's very addictive. THere's loads of biking trails both on and off road around the valley, and there opening depends generally on the amount of snow still around!

walnuts - Aug 22, 2007 - 07:43 AM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

If you were a Canadian, then yes - you would need contents insurance (just like you would need contents insurance if you rented a place in the UK) in order to cover your belongings (snowboard, laptop, underpants etc).

However, contents insurance only covers items that belong to you. Therefore in a furnished place it is the landlords responsibility to get insurance for the furniture (and whatever else is in the building that belongs to him), and it's your responsibility to insure whatever belongs to you, and you do this via travel insurance.

So, the short answer is, all you need is sufficient travel insurance for whatever you own. You don't need contents insurance.

Hope that makes sense fella. I'm not sure why the company would tell you that you need contents insurance, unless perhaps they are a Canadian company and they are unwittingly giving you the same advice that they would give a Canadian client.

walnuts - Aug 22, 2007 - 07:45 AM
Post subject:

Has anyone done a Whistler season before and got their accomodation through a local company/landlord rather than seasonairres/seasonit?

If so, what did you think - was it easy and would you do it again?

ace_mcgraw - Aug 22, 2007 - 08:59 AM
Post subject:

walnuts wrote:

Greetings.

I've done a whistler season (05/06). I got my first accom through Alpine Elements, but when we got kicked out in May me and a friend sorted out an appartment ourselves for the summer. Obviously it's a bit easier finding a place for the summer anyway, but it wasn't too much hassle, just a case of looking through the classfieds in the pique (www.piquenewsmagazine.com) and seeing what was available, and getting on the phone. Definately easy, and also worth doing as quite a few of the private places are outside the main condo areas, and so you get to live in what feels like a proper community, which is good, especially in the summmer!

lez_s - Aug 22, 2007 - 09:35 AM
Post subject:

morning,

thinking about getting my casi level 1 as its only takes 4 weeks and dont really want to miss out on too much while doing it.

i would guess it would be better to do it at the end of the season because of less snow and not many powder days, plus i dont have a work visa so cant teach while there.

is anyone else thinking about doing a camp or courses while there?

ScottDrummer - Aug 22, 2007 - 09:49 AM
Post subject:

ye, although im thinking of a few 1 on 1 lessons to get my technique in shape, as self taught atm, and I can really tell. Id like to get some of my bad habits and crap technique ironed out. After that I have been thinking of attempting a Casi 1.

Will - Aug 22, 2007 - 09:58 AM
Post subject:

was also thinking about doing my casi 1 but i heard it only took 2 weeks.....also is there any age restrictions?

lez_s - Aug 22, 2007 - 10:01 AM
Post subject:

i was looking at pro-ride web site and it said 4 weeks, where did you see that Will?

i was thinking if i spent 4 weeks at the beining of the season i would miss a lot of powder day, and i dont want that.

Will - Aug 22, 2007 - 11:33 AM
Post subject:

my mate told me who has just done his casi 3 i think....if you do it at the beginning of the year you may miss a few weeks of powder but if you do it at the end of the season you miss good days on riding park, unless ur not into park.

paulparkie - Aug 22, 2007 - 12:05 PM
Post subject:

what sort of prices are you talking for CASI 1? ...

... plus does anyone know what the weather's likely to be like september time? I can't whether to do a tour in september before the season, or in may after the season... I just don't want to go to all these cool places with awesome views for me not to be able to see anything for cloud and rain?

ScottDrummer - Aug 22, 2007 - 01:16 PM
Post subject:

http://www.whistlerguidebooks.com/index.htm
as its a PDF, anyone fancy going part payment? or group buy?

ScottDrummer - Aug 22, 2007 - 01:35 PM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Scott here is that restaurant list:
Steak houses :- Rics Grill - classy steak house, good decor, great food. The Keg - awesome steaks reasonably priced, comfortable surroundings, amazing staff (i work there, lol). Hys Steakhouse, upmarked place, more expensive, fine food
Sushi :- Sachi - fantastic sushi, so fresh reasonably priced. Sushi Village - hugely popular great food and again reasonably priced. Samarai - cheaper food but still high quality
Tapas :- 21 Steps - firm favourite with the locals, relaxing atmosphere, comfortable, great foodbut dont overlook the starters. Elements - urban funk chilled and huge range of tapas, bit of a hidden gem.
Fine Dining :- Rimrock - delicious food and comfortable place. Araxi - only drank there never eaten, but the food looks mind blowing (you'll pay for it though). Bearfoot Bistro - heard my good things. Teppan Village - Japanese Steakhouse, quite expensive but worth it all, to watch them juggle your food.
Happy favourites :- Old Spaghetti Factory - relaxed friendly decent food. Milestones - welcoming tasty food, not overpriced. Thai one on - great stir-frys for pretty cheap

Above is a tiny fraction of places to eat, i have only included strictly restaurants, there are many more bars and pubs which all sell great food. All of the restaurants are of a pretty high standard. Dont get me wrong there are still plenty of cheap places to eat as well.
This may be of no help whatsoever, oh well. lol

are buffalo bills or longhorn decent places to serve?, im just trying to find all the non intrawest places that look busy and have good food (assuming you get a free staff meal :-p this is a decisive point)

ace_mcgraw - Aug 22, 2007 - 02:01 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

http://www.whistlerguidebooks.com/index.htm
as its a PDF, anyone fancy going part payment? or group buy?

Def worth getting, especially the expert book. Shows loads of stuff to do. Prob not worth forking out for the intermediate one as it doesn't have so much good stuff in, even if you don't class yourself as an expert!

ScottDrummer - Aug 22, 2007 - 02:08 PM
Post subject:

they look quite good, If anyone is interested in going 1/2, 1/3's etc.. shout

wolfie - Aug 22, 2007 - 02:49 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

is anyone else thinking about doing a camp or courses while there?

I'm thinking about doing a pro-ride clinic

lez_s - Aug 22, 2007 - 03:01 PM
Post subject:

which clinic are you looking at doing? i did think about doing a freestyle one at the start of the season.

lez_s - Aug 22, 2007 - 03:05 PM
Post subject:

oh, forgot to add -

i have a friend out there and she knows a few instructors so i did think about asking them to show me stuff for a morning for beer money. i would think it would work out cheaper and make them money on the side too.

arby - Aug 22, 2007 - 03:42 PM
Post subject:

i took a long look at these courses. i'd definetly do it at the start of the season. they take you to all the best places and you get wicked pow in by the sonds of it. i dont think you'd be missing out on powder if you did it then.... i thnik you'd have a better time with them tbh!

however.... i was also told its not worth the money to do one of these courses if your already any good at boarding. i was dead keen on doing one of the courses, but i rekon that with the amount of money your spending on it you'd do better to just get yourself some private lessons and tell them (b4 you buy) that you want someone who can teach you about the whole casi thing etc.

i think it mainly depends on how much money your prepared to throw at becoming an instructor and how good you already are.

however, i have heard from a few chums that the courses are amazingly good fun etc and well worth it.

frazz - Aug 22, 2007 - 04:30 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

http://www.whistlerguidebooks.com/index.htm
as its a PDF, anyone fancy going part payment? or group buy?

I've got both those books and have ben salvating over them for months, loads of inbounds stuff that's not listed on the piste map, know i've got quite a few i want to tick off my list.

ScottDrummer - Aug 22, 2007 - 05:06 PM
Post subject:

fancy sharing it :-p (im being a cheapskate)

ill buy you a beer in whistler

ace_mcgraw - Aug 22, 2007 - 05:19 PM
Post subject:

frazz wrote:

ScottDrummer wrote:

http://www.whistlerguidebooks.com/index.htm
as its a PDF, anyone fancy going part payment? or group buy?

I've got both those books and have ben salvating over them for months, loads of inbounds stuff that's not listed on the piste map, know i've got quite a few i want to tick off my list.

My faves that I did - basically any of the Harmony Horseshoes, and some of the entrances into West Bowl.

I would lend you my book, but I like to look through it and remember happier times every now and again! Crying or Very sad

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 22, 2007 - 06:03 PM
Post subject:

Yeah those guides are sweet, get the advanced/expert one for sure. You can buy them off amazon but its much cheaper to buy them in the resort, the grocery store sells them for about $20.
Scott, you asked about Bills and Longhorn to serve food at. Bills is pretty much a club, they do serve food but its not great. The Longhorn, yeah its busy, but again its more of a bar than anything else, ie the foods nothing to shout about. Plus you need to be a smokin hot girl to serve there.

frazz - Aug 22, 2007 - 06:33 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

fancy sharing it :-p (im being a cheapskate)

ill buy you a beer in whistler

Reckon that's a fair enough deal!

frazz - Aug 22, 2007 - 06:43 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

morning,

thinking about getting my casi level 1 as its only takes 4 weeks and dont really want to miss out on too much while doing it.

I'm planning on doing my level 1 while in whistler,it only takes 3 days and costs $317 here's a link for info

http://www.casi-acms.com/english/index_welcome.html

Once you've done level 1 you become a member of casi and become eligible for pro-deals,gear on the cheap Smile

Here's another link for more info

http://www.casi-bc.com/Default.aspx

lez_s - Aug 22, 2007 - 07:36 PM
Post subject:

when are you thinking of doing it? i wouldn't mind doing after a couple of weeks being there as there will be lots powder days at the begining of the season, plus i've not riden much since feb due to hurting my knee in feb so need a couple of days to get up to speed.

frazz - Aug 22, 2007 - 08:48 PM
Post subject:

Gonna do level 1 the first chance i get but want to have about 2 weeks of riding down before i do it,so depending on when the mountain opens will do level 1 end of Nov,start Dec.

Denizen - Aug 22, 2007 - 09:29 PM
Post subject:

frazz wrote:

Gonna do level 1 the first chance i get but want to have about 2 weeks of riding down before i do it,so depending on when the mountain opens will do level 1 end of Nov,start Dec.

Me too, going to go for CASI 1 when I get out there, then see how it goes. Not looking to be working as an instructor at the moment but possibly going to look at volunteering 1 day a week as one to gain some experience and maybe do the level 2 later in the season depending on how things progress.

Also the whistler guide book is well worth the $20 dollars it costs, don't bother with the intermediate one, the advanced/expert one is the one you'll need; I've still got mine and will be taking it with me this season. I'll even let you borrow it if you want to have a good look through it - I want it back though.

frazz - Aug 22, 2007 - 09:51 PM
Post subject:

Denizen wrote:

My plan aint to be instructing as my main job but like yourself would like to get some teaching experience under my belt so i can then do my level 2,is volunteering an option?Do you have any info on volunteering as an instructor?

lez_s - Aug 22, 2007 - 11:27 PM
Post subject:

are you going to sort it when you get out there or before?

if there is few of us doing it, it might help with any studying that needs to be done for the exam.

as its 3 days we wont miss much riding.

Oz. - Aug 23, 2007 - 09:42 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

In that blog i posted earlier on covers the 3 days that the writer did his CASI 1 its towards the end of the season, and gives you a decent view of whats covered in the 3 days.

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 09:46 AM
Post subject:

do you have a link oz?

Oz. - Aug 23, 2007 - 10:03 AM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

do you have a link oz?

ha it was you i posted it for to :p

Here it is again! Smile

http://www.godleyexploits.com/whistler_diary_nov.php

You said earlier you have been reading blogs to, any links?

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 10:09 AM
Post subject:

ah sorry i was part way through the godleyexploits one, i dont think ive got to the casi bit yet.
the one blog I read which was interesting was http://www.snowiscold.com/, quite old but interesting non the less.
I did a search on blogsearch (http://blogsearch.google.com/) for whistler, came up with a few, will let you know of any which are interesting.
Im gonna be putting up a site as soon as I activate my .mac account, to write, show and gloat to the folks back home Smile

Oz. - Aug 23, 2007 - 10:45 AM
Post subject:

Aye already read snowiscold, haven't really come across any other blogs.

think the Godley's is the best out of what I have read.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 23, 2007 - 10:53 AM
Post subject:

Not wanting to be a blatant self-publicist, but I wrote a blog thingy when I was in Canada, which can be found at www.acemcgraw.blogspot.com

I warn you it's pretty gash, but you may want to have a look at it!

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 10:54 AM
Post subject:

thanks ace, gives me something to spend my time at work doing.

btw you need to take the ./ off the end of the url else you get 404 error

wolfie - Aug 23, 2007 - 11:26 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

which clinic are you looking at doing? i did think about doing a freestyle one at the start of the season.

yeah start of the season after a week or so of getting back in to it. Probably wana do 75% freestyle 25% freeride. See how I go. Not sure how it compares to just getting some private tuition. I hoping to get a few tips off the guys/gals out there, as going out on me tod.

alltracksacademy - Aug 23, 2007 - 11:29 AM
Post subject:

Anyone heading to Whistler will be please to hear the the fist snows arrived at the beginning of last week in the Garibaldi Park (area next to Whistler) - fingers crossed for another epic like last season.

lez_s - Aug 23, 2007 - 11:36 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Not sure how it compares to just getting some private tuition. I hoping to get a few tips off the guys/gals out there, as going out on me tod.

it might work out cheaper and better if a few of us got a private lesson together depending on what level each of us are at.

lez_s - Aug 23, 2007 - 11:38 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Anyone heading to Whistler will be please to hear the the fist snows arrived at the beginning of last week

first snow is that? if i wasn't fed up at work already!!!

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 11:41 AM
Post subject:

What? already.
58 days cant pass soon enough.

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 11:51 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

Not sure how it compares to just getting some private tuition. I hoping to get a few tips off the guys/gals out there, as going out on me tod.

it might work out cheaper and better if a few of us got a private lesson together depending on what level each of us are at.

Ive been boarding for 4 years, however as im self taught, my technique is pretty crap. i was thinking of booking some lessons to start me from scratch and correct any bad technique I have. I guess you lot are probably too experienced for what I would be interested in, but if anyone else has the same intention id be happy to join the group.

lez_s - Aug 23, 2007 - 01:19 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Once you've done level 1 you become a member of casi and become eligible for pro-deals,gear on the cheap

not had time to read the links. i'm thinking about getting another board while out there. whats the pro deals about?

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 05:16 PM
Post subject:

Just been looking into CASI 1 courses. Can anyone tell me the difference between a a 5 week course and the more common 3 day courses? I assume its just the latter is less thorough spending less time on each module etc...
I cant see what the advantages of taking a 5 week course is to a 3 day course.

matt-j - Aug 23, 2007 - 06:26 PM
Post subject:

[/quote]Ive been boarding for 4 years, however as im self taught, my technique is pretty crap. i was thinking of booking some lessons to start me from scratch and correct any bad technique I have. I guess you lot are probably too experienced for what I would be interested in, but if anyone else has the same intention id be happy to join the group.[/quote]

im in exactly the same boat scott, i would definately be up for sharing tuition but i arrive a month later than you (dec 1st) but if your up for holding on then count me in

Tens - Aug 23, 2007 - 09:17 PM
Post subject:

anyone here want to learn to board with me, I can ski but never been on a board, i got my brothers old one to take out with me so I will be doing so and at some stage want to get into it.

ScottDrummer - Aug 23, 2007 - 10:49 PM
Post subject:

Hi Tens, My girlfriend skii's but will be taking some board lessons if you wanted to build up a group

Tens - Aug 24, 2007 - 08:26 AM
Post subject:

dont know if im up for lessons as of yet, depends on how much work i can get hold of between now and december. Learnt to ski by putting my skis on at top of mountain, went pretty well so hoping to do the same but maybe some tuition a few days or a week into it to tune some bad areas, also dont know if i want to do it right away cos the floors gonna be hard and rocky, and all im gonna want to do is fly down some runs with my skis.

lez_s - Aug 24, 2007 - 08:35 AM
Post subject:

if i was you tens i would get lessons. you'll pick it up quicker then doing it your self. once you had lessons there will be people around that can help you.

frazz - Aug 24, 2007 - 01:01 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

Once you've done level 1 you become a member of casi and become eligible for pro-deals,gear on the cheap

not had time to read the links. i'm thinking about getting another board while out there. whats the pro deals about?

Once you've done your level 1 you become a member of CASI and one of the benefits is discounted gear/equipment,don't know what prices are like for members cos as a non-member we can't access that part of the website.
Prob a good idea to do level 1 asap to get access to the pro-deals.

lez_s - Aug 24, 2007 - 01:36 PM
Post subject:

yeah, still want to ride a week or so before getting the CASI, just to get the legs working again after riding snowdomes.

has anyone looked into it a bit more? i've emailed but not got anything back yet.

pricey74 - Aug 24, 2007 - 01:42 PM
Post subject:

Matt/Scott/Tens, I did the "learn to board in a day" at Tamworth back in May. I've only been back a couple of times and will hopefully go a few more times before I leave, so I'd be dead keen on lessons when I arrive in Whistler on Dec 1st. A group doing it together sounds like a quality idea to learn and get to know some fellow seasonaires at then same time......

Oz. - Aug 24, 2007 - 02:00 PM
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1. Equipment “Pro Deals”
If for no other reason, pay your dues and take advantage of our “Pro
Deals” and you could save hundreds of dollars on the purchase of your
equipment this year. The exact value of savings varies between suppliers,
but discounts for major equipment generally runs between 30-50% off
the retail price.
Once you’ve paid your dues you can then access the CASI Pro Deals page
on our website at www.casi-acms.com then enter your name and
membership number, and start saving.
Here are some of the brands available this year:
Atomic
Broform
Burton
Catek
Drake
Elan
Flow
Freebord
Head
Innovation Sports
Kuu
Northwave
Pow
Prior
Ride
Scott
Technine

lez_s - Aug 24, 2007 - 02:40 PM
Post subject:

hope theres nothing about selling them onto friends for profit Laughing

ScottDrummer - Aug 24, 2007 - 04:05 PM
Post subject:

alltracksacademy wrote:

Isnt it 30 Degrees over there at the moment?

frazz - Aug 24, 2007 - 07:02 PM
Post subject:

For you guys thinking about lessons,remember during certain dates there's discover whistler days with lessons 40% off,there's also a 2 day freestyle camp available.

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/rental ... /index.htm

ace_mcgraw - Aug 24, 2007 - 07:33 PM
Post subject:

Also don't forget, i think if you get a job with the mountain, you can get lessons for free.

TOA - Aug 25, 2007 - 11:17 AM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Also don't forget, i think if you get a job with the mountain, you can get lessons for free.

Correct

free access to the group lessons depending on the numbers

I had my last interview with intrawest on tuesday, confirmed my job (rentals/retail) & then I paid & booked my flights & insurance for the year.

will arrive on the 24th of november & start work 10th of december

when does the mountain usually open ?

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 25, 2007 - 12:09 PM
Post subject:

Official opening day is Nov 23rd, but its all subject to conditions
Last few winters it has opened early, 5th Nov two years ago and 16th last year.

lez_s - Aug 25, 2007 - 02:58 PM
Post subject:

lets hope it opens nov 5th again.

anyone read anything about predicted snow fall for this coming winter?

Denizen - Aug 25, 2007 - 04:19 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

lets hope it opens nov 5th again.

anyone read anything about predicted snow fall for this coming winter?

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article2036303.ece

La Nina year this season, usually results in above average snowfall.

http://members.aol.com/crockeraf/MEI_corr.htm

/antijinx

BoardingJay - Aug 25, 2007 - 10:54 PM
Post subject:

95ft of snow would be sooooooooo awesome....

lez_s - Aug 27, 2007 - 12:26 AM
Post subject:

anyone up for sorting the CASI level 1 for around the start of dec? that would give us around 7 days of riding to get our legs working.

ScottDrummer - Aug 27, 2007 - 10:53 AM
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sure, id have found my feet by then and had a few improver lessons

Will - Aug 27, 2007 - 11:02 AM
Post subject:

yeh i would be keen for that as well

frazz - Aug 27, 2007 - 03:36 PM
Post subject:

My plan is to do level 1 start of Dec too,will keep checking casi website for info on dates.

wolfie - Aug 27, 2007 - 05:18 PM
Post subject:

does anyone know when the early bird season passes go on sale? Is it cheaper than buying it through seasonit?

Tens - Aug 27, 2007 - 06:23 PM
Post subject:

i have heard they go on sale september but not sure, and i asked seasonit what their prices were. They are just the price of an early bird but they offer early bird rates all the time if you stay with them, but they only accept bank transfer or cheque.

btw im in snow vally lodge with seasonit.

lez_s - Aug 27, 2007 - 06:28 PM
Post subject:

i was told the early bird season passes go on sale in sept to oct.

frazz - Aug 27, 2007 - 07:27 PM
Post subject:

Question for past Whistler seasonaires. What's it like at xmas & new year, is there loads of parties/special events in pubs/clubs i.e dj's,bands,live acts and is it stupid expensive to get in places for special xmas/new year events?

Dazzler74 - Aug 27, 2007 - 08:58 PM
Post subject:

I am telling work tomorrow...... cacking it a little but got to be done...wish me luck!!!!!!

we are staying at Trappers Cabin and judging by our rather tiny budget I doubt we will be paying to get in to anywhere special at new year/xmas..my wife can cook a pretty mean xmas dinner and a pub with a stool, beer and a good chinwag will do us, maybe even a drunk boogie woogie

though I hear the bears are having a picnic.....

Tens - Aug 27, 2007 - 09:30 PM
Post subject:

you could earn your money for new yrs by getting your wife comming to snow vally lodge (my cabin) to cook me and eveyrone else dinner!

lez_s - Aug 27, 2007 - 09:57 PM
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so you're going to pay for his wifes services!!!! Laughing

ScottDrummer - Aug 27, 2007 - 10:06 PM
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Dazzler74 wrote:

All round Dazzlers then for christmas dinner! Laughing

I told work a few weeks ago, was quite nervous but they were absolutely fine, when your telling them just imagine the goodness that will come out of it. I couldnt stop smiling, even when i was saying im leaving.

Dazzler74 - Aug 27, 2007 - 10:12 PM
Post subject:

I am going to try and convince them to keep my job open even though I have only been there since jan this year..bit cheeky but worth a punt..

ScottDrummer - Aug 27, 2007 - 10:15 PM
Post subject:

yeah I tried that, they said they could do 6 months but a year was pushing it. Oh well. Where do you work?

ace_mcgraw - Aug 28, 2007 - 12:09 AM
Post subject:

Cos of my short memory I can't remember who posted it, but someone asked about what it;s like at xmas and new year. Well I arrived on the 30th Dec a few years ago, and it was pretty hectic. Everywhere was charging between 30 and 60 dollars entry which seemed pretty crazy. The cheapest place was Merlins at the Blackcomb daylodge which was charging $5 entry, but had queues miles out the door. Basically, me and my housemates ended up hooking up with a bunch of Aussie and Kiwi girls in the line up for Merlins, headed up to our place, and ended up spending New Years partying in our hot tub with about 25 random people!

frazz - Aug 28, 2007 - 06:02 AM
Post subject:

Cheers for that Ace. Sounds just like here in the U.K, £30 entrance fee and queues a mile long! A house party sounds like a good option then.

ScottDrummer - Aug 28, 2007 - 11:35 AM
Post subject:

According to guest services early bird passes 07/08 go on sale tomorrow- 29th aug

..."Guest Services starts selling these passes Aug 29th.

Nancy Hayes
Business Development Planner | Whistler Blackcomb | nhayes@intrawest.com | p: 604.938.7335 "

Scott

paulparkie - Aug 28, 2007 - 12:06 PM
Post subject:

maybe we should have an 'Inter-House party' party... and do a tour of all our houses (taking the party with us) ha*

by the by, has anyone had a knee operation before? I'm panicing now... I had one a couple of months ago to 'fix' my knee before this trip, but it's not healing as fast I'd hoped... and worried I might not be able to board on it (even though the physio was sure I would!!) ... how gutting would that be... as season in Whistler and no boarding!!?? haha Crying or Very sad

lez_s - Aug 28, 2007 - 12:51 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

has anyone had a knee operation before

4 so far and another is planned for when i get back from canada.

what you done?

Will - Aug 28, 2007 - 12:54 PM
Post subject:

what insurance is everyone going with?

cheers

lez_s - Aug 28, 2007 - 12:55 PM
Post subject:

still looking, but so far the scuk one looks good.

ScottDrummer - Aug 28, 2007 - 01:00 PM
Post subject:

BMC (British Mountaineering Council), it worked out at over £100 cheaper than BUNACS equivelent that they offer.

paulparkie - Aug 28, 2007 - 01:04 PM
Post subject:

Les, I had a bit of cartilage lopped off...

anything similar to one of your... four Surprised

?

any advice on recovery time? I know everyone's different etc, but the surgeon was a bit vague, and kinda rushed me through and out on my check-up day!

Will - Aug 28, 2007 - 01:10 PM
Post subject:

i was going to go with BMC, looked really good until i found out that they dont cover parks...Tagconnect is looking the best bet but an extra 50% if i want to do comps

lez_s - Aug 28, 2007 - 01:15 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Les, I had a bit of cartilage lopped off...

anything similar to one of your... four ?

any advice on recovery time? I know everyone's different etc, but the surgeon was a bit vague, and kinda rushed me through and out on my check-up day!

yep had a couple of them Laughing

last time it took me just over 6 weeks to get back riding, but i never wait until i'm 100% again. thats was only riding down and not hitting kicker, rails or 1/4 pipe.

lez_s - Aug 28, 2007 - 01:18 PM
Post subject:

with tag you're covered for off piste and park and your boarding stuff per item of £800 to a total £1,500

Why-my-legs? - Aug 28, 2007 - 03:37 PM
Post subject:

The Scuk (tag) insurance was good for me when I was in Whis and had to claim for an injury.

Also New Years and Xmas are all about house parties forget going into the village.

paulparkie - Aug 28, 2007 - 04:52 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

yep had a couple of them Laughing

last time it took me just over 6 weeks to get back riding, but i never wait until i'm 100% again. thats was only riding down and not hitting kicker, rails or 1/4 pipe.

Just over 6 weeks... jeez, you must be a faster 'healer' than me, unless they lopped more off mine, but I couldn't even bend mine properly after 6 weeks... it's been almost 9 weeks now I reckon since mine, and it doesn't feel ridable yet.

Did you strap yours up? even when you could bend it again, did it hurt when you banged it?

paaaaannnnnnnniiiiiiiiicccccccccc Shocked

haha

Dazzler74 - Aug 28, 2007 - 06:42 PM
Post subject:

todl work

my boss was totally up for keeping my job open........just has to run it passed the CEO who can be a funny fecker..

but so far so good!!!!

Couldnt stop grinning when I was telling her I was off snowboarding every day for 3.5 months!!! hehehehehehh

ScottDrummer - Aug 28, 2007 - 07:13 PM
Post subject:

lol, congrats

Tens - Aug 28, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

scott you got my pm yet?

ScottDrummer - Aug 28, 2007 - 07:28 PM
Post subject:

nope sorry, i dont have any PM's

matt-j - Aug 28, 2007 - 07:51 PM
Post subject:

also told work today,dazzler you inspired me, i had no intensions of returning but my boss told me that if i was ever stuck for work to give him a shout which is pretty cool. it feels like the real countdown begins now

Tens - Aug 28, 2007 - 08:03 PM
Post subject:

every day of work in my head is only for spending money when there. With my pay cheques i work out how much is going towards what and its torture as the next 3 months are so nothing compared.

lez_s - Aug 28, 2007 - 08:10 PM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

yep had a couple of them Laughing

last time it took me just over 6 weeks to get back riding, but i never wait until i'm 100% again. thats was only riding down and not hitting kicker, rails or 1/4 pipe.

haha

i've been told i am a faster healer, plus i have a high pain threshold so that doesn't help. to me 9 weeks sounds a long time. have you been trying to bend it?
after my last op i was walking without crutches on the second day. if i was you go back to your physio.

frazz - Aug 28, 2007 - 10:34 PM
Post subject:

What does a busser in a restaurant do? Confused

paulparkie - Aug 28, 2007 - 10:43 PM
Post subject:

frazz wrote:

What does a busser in a restaurant do? Confused

I may get corrected on this, but I think they do all the sh1t things that waiters can't be arsed to do like set the tables, clear away dirty plates etc...

... you DO get some of the waiters tips though!

ScottDrummer - Aug 28, 2007 - 10:59 PM
Post subject:

frazz wrote:

What does a busser in a restaurant do? Confused

It varies restaurant to restaurant. In the place i work PT, they clear the table and set it, and polish cutlery.

They are generally clear and set. Some restaurants have a range of jobs, from door person to wine managers
Its not so much waiters cant be arsed, its more to do with giving waiters more time to get to customers, take orders, drinks, take food out and take the bill. They are a waiters best friend when its busy. They leech your tips though

Summers250 - Aug 29, 2007 - 09:20 AM
Post subject:

Questions for Dazzler and anyone else who has done a season before!

First thing is i'm blown away by board choice, think i want a burton as i have rode them before but i want something thats a great all-rounder (good in powder, but still good for the kickers and park).

Secondly was wondering what your experience has been in terms of your equipment lasting the whole 3 months etc, does the equipment normally hold out and last the whole trip? having only ridden for a week at a time i'm not sure.

three -will i be able to get any board i want from the stores in WHistler or will stocks be low when i arrive at the beginning of december? think it makes mroe sense to buy once i arrive rather than pay BA a stupid amoount to carry it for me.

4 - who else is staying at trappers cabin anytime from 1st december to end of february?

ace_mcgraw - Aug 29, 2007 - 09:39 AM
Post subject:

Summers250 wrote:

Greetings. Firstly, in terms of boards, don't just restrict yourself to Burton - there's lots of good brands out there which you could try. Personally I've tried Ride, Venue, Hammer and Capita and I've got on with them all pretty well, and people on here seem to like boards such as Bataleon, Rome, Nitro etc etc. A huge number of boards are designated in the kinda all mountain freestyle everything sort of range so you got plenty to choose from. Get yourself to a fridge somewhere to demo some, or if not there are demo places on the mountains at Whistler. Just look at brand websites, and see what sort of boards they recommend for your style.

Secondly, you can expect a board to get pretty trashed, but it should still be going at the end of the season, unless you fall and snap it on the last day of glacier opening like mine! Remember you'll be doing more riding than you've ever done, so you'll prob need to wax it and service it regularly.

Thirdly, in Whistler itself, I'd say you can get stuff from a whole range of brands, not necesarily any board you want. All the major players (Esp Burton) have a big presence in the shops in Whistler so you'll be spoilt for choice. And they're generally cheaper, especially if you get one in a sale - I got my Venue Onyx - £300 over here, bought for $370 (About £185) over in Whistler.

Fourthly, I'm not gonna be in Whistler this year Crying or Very sad

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 10:03 AM
Post subject:

the best thing you can do is go to tsa or 2 seasons and get demo boards and try as many as you can. if you like one go on the internet and find places in whistler and find out how much they cost out there. i think i've read somewhere you can demo boards from shops in whistler, just need to leave your credit card with the shop.

as for stuff lasting out there, i've trashed binding in a few month riding tam twice a week.

wheres trappers cabin? is that with seasonit?

Summers250 - Aug 29, 2007 - 10:11 AM
Post subject:

Yeah its with seasonit Lez - thanks for the replies so far guys, very helpful! keep em coming!

ScottDrummer - Aug 29, 2007 - 12:37 PM
Post subject:

email reply from pro-ride regards to clinics, instructor course and prices

"The price for the clinics is $725 per week
For the 4 week instructor course it would be

4 week course includes:
- 35 hours of mountain riding per week
- 15 hours snowboard training with professional coaches per week
- mountain guiding with top level world class pros
- personal training plan
- weekly video analysis
- board tuning seminar
- lift line priority
- seasons pass (weekday lift access for the full season - upgradable)
- airport transfer to Whistler
- 28 nights accommodation
- local transportation
- local gym membership with access to spa, pool and gym
- assistance with equipment selection and discounts
- arrival package & goodies
- In resort rep - the owners of the company
- Pro Ride limited edition hoody and t-shirt
- 2007 / 2008 Pro Ride camp DVD
- week wind down session at Blacks Pub
- Monday to Friday training

Dates 2007/08 - 8th Dec 2007, 5th Jan, 2nd Feb, 1st March, 29th March 2008

$6350 CDN + $350 Level 1 Exam

As you will have your own accommodations and lift ticket you can subtract $1000 for accommodations and $1139 for lift tickets so the 4 week instructor course would be $4211 + $350 for the exam (We do not break down this course any further than these two items)"

anyone got any other prices?

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 12:54 PM
Post subject:

is the 4 week instructor course for level one? you can do it in 3 day for $300 i think it was.

ScottDrummer - Aug 29, 2007 - 12:59 PM
Post subject:

yea, I was trying to determine what the difference was between a 4 week course and a 3 day course. I think ill opt for the cheaper 3 day course.
I understand you get free lessons from Intrawests instructors with a season pass, Im wondering if they do any discounts on improver, freestyle and casi courses.

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:04 PM
Post subject:

is that free lessons for anyone with a season pass?

ScottDrummer - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:07 PM
Post subject:

Im not quite sure, Im sure i read it on the WB website at one point, but according to this
http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/ticket ... /index.htm
they are chargable add-ons. Im pretty sure I read you get free group lessons.
It also states passes go on sale today. But there is no sign of making them available to buy, maybe it gets updated later today

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:34 PM
Post subject:

anyone one if the gondola is running on whistler for sight seeing before the season starts?

i know when i was there 5 years ago i was running in the summer for people to go up.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:47 PM
Post subject:

The gondi runs during the summer for sight seeing up until 23rd Sept this year apparently, then it shuts down till the start of the season I believe.

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:52 PM
Post subject:

yeah it runs for the summer but all stops for the fall, sometime is sept i think. So there are two months with nothing on, bike park closed and mountain not open for winter. And all it does is rain!

i hate the police for taking so long with things, i'm waiting for my police check and i got a letter from the Met today, so theres me all excited, about to go online and book my flights back, then i open it to find a receipt and a nice letter telling me my check will take 40 days and it cant be speeded up. aaggghhh! I even have my Canadian police check now, and they changed it so i dont even need it! Cant they just go on my word, i'm a good person lol. So that puts me leaving near the end of October when i was meant to be back 3 weeks ago.
How long have the police checks been taking, has it been the full 40 days, anyone know?
Grrrr - rant over

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 01:53 PM
Post subject:

that sucks. i hoped to go up it when i get there for old times. last time i got off at the round house and walked to the top.

Summers250 - Aug 29, 2007 - 03:39 PM
Post subject:

Belfast - what's all this about police checks?

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 03:48 PM
Post subject:

why, you worried Laughing

Denizen - Aug 29, 2007 - 03:56 PM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Hey johnny how's it going? It's Craig. My police check took about 30 days before they got it back to me. I applied in July and just got it last week. I'm sure if they were aware of the full awesomeness of your fancy dress ability then they would have no problems letting you into the country and that police check would not be needed.

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 29, 2007 - 05:00 PM
Post subject:

lol, what up dog! Hows things, you sorted for this season? Hows the house hunt going, you living with Doris?
I know, your right maybe i could just mail them a couple pics of some prize winning fancy dress, that ought to speed things up. Thirty days though, thats balls, well at least i can hope its not 40.

Quote:

Belfast - what's all this about police checks?

When applying for a work visa you need to send off a UK police background check to make sure you havnt been a naughty boy/girl. Some employers will ask to see one as well. You also need one from any country you have lived in for more than 6 months previously. You dont need one if you are just going as a visitor on the 6 months weaver.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 29, 2007 - 05:05 PM
Post subject:

By the way, anyone intending on working for the mountain will need a current police check!

ScottDrummer - Aug 29, 2007 - 05:09 PM
Post subject:

Just had a mail from WB,
Early birds sales are between August 29th and October 8th
Anyone buying one today?

Denizen - Aug 29, 2007 - 05:18 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

Just had a mail from WB,
Early birds sales are between August 29th and October 8th
Anyone buying one today?

Not today, but priced it up, $1482.94 including tax which works out pretty much bang on £700. Goodbye savings lol.

ScottDrummer - Aug 29, 2007 - 05:20 PM
Post subject:

ouch, still it'll cost a lot more after oct, good job I sold my drum kits

frazz - Aug 29, 2007 - 05:57 PM
Post subject:

For you guys that have worked out in Whistler previous seasons,did whoever you went to work for ask for references and did they make contact with previous employers?

ScottDrummer - Aug 29, 2007 - 08:10 PM
Post subject:

Just bought 2 unlimited lift passes. Smile

just spent £1386.94 on some tickets Sad

unlimited snowboarding for a whole season Smile

I dont get them or snow for another few months Sad

but its gonna be epic Smile

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 09:03 PM
Post subject:

nice one.

a while ago we were talking about visa's to live in canada, well i've redone the points calculator and i pass this time, not sure whats changed. so going to apply while out there.

Dazzler74 - Aug 29, 2007 - 09:27 PM
Post subject:

Just got an email from Seasonit - They are going to charge £750 for their liftpasses...

lez_s - Aug 29, 2007 - 09:30 PM
Post subject:

so its £700 from whistlers web site and £750 from seasonit. i'll wait and see what seasonaires are doing it for.

walnuts - Aug 29, 2007 - 09:43 PM
Post subject:

Haven't checked this thread in a few days.... excited to hear that the passes are available.

In fact everytime I read this damn site I get more and more pumped up for winter.

I'm in Vancouver currently (been here a couple of months) and it's been a VERY dry summer so hopefully the rain (and therefore snow) is around the corner.

All the shops here are getting the 08 gear in now, plenty of Burton and Option stock is available. Prices are significantly cheaper than what I'm used to back in the UK.
There's some super-cheap 06/7 stuff going too.

Me and the girlfriend are heading to Whistler next week for a couple of days to check the place out. Think I will take my bike too and give the park a try.

Then, hopefully we'll get some accom booked (panicking a bit hearing that y'all are already booked up!)

lez_s - Aug 30, 2007 - 08:49 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

so its £700 from whistlers web site and £750 from seasonit. i'll wait and see what seasonaires are doing it for.

dont know why i didn't think about it last night, but it will be cheaper to buy it from whistler's web site then via a 3rd party.

seanoe - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:06 AM
Post subject:

Bought our lift passes this morning!! Almost £1400 for the 2 of us. Ouch, but glad that purchase is done and now its only 2 and a half months to go! Can't wait..

Tick tock. tick tock

lez_s - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:14 AM
Post subject:

i am the proud owner of an unlimited seasons pass.

just going to text all my mates and rub it in Laughing

ScottDrummer - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:16 AM
Post subject:

nice one. Anyone have trouble speaking to the Canadians via phone?, they tend to leave a pause at the end of their sentence, leaving me confused as to whether to speak or not. They sort of linger at the end of the call, after its all done they sort of wait for you to say 'Right im done im going to hang up now'. lol

@@@ - Aug 30, 2007 - 10:58 AM
Post subject:

Anyone know the difference between the Direct-To-Lift pass and a window pass? Its not immediately obvious from the website?

ScottDrummer - Aug 30, 2007 - 11:04 AM
Post subject:

I think direct to lift is if you are a returning/renewing customer, and have had a pass previously. In which case you can go directly to the lift, otherwise you have to go to the window (ticket office) and have your photo taken, provide ID etc...
This is as far as I can make out anyway.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 30, 2007 - 11:09 AM
Post subject:

Remember to smile nicely for your season pass. Your stuck with it all season you know!

Tens - Aug 30, 2007 - 12:15 PM
Post subject:

in what form does the season pass come in. I have only been to tignes twice, first time it was a crappy bit of card with your photo on it that you had to show to get onto a lift, the 2nd time it was a special bit of card that you put in your pocket and the gates by the lift opened automatically when you were near enough to them.

if i have a card pass all year hanging outside of my jacket its gonna get mangled

ace_mcgraw - Aug 30, 2007 - 12:33 PM
Post subject:

It's basically a plastic card with your photo and a bar code on. There's only 4 or 5 lifts from the village, so the theory is that you can only get on the mountain by those lifts, so it's only actually checked once if you're up at the top all day. The rest of the lifts you just rock up and get on. They give you a little lanyard thingy to put it round your neck as well.

Tens - Aug 30, 2007 - 01:27 PM
Post subject:

woooo a lanyard, what a freebee!

also once you have paid for it from their site, i assume you get sent a receipt, post or email whatever, and then you use that to collect your pass when you are there/youll be on their computer.

whats the chance of me getting a volunteer job when i turn up 1st dec?

thanks for your knowledge ace

ScottDrummer - Aug 30, 2007 - 01:31 PM
Post subject:

How do you get discounts with the pass on retail and food, do you just have to flash it and they put a discount on? I assume most places offer discount for season pass holders?

ace_mcgraw - Aug 30, 2007 - 01:37 PM
Post subject:

Yeah just head to one of the ticket booths when you get there with your receipt and your passport, tell them who you are, flash the id, and smile sweetly!

As for volunteer jobs, you should be able to get one then - people i know turned up in Jan and walked into those sort of jobs so you'll be fine.

As for discounts, just basically ask and always have your pass with you. Some places (Mostly the intrawest owned shops and restaurants) may scan the pass (Esp if it's a staff discount) to check you're still working or whatever, others will just want to see it.

Denizen - Aug 30, 2007 - 01:51 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

You can volunteer in loads of places, however if you are looking at volunteering for the mountain in exchange for a lift pass I'm pretty sure you need to have a canadian work visa or you're out of luck.

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 30, 2007 - 02:05 PM
Post subject:

... and last year my buddy couldnt get a volly job in November or Dec, after that he gave up.
Two years ago another friend got a volly job in Jan working for events, but saying that he was a photographer. Its had to say, just dont be relying on getting one.

As for discounts, most shops will give you 10% with a season pass, 20% with a staff pass (ie working for intrawest). A normal full season pass will give you 50% off food and drink on the mountain early and late season, and 20% the rest of the time. A staff pass is 50% of all season. On the mountain your pass will be scanned for all discounts.
Some shops are fussy (only a few) and dont accept a season pass to qualify as 'locals' discount, but a pay cheque from work or proof of address like a bank statement does the trick.

lez_s - Aug 30, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject:

its going to suck going through 457 posts(up to now) to refreash all the tips everyone has give out for the season

Tens - Aug 30, 2007 - 02:27 PM
Post subject:

only reason i want a volunteer job is to get back my £700 for pass.
If i cant get one within the first few days I wont bother as they wont refund the full 700 then only 700- x amount of day pass prices.
Which will then make it even less worth while.

ScottDrummer - Aug 30, 2007 - 02:28 PM
Post subject:

as per post #1, im still looking for any musicians if they want attempt a bar band? lol

frazz - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:13 PM
Post subject:

Anyone emailed cv's yet? I emailed mine to Four Seasons and other hotels on Tues and got an email back from Four Seasons tonight,they want to do a phone interview next week. I am sh1t it,never had to do an interview for years! Shocked

Tens - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:26 PM
Post subject:

i got an email from bunac and it was about 4seasons recruitment but it said all jobs were full time, you going for a full time got frazz

frazz - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:44 PM
Post subject:

Nah def not going for a full time job,i got the email from bunac too and noticed four seasons jobs were full time,but thought i'd email anyway.Didn't apply for any job in particular either so don't know what's on offer,also got an email from Pan Pacific saying they don't start recruiting until Nov and to pop in with cv etc once i arrive in resort.

ScottDrummer - Aug 30, 2007 - 09:48 PM
Post subject:

just updating my CV now. trying to decide if bullet points look better than a small paragraph.

frazz - Aug 30, 2007 - 11:14 PM
Post subject:

Scott,try both and decide what you think looks clearer and easier to read, I didn't have a cv cos until recently i worked for the same company for 13 year.A girl i know who happens to be an hr manager and has worked for some major companies gave me some much needed advice,and bullet points were the way to go,she told me she doesn't even bother to read cv's written in paragraphs,bullet points make your key qualities/duties stand out more and make your cv easier to read.

And make sure you use microsoft word 2003 or 05,07 or whatever versions it comes in,i don't have word but was using word processor and sent it to my hr manager pal,but she couldn't open it so i had to re-type cv using word.

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 09:14 AM
Post subject:

ok cheers Frazz

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 01:29 PM
Post subject:

with 19240 views (18240 of them probably from me) do you think its worth making this thread sticky for a temporary period?

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 01:42 PM
Post subject:

i would do, but as sticky is for information for all scuk users the people that aren't going to whistler wont find it usful.

as this thread has posts each day it will always be on the first page so can be found with out searching. if anyone does have problem finding it just save the link in your favorites.

moderator hat off now - only 2 months 1 day until i fly woo hoo Laughing

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:17 PM
Post subject:

a quick question, i have a friends coming out to whistler, one for 6 weeks, one for 4 months and one for 3 months. would it work out cheaper for them to buy a season pass?

ace_mcgraw - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:22 PM
Post subject:

Without checking, off the top (check the legal disclaimer) I'd say probably yes. I'm sure when I was looking (A few years ago admittedly) the longest term lift pass they had was like 20 days or something, which cost nearly as much as a season pass, so I'd recommend getting a seasonpass and be done with it. Plus having a season pass anywhere makes you better than everyone else! : Wink

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:27 PM
Post subject:

yeah it says on the site -

Adult Lift Ticket - 21 of 24 days 21 Day 19 to 64 $1,008.00 to $1,366.42 and a season pass cost me about $1400.

thanks ace

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:28 PM
Post subject:

Season pass:
EB - $1,399
Regular Rate - $1,739
15-Day Pass $719

Punter pass:
Adult Lift Ticket - 6 of 7 days $340.80 to $462.00 * 6 weeks = $2044.8 to $2772

Id say so, but thats based on early bird prices, about $300 difference between buying a 6 out of 7 days pass weekly compared to a regular rate season pass
You get 3 bring a friend passes but i think they are only valid for daily passes and not on season passes.

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:33 PM
Post subject:

nice one scott.

ah, i was thinking about the bring a friend thing.

when are you heading out again?

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:34 PM
Post subject:

anyone had any add-ons?
http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/ticket ... /index.htm

Summit Sessions Lesson Pass

This adult lesson pass provides unlimited access to daily group lessons on Whistler Mountain, all season (November 23, 2007 to April 20, 2008).

* Passes may be used for both ski and snowboard lessons.
* You must be Level 4 - 6 skier/boarder to purchase this product.
* Pass valid on Whistler Mountain only.

EB Rate
(until October 8, 2007)
$679

How do you dermine what snowboard level your at?

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:36 PM
Post subject:

I head out Oct 19th

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 03:40 PM
Post subject:

thought it was sooner then that.

check - http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/rental ... wboard.htm

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 06:23 PM
Post subject:

ace or anyone, if someone buys a season pass and only is only there for 6 week can they get money back for the time they didn't use?

Tens - Aug 31, 2007 - 06:32 PM
Post subject:

i doubt it, you should see it as a pass for 21 days with the rest free.

my question: are the lessons that scott mentioned (Summit Sessions Lesson Pass) any good or will you just get board of them after about 3?

cazkins - Aug 31, 2007 - 07:12 PM
Post subject: Refund on lift pass

Hey,

Im only goin out for 6 weeks and have bought a whole season pass as its cheaper!! just wandering if anyone knows when i come to leave can i get any refund back for the months im not going to use?

Tarr

ace_mcgraw - Aug 31, 2007 - 10:20 PM
Post subject: RE: Refund on lift pass

As far as I know you only get refunded if you get a job, but even then you've got to have used it for less than 25 days, so I doubt very much you can get refunded if you leave.

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 10:24 PM
Post subject: RE: Refund on lift pass

ScottDrummer - Aug 31, 2007 - 10:26 PM
Post subject: RE: Refund on lift pass

from wb site

"Cancellation Policy
Please note Seasons Passes are non-refundable and non-transferable and are to be used within the season they were purchased. Any exceptions to this rule are at the discretion of Whistler Blackcomb and applicable usage and administration fees will apply. Full Cancellation Policy."
- http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/ticket ... /index.htm

"Under special circumstances Passes/Cards may be cancelled.
ß Injury/Medical reason that keeps you off the hill for the majority of the season (min
2 months). Please submit a letter from your doctor stating the nature and date of
your injury and how long you have been advised not to ski or snowboard.
ß Transfer out of the region due to employment. (Transfer must be outside of BC/WA
area.) Please forward a letter from your new employer stating the date you
commenced employment.
ß Employment with Intrawest where a Pass is provided as part of your employment
(usage will be charged prior to your date of hire). (For WB Staff, please complete
Staff Refund Request form.)
ß Receiving a Pass through Whistler Blackcomb for athletic or contractual purposes. "

lez_s - Aug 31, 2007 - 10:51 PM
Post subject: RE: Refund on lift pass

thanks for that.

caz is looking at the week day pass now. cant ride sat or sun and from the 27-30 dec.

cazkins - Aug 31, 2007 - 11:24 PM
Post subject:

Thanks Scott, Yeh the midweek pass is lookin the best deal now as it works out just under £500, compared to the £700 for full season pass. And I was lookin at havin weekends off anyway.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 01, 2007 - 11:30 AM
Post subject:

I got the midweek pass and I reckon it's the best deal. It gets pretty busy at weekends, and you think that you're missing out on twodays of snowboarding, but I guarantee that no matter how hardcore you are you're gonna want a break at some point!

Dazzler74 - Sep 01, 2007 - 03:01 PM
Post subject:

Does anyone know how much it is for a saturday or sunday liftpass..

as wouldnt want to miss out on a powder day if we only get the weekday pass

lez_s - Sep 01, 2007 - 03:27 PM
Post subject:

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/reserv ... ets.search

ace_mcgraw - Sep 02, 2007 - 09:56 AM
Post subject:

I think they're about $50-70 or something. Normally there's enough powder days to go round so you won't need to. It always gets dead crowded as well, so I'd say you're pretty well off avoiding them. I always used to schedule my work days on the lifts (4 days on, 3 days off) on the weekends so my days off were during the week. It was always nearly pointless trying to get up at the weekend. Everything was tracked out within minutes, and you'd be waiting for around half an hour at the bottom of the peak and harmony chairs that i worked on!

By the way, did anyone see the Red Bull Elevation this morning. I was there last year Crying or Very sad

wolfie - Sep 03, 2007 - 11:32 AM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

Season pass:
You get 3 bring a friend passes but i think they are only valid for daily passes and not on season passes.

what are these bring a friend pass things?

My girlfriend is coming over for week in whistler and she will probably do a few days on the snow. Can I get her any discount with my season pass? As it work out around £38 a day to just get a ticket...well expensive!

ScottDrummer - Sep 03, 2007 - 11:37 AM
Post subject:

they are free day tickets x3.

3 Free ‘Bring a Friend’ Lift Tickets: worth up to $230.
Available on Adult/Senior/Youth regular Unlimited, Single Mountain, and Parent Pass purchases only.

Each eligible pass purchaser will receive 3 free ‘Bring a Friend’ lift vouchers, valid one for each of the following time periods:

* Opening to December 21, 2007
* Opening to June 8, 2008 excluding December 27-30, 2007
* April 7 to June 8, 2008.

Be sure to provide us with your email address and your 3 Free lift ticket vouchers will be sent to you in mid-November.
Adult and Senior Passholders receive adult vouchers, Youth Passholders receive Youth vouchers.
Not valid on Super Senior, Whistler Kids Program, or Sea to Sky passes.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 03, 2007 - 11:46 AM
Post subject:

You say £38 is expensive. Compared to £30 odd quid for a few hours in a fridge in a god forsaken corner of a shopping mall somwhere, £38 for a day on the biggest and best ski area in North America seems pretty reasonable to me!

I seem to remember that one of my housemates had a season pass which included 3 free day passes which me and mmate used to go riding with him on a weekend as we only had weekday passes.

lez_s - Sep 03, 2007 - 11:58 AM
Post subject:

its cool that you get $300 retail coupons, which will be spent by the end of nov Laughing

ScottDrummer - Sep 03, 2007 - 12:05 PM
Post subject:

they are valid until Dec 31st. Im thinking about getting a new board out there too, so they should come in use.
Ive got a Bataleon ET at the minute, but talk of all these powder days is tempting me to get a more suitable board in addition. Should have kept my trusty zeppelin now.

lez_s - Sep 03, 2007 - 12:08 PM
Post subject:

i'm in need of pants, jacket, street wear plus a new board.

whats the zepplin like?

ScottDrummer - Sep 03, 2007 - 12:09 PM
Post subject:

Ive asked this before I think, but do I need to tell any tax office that Im moving out the country for a year, is there any tax benefit or disadvantages to this? Im up to my tax limit you see with two jobs (I pay full tax code with my other PT job), and wondering whether if I tell them I am moving out the country before the end of the tax year will mean a tax rebate?

ScottDrummer - Sep 03, 2007 - 12:13 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

i'm in need of pants, jacket, street wear plus a new board.

whats the zepplin like?

I had the 06 Zepp in 156, and its super smooth, very refined. Quite stiff and not very forgiving. It felt a classy board to ride. I described it as the Audi A6 of the snowboard world when I first had it. but ye cant fault it for an all mountain freeride board.

ScottDrummer - Sep 03, 2007 - 01:24 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

To answer my own question, you need to fill in a P85 form in order to advise the tax office of your departure. Doing so may mean you could be entitled to a tax rebate.
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/cnr/p85_p85s.htm
the form
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/cnr/p85.pdf

lez_s - Sep 03, 2007 - 02:20 PM
Post subject:

is that if your going for a year? i'm heading out for 6 months.

wolfie - Sep 03, 2007 - 02:37 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

True true, but just comparing to other places over in Europe. Those free passes will save her...me...a few bob though.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 03, 2007 - 02:56 PM
Post subject:

Actually, I do know what you mean. Compared to the rest of the resorts I rode in Canada, Whistler had by far the most expensive day tickets.

Unfortunately you gotta remember that no matter how cool and amazing Whistler is, it's a big fat ugly corporation that's running the show!

ScottDrummer - Sep 03, 2007 - 02:59 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

is that if your going for a year? i'm heading out for 6 months.

I think it may be for any amount of time, as you are paying tax based on what you are estimated to earn for the financial year, as you are not going to be earning for 6 months of that year you tax should be a lot lower, therefore you may have already paid too much and should be entitled a rebate.
this is as much as i could work out from the bloke over the phone anyway. on the form it asks you "if your not staying for a whole financial year, how long are you staying out of the UK" so it might be worth sending it off anyway, even if you get a small amount back.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 03, 2007 - 03:06 PM
Post subject:

i filled one of those in when I got back from Canada (Roundabouts exactly a year ago Crying or Very sad

) and got about £300 back so it's well worth it!

AndyJKing - Sep 03, 2007 - 03:06 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

You are allowed 2 bags up to 20kg

i take it that it means a max of 20kg total and not per bag.

Quote:

You are allowed one ski bag which cannot exceed 32kg (not part of 20kg
limit)
but you are ONLY allowed to carry sports equiptment in it (not sure if they check this)

never had mine opened before. i put all my boarding stuff in the boardbag, jackets, pants, boards, boots etc

i had mine opened at security cus i couldn't identify the block of wax in there. had loads of other stuff in it too. the zoom air guys didn't check though.

lez_s - Sep 03, 2007 - 03:07 PM
Post subject:

i've emailed my accountant asking so fingers crossed i'll get some money back.

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 09:09 AM
Post subject:

how are peoples plans going? anyone got a job interview lined up yet?

lez_s - Sep 05, 2007 - 09:15 AM
Post subject:

i'm just waiting to get on the plane. i'm so fed up of coming to this job, cant wait for it to be over - yes its that bad.

1 month 27 day Mr. Green

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 09:22 AM
Post subject:

same here, 42 days....and im free. Just sending off resumes at the minute, and trying to decide which job to apply for as a secondary job with intrawest (for the lift pass rebate) thinking rental shop, liftie

lez_s - Sep 05, 2007 - 09:54 AM
Post subject:

if i was you i would work as a liftie, you'll get more riding time then working in a shop.

speak to ace about it.

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 12:42 PM
Post subject:

you changed your date then lez?

lez_s - Sep 05, 2007 - 12:54 PM
Post subject:

nope, still nov 3rd. i've got one of them count down things, but it keeps messing up and once i a while gives me the wrong info.

walnuts - Sep 05, 2007 - 04:28 PM
Post subject:

Just come back from a two day reccy over at Whistler. Rode the bike park (awesome) and it's the first time I've seen the hill (it looks huge)!

I notice that most people here are booked in with seasonit/seasonaires. Can I ask why you guys chose this? I can think of plenty of good reasons to go with them, but one bad reason is that it is much more expensive (nearly double) than HOUSE.

Maybe it's because none of you are taking full time jobs? I dunno.

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 04:40 PM
Post subject:

im renting a private property there, so i cant really answer about seasonit/seasonaires, although i did look into both these companies.
they are more expensive as they do the ground work for you, they are basically providing you with a property to stay in, at a price, and you choose whether to accept it, whereas i went to a lot more trouble of asking literally hundreds of property owners and rental agents over there if they would rent a property out to me for a year, so with the UK season companies your really paying for the convenience of booking a place at your leisure.

I looked at HOUSE, and asked intrawest to provide me with some pics of the places they had, they basically said they are all on the website.
so judging by the pics on the site I could see that the places were not good. Especially for a couple sharing (in my case), they're cheap and convenient but they just didnt look to offer what i wanted in terms of comfort and privacy.
Im not sure yet that im going to work for intrawest (rather an independant company) so I wouldn't qualify for house anyway.

Jaded_Parrot - Sep 05, 2007 - 04:40 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

nope, still nov 3rd. i've got one of them count down things, but it keeps messing up and once i a while gives me the wrong info.

Bet thats annoying, i think id have it narrowed down by the second haha...

Been skimming through the whole of this thread for a while now gritting my teeth green with envy. So wish i could join you! grrrr

Recon there should be a season section of this forum so you lucky swines can makes us even more green with envy while your out there! grrr some more

Summers250 - Sep 05, 2007 - 04:46 PM
Post subject:

I am going with Seasonit, i guess i chose them for simplicity and because its my first time doing a season and first time in Whistler so i'm not that clued up on finding suitable accomodation etc. The properties seem nice enough and plus i like the idea of staying with a large group of people and that group potentially ever changing as people come and go.

Second thing - those of you who have ordered their early bird pass on the Whistler website - did you get a password sent to you for logging on and viewing your profile? where do you log in? and what's the login for?

M

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 04:48 PM
Post subject:

i didnt get a login or password :-\

EDIT: lol im being thick, i didnt get one cus i phoned up and bought mine.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 05, 2007 - 04:58 PM
Post subject:

It depends what sort of thing you're looking for I guess. Although it's cheaper, the impression I got from visiting it a few times and chatting to people staying there was that it was kinda like university halls, with all the fun, parties, sex and drugs you'd expect from that!

Also it does get full with intrawest workers, so that is normally the only way to get a place.

Summers250 - Sep 05, 2007 - 05:07 PM
Post subject:

What is HOUSE?

Earlybird pass buyers? do you just get the email confirmation thing or do Intrawest send something in the mail?

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 05:11 PM
Post subject:

its Intrawests own properties for their employees
http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/employ ... /index.htm

seanoe - Sep 05, 2007 - 05:33 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

i didnt get a login or password :-\

EDIT: lol im being thick, i didnt get one cus i phoned up and bought mine.

When i did it they didn't email my login, which i found to be a little strange, but i had remembered what i had entered for myself and put it in and it all went through ok.. Just put in your email i think and your password that you would have entered, and bingo, you should be in!!

Good luck..

PS, how good does it feel knowing you have your passes ordered and paid for.. It becomes so much more real when it is all taken care of!! Bring it..

lez_s - Sep 05, 2007 - 05:35 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I notice that most people here are booked in with seasonit/seasonaires. Can I ask why you guys chose this? I can think of plenty of good reasons to go with them, but one bad reason is that it is much more expensive (nearly double) than HOUSE.

i didn't book it, but i do like it with its hot tub, pool table and free internet.

Tens - Sep 05, 2007 - 06:06 PM
Post subject:

summers, just been really nosey and checked your posts to find out which seasonit chalet your in and saw that your going on the 1st dec and live in south east.
Im flying 1st dec with mytravel (canadian affair) landing at 2ish if i remember correctly. Will be me you and mattj comming from around these areas and will be in vancouver within an hour of each other.

Im in snow vally lodge and i think mattj is in bon ami.

Tens - Sep 05, 2007 - 06:09 PM
Post subject:

reason i went with seasonit is because its so easy, its secure accom for that time and I am not working, its nice, you have an instant group of poeple and apparently seasonit have a few reps who sort stuff out like nights out and they often go up the hill in groups, theres also a tuning room and a lot of chalets have some cool stuff in plus its bigger than some other places and I dont have to find somewhere when I get there.

frazz - Sep 05, 2007 - 09:15 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

how are peoples plans going? anyone got a job interview lined up yet?

I have a phone interview with Four Seasons lined up,was meant to be yesterday (tues) but i'm on hol in London just now,hr manager said just to give her a call when i get home to re-arrange a date/time.

Didn't apply for any specific job,just sent off my cv and she emailed back next day.Haven't heard anything from the other hotels yet except Pan Pacific,they said to get in touch end of Oct,start Nov.

Anyone sending cv's to restaurants/bars?I thought prob best to wait until in resort for restaurants and bars.

Is the GLC run by Intrawest,what other bars/restaurants do they operate in resort?

walnuts - Sep 05, 2007 - 10:00 PM
Post subject:

Some extra info I picked up while in Whistler yesterday:

Jobs went online yesterday, so if you want to get a job at job fair, get online NOW and apply, interviews are filling up quick.

If you are thinking of going into HOUSE for the season, you also need to apply now. Check-in is October 23-26 only. If you are not going to be working full-time (30-40 hours a week),you are unlikely to get into house.

ScottDrummer - Sep 05, 2007 - 10:55 PM
Post subject:

Ive asked this before but can anyone else recommend restaurants to work in. are there any considered the place to work? and do these sort of places offer lift passes?

TOA - Sep 06, 2007 - 02:25 AM
Post subject:

Accommodation is sorted, since I'm an aussie I went through OWH so job & HOUSE are now sorted, just need to pay the security deposit

arrive 24th of november & start work on the 10th

cost a little extra (250ish) but it was between that & now being able to go (don't finish uni until ~20th of november) and that included the interviews, first night accommodation in Van & transfers to whistler

It is 78 days, 17 hours, 35 minutes until I get on the plane (26.5 hour flight)

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 06, 2007 - 03:31 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Is the GLC run by Intrawest,what other bars/restaurants do they operate in resort?

Yes it is, intrawest run 3 bars/rests, in the three mountain bases. GLC in the main village, Merlins in the upper village and Dustys in creekside. All other bars/rest they own are on the mountain.

Quote:

Ive asked this before but can anyone else recommend restaurants to work in. are there any considered the place to work? and do these sort of places offer lift passes?

Dude there are somthing like 90 bars and restaurants in Whistler so you will not be short places, and to be brutally honest you should be happy with a serving/bar job in any of them. I am saying nothing against you as a person or doubting your experience, but it is a tough cookie to crack into. I have had a friend with 12years bar experience with 5 of those as a manager, it took him 10 weeks to get a plain bar job and got turned away, and i quote 'because you are not canadian'. It can also be down to luck, speaking to the right person at the right time and they are cool enough to give you a chance. But the good news is that once you are in, you are well in, most the bars and their staff are all intertwined, and you quickly get to know the core people of whistler. Once you know the main guys, then sit back and enjoy the ride, free entry into clubs with a slap of the bouncers hand, free drinks at the bar, hooked up with discounts everywhere.

There is a massive list or bars/rests at whistlerblackcomb.com , if you want to know what a place is like let me know and i'll tell you all. Happy job hunting.

Summers250 - Sep 06, 2007 - 08:44 AM
Post subject:

Tens - I don't land in Van until 6.35pm which is a pain! i'm coming over with a mate but he is only staying for a month. PM me mate, let me know where you from and your age etc.

ScottDrummer - Sep 06, 2007 - 09:23 AM
Post subject:

cheers JohnnyBelfast. Im mainly looking for just serving work, im not really interested in bar work, hopefully we can find somewhere myself and girlfriend can work the same shifts. im not sure if businesses see this as an advantage or not. We have started sending resumes off so fingers crossed at least some of them reply and ask for an interview.
Im in two minds as to whether to get a volly job for the mountain to get my EB pass refunded, I suppose it depends on whether the employer will give us a lift pass, am I right in saying that most places (non intrawest) give you a spirit pass as a staff perk?

lez_s - Sep 06, 2007 - 09:25 AM
Post subject:

we'll have to get a map for everyone to highlight where they are staying.

Quote:

It is 78 days, 17 hours, 35 minutes until I get on the plane (26.5 hour flight)

57 days for me Razz

lez_s - Sep 06, 2007 - 09:54 AM
Post subject:

a quick question, is it like in the USA where you give tips to the people working behind the bar etc? i remember last time i was out there my friend giving tips out, but i thought she was being nice.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 06, 2007 - 10:25 AM
Post subject:

A lot of places are table served, so you don't have to head to the bar, but when I did I normally gave them a bit of a tip. It seemed to be the general case to tip most people doing servicey type things, especially if you're gonna be a regular. If you got the cash, it can't hurt anyway!

ScottDrummer - Sep 06, 2007 - 10:29 AM
Post subject:

i believe its 15% service charge in canada on service jobs such as taxi, restaurant server, barister etc...

norton - Sep 06, 2007 - 07:08 PM
Post subject:

walnuts wrote:

Is the bit about non full timers not getting into house from intrawest???

walnuts - Sep 06, 2007 - 09:21 PM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

Is the bit about non full timers not getting into house from intrawest???

Yes, I was told this specifically by the person behind the desk at the HOUSE office.

She said that priority is given to full-timers, and that there is enough of them to take all the rooms.

norton - Sep 07, 2007 - 12:08 PM
Post subject:

cheers.
very handy to know...

wolfie - Sep 07, 2007 - 03:30 PM
Post subject:

I saw the offer on the SCUK front page for Core snowboard camps, does anyone know much about them .....any good?

http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/tb.php?1188989612,85862,

paulparkie - Sep 07, 2007 - 08:33 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

a quick question, is it like in the USA where you give tips to the people working behind the bar etc? i remember last time i was out there my friend giving tips out, but i thought she was being nice.

Yeah man... I landed out here a week ago, and I think I've pretty much got the tipping thing sussed now through a combination of trial and error, and talking to locals in bars.

You're supposed to tip all the time in bars (even if it's crap service 10%) - which I don't agree with but hey I'm just reporting!

15 - 20% is a good tip. Apparently it's like the height of rudeness not to tip... even hairdressers I've been told! hmm...

Oh, the other things I was going to mention are: if anyone needs bag storage for any time (I'm backpacking around for a month before heading up to Whistler), then the HI Downtown do it for $3 a week... which is way cheaper than anywhere I researched on the internet before I got here... and pretty handy too, being as that's where I've been staying!

Those mobile phones that some people were on about getting from the SWAP meet aren't available anymore... apparently the people that used to provide them for SWAP just stopped doing it... so you might as well just source one yourself from town... there's stands everywhere in the Pacific Centre.

Oh, and beers aren't as cheap as I thought they'd be... with a tip expect to be paying around $6 a beer.

K... that's all I can think of for now.

Dazzler74 - Sep 08, 2007 - 12:59 PM
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I am so excited i am shaking like a sh;tting dog!!

roll on dec 5th

Dazzler74 - Sep 08, 2007 - 01:47 PM
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I spoke to a few seasonaires who said you dont need to give tips if you are doing a season...

If I get sh;t service they dont get a tip! simple

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 08, 2007 - 03:47 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I spoke to a few seasonaires who said you dont need to give tips if you are doing a season...

Utter bull****, that is exactly why English and Aussies have such a bad reputation. If you are going to come and live in Canada for 6 months and claim to be a 'local' then you should at least honour their culture. Which is tipping, even just going to the bar for a beer, leave a dollar, its not much and you quickly gain respect from staff.

Quote:

If I get sh;t service they dont get a tip! simple

Right, i would tip all the time, good service - upwards from 20%, meh nothing special - 10%, only if the service was really poor would i really go beneath 10%, and to leave nothing it would have to be diabolical, like calling me a c**t and spitting in my beer.
The people that expect tips are barstaff, servers, taxi drivers and hairdressers.
Its just the way of life over there, get used to it!

Dazzler74 - Sep 08, 2007 - 07:05 PM
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as I said if the service is sh;t I wont tip them... i think spitting in my beer would qualify as sh;t...

I had a bird serve me in whistler (big bar at bottom of mountain) and she was just obnoxious - she got sod all!

I have no problem giving tips and will do when appropriate.. but I wont take it up the ass just coz its the 'culture'!

isnt the point of tips that it increases the quality of service?

How can someone in a bar/taxi etc get pissed off about their tip if they act like knobs!!

ace_mcgraw - Sep 08, 2007 - 08:41 PM
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Wow, it's turning into that conversation from reservoir dogs.

What's the big deal about slipping people a bit of extra! They're on pretty crap wages most of the time anyway! Fair enough, don't tip if you don't want to, but I think it could seriously affect your reputation in the town. I know a lot of people pass through the town, but if you're hanging aroundfor a long time you will be recognised even if you don't realised, and it can certainly benefit you from just giving simple tips!

Apart from anything else, everyone is in the same boat in Whistler. They're all on crappy wages, and a lot depend on tips to make any decent cash at all, and in turn they know that everyone else is in the same boat, so they spread the love.

We could make the world such a lovely place you know

Dazzler74 - Sep 08, 2007 - 08:59 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

scottdrummer - I hope you arent encouraging people to use alpine elements..... that is a major no no (allegedly!)

Dazzler74 - Sep 08, 2007 - 09:02 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Quote:

Apart from anything else, everyone is in the same boat in Whistler. They're all on crappy wages, and a lot depend on tips to make any decent cash at all, and in turn they know that everyone else is in the same boat, so they spread the love.

absolutely and the first step to love is good service..

It would take some extremely crap service for me not to tip though - or if the barmaid is fit she can get away with anything!!!

ace_mcgraw - Sep 08, 2007 - 09:04 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Quote:

or if the barmaid is fit she can get away with anything

True, i seem to remember the waitresses in earls got away with being moody half the time!

ace_mcgraw - Sep 08, 2007 - 09:10 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Quote:

scottdrummer - I hope you arent encouraging people to use alpine elements..... that is a major no no (allegedly!)

I must admit I went across with Alpine elements and it wasn't too bad. The condo was pretty sweet, and the rep over there (Zoe) was pretty cool - she really did try to make sure everything went ok, whilst staying hands off enough to ensure you could party andmake lots of mess without her breathing down your neck.

I think the main prob was with the organisation back in London. Me and my mate were lucky - we were in a place that had 4 bedrooms (2 doubes and 2 twins) but only had 4 people in it, and so we had pretty huge rooms all to ourselves. Compare this to another group of people with alpine elements people in another condo, where 16 of them or something were crammed into an apartment, with up to 4 in a room! Still, I think everyone had a good time though. Never saw my damage deposit again though!

Who is who said they;re staying at the Snowbird Lodge? Is it Seasonit this year? Enjoy it, and you'll have to tell me if they still have the same couch!

lez_s - Sep 08, 2007 - 09:13 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

as it was me who brought it up, i dont mind giving tips and if i'm in a place where tipping is the thing, thats why i asked.

when in rome, well whistler Laughing

ScottDrummer - Sep 08, 2007 - 09:36 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

im not recommending alpine elements from experience, they are just a name ive seen about that do whistler seasons. Ive heard some good and bad things about them.
Yep, im relying on people tipping me and the girlfriend when I (hopefully) get a server job in Whistler. Just dont hit on any fit servers named ruth!

Dazzler74 - Sep 09, 2007 - 12:18 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

ruth - name is noted!

Tens - Sep 09, 2007 - 01:57 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

bar staff must make a killing, if they are serving a minimum of 20 poepel an hour and each person leaves them a minimum of 50c tip include in their base rate they should be getting at least 15 an hour and i bet that is worst case.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 09, 2007 - 03:52 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Quote:

bar staff must make a killing

That is true, which is why they are the hardest jobs to get! Good tips and most daytimes off to shred.
If i'm closing the bar from 7, it would be a poor night with less than $100, expecting between $100 and $200, a decent night would be anything up from that. Some really good nights are $300+
And your not expecting tips from everyone, but you remember the ones that do.
Da

ace_mcgraw - Sep 09, 2007 - 09:20 AM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

I fnd as well that you don't get to tip the bar staff all that often cos you only get to deal with the servers.

walnuts - Sep 10, 2007 - 02:03 AM
Post subject:

Ok, here's a question (that's probably been answered already, but this thread is loooong so finding all the info in it is hard work!)

Actually it's two questions really:

1. If I buy an earlybird pass now, can I get my money back on it if I score an Intrawest job at job fair?

2. If I work for Intrawest, but quit part way through the season, what happens to my pass? Do they take it off me?

Thing is, I intend to work for Intrawest (scoring a job with a private company seems unlikely), but I'll probably quit part way through the season and start living off my savings. So I'm trying to work out the best thing to do pass-wise.

Cheers peeepls, not long to go now!

Oz. - Sep 10, 2007 - 08:02 AM
Post subject:

walnuts wrote:

Just buy the early bird pass and dont get it redeemed if you score a job with intrawest as if you leave they take the pass off you.

Jaded_Parrot - Sep 10, 2007 - 09:20 AM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Wow, it's turning into that conversation from reservoir dogs.

I can hear the tiny violin from here!! Laughing

ScottDrummer - Sep 10, 2007 - 09:42 AM
Post subject:

Oz. wrote:

walnuts wrote:

Just buy the early bird pass and dont get it redeemed if you score a job with intrawest as if you leave they take the pass off you.

but then your down £600. I suppose this is the best method if you can afford to do this, however if your relying on getting this refunded back to you via a job with intrawest (or spirit pass with a commerce company) its a valid point.
Im considering whether to "sell myself" to the mountain, i.e trade in my lift pass for a job with them but the obligation to continue to work with them to keep your lift pass is something to consider.
im not sure of the finer details but i believe if you leave your job they revoke or ban your lift pass. If someone could elaborate on this id be grateful also.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 10, 2007 - 10:24 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

i believe if you leave your job they revoke or ban your lift pass

True, they kind of have you by the nuts once you have started working for them. If you quit they will cancel your pass. If you dont go into work a day or two, they black list your pass so when you try and go on the hill it wont let you and you have to go speak to your manager and suck up.
I would prefere to be safe and buy my own pass, think of it this way, after 2 months of some crappy job you quit and now dont have a pass anymore, to get a new one you need to pay full price, the full £900.

Quote:

but I'll probably quit part way through the season and start living off my savings

with any of the mountain jobs you sure wont be rolling in money, and there is alot of expences. Is can be quite hard to actually save money, what with going out, new equipment, rent (unless your with seasonit or another pre-paid housing), and all the other extras. I know plenty of people that have had to get several jobs just to keep on top of things

Dazzler74 - Sep 10, 2007 - 06:41 PM
Post subject:

My work turned down my request to have the winter off so I am not going to whistler as I owe my employer a great deal and its only right I do whats best for them. After all, they do pay my wages and gave me a chance when noone else would and they are just super wonderful so all in all I think its best I dont go to whistler and I just work every day for the rest of my life... I hope you all have a good time in whistler without me!!!

FOOK THAT - ROLL ON 5TH DECEMBER....I IS COMING TO WHISTLER!!!

norton - Sep 10, 2007 - 07:04 PM
Post subject:

haha you had me going there for a second...

anyone got any idea when i need to apply for a working visa for 08/09???
I'll be using up my aus one this season and if i decide to do another over there i should be able to use my BUNAC one.
When do they open it?

ScottDrummer - Sep 10, 2007 - 08:49 PM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

Jan i think is the date they open up applications for the following year, for a sept+ flight

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 11, 2007 - 02:39 AM
Post subject:

Look into it but i'm fairly sure, even on different programmes, that the Canadian Embassy insist you cannot have another work visa within a year from when you left. You can visit, travelling but unable to get a work permit.

sotla - Sep 11, 2007 - 07:58 AM
Post subject:

I believe that rule may have changed.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 12, 2007 - 01:01 AM
Post subject:

Ok right on, i wasnt sure, just i wasnt allowed back in till 5th Aug, a year since my last visa. So if that has changed then dead on!

That and i wanted to get this thread back to the top, too many other posts Smile

TOA - Sep 12, 2007 - 02:29 AM
Post subject:

Which is better, Glacier park or west side ?

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 12, 2007 - 03:01 AM
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Depends what you want really.
I have no experience with this, but from what i gather Glacier is an all out party place with sub standard rooms, where everyone is friends, its a bit busier and louder but the rooms arnt really that great. By west side i assume you mean Brio, the place is a bit nicer with better actual living space and not as loud. But then it is further from the lifts. Glacier is ride in/out, Brio isnt.
Best speaking to someone that know properly.

NadineC - Sep 12, 2007 - 01:12 PM
Post subject:

Has anyone been catboarding in Whistler?

A few of us are contemplating doing it when we go.

Do you think its worth the money or is there lots of fresh pow to be found without paying lots of pennies for it? Smile

Dazzler74 - Sep 12, 2007 - 01:14 PM
Post subject:

whistler and blackcomb have loads of places to get powder, even 2 or 3 days after it has snowed...

though I am liking the idea of catboarding, and may be doing it in whistler if the pennies stretch that far...

ace_mcgraw - Sep 12, 2007 - 09:27 PM
Post subject:

I didn't live in either, but I visited both the Glacier and Brio HOUSE places. Glacier for sure is the party place. It's a lot like halls of residence if you've ever been to uni, but with more sex drugs and rock n roll! Depends what you're looking for, but the appartments are pretty small, generally with four of you with two twin rooms, and a pretty small living room / kitchen.

The brio ones are definately bigger, and basically like a postgrad halls of residence - ie a little quieter, a little cleaner and a bit more space. Definately the better of the two options but you'll still be sharing a room, though you'll be likely to be doing that wherever you stay in whistler.

I think there may be some more staff housing somewhere, but I can't remember where. I think i had one friend who lived there, and i think that was the married / couples quarters.

Summers250 - Sep 13, 2007 - 08:54 AM
Post subject:

http://www.powdermountaincatskiing.com

These guys do Catboarding for about $479 a day! i'm keen Smile

wolfie - Sep 13, 2007 - 11:02 AM
Post subject:

Summers250 wrote:

http://www.powdermountaincatskiing.com

These guys do Catboarding for about $479 a day! i'm keen Smile

yeah that looks fun...but a bit pricy

norton - Sep 13, 2007 - 02:42 PM
Post subject:

well i've bitten the bullet and applied for jobs instead of bumming it now.
figure im better off saving my money and travelling sth america after...

think i have a job lined up at merlins and have checked into house already. should be in glacier by the 25th of oct.

Wish i was bumming the whole thing but have been promised mainly nights which is what i wanted so am pretty happy

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 02:55 PM
Post subject:

if i could get a visa i would work on the lifts but as i'm too late to get one i'll be bumming it and trying to make same cash waxing boards and helping people progress for extra beer money.

frazz - Sep 13, 2007 - 03:24 PM
Post subject:

For anyone interested in doing the level 1 instructor course the dates are now available on the casi website.

http://www.casi-bc.com/courses/calendar.aspx

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 03:32 PM
Post subject:

cool, anyone up for the dec-7 - dec-9?

seanoe - Sep 13, 2007 - 03:41 PM
Post subject:

Lez...

If you are a good enough teacher and can teach me a thing or 2.. I will buy you the occasional beer, i'll even let you wax my board!!! And carry it at the end of the day!

Very Happy

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 03:47 PM
Post subject:

i've got to pass the instructor course first Laughing

seanoe - Sep 13, 2007 - 03:52 PM
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Ah, guess you'll be waiting to earn some beers until then!!!

Shame! I'll have one for ya!

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 03:55 PM
Post subject:

what stuff do you want to learn?

seanoe - Sep 13, 2007 - 04:05 PM
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Just to be better!! We always want to learn! I would always love to learn to drink tequilla, but this year i'll just concentrate on the boarding. So i spose on the boarding topic i would like to improve on some buttering, 360's. Just anything really! And if anyone can help that, i will always buy them a beer!

walnuts - Sep 13, 2007 - 04:24 PM
Post subject:

Can someone explain this CASI business to me?

Can you really go up the mountain and run lessons after just a few days training?

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 06:28 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

when you heading out?

Quote:

Can someone explain this CASI business to me?

Can you really go up the mountain and run lessons after just a few days training?

i'm just doing it to get the experience

Harry_Ba_Ba - Sep 13, 2007 - 07:30 PM
Post subject:

hey lez, il be up for that date i recon too, gonna be out from the 20th of novemeber, but deadline isnt till the 25th, should have all my money saved by mid nov so just tell me when your booking it and il sort it out, would be good to know someone else doing it!

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 07:53 PM
Post subject:

there is a few people are looking to do it. once checked with everyone we'll book it.

bo'selecta! - Sep 13, 2007 - 09:17 PM
Post subject:

whistler resort is cancelled for the 07/08 season due to an unforseen weather front there will be no snow but on the plus side temps will be in the high 100 farenheit. any body that has paid to go will have to shred at the domes instesd sorry to all you guys and gels

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 09:22 PM
Post subject:

your just jealous daz.

bo'selecta! - Sep 13, 2007 - 09:26 PM
Post subject:

boo hoo i know. im not jealous just monumentally incredable uncontrobly board board board board and carnt spell ha ha i suppose i should get a job
lata m8

lez_s - Sep 13, 2007 - 09:32 PM
Post subject:

you should get your ass to whistler for a few months, go you know you want to,

seanoe - Sep 14, 2007 - 10:22 AM
Post subject:

[quote="lez_s"]

Quote:

when you heading out?

We are heading out on 15th Nov. Can't wait 2 months and 1 day.. Whos counting though??!! Laughing

lez_s - Sep 14, 2007 - 10:34 AM
Post subject:

i'm heading out nov 3rd.

1 month 18 days and i am counting Razz

ScottDrummer - Sep 15, 2007 - 01:41 AM
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34 days, feels surreal, maybe due to it being 2am nearly, waiting for this damn firmware flash to complete on my iPhone

frazz - Sep 15, 2007 - 08:39 AM
Post subject:

32 days for me Very Happy

frazz - Sep 15, 2007 - 08:52 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

cool, anyone up for the dec-7 - dec-9?

I'm def up for doing one of the Dec dates the earlier the better, will prob wait until i get to resort before i book any course.

Dazzler74 - Sep 16, 2007 - 09:36 PM
Post subject:

Has anyone bought lift passes form the whistlerblackcomb.com website?

How do you collect them/get a receipt etc as am gonna buy them next week when I get paid?

cheers

lez_s - Sep 16, 2007 - 10:05 PM
Post subject:

you pick them up from the one of our guest relations locations. you photo id.

you get all the info on an email sent when you buy the pass on line.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 16, 2007 - 10:26 PM
Post subject:

When you collect them make sure you smile and look respectable as you'll have them all year. Or pull a really stupid face, and then it can be a good kicking off point to chatting up a validator!

sotla - Sep 17, 2007 - 12:06 PM
Post subject:

ahahaha

16 days Love

All my documents arrived yesterday!! Sign here

frazz - Sep 17, 2007 - 12:06 PM
Post subject:

Read this in yesterdays Sunday Times Travel Section.

A repeat of last winter's epic early snowfalls is on the cards for Whistler after the US Climate Prediction Centre advised of 'wetter than normal conditions' between now and November. The warning follows a strengthening of La Nina, a meteorological phenomenon initiated by low water temperatures in the equatorial pacific. The last strog La Nina was in 1998-99, which saw record-breaking snowfalls in the Pacific Northwest. Then Mount Baker received falls totalling 95ft.

Hell yeah,bring it on!!! Very Happy

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 04:04 PM
Post subject:

a question for you bunac visa people, is the visa you get put into your passport or is it an electronic visa so when you turn up in canada.

as the visa for non students comes out while in canada i was wondering if there was any way of getting done while in canada e.g. send my passport home and get the old to send it off.

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 04:05 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

A repeat of last winter's epic early snowfalls is on the cards for Whistler after the US Climate Prediction Centre advised of 'wetter than normal conditions' between now and November. The warning follows a strengthening of La Nina, a meteorological phenomenon initiated by low water temperatures in the equatorial pacific. The last strog La Nina was in 1998-99, which saw record-breaking snowfalls in the Pacific Northwest. Then Mount Baker received falls totalling 95ft.

cool

ace_mcgraw - Sep 17, 2007 - 04:12 PM
Post subject:

The visa / work permit thingy I got was a paper one stapled into my passport when I arrived in the country.

You'd best be contacting BUNAC, but I'm pretty sure you have to be resident in the UK when sorting it out.

And re snowfall - I'm so jealous! When I was there in 06 they had the snowiest Jan ever, and we thought we were lucky. Then last season there was even more, and this year set to be more records. Craziness!

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 05:29 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I'm pretty sure you have to be resident in the UK when sorting it out.

yeah thats what i thought. did they contract you while you were waiting for the visa?

do you think it would work if i applied for the visa and got my olds to fill in any paper work for me and then post my passport back home and for them to send it back out to me so i can get back home to save some money then to head out to canada later in the year.

i'm just about to send my skilled visa paper work off too

pricey74 - Sep 17, 2007 - 08:05 PM
Post subject:

I'm in the same boat lez and was thinking the exact same thing. Only downside I can think of is the length of time you'd be without your passport and whether you'd need it for i.d to get into the bars? How long would bunac keep hold of it for before returning it?
On the plus side my current passport expires march 2008 so i'll need a new one for this trip anyway. I'm not going to hand in my old passport when i apply fo the new one (too many nice stamps and visas in it) so I may apply to bunac and send them my old one as it will still be valid.
Anyone tried this already and gor rinsed?
Cheers....

ace_mcgraw - Sep 17, 2007 - 08:15 PM
Post subject:

I don't think I got asked for any details, or was contacted during the process, but can't really remember I'm afraid. Sorry!

And pricey, again I'm not sure but you may need a certain amount of time on your passport for it to work, or at least for it to be valid all the time you;re gonna be out there. Again you'd need to check this, but I think that may be a requirement.

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 08:51 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Only downside I can think of is the length of time you'd be without your passport and whether you'd need it for i.d to get into the bars

i wish. i'll have my photo driving license with me.

as for the time with out my passport, i dont plan on leaving canada for 6 months.

the only thing i can think of that could be a problem is, you get a stamp into canada you get the visa and your passport back, but the stamp is meant to be on the visa and not on another page. ace can you look if they did stamp the visa?
i know on my one for oz that didn't stamp the visa, just on any page.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 17, 2007 - 09:08 PM
Post subject:

Basically, what I got was a work permit stapled into my passport, which wasn't stamped. THen I also got a stamp on the passport, together with the date that my work permit ran out written in.

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 09:12 PM
Post subject:

thanks ace.

maybe it just might work.

Tens - Sep 17, 2007 - 09:19 PM
Post subject:

you are meant to be in the country when its being done and im sure they would tell you that on the phone but if you manage to chat nice and just say your going to do it anyway is there REALLY any reason it wouldnt work they might help you out.

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 10:18 PM
Post subject:

i'll give them a ring and say i'll be in france over the winter can i apply while out of the uk. if i asy canada they might funny about that .

Tens - Sep 17, 2007 - 10:41 PM
Post subject:

i just read through my visa forms (you got my ass into gear and am sorting out mine now) and it clearly states maybe more than once that you have to be in the country for it, but as said before, they may help you get around it.

lez_s - Sep 17, 2007 - 10:52 PM
Post subject:

just read the web site and it says -

Q Can I travel to Canada this year and apply for the 2008 programme while I am away?
A It is a visa/programme requirement that you are in the UK for the duration of the visa application. It is not possible to process your application if you are in Canada.

i'll give them a ring saying i'll be out of the uk but want to apply and can i send my passport once i get back. i dont want to head out to canada until later next year as i've applied for my nz working holiday visa for the summer.

lez_s - Sep 18, 2007 - 10:46 AM
Post subject:

just got off the phone with bunac. they said i can apply for the visa and pay the fees on line anywhere in the world and that saves me a visa, which is step one. the second step is once i'm back in the uk i then send the information they need to get the visa.

thats the way i wanted it, not sure about your self pricey74.

the number if you want to ring them is 02072513472

pricey74 - Sep 18, 2007 - 01:45 PM
Post subject:

Thanks for the info lez, sounds promising...

So would i be right in thinking that i can pay for/baggsy the visa over t'interweb in december (or as soon as they become available?) while i'm in canada and then send off all the paperwork when i return to blighty in may?

lez_s - Sep 18, 2007 - 01:52 PM
Post subject:

you would be right in thinking that. as soon as they are available you can put your name down for one and pay for it on line and was you get back finish the paperwork off to get the visa in may.

pricey74 - Sep 18, 2007 - 02:01 PM
Post subject:

Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeet

MrRob - Sep 18, 2007 - 02:31 PM
Post subject:

im new to the forum so i thought id take this oppertunity to say hi! im flying to vancuver in october to move up to whistler for this winter season, and im havin a nightmare sorting out insurance! its all too confusing for me, i was wondering if anyone knows the best/cheapest route for me to take to "safe" riding? cheers,
Rob

Tens - Sep 18, 2007 - 02:39 PM
Post subject:

rob - theres a thread a few down from the top one about insurance in north america.

Lez - i didnt realise you were after it for next yr, i thought you wanted it from jan onwards in 08 till you leave. You really are planning ahead.

lez_s - Sep 18, 2007 - 02:46 PM
Post subject:

welcome to scuk rob Beer

have a read through the thread tens is on about and look here - http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/insurance

tens - i know i could only apply in dec and as i'm not a student and would be out of the uk i was thinking of ways around it, because by the time i get home all the non student visas would have gone.

Tens - Sep 18, 2007 - 04:10 PM
Post subject:

you want to work out there then lez, spose you will need to since over the 2 yr period you will be away for a year.

lez_s - Sep 18, 2007 - 04:18 PM
Post subject:

i had the oz working holiday visa 5-6 years ago as part of my travels and i'm fed up with the uk and i did like canada when i was there. so i would try and get a job in whistler in the winter and in the summer try and find an IT job.

Jaded_Parrot - Sep 18, 2007 - 04:22 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

i'm fed up with the uk

Join the club!

ScottDrummer - Sep 18, 2007 - 07:44 PM
Post subject:

hi people,
sorry just catching up on the threads and didnt get the jist of what your on about, do you mean your applying for next years visa with bunac now so you can return or stay in the country for more than the year?
this is something i looked into a while back but the visa notice saying about being in the uk during the process put me off.
sorry lez, i got our mail but tiger went down on me (not a real tiger) and i lost your email address. its about now im starting to think of longer term stuff too, so you reackon applying for another visa from canada will work out? whats your plan?
as with the PR application, did you do PNP or Skilled worker?

ScottDrummer - Sep 18, 2007 - 07:48 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

exactly my plan too. They have progress programming in use in Vancouver, not too much of it so I may or may not be in luck, hopefully as its a minority that use it, it will be a niche area for me to apply for work in, which will be useful when it comes to PNP application and $

starting to panic now 31 days to go and still not got job yet.

frazz - Sep 18, 2007 - 08:38 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

starting to panic now 31 days to go and still not got job yet.

Same here,although have had a 40 min phone interview with the Four Seasons and a follow up email to arrange a 2nd interview,still waiting to find out when that 2nd interview's gonna be.

Was a bit disappointed with the jobs listed on the Whistler Blackcomb website,looks like i'll be pounding the pavements cv's in hand when i arrive.

walnuts - Sep 18, 2007 - 09:44 PM
Post subject:

To the guys stressing about employment:

You do have interviews booked with intrawest as a backup right?

When I spoke to Intrawest Human Resources a couple of weeks ago, they gave the impression that unless you are some sort of two-headed freak you WILL get a job with Intrawest, even if it's not the one you are actually interviewing for.

So don't panic!

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 18, 2007 - 10:00 PM
Post subject:

Yup, i second that, there is no need to panic, as i said before there are hundreds of jobs out there, just might not be exactly what you wanted. Most places wont even bother hiring until mid-late October. There is just no work to be had until the season starts and town fills up. Plus most employers would rather speak to you in person and meet you, than give a highly sought after job to someone they have never met. So in short, chill out, you can still apply and send of your stuff, but no need to stress out about not getting anything back.

norton - Sep 19, 2007 - 08:57 AM
Post subject:

i got loads of replys to emails i sent to places on pique, but they all said (and i expected them too) would love to hear from you when you are in town, please pop in with your resume for a chat...

lez_s - Sep 19, 2007 - 09:16 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

at first i was thinking if there was away of stopping out after the season, but as i might need an op on my knee when i get back i thought it would better to wait until next season to work.

as i know i had to be in the uk to apply for the bunac visa and as i was going to be in canada from nov - apr i wouldn't be able to apply for it until dec 08 so i work in 2009. when i phoned up asking if i could apply while out of the uk so i dont miss this years visa i can via their web site. so i'll head home at the end of may get my self sorted and go contracting to get some money and head back out for the next season.

in the mean time i'm sending my skilled visa paperwork off too.

lez_s - Sep 19, 2007 - 06:38 PM
Post subject:

looks like snow on top of whistler

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

Dazzler74 - Sep 19, 2007 - 07:48 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Is anyone going on 5th december with Zoom Air 14.25pm flight from manchester or glasgow (flight foes from Manchester, then picks up some people in Glasgow)

If so, it would be good to sort out a transfer - we can order a stretch limo from http://www.starlimousine.com/

anyone interested let me know

cheers

Daryn

Dazzler74 - Sep 19, 2007 - 07:48 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

Tens - Sep 19, 2007 - 10:16 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

ditto but for the 1st dec Very Happy

Will - Sep 19, 2007 - 10:59 PM
Post subject: RE: how do you get work as a tradesman?

yeh same for nov 1st

pricey74 - Sep 20, 2007 - 10:16 AM
Post subject:

Tens, I land in Vancouver Nov 28th and will spend 3 nights there before making my way to Whistler on Dec 1st. Let me know if you want to hook up and sort out a transfer.

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:04 AM
Post subject:

i land nov 3rd at 18:00, but it's looking like i'm on the bus, never mind adds to the fun.

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:05 AM
Post subject:

what is everyone doing regarding money and banking?

Is it better to leave your pot of cash in a UK bank and withdraw it from canada when needed or transfer it all over a canadian bank account?
are their interest rates any better?
apparently hsbc charge £1.75 each time you withdraw abroad.

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:10 AM
Post subject:

i'm not working out there, but i've opened a nationwide account because you dont get chaged to take money out while out of the uk.

i'm keeping my normal account and transfering money via the internet from one account to the nationwide account when i need it.

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:16 AM
Post subject:

ye i opened one with NW for the same reason, and was planning to just withdraw it from over there.
Im not too clued up on finance, but I was wondering whether its beneficial due to current exchange rates and canadian interest rates to transfer it all over .
*goes digging*

Tens - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:20 AM
Post subject:

i was going to use my nationwide account too that i just opened but alternatively i was also thinking about using my barclaycard and then paying that off from internet banking from my normal account back at home.

Sound like a good idea.

also i may get a job at some point so will open a canadian account if needed but not too worried about it if i dont work.

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:20 AM
Post subject:

if you mean the money you make while in canada then i would think a bank in canada is best. if you send it to a uk bank and then take it out in canada from a uk bank you might get hit with a commission fee and the exchange rates will change.

Tens - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:23 AM
Post subject:

yes pricey deffinately interested, love how planned up everyone is just cos they want to be there now, is still such a long way away for sorting out lifts but am interested and will sort it out in the near future.

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:24 AM
Post subject:

i mean uk money i currently have, whether to transfer this to canada and base it all there.
Im going to be putting money earned in canada, in a canadian bank.

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:33 AM
Post subject:

i'm not sure, but i think i was told you get a charge when you take money out of some banks in canada......calling ace or someone Laughing

Tens - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:37 AM
Post subject:

im gonna see how it goes, im gonna barclaycard it all time (travel, supermarket, restaurants,purchases) and use my nationwide cash card for cash which will only be drinking money and some food.

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 12:38 PM
Post subject:

ok looking at the drop in exchange rate i think its best to keep it in uk and transfer it
cheers people

ace_mcgraw - Sep 20, 2007 - 02:42 PM
Post subject:

Ace to the rescue!! Angelic

I've never been the best on finance Embarassed

but you're right Lez, there is no such thing as free banking in Canada. I was with TD Canada Trust and they had a range of options - generally you're limited to the number of transactions per month. The more money you pay per month, the more free transactions. You then pay for each transaction after that.

And certainly with Intrawest, likely to be teh same for other companies, unless paid by cash, you will need a Canadian bank account.

I had Canadian account for wages, then kept everything else in UK account.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 20, 2007 - 04:43 PM
Post subject:

Most of the Canadian banks work as ace just said. I have a list of all account options for TD Canada Trust if anyone wants info, a decent standard one is the 'Self Serve Account' it costs $6.95 a month and you get 20 transactions free every month, each time on top of that its $0.50 for withdrawal and $1.50 for interac (debit). However if you can keep your account balance over $1500 you do not have to pay the monthly fee.
Best to keep most of your money in a nationwide account and withdraw it as you need it, and put all wages into your canadian one.

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 04:48 PM
Post subject:

id appriciate any info on banks johnny.
email addy below

walnuts - Sep 20, 2007 - 09:55 PM
Post subject:

For what it's worth here are my banking recommendations based on my experience in Canada over the last few months.

Open a Nationwide account before you leave home, then you can use the debit card to make withdrawals at TD Canada cash machines without paying any fees. Nationwides exchange rate is also pretty good so it's well worth the effort.

If you are also going to be working on a Bunac visa while you are over here, then (provided you have time) I'd recommend going to the two-hour SWAP orientation in Vancouver when you arrive.
This is not essential, but it is worthwhile for three reasons:
1. You can get a discounted Fido Pay-as-you-go SIM card.
2. Your SIN application will get fast tracked (under a week).
3. They will give you a magic piece-of-paper that allows you to open a TD Canada account at a discounted student-rate ($3.25/month and 25 transactions).

Also note: The banking cards in Canada allow you to draw money from a cash-machine and pay in shops/restaurants, but it is not a proper Visa/Mastercard, so you cannot use it to shop online for example. So try and keep your reserve funds in a UK account not a Canada account as it will be most usable this way.

Hope that helps.

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 09:57 PM
Post subject:

cheers walnuts, sounds like a plan. My swap meeting is booked in and ready for monday after i arrive

steddie76 - Sep 20, 2007 - 10:32 PM
Post subject:

Hey all, been reading the threads for a while now.. heading out to Whistler this season to so hopefully hook up with some of you out there!?!
Really useful stuff so far, looks like I'll be opening a Nationwide account.
I'm flying out with Zoom on the 3rd Nov form Gatwick, think I saw someone else was hopping on that one!?!

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 10:51 PM
Post subject:

hey, welcome to scuk Beer

i'[m on that flight too. it lands at 18:00

ScottDrummer - Sep 20, 2007 - 10:54 PM
Post subject:

anyone going to snowboard show at tamworth saturday (22nd)?
would be good to meet any whistler-goers

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 10:59 PM
Post subject:

i'll be there at night riding.

steddie76 - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:02 PM
Post subject:

yeah cool, whats your plans for heading up to Whistler?
Not sure myself may get the perimeter bus that evening, but also thinking of sticking around in Van for one of these SWAP thing's, theres one the next morning!?

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:07 PM
Post subject:

i'll be heading to whistler that night.

on another thread someone said that if there is 5 or more it works out cheaper going with star limo than perimeter express.

is it just your self heading out? i've emailed someone to ask if she is still going out on the 3rd too, and i think she said someone is coming with her.

steddie76 - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:14 PM
Post subject:

yeah just me, not definate on the journey up yet as may set up a bank account before I go, but open to suggestions.

lez_s - Sep 20, 2007 - 11:22 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

open to suggestions

you pay for the transfers? Laughing

once i get the email back i'll know a but more.

its lucky, i was going to book my transfer today with perimeter express.

paulparkie - Sep 21, 2007 - 01:37 AM
Post subject:

yeah the banking stuff all makes sense. I had my SWAP meet about three weeks ago and TD were the ones recommended, the other thing to be aware of is where in Whistler the banks are... I know that TDs is in the main town, but someone said that a couple of the other big banks were quite a way out of town which could be an arse. TD still do the student offer to SWAP which is good... and I had a really hot bank clerk open my a/c for me which is always a bonus... in fact meeting her for a drink this weekend Wink

I have a Nationwide a/c to but there's still quite a lot of machines that it won't let me withdrawn from at all! which is a pain especially when I've been in remote places and only had the one machine to choose!

The discount sim that was mentioned earlier on in the thread offered at SWAP is not something we were told about. She did mentioned something about the phone guys not coming to the meetings anymore so I don't know if that's it... but Fido were offering the best deals when I went round the mall... they're all a bugger for trying to get you on contract though... and one of them even tried selling me 3 year warranty Shocked

haha

The other crap thing about phones out here is it costing to recieve calls!

Ok... can I ask a question that I'm sure's been answered but the length of this thread versus internet cafe time is insane!! : if I get an earlybird lift pass and then get a job with the mountain, they refund it if I haven't used over a certain number of days. is that right?

cheers

Tens - Sep 21, 2007 - 08:33 AM
Post subject:

yes thats right but i dont tihnk anyone is 100% sure on how they work out the refund, as i am looking at getting a volunteer job to get my pass free but unless i pick one up in the first week of being there the amount they would refund $1400 - 1 weeks worth of normal price lift pass, wouldnt be worthwhile for me to volunteer but as I say they might not charge the normal weeks cost. Would be even more pointless if i picked up my job 2 weeks in and I think after 3 weeks (21 days) the price is the same as a season pass.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 21, 2007 - 08:43 AM
Post subject:

I think RBC have a branch in Whistler town centre too

And with the pass, I think the limit is 25 days (I had done 29 when I got my job!), and you get an amount taken off the refund per day you use it. So if you use it 24 days, you prob get a fiver back or something!

I found a loonie (Canadian $1 coin) on the floor last night and it made me sad Crying or Very sad

ScottDrummer - Sep 21, 2007 - 09:26 AM
Post subject:

i believe thats correct, i think its >25 days, and you dont get those back on the rebate.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 21, 2007 - 12:22 PM
Post subject:

I wrote this a couple years ago for some friends, thought i would post it here if anyone is interested. Its not a full list by any means, just some things that came to my head. Sorry for the massive post.

Useful Things To Know.

• Take a laptop, internet cafes are hell expensive.
• Buy “Whistler and Blackcomb Advanced/Expert Guide book” small palm sized book available in most outdoor shops and the grocery store. Incredibly useful for those secret runs and lots of advise
• Before you go up check the webcams and call snowphone 604.932.4211 (if it’s the same number) weather could be totally different on the mountain. It could be raining in the village and bluebird above
• If its cloudy don’t let it put you off, just head for the trees. Trees are infact magic and disperse the cloud, plus you are not travelling as fast. Many powder turn people miss out on because of overcast days.
• If the village gondola queue is big, upload on Fitz and Garbo chair, which manage to miss all the tourist queues.
• On a big pow day there is nothing wrong with waiting at Peak chair for 2 hours, to be on the first few chairs up. It could well be the best run of your season.
• From personal experience only ride Lower Peak to Creek if it is a pow day or has been recently groomed. 5km is one hell of a long mogul run, and you will be crying at the bottom.
• Tie a whistle onto your jacket, and ride the trees with others, tree wells can be deep and near impossible to get out of.
• Wax your board often, every few hardcore days riding, or about every week as a rule. It makes such a difference and looks after your base.
• Carry ID and insurance papers at all times on the mountain.
• Ride a good bit with people better than you, it improves your riding immensely. Get out of your comfort zone be it on the steepest thing you have done, fastest speed, or biggest kicker.
• Slap hands and say hi to everyone you meet, its all about knowing. Get to know bartenders and bouncers, you can get all kinds of privileges from no queue, no cover charge, to free drinks. Make sure you tip!! At least 10% on drinks and a bit more for food if the service was good. If you don’t tip you wont get anywhere, bartenders might even ignore you and serve everyone else first.
• Don’t forget the tax on all goods. Its about 15% you need to add on to everything you buy, ie something in the shop marked at $5 will actually be nearly $6.50 when you get to the till. Only the liquor stores have the tax included in the price.

Places you must go – Food and Drink

• Wildwood for breakfast, before riding or when hungover. The classic breakfast is awesome, but for the more hungry try the Olympic with banana bread French toast. Found at the racket club at the far end of the village. Price: $9 classic and coffee ($11 Olympic + coffee)
• Splitz Grill, best burgers ever! You pick what goes in like subway. Order a Splitz combo 1 first, burger fries and drink. Try some splitz sauce. Found on Main street opposite 7/11. Price: $10 Combo 1 with cheese
• Merlins at Blackcomb base just to order nachos. Bring about 6 people to help eat them all. Price: $17 for a small mountain of nachos, $12 jugs.
• 21 Steps – in the loft, up the 21 steps to the restaurant then up the next flight to a chilled out lounge. Never too busy and cool for a couple quiet drinks. Located on the village stroll. Price: $5.50 pint
• Cinnamon Bear – found downstairs in the Hilton. Actually a super chilled out bar with a good few Yo-boys and then poshies from the hotel. Also has a kick ass entertainment system, like games and things, pool and TVs and free nibbles. Price: $6 beer
• Brandys, woot woot!! Go for a Beef dip (big garlic baguette with shaved prime rib steak sautéed mushrooms and onions and swiss cheese with a dipping au jus) and ice cold pint of Keiths (don’t order Canadian) Awesome deal. Some of the cheapest quality pints in town. Price: $12 Beef dip and beer, $4.50 pints
• Garfs to dance the night away, and drink jager till you cant remember.
• The Pie Shop properly called “4 and 20 Pies” has some awesome pies for that 2am snack. Found by the conference centre beside subway. Price: $3.80 for a pie
• Cittas patio (pronounced chee-tas) Best people watching and drinking spot full stop. You cant miss it. Price: $6 pint
• Moguls café – great smoothies for when the alcohol starts getting all too much. Kick ass breakfast bagels and wraps. Good to site outside and watch the world go by. Found opposite Cittas. Price: $5 smoothie, $4.50 bagels

Places you must go – On the Mountain
• Flute bowl – Absolute must. Any pow day get some awesome well earned turns in a quiet area. Can hold powder patches for 3 or so days after a big dump.
• Spankys ladder – Again another pow day must, climb the bottle neck of the ladder (steps in the snow and rock, don’t fall or drop your board) to be rewarded with several massive bowls of perfect riding. Double black is the easiest way down from the ladder.
• Couloir – On Whistler mountain, a classic couloir, get it on a pow day and its epic. Daunting to look at but not too bad to ride, good initiation into double blacks.
• 7th Heaven – Perfect open glades, gentle slopes and such a wide area fresh tracks can be found everywhere. Nice into to tree riding on the lower half, not too dense. Awesome riding
• Peak to Creek – get this when it has been freshly groom and it is the most awesome fun long run, 7km of pure ripping straight from Whistler Peak right down to the pub in Creekside in one run.
• Straightline the Saddle – no fresh snow? Time to mess about, a straightline race down the Saddle is called for. Get to the top of the Saddle, find a clear line straight down, point and shoot. No turning or speed checking until you reach Peak chair. Guaranteed to make your eyes water.
• The parks – Start of small and get bigger. Generally the bigger the park the better it is kept and often ridden less. Just don’t be a tit in the park, have some sense, don’t cut people up, stop beneath an obstacle etc
• Backcountry – the proper stuff, fully out of bounds in the middle of nowhere. Make sure you are going with someone who knows the area, best bet is to go on the Avalanche Awareness Course. Teaches you a lot about snowpack, avalanches, and general safety in the mountains. Will learn how to use transceivers and probes etc, do some snowshoe hiking and ride some perfect untouched terrain.
• Harmony – everything from easy cruising to sick ridges, just a massive play area.
• Trees – on a cloudy day head for the trees, also intense on a pow day or just for a bit of fun. Look in the W/B guide for some runs or just make them up yourself, find a hole in the trees and dive in (make sure you know where it comes out and you’re not heading to oblivion)
• Chic Pea on Whistler mountain. Kick ass pizza in a funky cabin. Escapes the crowds of the big Roundhouse lodge

ScottDrummer - Sep 21, 2007 - 12:29 PM
Post subject:

Excellent, what a great post, bookmarked. Cheers Johnny.

lez_s - Sep 21, 2007 - 01:07 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

what a great post, bookmarked

same here.

norton - Sep 21, 2007 - 01:18 PM
Post subject:

Cheers Johnnny

Tens - Sep 21, 2007 - 01:35 PM
Post subject:

"full list! full list" (chanting voice)

pricey74 - Sep 21, 2007 - 02:05 PM
Post subject:

Yeah come on Johnny, stop teasing us with this trifling little list.....!

Loki117 - Sep 21, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject:

I HATE YOU ALL! i've been lurking on this thread since it started and all I can say is i'm jelous as hell! Hope you all have an amazing season!

lez_s - Sep 21, 2007 - 02:28 PM
Post subject:

the funny thing is we're not going to whistler really, we're all coming to the winter bash....

...NOT!!! Laughing

Loki117 - Sep 21, 2007 - 02:30 PM
Post subject:

I sound like mutley right about now Sad

"gruphin fluffinf bluffin muffin"

TOA - Sep 21, 2007 - 02:35 PM
Post subject:

How essential is the laptop ?

internet Cafes couldn't be that expensive can they ?

Maybe I will get awesome room mates who have laptops what won't mind me using them once or twice a week

lez_s - Sep 21, 2007 - 03:17 PM
Post subject:

yet again i've got nothing to do at work and keep looking at http://media.intrawest.com/whistler/nei ... hoods.html

Tens - Sep 21, 2007 - 03:38 PM
Post subject:

woha getting me well excited and hardly any of it worked, first thing im gonna do when i get back from work is spend hours on there.

ScottDrummer - Sep 21, 2007 - 03:43 PM
Post subject:

some good pics on there, ive tried to stop looking at pics of whistler; i used to spend every lunchtime hunting slide, flickr, google for images of whistler to pass my time and get excited but i kinda want the value of finding places out and discovering it for myself, i feel like i know the place already and im not even there yet. im sure the pics are nowhere near as good as its gonna be... ROLL ON 28 DAYS!!!!!!!!

lez_s - Sep 21, 2007 - 03:50 PM
Post subject:

know what you mean. i've watched some you tube stuff as well, just to get some idea of the terrain whats in the parks.

for some reason the you tube clips there only a few people on the slopes, i'm not getting my hopes up that its like that all season.

Tens - Sep 21, 2007 - 05:28 PM
Post subject:

google earth has changed sincei last used it, it now shows loads of poeples photos that they have taken in the place your looking at they come up as blue dots and you click on them and it shows the image and maybe a comment.
Take a look.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 21, 2007 - 06:05 PM
Post subject:

Thanks guys, just found it sitting in my documents from a while back, thought it could be helpfull if not a bit interesting. As for a full list (not sure if that was sarcasm or not) i could spend forever talking about any aspect of the town or mountains, if you have any areas you want some info on, i will tell you all i know.

Quote:

How essential is the laptop ?

internet Cafes couldn't be that expensive can they ?

Not essential just very handy. Internet cafes come in at about $4 for 15mins and there are two main ones in town, Electric Daisy and Hotbox. I suppose the price isnt too over the top, but you will tend to be using then alot when you first get into town. With emails to companies, sobbing parents, and green friends you can find you are in and out of them quite often.
The other plus side of having one is to check the web cams before you go up the mountain, those and snowphone are the best way to get a good impression of what the weather is like.
I hate to break it to you, as good as Whistler is the weather is not always perfect, you will get storms with driving rain and wind, days when you just dont want to leave the house, so it just gives you something to do.
Generally if you are living in a bigger house a few people will bring a laptop and most will be decent enough to let you use them, so as i said its not essential, but more, if you have one bring it because it will be usefull.

steddie76 - Sep 21, 2007 - 06:13 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

you pay for the transfers?

You'll be lucky!!! I might stretch to a beer at the airport!

Thanks keep us posted.....

ace_mcgraw - Sep 21, 2007 - 06:41 PM
Post subject:

nice work on the list jonny. Couldn't agree with that more.

Definately agree with the comment about laptops (and the weather!). For the whole of Jan we didn't see the sun in the village. But, quite often there was a thick band of cloud around mid mountain (Top of wizard, bottom of Solar Coaster if you look at the map) above which there was a good clear bit up to the next layer of cloud above the level of the mountain tops. This meant that although it looked dreadful from our bedroom windows, we could look at the webcams on our mates lap tops, see the top was clear safe in the knowledge that we could go up and actually see stuff. THe only fun bit was coming into the crowded bits with no visibility!

If you can't get a laptop, then as Jonny says, it definately pays to just say hi to everyone. I became pretty good friends with the people working in cyber web (My favourite cyber cafe located next door to Showcase near to the bottom of the lifts) and I got given free time on the computer all the time.

Re lifts, i never really had much problems with queues - my advice is don't be afraid to go up Blackcomb, and don't be afraid to get to Blackcomb base and use the wizard. Most tourists go up Whistler, and if they go up Blackcomb they use the Blackcomb gondi. As for Fitz and Garbo - good advice but certainly when I was working on the lifts fitz was only open for a limited time, perhaps only a couple of days a week. But garbo is awesome - no one uses it and you can access some awesome terrain.

If you got a sweet tooth Hot Buns (Off the main street a little bit close to the Amsterdam or whatever it's called) does great cinammon buns!

And lastly, be nice to lifties! They're great people! Not that I'm biased or anything, but most of the lifties I worked with really would do as much as possible to help out if you ask them! Even before I started working as a lifty they are just so much friendlier than european liftys.

lez_s - Sep 21, 2007 - 10:51 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

don't be afraid to go up Blackcomb, and don't be afraid to get to Blackcomb base and use the wizard.

i thought blackcomb was the better place anyway, plus the wizard wiis the closest lift to me.

Quote:

lifty they are just so much friendlier than european liftys.

yeah noticed that in colorado

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 22, 2007 - 01:00 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

i thought blackcomb was the better place anyway

Depends purely on the weather i think. OK this is my opinion before anyone slates me and says its all wrong!
Cruising - either mountain is brilliant, endless groomed runs, all day riding.
Park - obviously the XL park is the best kept and groomed to perfection but you need a helmet and an extra pass for that. The blue park on blackcomb would normally come second but last year whistler just blew it out of the water. Blackcomb was badly maintained and lacking in hits and inginuity, Whistler park ruled all season, with a bigger variety of jumps and rails and was kept way better (salting jumps etc)
Pow day - Obviously anywhere will be good on a deep pow day but bear this in mind. If the weather is closing in/bad visibility i prefere blackcomb, there are more tree runs that can be had easier in the higher alpine, with all of Crystal ridge and lower 7th Heaven there is plenty to shred. However on a nice clear pow day do not underestimate Whistler, with its huge open bowls you literally scream down with the biggest rooster tails ever, for pure open pow field shredding i dont think you can beat Whis. There are many steep runs and chutes if you want that too. For instance my best day of last season was a big pow day and my first 4 runs were Excitation, Head Wall, West Cirque to Doom and Gloom, then the Couloir all of which were fresh tracks. Epic day.
Dont get me wrong i love the steeps on Blackcomb too, there is some awesome riding there. Spankys ladder and all in the glacier its spectacular. I'm just really saying dont neglect either mountain because of what people think, give them both a fair chance.

lez_s - Sep 22, 2007 - 10:00 AM
Post subject:

i agree with you. i'll be riding both, i'm just happy to ride where ever and have fun anywhere.

thanks for the info......again:lol:

ace_mcgraw - Sep 22, 2007 - 11:01 AM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Quote:

i thought blackcomb was the better place anyway

Good call on all that. Shame about the Blackcomb park last year - when I was there it was pretty solid, and I had a great time there. Having said that, they certainly tended to be more creative in the Whistler park, although it always tended to be way busier than B. Also, last year did they have a whole bunch of stuff up by the top of the Emerald Chair? When I was there they only had the halfpipe all season till the Telus, when they put in a few kickers.

And I totally agree about the off piste stuff. I can remember having fresh tracks down all the Harmony horseshoes, then still getting new lines into west bowl about 3 days after snow.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 22, 2007 - 11:31 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Also, last year did they have a whole bunch of stuff up by the top of the Emerald Chair?

Yes, and it was great! About 8 decent rails and boxes of quite a high level, and two rather sizable kickers one tabletop, one step up. I think there might have been a pipe there for a bit, never ride it so cant remember. There was alot more features last year, you know after the drop in to the 2 kickers where it splits off, there was a sustantial small park to the left, then medium down the middle, itself having two lines of small/medium and bigger medium. And then the large park breaking off on the right, with hits rivalling the smaller kickers in the XL park.
Yeah, i have to say Blackcomb was pretty poor last year, same 2 hips as always, couple of rails, 3 badly shaped kickers, load more rails, opposite hip and pipe. Later on in the season the landings were soft and chopped up, run outs were mogal fields, i saw more people injure themselves because they didnt do a run through to check all the landings and lips, just went for it and ate sh1t on the landing. **lesson everyone**
Over on Whis they were grooming everything constantly and salting take offs and landings, just seemed like the blackcomb guys had given up. Pity. Hope they pull their fingers out for this year.
As for pipes, there only is one now. Even though they still advertise 3. Night pipe is closed, it costs too much to maintain, and because of how close it was to the village people wernt paying to use it, just hiking it. As i said i dont think there was a pipe on Whis, so that just leaves the superpipe on blackcomb, which is pretty daunting to learn on, nothing quite so scary as dropping in across the tranny with a 16 foot ice wall coming at you!

ace_mcgraw - Sep 22, 2007 - 11:59 AM
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Yowzers - shame about the pipe - having the superpipe as the only one doesn't make much sense to me! I prob never would've tried it if that was the case - I only ever did the one on Whistler as it wasn't too daunting and was really good fun. Man the whistler park sounds awesome - way more stuff than I was there. I'll have to try and get over there this year to see what it's like. Anyone got a couch I can crash on!?!?

ScottDrummer - Sep 22, 2007 - 03:14 PM
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your welcome to stay with us ace, we have a pull out bed in our condo.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 22, 2007 - 05:50 PM
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Excellent *Rubbing hands together in glee* Thumbs Up

I shall see how the finances go and you never know I may well take you up on teh offer! I am fully house trained!

ScottDrummer - Sep 22, 2007 - 05:51 PM
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ok just give us a shout and we will hold off on the ironing and washing up for that week. lol

ScottDrummer - Sep 22, 2007 - 05:52 PM
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oooooooooo, just checked the whistler webcams, THERES SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! man im too excited for a 25 year old

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 22, 2007 - 05:54 PM
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another little dusting of snow from mid mountain up Very Happy

I am quite literally peeing myself with excitement
http://ww1.whistlerblackcomb.com/p2pg/webcam.html

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 22, 2007 - 05:56 PM
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lol snap, god damn i love winter

BoardingJay - Sep 22, 2007 - 06:37 PM
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3 more years and i'll be doing my season Very Happy

sotla - Sep 22, 2007 - 07:23 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

oooooooooo, just checked the whistler webcams, THERES SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! man im too excited for a 25 year old

we're 25 years young scott!! Razz

ScottDrummer - Sep 22, 2007 - 07:28 PM
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hahaha never too old to be excited about snow

ace_mcgraw - Sep 23, 2007 - 11:11 AM
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you shoulda seen me before I was going, and I was 26!

lez_s - Sep 23, 2007 - 11:14 AM
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i'm not really bothered about going any more

yeah right Laughing

lez_s - Sep 23, 2007 - 11:16 AM
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oh scott, where you at tam on saturday wearing a yellow tee and your girlfriend in a white hoody? i thought it was you (seen your photos on facebook) was going to say hello but wasn't sure if it was you.

Dazzler74 - Sep 23, 2007 - 12:38 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

i'm not really bothered about going any more

me neither, all this talking about it has taken away the shine, I just keep thinking about how cold its gonna be, and expensive.

sod it, I am calling the whole thing off..anybody want my flights, accommodation. I am just giving them away..In fact, I ncant be bothered with snowboarding anymore, anyone want all my boards, boots, bindings? Am gonna get rid, save up and buy some blades....

FOOK THAT...ROLL ON 5TH DECEMBER....KEEP THE SNOW COLD FOR ME TIL I ARRIVE!

ace_mcgraw - Sep 23, 2007 - 04:32 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

sod it, I am calling the whole thing off..anybody want my flights, accommodation. I am just giving them away..In fact, I ncant be bothered with snowboarding anymore, anyone want all my boards, boots, bindings? Am gonna get rid, save up and buy some blades....

Wait a minute, you just said that on a nationwide forum - you can't take that back! I've got first dibs on it all! Very Happy

walnuts - Sep 23, 2007 - 07:24 PM
Post subject:

Anyone out there bringing avalanche transceivers/shovels/probes/snowshoes?

I'm trying to decide whether to part with my cash for the above stuff.
The feeble US dollar is making for some great bargains on ebay (I just received my new board - a new 2007 burton custom for £210 inc delivery+tax!).

ScottDrummer - Sep 23, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

yea that was me lol, didnt see you, were you at the snowboard show or just riding?

Tens - Sep 23, 2007 - 08:00 PM
Post subject:

stalker

ScottDrummer - Sep 24, 2007 - 10:21 AM
Post subject:

Anyone in canada got internet with shaw? If so do you fancy referring me to get yourself a free month?
http://www.shaw.ca/en-ca/ProductsServic ... +A+Friend/
i was just about to sign up but if there is someone here on it already they can earn themselves a month free from filling in the form.
Email me for my details if your interested

Will - Sep 24, 2007 - 10:33 AM
Post subject:

Hey, was looking through the tag connect policy and it says that it doesnt cover you for general health while you are in whistler (serious flu etc) does anyone know how to get something that covers you?

cheers

ScottDrummer - Sep 24, 2007 - 05:24 PM
Post subject:

i dont think mine does tbh (BMC) but i guess you can just get health insurance in canada once there.

Will - Sep 24, 2007 - 06:02 PM
Post subject:

were and how do you get that once you are in canada?

cheers

Tens - Sep 24, 2007 - 06:32 PM
Post subject:

what is classed as general health anyway, brain tumor from flying etc etc or is that covered. Is season insurance only if you hurt yourself skiing then and not if you fell over on the road or hit by a car.

ScottDrummer - Sep 24, 2007 - 07:04 PM
Post subject:

ive no idea, you would prbably be best calling your travel insurance provider, and check what it includes and excludes, then if you feel you need further insurance to cover the exclusions for your health then make enquiries into health insurance in canada. Google BC health insurance, im sure you will find more info that i can guess at.

Dazzler74 - Sep 25, 2007 - 10:46 AM
Post subject:

I will be mostly paying off my accommo and liftpasses on thursday...heeheheheheeheheheheheheheheh

just insurance to sort out and spending money.......hehehehehehheehheehehe

also, hehehehheheheheheheehehehehehehehehehehehehe

Work is proving difficult - cant get myself motivated, there isnt alot on and my bosses arent fussed as they know i am leaving....its gonna be a long 10 weeks til departure day!!!

heheheheheheheheheeheheh

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 10:49 AM
Post subject:

you sound like a happy chappy.
Im also finding difficulty of finding a way of looking busy without me having to think.
have you applied for your work authorisation form yet from bunac? (assuming you are going on a bunac visa)

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 10:51 AM
Post subject:

i have about 4 hours work to do over the next month Laughing

Dazzler74 - Sep 25, 2007 - 10:59 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Im also finding difficulty of finding a way of looking busy without me having to think.
have you applied for your work authorisation form yet from bunac? (assuming you are going on a bunac visa)

I am not working so dont need a visa... you gte more snowboarding done in 3 months not working than you do with 6 months of working... - cant afford to go for any longer anyway as have mortgage to take care of...also, we are going for jan, feb, mar - i reckon we should get a powder day or two!!

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:06 AM
Post subject:

but you get more snowboarding in 6 months and not working Mr. Green

ace_mcgraw - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:14 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Wrong!!! Ok it actually depends on what work you do so technically it's not wrong. This could just be me, but I must admit I did get a little bored when riding all the time and not working. When I started working, I got to ride even more than I could without a job (I only had midweek pass before), got to ride with better riders (It's official, all lifty's are crazy!) and made way more friends than was possible without working!

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:18 AM
Post subject:

if i get my visa in dec then i plan to work on the lifts next season.

can you get jobs in the parks?

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:23 AM
Post subject:

ive applied for "mountain safety and trail crew" as a volly job for intrawest (for my pass rebate)... ive no idea what mountain safety and trail crew means so if anyone can elighten me id be grateful.

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:28 AM
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i have thought about volunteering for events and things. you have to do 28 days, still not sure if i will yet.

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:32 AM
Post subject:

ye, thought it was a good opportunity of working for the mountain for the lift pass with minimal hours, it works out at roughly a day a week, which aint bad for a £700 lift pass.
If my main job gives me a lift pass anyway ill have to think again whether it would be worth it, still id like to do it for the experience.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:41 AM
Post subject:

They always have a crew of about 15 people or so working on each mountain. The top guys there seem to be pretty longstanding at the mountains, or have experience shaping other parks. But I think they do have a few job vacancies each year, but I can imagine they're pretty hotly fought for!

The guy in charge of the Blackcomb parks (Stu Osbourne) is a really nice guy, and has english roots (Actually Norfolk to be exact!) so you can play on that perhaps!

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 11:47 AM
Post subject:

sounds good.

this season i'll try and network a bit and try and sort a job out for next season when i head back on a visa.

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:20 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

how did you go about that. just been looking at whistler web site and seen stuff like, ski patrol avalanche awareness guide, event/race host. were they in the current job part?

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:34 PM
Post subject:

yeah, in the same bit those jobs are listed, you click the link and tick the boxes that ask "are you eligble to work in canada" etc...
it takes you to another screen where you fill in your details and book your interview
this is the page:
https://secure.whistlerblackcomb.com/ee/jobs.aspx

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:48 PM
Post subject:

it says i can't apply because i dont have a visa. i thought as its a volunteer job and not being paid i would be able to do it. never mind i'll just have to snowboard every day.

shame i would have liked to have done it.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:48 PM
Post subject:

I had a couple of friends who were on the mountain safety crew. They seemed to have a pretty good time - they did a couple of hours in the morning, a long lunch break, then a couple of hours in the afternoon. Can't remember totally what they did for the rest of the day, but for the arvo they stood in the "Slow Zones" and made sure people weren't going too fast and killing little children!

Can't remember what the trail crew does? Maybe you get to drive a piste basher!

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:51 PM
Post subject:

mm, never thought about that, i guess you do, not sure of the reasons though if its non paid.

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:54 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

lol, piste basher, now that would be cool. imagine that a as a pickup line "Hey, I drive a piste basher, whatsup"

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 03:56 PM
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i would think the trail crew would go round making sure the pole on the side of the trail and signs are still standing etc.

ScottDrummer - Sep 25, 2007 - 04:01 PM
Post subject:

ye, still if it means me getting my lift pass, i dont mind how mundane it is.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 25, 2007 - 04:18 PM
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Trust me it can't be any more mundane than smiling at people gettting on a chair lift! Basically, you'll be riding around most of the day having a laugh with people, and getting a free pass! Can't complain!

lez_s - Sep 25, 2007 - 04:20 PM
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you've sold that job to me well Laughing

Tomahawk - Sep 25, 2007 - 04:37 PM
Post subject:

trail crew. put up and take down fences and signs.

norton - Sep 26, 2007 - 05:50 PM
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Just before i book my perimeter bus, is anyone heading out on the 21st of Oct? I arrive late and will need to get the 10pm bus, but if anyone wants to share one of those limos let me know asap...

BamBam_540 - Sep 26, 2007 - 06:47 PM
Post subject:

Guys, don't work for the mountain, it's seriously not worth it.

Even the volunteer jobs are a waste of time. You're working 8 hours a day, one day a week for 6 months. That's 192 hours over the season. Take the season pass at the full price of about $1500 and you're working for $7.80 an hour. And wasting a potential day of riding. If you're planning on getting another job anyway then you'll get your pass for about $1000, so you'd be working for $5.20 and hour. Sound like it's worth it? Get a decent job an you'll get your pass between free and $700. Mine was $500 the year I was there. 35 hour week and 6 days riding a week, every week, all winter.

Intrawest will try to lure you with lots of offers but talk to anyone in town and they'll tell you there's far better ways of doing it.

lez_s - Sep 26, 2007 - 06:59 PM
Post subject:

found out you get a volunteer job unless you have a work visa because the left pass is classed as payment.

looks like 6 months of ride then, dam!!! Laughing

Denizen - Sep 26, 2007 - 07:34 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

Ahh your job would basically be a speed nazi not the greatest, just remember to get in with the lifties though; it could result in first chairs on powder days. Did see that happen a couple of times at peak chair the season before last which woulld be great as long as you're up for hundreds of powderhounds watching your every move as you ride down, hoping that you feck up so they can rip it out of you mercilessly.

One week today till I fly back, work till sunday, pack monday drive to london tuesday, fly on wednesday. woo!

Dazzler74 - Sep 26, 2007 - 10:21 PM
Post subject:

so are you all saying that if I dont get a job I wont make any friends and will be shunned by the wider snowboarding fraternity and be left to 'board' on my own and you will all laugh at me and give me the occasional upper hook while spitting in my face...

downer you may say...

but I will say.......'But I am in Whistler - who gives a sh;t?!?!?!!?!?!?''

ROLLL ON 5TH DECEMBER.........

frazz - Sep 26, 2007 - 10:23 PM
Post subject:

BamBam_540 wrote:

35 hour week and 6 days riding a week, every week, all winter.

What kinda job were you doing?

Denizen - Sep 26, 2007 - 10:50 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

Yeah that's true you'll be shunned like a monkey with the bad aids. No one will be your friend and the snow will all jump out of the way as you get close to it leaving you riding on mud and rocks.

Seriously though you're going with seasonit aren't you? You'll have no problems finding people to go riding with plus I'm sure the people off the board will end up meeting for a ride (ooh err!) at some point.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 26, 2007 - 11:01 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Intrawest will try to lure you with lots of offers but talk to anyone in town and they'll tell you there's far better ways of doing it.

I would tend to agree with that, there are better ways to do it, but if you are strapped for cash then it is a good alternative. Its also not a bad job to fall back on, by all means apply for the mountain go to the interviews get the job, but dont stop applying to other places. As said many other places will offer a discounted pass, and intrawest are little sluts that will have you round their little finger.

Quote:

so are you all saying that if I dont get a job I wont make any friends and will be shunned by the wider snowboarding fraternity

Not by any means but obviously a job helps because you are interacting with more people from all over. I'd say just try not to hang about with all English people, ive seen it happen before, people having no friends outside of the 6 other english guys they live with. You gain so much more from getting in the community

Quote:

What kinda job were you doing?

Anything that doesnt require you to work days (ie none of the Intrawest jobs)

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 26, 2007 - 11:04 PM
Post subject:

ps, where you staying this year craig? i heard doris pulled out of another season, only doing 2 months or whatever!? To answer your facebook question, yeah i'll be back in Brandys. Sweet to the beat!

ScottDrummer - Sep 27, 2007 - 09:47 AM
Post subject:

BamBam_540 wrote:

so volly jobs are not defintely not worth it? it sounded decent being on the mountain 1 day a week working for a £700 pass.

ace_mcgraw - Sep 27, 2007 - 10:15 AM
Post subject:

I'm sure there's loads of better ways to do it. Each to their own. All I know is that loads of people I knew worked volly jobs for the pass, other jobs for money, made thousands of friends and it was all good!

And obviously it's not true that you'll be a social reject if you don't work. But as I had a period of not working, then worked, I just found I got way more friends after starting. Esp as a lifty, you not only get to know the people you work with, but also all the locals who you see day in day out.

I got a free pass, 40 hour week and snowboarded 7 days a week (If i wanted to!). It may have just been me being lazy, but I got into a totally different mindset when out there. I had the option to snowboard every day, but felt no pressure to do so, and felt the whole idea of having to be out everyday from first to last lift wasn't really what it was all about.

Anyway, I'm rambling now, different stroke for different folks, at the end of the day it's up to the individual to make it work no matter how you do it. I know people who volunteered one day a week, worked the rest of the week and had about 1 day a week on the hill and still loved it out there!

Dazzler74 - Sep 27, 2007 - 01:07 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I had the option to snowboard every day, but felt no pressure to do so, and felt the whole idea of having to be out everyday from first to last lift wasn't really what it was all about.

I would love to do that but my body would collapse after a week or so!!!

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 27, 2007 - 01:13 PM
Post subject:

Not sure if this have been posted previously but if not
http://www.faqwhistler.com/
Its a magazine that comes out every year just with lots of interesting stuff and handy things to know. It should make some fun reading just to get you that bit more excited.
There normally is a load of stuff on bars and restaurants (i know scott you are looking for places)
Worth a read over
Also have a look at this some good advise and download the survival guide, again plenty of info and good reading
http://www.mywcss.org/survival_guide.htm

ScottDrummer - Sep 27, 2007 - 01:22 PM
Post subject:

cheers Johnny, Ive had a few replies from restaurants so far, most of which want to see me when i arrive rather than asking for a telephone interview, so I guess i wont know where I stand in terms of work until i get there.
Was it yourself that works in a restaurant?

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 27, 2007 - 02:33 PM
Post subject:

Yeah i have been bartending in Brandys, its the bar part of the Keg restaurant for 2 years and will be there still for the next year, (i came home for summer this year, heading back late Oct).
I guessed they would want to see you, but hey its a start.
Whistler is so funny in Oct/Nov there are hundreds of people running round the village with folders of resumes and grapping the pique as soon as it somes out to find a house/job. When you get a few things at your SWAP meeting its in a blue plastic folder, you will see people all over the place with them jumping in and out of all the bars and restaurants.

ScottDrummer - Sep 27, 2007 - 02:43 PM
Post subject:

ah crap, i guess my only advantage is my experience and arriving early . Do you know what sort of thing restaurants look for, or is it just first come first serve for anyone who has the experience?
I got a serving right certificate thinking this may help, i guess it dosnt hurt to have it.

norton - Sep 27, 2007 - 03:34 PM
Post subject:

If i was to leave intrawest and lose my pass, would i be lucky to pick up more work later on in the season?

Like if im forced to work only days 5 days a week thats not what i want to be doing, someone said that loads of jobs become available when australian leave to go back to uni in Feb. is that true???

wolfie - Sep 27, 2007 - 03:56 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

haha I'm in the same boat...not gona be working that is. I've bust my ass working its time for a break, kick back and relax. If your going with seasonit which place you gona be in?

steddie76 - Sep 27, 2007 - 04:18 PM
Post subject:

Opened a Nationwide account today, thaks all!

5 weeks 2 days for me, not that I'm counting.. woo hoo!!!

pricey74 - Sep 27, 2007 - 07:41 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

haha I'm in the same boat...not gona be working that is. I've bust my ass working its time for a break, kick back and relax. If your going with seasonit which place you gona be in?

Snap! I've more than had enough of working 6 days a week and can't wait for 5 months of kicking back and taking it easy. Wolfie, I'm booked with Seasonit and will be staying in Bon Ami. Just under 9 weeks for me and I'm gagging!!

Dazzler74 - Sep 27, 2007 - 11:19 PM
Post subject:

I am with seasonit, in trappers cabin - just over 9 weeks for me...Dec 5th...paid up the accommo today and put spending money aside in ISA, another 2 steps closer, just got to sort insurance and then get on the plane

I already have a nationwide account - but be careful they are very quick to bang charges on and they wont give them back/answer my calls/emails either!!!!!! £30 for one day a few quid over limit due to timing of a direct debit..feckers

but who cares? I will be in whistler soon....

@@@ - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:01 AM
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Put me in with the seasonit no working crowd! mrs @ and i have 2 months in bon ami from jan 2nd. All you guys heading out in the next month or so are going to make working untill december feel even worse! Although iwe are off to south east asia for 6 months afterwards so not all bad Wink

ScottDrummer - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:04 AM
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not happy:
http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/pique/ ... VISAS+1439
how come the oz's get extensions and not brits?
anyone know if this is applicable to bunacs visa? Ive tried calling them but i get the standard "we cant extend our visas" answer.
Cheers
Scott

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:21 AM
Post subject:

check this http://snowboard.colonies.com/forums/topic/37921/ the post from adamlloyd

when i got my working holiday visa for oz i could only stay for a year. i found out that the uk give a 2 year working visa out to people from nz and oz.

i know its changed for nz, we can now stay up to 23 months.

Jaded_Parrot - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:27 AM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

I already have a nationwide account - but be careful they are very quick to bang charges on and they wont give them back/answer my calls/emails either!!!!!! £30 for one day a few quid over limit due to timing of a direct debit..feckers

but who cares? I will be in whistler soon....

You can get that back if you fill out a form and write them a letter, im not sure of the exact details but if youve had charges like that for going over your overdraft from the past 5 years i think you can claim it back from the bank.

Ive heard on the news and word of mouth that people have got thousands bank from banks because of it. Something to look into if it happens regularly

ScottDrummer - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:38 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

do mean brits can extend too?

i just read a post on snowboard.com from the link above

"Lez I did the whole Bunac thing,...
...On the plus, to renew my work visa that originally came from Bunac was a simple 2 week process direct with the Candaian visa folks in Alberta as I had steady employment etc.
"

do you know how he extended it? extending my visa would be invaluable to me as im tied to a property in whistler for 12 months(where i doubt i will get pnp) after which i can move closer to where the proper jobs are

cant get onto snowboard.com atm to ask the guy, i think there are some permissions problems, keeps asking me for Login and pass

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:48 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

do you know how he extended it?

no idea, but would like to find out for when i get over there

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:50 AM
Post subject:

sorry, didn't read all your post. i'll ask.

Dazzler74 - Sep 28, 2007 - 12:22 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I have already got £2000 back from HSBC which included £400 interest Wink

- will chase Nationwide when I get back...

wolfie - Sep 28, 2007 - 12:39 PM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

@@@ wrote:

Put me in with the seasonit no working crowd! mrs @ and i have 2 months in bon ami from jan 2nd. All you guys heading out in the next month or so are going to make working untill December feel even worse! Although iwe are off to south east asia for 6 months afterwards so not all bad Wink

Excellent well that's a few of us from SCUK with are feet up. I just got my board back from a service I think a few sessions up at fridge are going to be needed for sure. I'm thinking of visiting some family back in Manchester.....well when the chill factor opens.

I'm staying at Snowbird Lodge from jan 2nd for a couple of months '@@@' are you flying over with Zoom?

I might have missed this a while back, but I'm guessing you can get a pay as you go sim for my phone....does anyone know if a Nokia 6280 will work over there ok?

Jaded_Parrot - Sep 28, 2007 - 12:54 PM
Post subject:

Check the nokia website. if its Triband then it should work, if not it may not

Harry_Ba_Ba - Sep 28, 2007 - 01:40 PM
Post subject:

hey up,
is there any expensive foods in resort that can be bought cheaply down the mountain or best brought from home?
e.g. taking marmite and penut butter to france?
wondering if its worth grabbing long lasting supplies in vancouver.

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 28, 2007 - 02:11 PM
Post subject:

In case anyone is interested there are a small number of NON-STUDENT work visas just come available for this year. Immediate application is advised, with entry into canada by 31st Jan 08
http://www.bunac.org/uk/workcanada/

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 02:44 PM
Post subject:

thats a shame. its too late for me to sort stuff out for this year. i'll be applying for one in dec.

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 03:14 PM
Post subject:

just to let you know thats there is snow on them hills http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

ScottDrummer - Sep 28, 2007 - 03:20 PM
Post subject:

made my friday, just listening to ulrich schnauus while falling asleep at my desk was starting to depress me

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 03:21 PM
Post subject:

anyone staying at Chalet Bonne Neige with season it? got a friend looking at staying there.

tomcdermott - Sep 28, 2007 - 03:26 PM
Post subject:

ahrite guys!

going to whistler sat 17th nov, cant wait! just bought my new board today so im too excited for words.
anyone else gonna be riding a bataleon goliath this season? got myself salomon spx pros which im hopin are gonna prove themselves, bought them purely on the advice of others.

sorry lez im stayin with seasonaires

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 03:29 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

sorry lez im stayin with seasonaires

so am i at the white gold chalet.

my friend is looking for somewhere

tomcdermott - Sep 28, 2007 - 04:00 PM
Post subject:

haha me too. white gold is where me and my mate are staying this season. when you getting there?

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 04:03 PM
Post subject:

nov 3rd.

tomcdermott - Sep 28, 2007 - 04:06 PM
Post subject:

quality. have you bookedyour pass with through seasonaires? they claim its the exact same price but it seems expensive at 1800 dollars

lez_s - Sep 28, 2007 - 04:18 PM
Post subject:

i got mine from the whistler web site. the price that seasonaires say is the same as buy from whistler web site.

steddie76 - Sep 28, 2007 - 04:23 PM
Post subject:

I'm with seasonit at smoke tree place, basic but closest to the village!!

bought my season pass direct with whistlerblackcomb, if you get their early bird I think its the best deal, you get some vouchers and stuff, but be quick the offer ends 8th Oct

Denizen - Sep 28, 2007 - 04:45 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

I lived in smoke tree the season before last, great little house and as you say very close to the lifts. You could roll out of bed and be at the base of whistler waiting for the lift within 10 minutes, or I could anyway.

Dazzler74 - Sep 28, 2007 - 05:39 PM
Post subject:

dont forget when you go through the whistlerblackcomb site you have to add tax onto the price. it was slightly cheaper to buy direct with the website but we decided to buy through seasonit...

walnuts - Sep 28, 2007 - 08:56 PM
Post subject:

seasonit here too, staying with the missus at bon ami for november then snow valley for the rest of the season.

Tens - Sep 28, 2007 - 11:45 PM
Post subject:

your the first I have found staying at snow vally walnuts. Im there from 1st Dec to end of April. Seen so many people on here and on facebook that are in bon ami and snowbird but noone where I am. Will see you soon!

BoardingJay - Sep 29, 2007 - 11:54 AM
Post subject:

Another 16cm tonight and 12 cm tomorrow morning at the top scheduled according to snowforecast.com http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Wh ... 3top.shtml

lez_s - Sep 29, 2007 - 12:21 PM
Post subject:

sweet

Tens - Sep 29, 2007 - 12:36 PM
Post subject:

am now the owner of an unlimited season pass. next is insurance and then last payment on accom. some new gear when i arrive and then im done, only thing to think of is food and drink for 6 months.

lez_s - Sep 29, 2007 - 12:42 PM
Post subject:

nice one. juat about the same as me. just need to pay for the insurance (going with the scuk one). once i get my csia i'll buy some new stuff.

cant remember who was going to do the csia level 1 but i'm booking it in a couple of week when i get paid.

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 12:55 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

cant remember who was going to do the csia level 1 but i'm booking it in a couple of week when i get paid.

I had posted info on casi and still planning on doing the level 1, just waiting on hearing back from a couple of potential employers before i book the course, once i find out more info on working hours etc i'll be in a better position to book my level 1.

Keeping my fingers crossed whatever job i get, it's gonna work out well for allowing plenty time for boarding.

lez_s - Sep 29, 2007 - 01:03 PM
Post subject:

cool. i'm looking to do it on dec 5th. it looks like there will be a few beginners where i'm staying so i can help them out for a few beers.

are you looking for instructor job then?

Tens - Sep 29, 2007 - 01:25 PM
Post subject:

lez I am a skiier but never been on a board but am planning on doing so, give it roughly a month and I think I will want to get onto a board, im sure we could come to an good arrangment.

lez_s - Sep 29, 2007 - 01:40 PM
Post subject:

thats cool. i hope to help people out for the experience, BUT if its a powder day bring your skis because you lesson might be cancelled Laughing

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 02:31 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

cool. i'm looking to do it on dec 5th. it looks like there will be a few beginners where i'm staying so i can help them out for a few beers.

are you looking for instructor job then?

nah not looking to instruct as a job,just want to do the instructor course for the experience/knowledge.

Had a couple of phone interviews for hotel work and got another on Monday,just wary about booking instructor course and then can't attend cos of work,don't want to lose any £.

steddie76 - Sep 29, 2007 - 04:03 PM
Post subject:

If I ever get good enough wouldnt mind doing an instructors course, as you frazz for the experience really.

Job wise may look for something a few evenings a week, just to keep the beer fund topped up & to stop me dipping into it every night... Beer

lez_s - Sep 29, 2007 - 04:08 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

just want to do the instructor course for the experience/knowledge

same as me, plus i dont have a visa this year.

ScottDrummer - Sep 29, 2007 - 06:57 PM
Post subject:

ill buy some lessons off ya lez payment in beer sounds good Smile

I might still do the improver course and casi 1 if I can earn enough and i get my P85 processed for my tax rebate.
Anyone else had their P85 processed yet? I called them they said there was a 5 month backlog! great this place isnt it!

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 07:26 PM
Post subject:

Does the tax rebate come through as soon as the p85's been processed, i assumed any return would be paid at the end of the tax year?

ScottDrummer - Sep 29, 2007 - 07:29 PM
Post subject:

im not sure I assumed they sent you payment once it was worked out, would be crap not to receive it until April.

lez_s - Sep 29, 2007 - 07:34 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

ill buy some lessons off ya lez payment in beer sounds good

i'm getting worried in case i'm a sh*t instructor.

i'm sure when the hill opens we'll all go shredding together.

ScottDrummer - Sep 29, 2007 - 07:39 PM
Post subject:

well you get a shandy if your crap lol, hopefully ill get up to scratch quickly to be able to keep up with people. Looks like more snow due, its all good.

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 07:51 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

im not sure I assumed they sent you payment once it was worked out, would be crap not to receive it until April.

I only got around to calling the tax office during the week still waiting on the form, so with a 5 month backlog looks like April will be about right for me Crying or Very sad

ScottDrummer - Sep 29, 2007 - 07:54 PM
Post subject:

you can dl the form and print it.
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/cnr/p85_p85s.htm

cazkins - Sep 29, 2007 - 08:01 PM
Post subject:

Lez i wouldnt be so keen to offer lessons if I was you, or I can see you spendin all your shred time teaching!! unless of course u wanna do that?!

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 08:07 PM
Post subject:

Cheers,just been looking at that.

Scott do you know how long the swap meetings last? Just having a look at perimeter bus times from Vancouver-Whistler, my swap meeting is at 11.30 so hoping i can catch the 15.30 departure when it picks up at Vancouver hotels.

ScottDrummer - Sep 29, 2007 - 08:15 PM
Post subject:

Frazz, the swap meeting is apparently 2 hours. were having to catch the 5.30am bus (ouch) as the later bus wont get us there on time.

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 08:25 PM
Post subject:

2 hours that's not to bad,should make the 15.30 departure no probs.

Are you coming down from whistler to vancouver to attend your meeting,just when you said the 5.30am bus? That is a bit of a sore 1,sure you'll get a kip on the bus though.

You had any luck on the job front?

ScottDrummer - Sep 29, 2007 - 08:29 PM
Post subject:

no luck on jobs yet, but most places want to see us in person rather that interview over the phone. Yeah we land on fri and our swap meeting is on monday, swap didnt have any later appointments that day.
You got a job yet?

frazz - Sep 29, 2007 - 08:53 PM
Post subject:

Don't have a job yet but have had 2 phone interviews with the Four Seasons followed by an unexpected call from them too,and then an email asking for contact details for references.

Have a phone interview on Mon with the Hilton as well,didn't apply for any particular job just email'd my cv. Westin hr manager email'd to say to get in touch nearer to my arrival time and Pan Pacific hr has past my cv onto the conference & banqueting dept for consideration.

Other places i contacted all said to see them when i arrived in resort,just keeping my fingers crossed whatever job i get it will allow for plenty time on the hill Very Happy

or else i'll be very Sad

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 30, 2007 - 03:22 PM
Post subject:

Check out the cams.
Looks like we got that snow overnight, and theres no sign of it letting up!!!
Outlook heavy snow heavy snow mod. snow heavy snow light snow light snow heavy snow snow shwrs snow shwrs
Snow (cm) 15 11 8 12 1 2 21 3 2
60cm on Peak by tuesday, sweeeeeeet.

BoardingJay - Sep 30, 2007 - 03:32 PM
Post subject:

bah, I wish I was going....

walnuts - Sep 30, 2007 - 06:39 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Nice one Tens! See you on the 1st. You working for the season?

Snow Valley is fully booked as far as I know now.

walnuts - Sep 30, 2007 - 06:42 PM
Post subject:

A bit of a local weather update:

The weather has turned really nasty over the last few days in Vancouver. It's gone very cold and it's genuinely p1ssing it down outside.

Which all bodes well for Whistler! Smile

ScottDrummer - Sep 30, 2007 - 06:56 PM
Post subject:

Cams are looking healthy anyone found any good cams other than the WB ones?

Tens - Sep 30, 2007 - 07:40 PM
Post subject:

no walnuts im not working at all, I do have a visa just incase I get bored or my contracting job finishes much sooner than I thought but I think I can afford it if I left right now so its all good.

Will - Oct 01, 2007 - 06:17 PM
Post subject:

Anyone heard of them doing random drug tests when trying to get into the country and are they aloud to?
cheers

ScottDrummer - Oct 01, 2007 - 07:06 PM
Post subject:

not heard anything of this but why, are you worried about it?

matt-j - Oct 01, 2007 - 08:22 PM
Post subject:

will, they swipe a card across your clothes and hands and ask you if you have taken anything within the last two weeks. A mate of mine was court out as he learnt later that it is infact a load of crap and was forced into submission, fortunately he managed to small talk the immigration guys

Will - Oct 01, 2007 - 08:44 PM
Post subject:

sweet, what does the swiping of the card do?
is it just to intimidate you haha?

i dont want to get to canada and then get sent home, would be sooo sh1t

cheers

ScottDrummer - Oct 01, 2007 - 08:48 PM
Post subject:

...the card will probably be there to pick up traces of drugs found on your clothes and hands, this will then be analysed with a computer.

Will wrote:

i dont want to get to canada and then get sent home, would be sooo sh1t
cheers

i guess the only way to guarantee that is not to take any drugs!

Will - Oct 01, 2007 - 08:54 PM
Post subject:

yeh for sure. Not worth getting sent back to Scotland!

Oz. - Oct 01, 2007 - 09:26 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

...the card will probably be there to pick up traces of drugs found on your clothes and hands, this will then be analysed with a computer.

lol another few years maybe...

ScottDrummer - Oct 01, 2007 - 09:33 PM
Post subject:

Oz. wrote:

ScottDrummer wrote:

...the card will probably be there to pick up traces of drugs found on your clothes and hands, this will then be analysed with a computer.

lol another few years maybe...

http://www.craigmedical.com/products.htm
http://www.integritydetection.com/faqs.html
http://mihsc.org/2007%20profiles%20SELECT%20winners.htm
im pretty sure ive seen one of those crappy 'airport' programs where they did drug searches using a method of picking up particles form your clothes and skin.

also for explosive detection
http://www.tsa.gov/approach/tech/etd.shtm

Oz. - Oct 01, 2007 - 10:44 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

http://www.craigmedical.com/products.htm

all seem to be pee testers

ScottDrummer wrote:

http://www.integritydetection.com/faqs.html

Seems to be more for people or are high or have been in the past few days. So yeah good call!

ScottDrummer wrote:

im pretty sure ive seen one of those crappy 'airport' programs where they did drug searches using a method of picking up particles form your clothes and skin.

Yeah theres a huge ass machine like the standard airport metal detector that you walk through and can smell plastic explosives and some drugs.

Will - Oct 02, 2007 - 12:38 AM
Post subject:

do they use that swet drugs detector thing on everyone?

cheers

paulparkie - Oct 02, 2007 - 04:33 AM
Post subject:

um... I didn't get scanned for drugs... and I usually get searched... I must have 'the look'.

I wouldn't bother that much about it! ... besides, most things can be gotten hold of over here pretty easily. I haven't even been looking for anything yet and I was offered it twice in the village earlier! I arrived in Whistler this morning after back-packing round the Rockies for a month and you'll all be glad to know it's been raining all day down inn the village and still is now (I've just done a beer run!)

Lez, how much is that CASI1 course you're doing? I might be game. And if Lez does get bogged down with lessons, I'll gladly take peeps out for shredding tips for a few beers... I did a bit of coaching in Austria a few years back... it'd be cool to get back into it!

Well I'm off to fraternise with the locals. Here starts the 'networking' hahaha

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:20 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez, how much is that CASI1 course you're doing? I might be game.

its $336 for CASI 1.

Quote:

if Lez does get bogged down with lessons, I'll gladly take peeps out for shredding tips for a few beers

i was meaning more along the lines of that too.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:34 AM
Post subject:

Surely it's gotta be worth just laying off everything for a day or two before heading to Canada - I woulda thought it's not worth the risk.

Apart from anything, as parkie says it's hardly the most difficult place in the world to pick up anything!! In fact it's way easier to get stuff than avoid it! I was treated like a freak to start with cos I don't smoke anything!

Tomahawk - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:50 AM
Post subject:

just to let you guys know. the bunac swap meeting arnt very important. you can figure out everything they tell you on your own.

if its causing time problems just skip it.

and for the drugs as long as your not carrying it. but obviusly i wouldnt wear clothes you have not washed since smoking. since strip searches can be somewhat annoying.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:57 AM
Post subject:

Is it easy to sort out your SIN card without going to the SWAP meeting? Thinking about it, I guess the rest of the meeting wasn't that enlightening!

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:58 AM
Post subject:

Dont you need to attend a swap meeting in order to get a SIN (for those that intend on working)?

Also, Im going to be taking a fair wad of papers, i.e education certificates, job references (from my professional job), bills etc... which I will be using for my PNP application for PR once there. Now as your supposed to convince the immigration officer that your only staying temporarily and intend to return to the UK, do you think I should ship these papers seperately? Do they search for such things if they pick you out or suspect you are intending to stay for longer?

Thanks

ace_mcgraw - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:11 AM
Post subject:

Afraid I wouldn't know - they just kinda waved me through without searching anything! I obviously had an honest look on my face. Did i read on here or was it somewhere else that someone got caught with stuff suggesting a longer stay than was stated? Or am i imagining it!?

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:12 AM
Post subject:

i would think the chances of being stopped would be slim.

if you are stopped you just tell them that you're there for a working holiday and you've brought your paper work to get a job after the season in whistler, which is the truth Wink

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:12 AM
Post subject:

yeah ive read that somewhere too. maybe I should ask www.britishexpats.com, dont wanna get caught out.

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:13 AM
Post subject:

ok cool, are you taking anything lez? in terms of papers?

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:16 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Did i read on here or was it somewhere else that someone got caught with stuff suggesting a longer stay than was stated? Or am i imagining it!?

it was on there. when i went through, they asked me how long i was stopping for, i said a couple of months, which i did and did i know anyone that lives in canada, i've got friends that live there, then they said.............have a nice time in canada, which i did.

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:30 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

ok cool, are you taking anything lez? in terms of papers?

i'm taking my laptop, which has my cv on. as i wont be looking for work until next year when i get a visa, i'll only be sending my cv off to get feed back about the chance of getting testing work the following year.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:31 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Did i read on here or was it somewhere else that someone got caught with stuff suggesting a longer stay than was stated? Or am i imagining it!?

Yeah it was me
I was arriving in Canada for 6 months not working, just on a visiting visa, but had a lot of things in my bags suggesting i might have been working, Canadian bank details, CASI papers, resumes.
I'm sure with a work permit they will be easier on you, just say its for a job, like it is.

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:37 AM
Post subject:

ah right, im in a sticky situation with applying for work on the NOC, the programming and technician jobs are there, well in Vancouver but I have a 12 month lease on the property in Whistler (didnt think ahead did I), I dont think the commute from whistler to Vancouver is feasible on a daily basis. Then there is the hassle of getting the employer to sponsor me. you seem to have a better plan, I wish I had thought ahead. Still it has been done so im gonna give it a go.

anyway, hows the snow paulparkie, had anymore?

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:39 AM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Quote:

Did i read on here or was it somewhere else that someone got caught with stuff suggesting a longer stay than was stated? Or am i imagining it!?

ah nothing to worry about then. cheers

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:45 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

yeah its about 3 hour drive, if i remember right.

you could sub let the place out to people going summer boarding or biking in the summer, check yoiur contract.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:52 AM
Post subject:

The drive might be ok in the summer, but I think in the winter it's be sketchy. I always heard talk of accidents and snow blocking off the road and people getting stuck on the road for hours!

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 12:01 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

yeah its about 3 hour drive, if i remember right.
you could sub let the place out to people going summer boarding or biking in the summer, check yoiur contract.

oo theres an idea, im pretty sure I could sublet, ill check that with the landlord/contract - Cheers.
EDIT: Yep, just checked the agreement, I can sublet with the landlords permission, or if the letting is for 6 months or more the landlord should not be able to give any unreasonable reason why the tennant would not be allowed to do so. Im not 100% on the home rental laws in BC, but hopefully this will be in my favour and would be able to do this. Still the chances of me renting the place for the summer at the rate we are paying might be difficult.
Does whistler get busy in the summer?

Quote:

The drive might be ok in the summer, but I think in the winter it's be sketchy. I always heard talk of accidents and snow blocking off the road and people getting stuck on the road for hours!

Yeah, im happy to stay in Whistler for the winter, as soon as its over Im going to want to be in a job related to my profession (If I can call it that).

ace_mcgraw - Oct 02, 2007 - 12:21 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Does whistler get busy in the summer?

It's a lot quieter in winter, and the rent will be a lot cheaper - example place Iwas staying in over summer - $1200 a month (for two of us), winter $2500-3000 a month (About 8 scandies) rammed into two bedrooms!

Quote:

Yeah, im happy to stay in Whistler for the winter, as soon as its over Im going to want to be in a job related to my profession (If I can call it that).

That's what I'd intended to do as well. Unfortunately my profession (Arboriculture - as in consultancy, I can't climb trees to save my life!) was in a bit of a downturn at the time with my contacts telling me "Just learn to build stuff or drive an excavator!" so it didn't work out. Meant I got to chill in whistler working the lifts all summer tho!

wolfie - Oct 02, 2007 - 12:42 PM
Post subject:

wahoo got my pass! 12 wks to go

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 01:12 PM
Post subject:

lol
someone built a snowman for the p2p webcam
http://www.earthcam.net/users2/interfac ... ientid=707
check 6:30pm yesterday.
dosnt work on safari btw.
also between 7pm and 7:30pm the light just drops, one minute day next night. weird.
...yeah im bored at work.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 02, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject:

Similarly I'm bored too. I;ve been checking out that snowman. It seems the perpetrators started sussing out the ground at 12:45 on Sept 30th. They werebuilding at 1pm, and had finished and were admiring their handywork at 13:15. All traces of them were gone by 13:30.

I'm a little bored today!

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 02:30 PM
Post subject:

nice detective work there mr mcGraw

There is evidence to suggest that the suspects were not alone; On that very same day, at 13:15 there are 2 accomplices, which seem to be causing 'mischief' to the woodern bird to the side of said snowman.
These shenanigans will continue being monitored.

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 02:40 PM
Post subject:

i'm that bored i looked!!!

lez_s - Oct 02, 2007 - 03:00 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Weather experts say winter 2007/2008 will likely be a La Niña year, which is good news for Whistler Blackcomb. Traditionally, La Niña calls for wetter and colder than normal weather in the Pacific Northwest during the fall and early winter.

On average Whistler Blackcomb receives 33.5 feet of snow a year. Last year Whistler Blackcomb received over 46 feet of snow. As always, to help Mother Nature’s snow mission, Whistler Blackcomb is currently moving all snow guns into place, ready to be fired up early next week.

http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/tb.php?1191330580,67013,

ScottDrummer - Oct 02, 2007 - 03:06 PM
Post subject:

hopefully we will have picked a good season to go Wink

paulparkie - Oct 02, 2007 - 06:36 PM
Post subject:

yeah scotdrummer, it's still raining... hasn't stopped! great news eh?

oh, and for anyone who'll be around, the Turkey Sale is this coming weekend! woop woop.

Yeah Lez mate, I realise that was your intention... I just thought it was funny how bombarded you got with requests... just thought I'd help you out a bit Wink

I'm in White Gold with you aren't I?

frazz - Oct 02, 2007 - 09:08 PM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

oh, and for anyone who'll be around, the Turkey Sale is this coming weekend! woop woop.

What's the Turkey sale all about,or is it as the name implies? Confused

paulparkie - Oct 02, 2007 - 09:15 PM
Post subject:

frazz wrote:

paulparkie wrote:

oh, and for anyone who'll be around, the Turkey Sale is this coming weekend! woop woop.

What's the Turkey sale all about,or is it as the name implies? Confused

hahaha... yeah man... turkey's everywhere!

nah... it's where shops and stuff sell all last seasons stuff with huge discounts, and this seasons stuff with small discounts... get in

frazz - Oct 02, 2007 - 09:31 PM
Post subject:

I don't arrive until the 18th Oct, any idea if they have sales around Thanksgiving?

Your staying at White Gold with seasonaires Paul? I'm staying at Chalet Jody, although staying at Swiss Chalet until Nov 1st.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 02, 2007 - 09:42 PM
Post subject:

Finally got my freakin flights booked, 22 days to go, thank god for that, i cant take this country any longer!! At least i can start counting down now.
High hopes for this winter, its going to be epic!

paulparkie - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:33 PM
Post subject:

frazz wrote:

Cool frazzz... I'm sat in Swiss Chalet living room as I type this starring out the balcony windows onto the cloud covered mountain Smile

so I guess I'll be seeing you in a couple of weeks then my friend! I'm here until Nov 1st too.

frazz - Oct 02, 2007 - 10:56 PM
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See you in 2 weeks then, can't believe it's just around the corner Very Happy

. January 11th i got the ball rolling for this trip, seems like ages ago now, roll on Oct 17th!!!

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:40 PM
Post subject:

Oh yeah, whoever is staying with seasonit in Bon Ami, Smoke Tree or Bonne Neige, i'll be your friendly next door neighbour Smile

My house is 2 doors up from Bon Ami and across the way from the entrance to Smoke tree. You guys should be so stoked on your location, you honestly cant get better.

Tens - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:49 PM
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oi you forgot to mention snow vally lodge which (i hope) is just a couple mins up the road!

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 03, 2007 - 12:13 AM
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Well yeah it is only another few minutes up the road, maybe 5 depending how quick you walk. But i only mentioned the others because i am literally right beside them, like when i stand on my drive i can see all 3.
Snow Valley is up the street and round a corner and down a little sketchy path, which will get lethal in winter, i have a scar to prove it. I stayed there for a while, its a bit nicer than the others, coming up to the top floor in the morning, looking out the massive windows to mountains and snow, you cant beat it. And its at the end of a cul-de-sac so all the snow from the street is pushed to the end beside the house so you have all the snow you want to make jibbs. We even carved a 'Glacier Bar' out of it we had seats, tables, beer holders and a built in jib rail and stall.

ScottDrummer - Oct 03, 2007 - 09:21 AM
Post subject:

delete me

Summers250 - Oct 03, 2007 - 09:25 AM
Post subject:

Johnny - what is your view on Trappers Cabin? any good?

Dendromad - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:53 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Oh yeah, whoever is staying with seasonit in Bon Ami, Smoke Tree or Bonne Neige, i'll be your friendly next door neighbour My house is 2 doors up from Bon Ami and across the way from the entrance to Smoke tree. You guys should be so stoked on your location, you honestly cant get better.

Wahoo!!! Myself an the missus have now booked up our trip to Canada! We are stopping off at Fernie for a month in Feb before heading over to Whistler for a month in March!
Gonna be staying in Chalet Bonne Neige, glad its good location! Can't wait till Feb now!! Very Happy

.......now gonna have to break the news to my boss this afternoon....Hmmmmmmmm!!!!

ScottDrummer - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:55 AM
Post subject:

congrats, telling the boss is the best bit. Smile

FBBB - Oct 03, 2007 - 11:19 AM
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There's gona be a crew of us there so would be good to get together with all seasonaires and people that are there between Dec 26th - Jan 13th.

Skidoo & Kat rides....shooting a dvd so we welcome any good riders to come get a part!

lez_s - Oct 03, 2007 - 11:32 AM
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i'm sure everyone will be up for a drink or two, three, four....

Quote:

we welcome any good riders to come get a part!

i can face plant any trick you like Laughing

Wookie - Oct 03, 2007 - 11:57 AM
Post subject:

Not wanting to get this thread off topic - but does anyone have any experiences/strong feelings about the Holiday Inn Sunspree resort in Whistler.

Was thinking of planning two weeks in Jan out there for a group of us and don't have that much time to spend planning the trip properly so may have to package it!

Only there for the 2 weeks, but would be cool to meet up for beers with whoever is out there...

ace_mcgraw - Oct 03, 2007 - 12:18 PM
Post subject:

Alright dude - there was a thread on this a while back - http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/index.ph ... e+whistler

Read and enjoy!

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 03, 2007 - 01:06 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

what is your view on Trappers Cabin? any good?

Trappers is cool, its a real cosy place, in the upper village so a bit further walk to the main centre, but there are still plenty of bars and shops in the upper. As a house itself it is not atttached to any other houses, and stands on its own in a quiet area so you can be a bit noisier. Inside is traditional cabin style, big dark wood beams thick carpet and a bear skin on the wall. With it being in the upper village it is pretty close to wizard chair which is excellent for going up blackcomb. To go up whistler though you will have to walk to the main village, not too far, but guarenteed out of mild lazyness you will end up riding blackcomb most of the time. There is a free bus that leaves from blackcomb base round to whistler if you cant be bothered walking it.

Dazzler74 - Oct 03, 2007 - 01:24 PM
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Quote:

sounds ace..I preferred blackcomb mountain anyway... trappers cabin here we come!

pricey74 - Oct 03, 2007 - 01:43 PM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Oh yeah, whoever is staying with seasonit in Bon Ami, Smoke Tree or Bonne Neige, i'll be your friendly next door neighbour Smile

My house is 2 doors up from Bon Ami and across the way from the entrance to Smoke tree. You guys should be so stoked on your location, you honestly cant get better.

JohnnyB, hey there neighbour! I'll be staying in Bon Ami from Dec 1st so feel free to leave a few welcoming beers on the porch for all us Bon Ami'ers, ha!

SteveW - Oct 03, 2007 - 01:45 PM
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I spent all last year in Whistler it was awesome, had the time of my life an definately going back!!! I lived in staff housing and anyone heading to whistler after Oct 1st should book into staff housing because it is a bitch to find somewhere to live, remember thousands of peopl ego every year and there isn't much housing there. When I do my next season there I'm going to on www.piquenewsmagazine.com and find a house before I leave england and try and pay all my rent up front. Whilst living in staff is cool and its mega convinient the sort of people you get put in with can have a massive impact on your season. Luckily I got some really sound guys who were all about the riding. Lots of ppl who go to Whis are all about the party and you really need to make your mind up what you are there for. Luckily all the guys and I who I lived with were there for the riding so we all got up pretty early and went partying on work days. Pretty much Whistler is run by drunken seasonaires LOL. Turning up for work hungover is expected by the majority of managers. Its a cool atmosphere. However don't turn up to work because u were too hungover is a sacking but mostly just a warning for first time second time you out that door and your pass is cancelled!!

In teh winter I worked 4 days per week and got to ride 5, they do split shifts in teh winter season Surprised

) try and work weekends cos the lift queues are huge, sorry line ups - Canadians don't undertsand queue, there are some mega busy times in whistler that get very annoying!!! I.e. presidents week, christmas, mexican holiday week (by far the worst), easter, school hols. The lift line ups get hoooooooooooooooooge like 20 -45 mins on the emerald chair on Whistler mountain which gets way too overcrowded!!!! Four of the most popular areas go back to it, The Whistler Freestyle Park, The family zone and all teh people returning from harmony Ridge (Awesome - do teh Mcconkeys cornice) and symphony bowl (Hike to north flute for a sweet wind lip mid way down the bowl and some cornices)

On big powder days head to spanky's ladder and I loved sapphire bowl but its sketchy as hell getting into it triple black diamond basically traversing on a ledge 9 inches wide on top of a 30-40 foot cliff band to flat landiong, so don't fall!!! The ledge is very rocky too!! But its worth the trip IMHO!!!

Merlins on Friday night is where all the staff go, its cheap for Whistler, Mountain pay is poor about £5 an hour food is mega expensive a block of 'nice cheese' about $15 no kidddddding!!!!! If anyone has any specific questions drop me an email or private message I have a years experience to share.

p.s. my fave is Blackcomb mountain 2!!!!!!

ScottDrummer - Oct 03, 2007 - 01:56 PM
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holy post batman, thanks for the advice. Staff accom is booked up now according to WB website, although i think everyone would have accommodation sorted by now if they have their head screwed on.

steddie76 - Oct 03, 2007 - 01:58 PM
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Johnny - Arriving at Smoke Tree 3rd, 4th or 5th Nov (cant decide on the SWAP thingy) give us a wave, on my own it seems so far, anyone else staying at smoke Tree?

ScottDrummer - Oct 03, 2007 - 03:51 PM
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just had word from dani(*snowangel from GB) regarding a few things i.e swap, hwy 99

"Hey Scott, all i can say is go to the SWAP Orientation as it will give you some seriosuly good info' that you won't have have, plus you'll get you will get to meet some new ppl, some of which may be heading onto Whistler. Also i think it may be compulsory that you have to go.
We'd already done half of what they cover in the Orientation, like, buying a car, finding somewhere to live, opened a bank account etc .. but there was lots of super useful info in there that we didn't know so definatley go. It's approx 2hrs long. You can get your own SIN # if you want but they will sort it all out for you there. It takes about 2-3 weeks to come through once they send off your applications (saew day as your orientation) but you get a little stubby that allows you to apply and work before you get said #. Also when you get your Visa at Vanc' airport it says on it ' THIS DOES NOT AUTHORISE RE-ENRTY' Don't be alarmed, you can come and go from Canada as many times as you wish within that year. That statement means you cannot re-en ter on with your Visa, you have to obviously have your passport
Oh, your drive from Vancouver to Whistler may take a little longer than normal as there is some major contruction on HWY 99 between Horseshoe Bay - Whistler, just to advise you. But the stunning scenery (if it's a clear day) wil keep you entertained

Oh, Scott you're ging to LOVE Whistler. I was there for 4 days and had a blast and there was no snow on the floor Jeez , I can't wait to get back out there during the winter"

ace_mcgraw - Oct 03, 2007 - 04:28 PM
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Good point - one of the best mates I made over there I met at the SWAP meeting!

walnuts - Oct 03, 2007 - 04:38 PM
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This SWAP meeting business keeps coming up!

If you really can't make it to one of the orientations, it's still worth popping into the office briefly as it's always staffed (in business hours) so you should still be able to fast-track your SIN application, and get one of the magic letters that gets you discounted banking with TD.

Also, if you want to pick up some cheap gear, but you've missed the Turkey Sale, then I really recommend heading over to the corner of 4th Avenue and Burrard Street. All of Vancouvers board-shops are located here (there's about 5 of them, all next door to each other). The last shop in the row is the Clearance Store, theres loads of bargains in there right now.

Hope That Helps!

paulparkie - Oct 03, 2007 - 06:32 PM
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Yeah I thought the SWAP meeting was compulsory too... but to be honest... I'd been in Van four 4 days before the meeting, and had pretty much discovered for myself everything I got told in the meeting... like Walnuts said, the main things are that you get the slips of paper they give you, there was a booklet they gave me which I've referred to a couple of times, and tey do Fast Track your SIN for you... so I would say if you have the time, go... if not then, don't (unless it's compulsory! :S)

And just following up on groceries!!!... everything's bloody expensive... especially if you're from England and you're used to an 'ASDA-Big-Shop' haha. Cheese and Bread seem the most extortionate compared to home. I love cheese too, but have taken the hard decision to go cheese-free for the year as a mark of protest... and to protect my savings! ha

pricey74 - Oct 03, 2007 - 06:35 PM
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walnuts wrote:

Walnuts - is there much difference in the board shops/choices between Vancouver & Whistler? I'll have 3 days to kill/shop for new board/boots/bindings etc from when I land on 28th Nov to when I move into Bon Ami on Dec 1st. Can't decide whether to spend 3 nights in Van and shop there, or go straight to Whistler and get it all from one of their shops.

Advice from anybody who knows would be muchos appreciated.

Tomahawk - Oct 03, 2007 - 07:02 PM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

just had word from dani(*snowangel from GB) regarding a few things i.e swap, hwy 99
You can get your own SIN # if you want but they will sort it all out for you there. It takes about 2-3 weeks to come through once they send off your applications (saew day as your orientation) but you get a little stubby that allows you to apply and work before you get said #.

if you go to a work canada government office which are all around the country. yo cna get your nubmer right there and then

i dint go to my SWAp meeting cos i flew into calgary and the nearest swap meet was in vancouver. there was no way i was gettign a 12 hour bus ride to find out the most basic information.

we dont go to meetings in england to open a bank account, get your NI number, find a house, etc

so i didnt see the point of doing it in canada.

paulparkie - Oct 03, 2007 - 09:42 PM
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aaawww balls.

so I've just been down in the village and done the rounds, and man-o-man everywhere's quiet at the mo... so anyone coming out soon, make sure you have enough saved to see you through till at least the middle of November... quite a few places told me that they only hire girls as servers and people behind the bar have been their two years already and don't want to give their jobs up...

... only hiring girls... ?? that's not PC surely... Mad

anyhoo, I've dropped a tonne of resumes off, and I have another bunch to go back to this afternoon so I'll keep y'all posted... but for now, the outlook is bleak if you're wanting evening work

lez_s - Oct 03, 2007 - 09:53 PM
Post subject:

get some photos posted up.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 03, 2007 - 09:59 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

so I've just been down in the village and done the rounds, and man-o-man everywhere's quiet at the mo... so anyone coming out soon, make sure you have enough saved to see you through till at least the middle of November... quite a few places told me that they only hire girls as servers and people behind the bar have been their two years already and don't want to give their jobs up...

As I said!
It can be pretty brutal but stick with it. At the end of the day, its a resort town with so many places to go, and having smokin hot girls working for you will only attract more people to your place. It can be a bit of a cut and thrust town, but there are people out there who will give you a break.

Quote:

we dont go to meetings in england to open a bank account, get your NI number, find a house, etc

so i didnt see the point of doing it in canada.

Thats not the point, did you get a cheap/reduced sim card or a discounted rate when getting a bank account?! It provides you with information that can be useful, you are obviously comfortable with travelling and living worldwide but some people could find it reassuring to know there are people they can go to for advice. Not just that but meeting other people in the same boat.

matt-j - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:18 PM
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@pricey74 what flight are you on? im also landing on the 28th but accomodation isnt booked till the 1st of dec at bon ami, not sure wether to go straight to whistler or chill in van for a few days.

Will - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:27 PM
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is anyone flying out on the 1st nov?
Im flying from ed-lon H then to Van but having to stay over night there
I arrive in Bon Ami on the 2nd!! cant wait! just hope customs is ok for being 16, so paranoid haha

Tens - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:27 PM
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mattj and pricey, hang about till 1st (which was priceys plan) and then we will share a cab up, i found this other guy on facebook that is landing around the same time as me and he said he would do it too. I am going to look into how quickly and where I can sort my SIN out without having to goto one of these meetings.

Tens - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:30 PM
Post subject:

can someone start a seasonit group on facebook please. I dont want to do it cos I hate groups and constantly slag them off and I couldnt stand being the owner of one but would happily join it if its useful.

lez_s - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:47 PM
Post subject:

who was it that was on the same flight as me, nov 3rd - have you sorted transfers yet? i remember you weren't sure which date you were heading over to whistler.

ScottDrummer - Oct 03, 2007 - 10:53 PM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

anyhoo, I've dropped a tonne of resumes off, and I have another bunch to go back to this afternoon so I'll keep y'all posted... but for now, the outlook is bleak if you're wanting evening work

ah not good, i was hoping to get evening work in restaurant.
ill be there in 16 days paul, got me a bit worried now :-\

frazz - Oct 03, 2007 - 11:20 PM
Post subject:

What about The Old Sphagetti Factory or Boston Pizza at Creekside, we had male servers there. Sphagetti Factory was always mobbed and seem to have loads of staff.

I received a job offer (references pending) on Monday it's full time but involves different shifts i.e sometimes evenings sometime days, don't know what start/finish times are for each shift yet, but gonna email and ask before i sign the contract.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 04, 2007 - 01:44 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

can someone start a seasonit group on facebook please

There is one....
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2568425425
At the moment its just old guys but obviously we want some new people in there!!

walnuts - Oct 04, 2007 - 02:29 AM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

If you want to get some of last years stuff cheap then definitely check out the Vancouver shops as this is where the clearance store is. All the shops are so close together that you could check them all out within an hour no problem. I reckon you'll have more choice here than in Whistler.

There are plenty of snowboard shops in Whistler (unlike a French resort for example), so you will be able to get anything you need there. But I wouldn't expect to get any discounts by that time - the Turkey Sale will be long since gone.

Also, if you want to get a REALLY cheap backup board, go down to Coast Mountain Sports on Howe Street, I picked up a board there yesterday for 90 dollars. It's got the ugliest graphics I've seen on any board, but I also managed to wangle a ton of free stickers from all the board-shops on 4th Ave, so problem solved Smile

pricey74 - Oct 04, 2007 - 01:58 PM
Post subject:

matt-j wrote:

@pricey74 what flight are you on? im also landing on the 28th but accomodation isnt booked till the 1st of dec at bon ami, not sure wether to go straight to whistler or chill in van for a few days.

Matt-j - I'm on the 2.25pm flight out of Manchester landing around 4pm Vancouver time.

pricey74 - Oct 04, 2007 - 02:05 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Tens - yeah I'm pretty sure I'll stay in Vancouver until Dec 1st so sharing a ride up there sounds like a plan. What time are you landing?

Walnuts - thanks for the heads up on the shopping front mate, much appreciated.

Tens - Oct 04, 2007 - 02:44 PM
Post subject:

im landing at 2pm on the 1st. One of these special cab limos sounds good and im sure will be a lot less hassle come the time we are there.

only thing is I want to sort out my SIN and am not sure what the situation with it is yet as I am deffinatly not attending a swap meeting unless it is at 3pm on the 1st and someone takes me there in a free cab, and perhaps gets me a free lunch while they are at it.

Summers250 - Oct 04, 2007 - 02:48 PM
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i land in Van at 18:35pm on Staurday the 1st December with my mate Neil. anyone gonna be travelling to Whis that time? i'm on BA flight.
M

Tens - Oct 04, 2007 - 02:53 PM
Post subject:

well im happy to hang about till then and if pricey and mattj can hold on for another 4 hours after their 3 days in Vanc then we have ourselves the 5 for a limo and it makes it cheaper than the bus, I am goign to look into these so called limo cabs and report back when I have some info.

Tens - Oct 04, 2007 - 03:19 PM
Post subject:

much quicker than I expected, was easy to find.
Vancouver - Whistler with 5 or 6 people

http://www.starlimousine.com - SUV or a Stretch Limo for $350ish
http://www.ritzlimos.com/ - am awaiting a quote by email.
http://www.timelimo.com/Whistler_Limo_W ... ousine.htm - Stretch SUV for $450 + many other options.
http://www.limoforhire.com/whistler.htm - $350 for a 8 seater limo.
http://limovancouver.com/ - all under $375
http://www.limoplatinum.com/rates.htm - all around $320

there are many many more and I havent fully looked into any of them in terms of the amount of luggage and things but a few do give you some ideas about how much they can carry.

All prices need the extra candian robbing tax on top of 7ish% and another 15% or something.

Im up for it

ScottDrummer - Oct 04, 2007 - 03:26 PM
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can someone briefly explain the tax in BC please?
i.e advertised price + ?% + ?% etc...
Thanks

lez_s - Oct 04, 2007 - 03:27 PM
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you could just get a helicopter there?

Tens - Oct 04, 2007 - 04:05 PM
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well if i was to do that lez i could just win the lottery and take you with me

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 04, 2007 - 04:17 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

can someone briefly explain the tax in BC please?

Price shown + 15% pretty much
the liquor store is the only place with tax already added

Summers250 - Oct 04, 2007 - 04:33 PM
Post subject:

Tens - i'll be up for that, lets wait and see what the other two say and see what emails you get back re. luggage etc. cheers mate!

ScottDrummer - Oct 04, 2007 - 04:33 PM
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am i right by saying everything is 6% GST + 7% PST except human consumables like restaurant goods and goods shipped from outside the province?.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 04, 2007 - 04:34 PM
Post subject:

Ignore this one - it looks like there's a much better one below Very Happy

ace_mcgraw - Oct 04, 2007 - 04:36 PM
Post subject:

Haven't they slightly changed it to about 7%Provincial Sales Tax (PST) and 7% General Sales Tax (GST).

Before you get used to it it does get freaking annoying, when you pick up a new board for about $300, get to the till and they charge you $350! That was the handy thing about getting discounts in stores with the season pass cos you wouldn't have to worry about it - with discount the display price is pretty much what you pay!

matt-j - Oct 04, 2007 - 06:10 PM
Post subject:

pricey is that with zoom?? if so, im on the same flight from gatwick via manchester. summers and tens that could well be a very good idea catching the limo but im still not quite sure how long im going to be knocking around van yet but is defo a good option.

does anyone know of any decent,cheap digs around van

pricey74 - Oct 04, 2007 - 08:31 PM
Post subject:

matt-j wrote:

matt - yeah thats with zoom, so looks like we're on the same flight.

As for digs in Vancouver, there are more hostels than you can shake a stick at. Not literally of course as that would be crazy. Now I'm not in any way suggesting you are actually crazy and would want to shake a stick at a hostel. But if you are then fair play you crazy son of a bitch!! I digress, but yeah basically there are loads of cheap digs. I stayed at the Cambie in Gastown when I was last there and it rocked.

pricey74 - Oct 04, 2007 - 08:55 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Tens - thanks for looking into the limo deals mate. Would it be able to swing by Vancouver and pick me up or would I need to haul my ass to the airport and meet you guys there?

steddie76 - Oct 04, 2007 - 08:56 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

who was it that was on the same flight as me, nov 3rd - have you sorted transfers yet? i remember you weren't sure which date you were heading over to whistler.

Lez_s, it was me! Think I'm gonna do the SWAP, despite the debate! It will be on the 4th at 11am so will head on up after that + means a few beers in Vancouver to check the place out!

Think I saw your on Facebook, will try & find you on it otherwise it will be pink carnations at the airport!

Tens - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:02 PM
Post subject:

pricey have a read of the talk about limos on the last page with summers and matt, if your not interested no problems just an idea.

lez_s - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:10 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

cool. i'm booking my transfer soon for the 3rd. i take it you're still on the same flight.

you'll like van, i did when i was there. i think i'll head back for a weekend in the season.

steddie76 - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:18 PM
Post subject:

Yeah still on the flight.

I'm intending on spending a good few weeks on & off in van over the season, thats if I can drag my self froom the snow!

Pricey74 - Combie in Gastown looks cool I'm booking up, cheers. Thumbs Up

pricey74 - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:21 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

pricey have a read of the talk about limos on the last page with summers and matt, if your not interested no problems just an idea.

I'm lovin the idea of rocking up to Whistler in a limo mate, its just a question of logistics. If the limo goes straight to Whistler from the airport then it could be a bit of a mare to be honest. I'll wait and see what info you get back from the limo firms. Thanks again.

walnuts - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:42 PM
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Guys,

You might find it useful to check the price of a one-way car rental (via www.avis.co.uk) from Vancouver Airport to Whistler.

Car rental is cheap in Canada (as long as you are not Canadian for some reason, this is why you need to go to the uk avis site to book it).

For example, I'm taking a 1-day trip up to Whistler next week to get some stuff sorted out and its costing me 25 quid all inclusive.

lez_s - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:47 PM
Post subject:

i thought you had to pay a fee for a one way trip? i looked into doing to get to whistler but it work out more then the bus.

walnuts - Oct 04, 2007 - 09:55 PM
Post subject:

Yeah, you do, so it won't be as cheap as 25, but if theres a group of you it can still work out cheap.
I have some mates coming out to visit Whistler in March and that's what they're going to do.

Also, it could be handy if you want to pop into the Vancouver board-shops en-route.

paulparkie - Oct 04, 2007 - 10:40 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

Cambie is a nice hostel inside... but just a word of warning that it's pretty close to West Hastings which is the total roughest street I've ever walked down in my life... definitely wouldn't be wandering around by myself after dark... just to give you a heads-up man!

Tens - Oct 05, 2007 - 12:02 AM
Post subject:

pricey: i want to do it from town and not the airport (as i will have landed at 2pm and want to take a look about and summers +1 lands at 6.30) and if you and mattj have stayed there for 3 days then thats where you 2 will be, I will get some full info on it over the next few weeks and let you know.

ScottDrummer - Oct 05, 2007 - 12:17 PM
Post subject:

morning people,
when going through immigration, and they ask you if you have sufficient funds, do you have to prove it in cash or are travellers cheques acceptable? im taking a bit of both, but dont want to be short on cash if this is all they accept as proof, cheers

steddie76 - Oct 05, 2007 - 12:28 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

definitely wouldn't be wandering around by myself after dark... just to give you a heads-up man!

paulparkie: cheers for the heads-up, I'll keep my wits about me & nothing else!

Dazzler74 - Oct 05, 2007 - 12:40 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

when going through immigration, and they ask you if you have sufficient funds, do you have to prove it in cash or are travellers cheques acceptable? im taking a bit of both, but dont want to be short on cash if this is all they accept as proof, cheers

actually I thought you had to show them bank statements

pricey74 - Oct 05, 2007 - 12:49 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Tens - That sounds perfect. Cheers

pricey74 - Oct 05, 2007 - 12:58 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

Quote:

actually I thought you had to show them bank statements

Not sure that you actually have to show them anything, but I'd imagine they could give you a pretty hard time if you can't convince them that you can fund yourself for your entire trip. Probably matters less if you have a working visa, but if you don't then you may want to start thinking about it. With this in mind I'm taking copies of my last 6 months bank statements, which will show my savings steadily rising. You could always ask friends/family to lend you a wad of cash, deposit it into your account and then get a statement with your newly flush balance. They'd probably be cute to this though so taking a few statements is safer IMO.

lez_s - Oct 05, 2007 - 01:20 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

i was never asked or asked if i had a return flight the last time i went to canada

ScottDrummer - Oct 05, 2007 - 01:40 PM
Post subject:

oh right, bunac mention you need to prove you have £500 min. to show you can keep afloat, i guess they only ask if your on a working visa i dunno?

lez_s - Oct 05, 2007 - 01:46 PM
Post subject:

if i was you just take your last bank statement just in case.

is all 339 post of your been on this thread? Laughing

ScottDrummer - Oct 05, 2007 - 01:50 PM
Post subject:

yeah ill take some statements.
lol probably, theres a few on some other threads.

Dendromad - Oct 05, 2007 - 01:52 PM
Post subject:

Just had look at Avis website as Walnuts suggested for one way car hire from Vancouver airport to Whistler on 1st March and for a 7 person people carrier pay now price was £74.79!

From Avis website:

Quote:

Pay Now price includes
Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
Unlimited kilometres
Additional Liability Insurance
Tax
One Way Fee

All mandatory charges are included in the price

May have to look at this more closely but doesn't seem bad price!

ace_mcgraw - Oct 05, 2007 - 03:30 PM
Post subject:

I never showed anyone evidence of my bank balance to get in

Not convinced either that I had to show them proof of my flight back.

Denizen - Oct 05, 2007 - 05:25 PM
Post subject:

Dendromad wrote:

Quote:

Pay Now price includes
Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
Unlimited kilometres
Additional Liability Insurance
Tax
One Way Fee

All mandatory charges are included in the price

May have to look at this more closely but doesn't seem bad price!

Word of warning though you have to be 25 to hire a car here, don't know how old all you guys are but just a heads up.

Oh and when I came through on weds they just asked how much money i had, didn't ask for proof and they didn't even ask about the flight home. The border guards are ok they just like to pretend they are mean. Just be thankful you aren't american because for some reason they really don't like the people from south of their border!

ace_mcgraw - Oct 05, 2007 - 05:32 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Just be thankful you aren't american because for some reason they really don't like the people from south of their border!

Can you blame them!!

Tens - Oct 05, 2007 - 07:37 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Can you blame them!!

was just thinking of a comment just like that and scrolled down and there it was!

paulparkie - Oct 05, 2007 - 10:32 PM
Post subject:

i didn't get asked to prove anything either about financial situation... if I did get asked I was just going to show them online.

Someone asked for some pics, so I'm going to post some on the FaceBook group 'Snowboarding Season in Whistler 07/08 - Who's In?' if any wants to see... it's been super-sunny the past few days so the views have been amazing!! Shocked

I just got back from the Turkey sale... man it was manic... but bagged myself a sick Sapient board for $350... get in Very Happy

Dazzler74 - Oct 05, 2007 - 11:46 PM
Post subject:

thats the facebook group I set up - forgot all about it!!

cool pictures, you fecker!!!

matt-j - Oct 06, 2007 - 03:03 PM
Post subject:

the cambie looks cool is the one in gastown the easiest and closet from the airport??? or is there not much of a differencce in distance? also is it somewhere i'll definately have to pre book do you reckon they look like they could get busy.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 06, 2007 - 05:08 PM
Post subject:

the airport is basically a 10-15 minute cab ride from the downtown area anyway, so it doesn't make too much difference. Whichever hostel you choose avoid the ones down by the train station, as I've heard they're pretty sketchy!

frazz - Oct 06, 2007 - 05:22 PM
Post subject:

ace is it easy enough to get a cab at the airport big enough to get snowboard bag and other luggage in?

walnuts - Oct 06, 2007 - 06:10 PM
Post subject:

avoid the hostel on granville street too. everyone i've met who stayed there says they never got any sleep (the hostel is above a nightclub)

paulparkie - Oct 06, 2007 - 07:58 PM
Post subject:

Yeah taxi to downtown from the airport collapse seats for you and stuff... I was fine with board bag and extra bag... just make sure you tip!

There's two hostels on Granville... a Same Sun and a HI... I stayed in the HI and I really liked it... you get breakfast too if you're up in time. I never stayed in the Same Sun... but the bar is friendly enough, and could definitely imagine it keeping you awake. So yeah I'd probably recommend HI Central... because it's umm, central Surprised

ace_mcgraw - Oct 07, 2007 - 11:01 AM
Post subject:

I think I stayed in the Downtown HI which was on the corner of Burnaby and Thurlow. Basically it's prob a little bit quieter than the Granville st one, and when I was there it layed on breakfast for you. Well i think it did. Either that or I stole someone elses stuff?

Denizen - Oct 07, 2007 - 03:43 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

I'm writing this from the downtown HI at the moment. It's pretty nice as far as hostels go. They do give you breakfast every morning, basically a simple continental one but it's still okay. The rooms all have big lockers which is a bonus plus they have like a secure storage area downstairs behind reception for any big cases or your snowboards which is good.

paulparkie - Oct 07, 2007 - 07:18 PM
Post subject:

on the old 'Downtown vs Central' debate, having stayed in both on and off over a few weeks; Downtown has bigger kitchen and TV room, but I found the shared bathrooms a bit scuzzy, Central is, funnily enough, more central and closer to everything, and has individual, clean, nice bathrooms, but then has a small kitchen and TV room...

... the choice my friend, is yours Cool

ScottDrummer - Oct 07, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

looks like rain in whistler, 0 at the top :-\ early yet i suppose

paulparkie - Oct 07, 2007 - 11:05 PM
Post subject:

on the 'job front' I just had an interview with MaxxFish... they're opening early this year... good news for me... (if I get hired)... Surprised

haven't heard back from anywhere else yet though... I'm going to go and bug them all again tomorrow...

on the 'rain' front... yep, it's pretty incessant at the mo... thank lordy for my laptop and Tiger Woods Golf on the PS3 Smile

lez_s - Oct 07, 2007 - 11:38 PM
Post subject:

the group of you getting the limo to whistler, what date are you doing that?

i have a friend flying in on dec 5th landing about 4pm. if thats the same date do you have room for one more?

frazz - Oct 08, 2007 - 07:08 AM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

on the 'job front' I just had an interview with MaxxFish... they're opening early this year... good news for me... (if I get hired)... Surprised

Had a definite offer on the job front Paul,just hope it's gonna workout in regards to working hours,timw will tell!!!

You the only one staying at Swiss Chalet right now? Only 9 or is it 10 days until i arrive in resort, sorry i'm pretty pissed right now and it's only 7 am, been out all night Smile

. needing my kip now though.

pricey74 - Oct 08, 2007 - 09:09 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

the group of you getting the limo to whistler, what date are you doing that?

i have a friend flying in on dec 5th landing about 4pm. if thats the same date do you have room for one more?

Hey Lez - I think Tens is looking into getting a limo for a group of us on Dec 1st, but I'm not sure if anybody's looking into one for Dec 5th as well?

Dazzler74 - Oct 08, 2007 - 01:11 PM
Post subject:

I am landing on 5th with my wifey - would love to get a limo if there was enough of us...

Dazzler74 - Oct 08, 2007 - 01:12 PM
Post subject:

I am landing on Dec 5th with my wifey - would love to get a limo if there was enough of us...

Dazzler74 - Oct 08, 2007 - 01:12 PM
Post subject:

I am landing on Dec 5th with my wifey - would love to get a limo if there was enough of us...

Dazzler74 - Oct 08, 2007 - 01:13 PM
Post subject:

OOPS!!

lez_s - Oct 08, 2007 - 01:19 PM
Post subject:

where you flying from?

lez_s - Oct 08, 2007 - 02:20 PM
Post subject:

dazzler, how many people do you have for the transfer so far?

Dazzler74 - Oct 08, 2007 - 06:06 PM
Post subject:

so far just me and the wife - was just about to buy perimeter bus tickets!!

we are flying through Zoom from manchester that then goes to glasgow and then on to vancouver - its the 2.45pm flight from manchester

Ideally 6 would be good for the limo but I think 5 is still cost effective...

not overly fussed about the limo, just thought it would be cool!!!

Tens - Oct 09, 2007 - 01:48 PM
Post subject:

my flight has been changed, either the 27th nov or 4th dec

mattj and pricey what you upto over the 3 or 4 days your hanging about in vancouver, my accom doesnt start till the 1st so I dont want to head upto whistler right away and wouldnt mind taking a look around and doing stuff.

ScottDrummer - Oct 09, 2007 - 01:56 PM
Post subject:

that zoom per chance? they changed my flight too, adding an additional stop at glasgow.

lez_s - Oct 09, 2007 - 02:32 PM
Post subject:

how did you find out they had changed your flight?

ScottDrummer - Oct 09, 2007 - 02:35 PM
Post subject:

they call you or email you at worse, they changed mine a few month ago, by which time I had organised everything, luckily my accommodation isnt occupied for the earlier date im arriving.
you can login on the zoom site if you have your e-ticket, you can confirm the flight details on there.

lez_s - Oct 09, 2007 - 02:47 PM
Post subject:

just checked and.....................nothing has changed.

ScottDrummer - Oct 09, 2007 - 02:52 PM
Post subject:

i think they cannot change it if there is < 30 days until the flight date.

Tens - Oct 09, 2007 - 02:55 PM
Post subject:

they rang me

PRICEY and MATTJ read up!

lez_s - Oct 09, 2007 - 02:56 PM
Post subject:

i paid for the flight ages ago and not checked until now so thought i better ask.

pricey74 - Oct 09, 2007 - 03:03 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Tens - My plan is pure laziness and to just kick back in Vancouver for a few days before heading to Whistler on Dec 1st. I need to buy some new gear Very Happy

so that will take up a day at least, and then just see what happens really. Are you thinking of hopping on the Nov 28th flight?

Tens - Oct 09, 2007 - 03:43 PM
Post subject:

indeed i am thinking of getting the earlier flight, just dont want to be a loner hovering about vancouver on my own so if you and mattj are about then at least I have somoene to talk to.

Its either get there early and see a bit of vancouver and get some semi cheaper gear or turn miss a few more days of being on the snow and seeing none of vancouver.

ScottDrummer - Oct 09, 2007 - 03:46 PM
Post subject:

you could always go back to van on the greyhound bus during your stay.
I will probably hire a car to do some shopping at some point, you could jump in if you need a lift.

matt-j - Oct 09, 2007 - 06:04 PM
Post subject:

yes tens im happy with that im on my own too so would be good to chill with someone for the 3 days, if pricey is up for it too that would be good. any ideas of where your staying yet in vancouver ??

Tens - Oct 09, 2007 - 06:27 PM
Post subject:

i dont know if i deffinatly am, its causing nightmares and its only been half a day, airline wanted to know by today and i managed ot get away with telling them tomorrow cos my insurance might not be able to run for the extra 4 days as its already 6 months and not 1 day over. When its over 6 months they need to talk to the underwriter and i should hear back by tomorrow.

pricey74 - Oct 09, 2007 - 08:36 PM
Post subject:

[quote="Tens"]indeed i am thinking of getting the earlier flight, just dont want to be a loner hovering about vancouver on my own so if you and mattj are about then at least I have somoene to talk to.

Its either get there early and see a bit of vancouver and get some semi cheaper gear or turn miss a few more days of being on the snow and seeing none of vancouver.[/quote

I'm in the same boat (loning it) as you and matt-j so all hanging out together in Vancouver sounds good.

pricey74 - Oct 09, 2007 - 08:52 PM
Post subject:

matt-j wrote:

any ideas of where your staying yet in vancouver ??

I haven't actually booked anywhere yet, but it seems for every bad point about any particular hostel, there's something good to say about it! I've only stayed at the cambie in gastown and i had such a laugh Beer

but that was a few years ago. To be fair I'd be happy staying anywhere.
If Tens gets on the same flight it may be an idea to book a dorm room together so nobody is a billy no mates? Naturally I'd rather share with 3 swedish girls Shocked

but I'm willing to take a bullet for the team! Laughing

Tens - Oct 09, 2007 - 09:24 PM
Post subject:

if i chose to go on this flight (insurance depending) then i will be arriving on the 27th nov but that sounds like a good idea pricey.

wolfie - Oct 10, 2007 - 10:03 AM
Post subject:

I was thinking about getting a new board when I'm out there to save be a bit of cash. Considering the Bataleon Goliath 157, no shops in canada seem to stock them but the guys at Bataleon said they would ship it to Whistler for free from the states....he quoted $459 (USD) which is pretty cool. Anyone else ride this board is it as good as the hype?

ScottDrummer - Oct 10, 2007 - 10:07 AM
Post subject:

not sure about the goliath, i have the ET and it is a great board, it does give you a bit more confidence about not catching edges.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 10, 2007 - 10:14 AM
Post subject:

I've demoed last years and this years goliath at the fridges, and I really like them. They're a really smooth ride, and nice to butter around on, with much less feeling of imminent doom and about to catch the edge. I've heard some stuff about questionable longevity, and as I've only ridden one for a couple of hours at a time I can't comment on that. Overall I liked it tho.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 10, 2007 - 10:39 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Considering the Bataleon Goliath 157, no shops in canada seem to stock them

There is a shop in Whistler called Evolution, they stock Bataleon boards.
http://www.evolutionwhistler.com/#
Their website isnt fully set up and the online shop is not working yet, but you could always give them a call and see if they are stocking Bataleon again this year.

wolfie - Oct 10, 2007 - 11:04 AM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Quote:

Considering the Bataleon Goliath 157, no shops in canada seem to stock them

Ta will give them a try.

Tens - Oct 10, 2007 - 01:04 PM
Post subject:

i am a complete equipment novice and got my stuff the morning i flew first time i went and still use it and would love some advice on a few things and thinking about canadian prices - travelling 27th Nov.

just been over to tk maxx and eyed up a few things saw a nice HH jacket (£70)which may be a tiny too big but you could say its baggy. Saw some cheap salomon skiiing socks which i may buy too (£ Cool

.

1. Has anyone got any "shredz" stuff and is it any good, saw a nice jacket (£60) and they have loads of trousers going pretty cheap (£30-50).

2. Is it worth getting some cheap bolle goggles (nova or apollo, £20-25) here or shall i use my old ones for a few weeks whilst i order some cheap oakleys off ebay when there cos they are nicely priced on the US ebay.

ps (for thise who moan) : im not interested in supporting my "local" shop what have they done for me and i would prefer to stay an extra month with tkmaxx gear then pay more stay less. - no comments on this please talk about my gear Very Happy

lez_s - Oct 10, 2007 - 01:23 PM
Post subject:

if you looking for cheap, but very good stuff i'm selling stuff, westbeach pants 10k/10k and have a really good westbeach jacket 20k/20k.

never heard of shredz.

i would get the oakley ones, as i would think the lens would be better.

ScottDrummer - Oct 10, 2007 - 01:35 PM
Post subject:

ye bolle cheap and cheerful are as good as useless if the weather comes in, or if you breath heavy, or if you want to see to the side of you. I had some a while back, they are ok on a budget but tend to cause more hassle than not wearing any at all.

Tens - Oct 10, 2007 - 01:41 PM
Post subject:

i had almost already decided that i wouldnt get the bolle gogs as they are only a little cheaper when comparing them to US oakleys. Gonna buy some off ebay when im there along with some sunglasses too or in vancouver.

Im not going for cheap just dont want to buy the same thing for more money when I can get just as good stuff for a lot less. Might buy this HH jacket later then and some socks, apparently you can never have enough socks.

I also dont want to buy something here thinking its cheaper compared to canada but by the time i arrive it will all be normal high prices.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 10, 2007 - 02:22 PM
Post subject:

Just thought I'd add this on this thread too:

If you wait for a bit, the shops in Whistler have all sorts of sales on, and you're likely to get better quality stuff than the 2nds at the mighty Maxx.

For socks, I'm not sure, but if they're skiing specific socks the various different bits on the sock will prob be in different places compared to thespecially designed snowboard socks that have padding and thin bits to allow for snowboarding pressure points.

Never heard of shredz, but anything with a "z" in the title should be avoided! Sounds kinda like clothing for the the Bratz ultra xztreme models.

I'd personally rather spend 40-50 on a better pair of googles, such as the Von Zippers I have. I'd recommend getting two lenses for whichever goggles you get. There will be some bluebird days, but there will also be a hell of a lot of grey days, so you're gonna need a decent low light lens. You may spend £20 more, but with an extra lens it saves buying a new pair of goggles.

Dan888 - Oct 10, 2007 - 06:45 PM
Post subject:

Hey Guys, only just got shown this board wish id found it earlier lots of useful info.

Im heading out to whistler on the 14th of November, I just planned to find somewhere to live when i got there but from what ive read here that sounds harder than i thought. Does anyone here know of any rooms to rent atm (I see some of you are in whistler already). Any help would be much appreciated.

If not if anyone would be willing to let me doss on their sofa for a couple of days when i get there would be appreciated! Sofa in exchange for me cooking you dinner! good deal as im an excellent cook.

Looking forward to getting out there and riding with some of you guys. even if I am living in my tent.

Cheers

walnuts - Oct 10, 2007 - 09:52 PM
Post subject:

For those thinking of getting stuff shipped from the US to Canada, beware that you will have to pay taxes and brokerage fees on stuff, so things aren't always as cheap as they seem.

This website can figure out the real cost for you: http://www.thefinalcost.com/shipments/calculate/

HTH.

Tens - Oct 10, 2007 - 10:04 PM
Post subject:

the top 2 companies scare me a little and then the bottom 2 only added on a tiny bit so for a 50$ item and $5 postage it came to 65

ScottDrummer - Oct 10, 2007 - 10:06 PM
Post subject:

great site walnuts, that will come useful.

lez_s - Oct 11, 2007 - 09:34 AM
Post subject:

i might be getting a new board at one point in the season. can you demo boards out there if you leave your credit card or passport with them?

frazz - Oct 11, 2007 - 10:51 AM
Post subject:

Lez i remember seeing product demo tents on Whistler mountain close by the Roundhouse, not sure what was on offer. Burton def do demo tours and i think Rome do as well, i'm buying a new board at some point too so keen to try before i hand over any £££.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 11, 2007 - 10:54 AM
Post subject:

Showcase Snowboards had a demo tent near the roundhouse on Whistler, and at Glacier Creek on Blackcomb where you could demo stuff from. I tried a Sapient board there and loved it!

Jaded_Parrot - Oct 11, 2007 - 10:56 AM
Post subject:

and by £££ he means $$$$ Wink

ace_mcgraw - Oct 11, 2007 - 11:10 AM
Post subject:

Can't remember exactly what they had on offer - know they had Burton and Sapient. The shop as a whole stocked Rossignol, Gnu, Prior, Option and a whole heap of other stuff, but can't remember what stock they had for demoing

norton - Oct 11, 2007 - 11:29 AM
Post subject:

wolfie wrote:

i looked into this long and hard...
and ended up buying my Bataleon Evil Twin here instead. One thing that you should remember (everyone should remember this) is that you can get almost all tax back on anything you buy that is unused when you leave. so my evil twin went from £290 to £240,. and considering you never actually know how much the customs will sting you, its a much better idea to buy here. Anything like cameras are all exempt so look into that before you jet off...

norton - Oct 11, 2007 - 11:30 AM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

sapients are supposed to be great park/jib boards. Had a mate in Meribel who was riding for them and was riding amazing on it.

ScottDrummer - Oct 11, 2007 - 11:36 AM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

Unfortunately, this is not the case anymore regarding claiming tax back. They cancelled the visitors rebate policy April this year

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/visitors/
Q&A's - http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pub/gi/notic ... e221-e.pdf

norton - Oct 11, 2007 - 11:41 AM
Post subject:

Cant you buy stuff here though and claim it at customs on your way out???
maybe its just tourists such as myself who get this liberty.

I got a tax rebate form when i bought my board. also did the same thing when i left Aus (which im a resident off) and got all my outergear tax free...

ScottDrummer - Oct 11, 2007 - 11:47 AM
Post subject:

I assume when you say "here" you mean UK. I get what you mean now, i thought you meant claiming tax back(when returning to the UK) on items purchased in canada.
Yeah you can claim VAT back on items purchased in the UK when leaving the EU, only if the seller is a member of VAT export scheme and you leave the UK with the goods by the last day of the third month following that in which the goods were purchased for an immediate destination outside the EC (whilst standing on one leg and patting your head and stroking your stomach in an anti clockwise direction)
see-
http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsPort ... _CL_000141

ok so i lied about the standing on one leg thing.

norton - Oct 11, 2007 - 12:06 PM
Post subject:

I dont what it is like here, but when i left aus they didnt even ask to see the goods. Has something like $1000 aus worth of goods reciepts and they didnt even check.
but be warned, the articles need to be unused

norton - Oct 12, 2007 - 02:35 PM
Post subject:

Scott must have had the day off of work today, or has been busier than normal.

anyway im off to try and get some tickets for England V Estonia tomorrow. should be pretty sweet.

ScottDrummer - Oct 12, 2007 - 02:37 PM
Post subject:

lol im at work, although I wish I wasnt.

Dazzler74 - Oct 12, 2007 - 06:04 PM
Post subject:

bear in mind that if you claim your tax back when leaving a counntry you are then obliged to declare it at customs coming in...

so if you claim your tax back from canada of 7% you are supposed to pay 17.5% coming back into the UK

unless you dont declare and just walk straight through customs!!! Wink

Rob_Quads - Oct 12, 2007 - 08:45 PM
Post subject:

I thought they had changed the tax laws last year in Canada so you can't reclaim the tax back?

ScottDrummer - Oct 12, 2007 - 09:56 PM
Post subject:

yep visitors of Canada can no longer claim tax back on items purchased on the visit.

ScottDrummer - Oct 13, 2007 - 08:40 PM
Post subject:

Hi,
Just packing and thinking what to pack...
Do servers tend to wear casual clothes or are shoes/shirts required? do clubs have a shoes policy?
for the UK to Canadian plugs: I have some typical plug convertors, but it says they are for non earthed appliances only, is it safe to charge laptop on this? And finally is it possible to use a UK 4 way for the UK eletrical items and pug this into the Canadian socket with a convertor, is this safe?

Cheers
Scott

ace_mcgraw - Oct 13, 2007 - 09:08 PM
Post subject:

Greetings:

Firstly - Servers, depends where you work - some places you need to be relatively smart, other places ie Merlins, tended to wear whatever on bottom, then Merlins t-shirts.
Clubs tend to have no policy on shoes - at least, can't remember a night where I had to wear anything particular (Actually can't remember quite a few nights!) - shorts, t-shirts, trainers all seem to be fine.
Plugs - Not a huge expert on electrical items, but for most stuff I seem to remember ust plugging it in to a convertor and that was it, but I could be wrong - best check on this. I know my phone never charged when it was there - never seemed to have enough juice to power it for whatever reason.

Tomahawk - Oct 13, 2007 - 09:25 PM
Post subject:

yep
UK 4 way is a solid plan. thats what i do.

not sure on the non earhte thing.

walnuts - Oct 13, 2007 - 09:54 PM
Post subject:

Also, have a look at the label on the plug of all your devices and make sure it says 110V or 120V on it somewhere.

Most things do say this, but I got caught out a couple of years back, and didn't realise until I arrived that I couldn't charge my walkie-talkies.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 14, 2007 - 03:45 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Do servers tend to wear casual clothes or are shoes/shirts required? do clubs have a shoes policy?

Bring a pair of black trousers, a black shirt and some decent shoes, thats the most common uniform, some employers would be more strict about the shoes but most you can even get away with a pair of all black DC's or something.
Anyway they are always helpful things to have, especially when on the job hunt!

Dazzler74 - Oct 14, 2007 - 02:17 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

this is the exact reason I chose not to work - no more worrying about pressing shirts, what tie to wear, getting my suit to the dry cleaners..... NO WORK WHATSOEVER...................YIPPEE>>>PLOP

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:11 AM
Post subject:

just had leaving to 2 of 3 last night, absolutely nakered.
leavings' good, got more $'s than £'s now lol. Might do this more often

lez_s - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:24 AM
Post subject:

the thing about the plugs, i thought you could buy something in the shops over there that would boost the power so you can use uk things?

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:32 AM
Post subject:

ye, i heard about somthing like that, although thinking about it, most of my goods i.e phone, laptop have switchable power supplies/chargers anyway as they are international adapters so I think I will be ok, its mainly the girlfriends hair straighteners, hairdrier etc... the list goes on.

frazz - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:42 AM
Post subject:

Bricker central, only 2 days to go!!! Smile

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:47 AM
Post subject:

same here, 3 for me. if i wasnt so nakered id be quite excited about it. maybe later

frazz - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:56 AM
Post subject:

I was like that yesterday Scott, prob due to over consumption of booze on Sat night, not good with hangovers Thumbs Down

hence the reason i didn't get anything done yesterday and am now only starting to pack as each load of washing comes out the machine or dryer!

The Snowboard bag is packed, that's the main 1 eh!

ace_mcgraw - Oct 15, 2007 - 10:58 AM
Post subject:

I've got a tear in my eye now. It's like a mother watching her kids fly the nest!!

Guys, have a really good time. Make the most of it - it's an awesome place, and I wish I was leaving to head out there as well!

And lastly, if any of my advice proves to be off the mark, please don't hate me for ever!!

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 11:03 AM
Post subject:

lol cheers ace, the advice given on here has been quite useful and reassuring, its always good to speak to people in the same boat or have been on said boat.
I packed yesterday frazz, my board bag is full to the brim so im a bit worried about them checking for that, its got ski boots in aswell as two board boots, only one of our suitcases is over the weight atm, so looks like were gonna have to cut it down a bit.

frazz - Oct 15, 2007 - 11:15 AM
Post subject:

Yeah cheers for all the info Ace Thumbs Up

much appreciated!

I'm away to get cracking on with my packing, see you in Whistler Scott.

seanoe - Oct 15, 2007 - 11:50 AM
Post subject:

Scott.. Post some photos on your facebook group for us that don't arrive for a little while yet! I have just over 4 weeks, and the anticipation is killing me. I don't like watching every day for new snow, but i do it...

Help us all out and keep us all posted on what is going on. Actual facts from real people int he place we are all going to is what we want to hear!!

Cheers and enjoy...

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 11:56 AM
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lol, ok I have a website ive got ready (mainly for the family to catch up on what were up to and to gloat with pics etc...) so I can post the link once its published.

seanoe - Oct 15, 2007 - 12:32 PM
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sweet!

norton - Oct 15, 2007 - 12:35 PM
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i packed my board bag yesterday. nightmare, could only just close it. really dont think im going to take much in my pack. just tshirts and a few pairs of jeans. didnt wear much last season, 1/2 a dozen t's and socks. loads of socks are a good idea.

the good thing i think is whistler sounds more like a town rather than a village like the french alps. i was freaking out worried i wouldnt be able to buy anything in resort when i left last time, but feel i can buy anything in whistler or at least van...

norton - Oct 15, 2007 - 12:45 PM
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Quick one.
Is worth buying an Avi kit at whistler or from Vancouver???

ace_mcgraw - Oct 15, 2007 - 12:51 PM
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Yeah, it's definately a little more town like than most French resorts - most of your needs should be catered for! That's not to say it's like an actual real Canadian town!

Denizen - Oct 15, 2007 - 04:45 PM
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ace_mcgraw wrote:

Yeah, it's definately a little more town like than most French resorts - most of your needs should be catered for! That's not to say it's like an actual real Canadian town!

More like disneyland Laughing

.

If you can't find it here you could just head down to squamish, it's only 45 kms away and has a wal-mart, canadian tire and other big stores. Otherwise if it is something really difficult to find vancouver is not too much further, although the sea to sky is huge parking lot at the moment with all the construction going on so it might take longer than normal to get there.

It's really quiet here at the moment, like the calm before the storm. Literally everywhere is looking for staff at the moment although they don't want you to start till the beginning of november yet. If you've got housing sorted then you will have no problems finding a job once you get here.

When you guys get out here, we need a forum meet up for some beers.

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 04:51 PM
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yup, ill be there Friday! but i dont think ill come out to play until ive settled in and unpacked, got some rest etc... has you met up with anyone else yet? paul parkie is there atm.
Where is the best place to do grocery shopping? Ive heard its a good diea to get some stuff from vancouver but after the bus ticket there and back it kinda makes it pointless, is squamish any cheaper to shop?

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 15, 2007 - 04:51 PM
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8 days until i go back home Smile

I'm lucky with the bags, all my stuff is still out there so not much packing to be done, just the clothes i brought here.
Oh yes it will be good, i have been missing the fresh air, great views, epic snow, crisp mornings, lazy afternoons, drinking too much, walking round the lakes, apres beers, awesome people, Cittas patio, Brandys bar, gnarly runs, perfect cruisers......
could go on for ever!
See you soon Whistler x

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 04:58 PM
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where do people put there helmet (stay with me) ive put it in my suitcase as ive not got room in backpack, is it better off in roller bag?

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 15, 2007 - 05:09 PM
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wherever really, as long as its padded inside with clothes or something, it should be fine. If your out of space you can just clip it onto your backpack.

ScottDrummer - Oct 15, 2007 - 05:14 PM
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I was thinking that but do zoom accept this? Ive heard they are quite strict with their baggage policy. I could always wear it on lol

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 15, 2007 - 05:19 PM
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I've never flown with zoom before, but i assume its ok, and yeah you could always just wear it and say your a nervous flyer.
They would have to be sooooo anal to not let you do it, cant see them saying anything.

Denizen - Oct 15, 2007 - 05:34 PM
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JohnnyBelfast wrote:

You may laugh but when i flew back to the uk last time i didn't have enough room to put my helmet in a bag so i just clipped it to my carry-on bag. Was going to wear it if they said anything but they didn't. Shouldn't be a problem with your airline, more likely with the jobsworths who do the security checking. You should still be fine though they'll probably just wipe it with their magic cloths to see if there's any explosives on it. Rolling Eyes

norton - Oct 15, 2007 - 06:00 PM
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was just thinking what i would do with my helmet...
there such a pain in the arse to carry round

im glad my mate has a big truck. should be able to head out to squamish whenever we need to do a massive shop.

for the peopel there, are there many rooms going? like shared rooms or rooms in big houses etc?
have house accom sorted but dont really want to stay there unless i have to

lez_s - Oct 15, 2007 - 08:03 PM
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i put my helmet in my board bag, or you can attach it to the out side of your back pack/bag you take on the place.

paulparkie - Oct 16, 2007 - 08:45 AM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

yeah I'm here Surprised

so if anyone fancies a drink that'd be cool... that said, I've started a few days of detox after much 'networking' the past few weeks... it has taken it's toll on my mind, body and wallet! ... still it's good to put the effort in and meet lots of cool peeps eh Cool

Scott it depends where you're house is, but in town I've found IGA to be the cheapest grocery store... and then there's Nesters which is a bit too far for me to walk back with shopping from, but I could bus it for $1.50. It's all a little more expensive but the only thing I've found to be much more expensive than back home is cheese... so expensive I haven't bought any yet, and I miss it Sad

So long as you shop sensibly, then you should be fine shopping in Whistler... if you have a car, definitely go to Function Junction or Squamish as they're way cheaper!

On the 'bus front' ... one thing that did my head in to start with is that they don't give change... at all... so make sure you have the right money, or atleast a toonie when you're taking a bus.

So, see you peeps out here soon... Scott, ping me a message on Face Book when you've sorted yourself out and you fancy a beer matey
Smile

ScottDrummer - Oct 16, 2007 - 09:31 AM
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will do

Summers250 - Oct 16, 2007 - 09:43 AM
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JohnnyBelfast - you mentioned "walking round the lakes" are there a lot of lakes in the town? Also do people fish the lakes? can anyone fish them or do you have to go with like a fishing tour company?
M

ScottDrummer - Oct 16, 2007 - 10:19 AM
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my work colleages have just asked me what i want for a leaving present, which is nice of them, however I cant think of anything id like that I could take with me.
I though maybe a subscription to a snowboard mag would be good, document is £40 delivered to Canada for 6 issues, which is steep, are there are good Canadian/US Snowboard mags worth reading?

ace_mcgraw - Oct 16, 2007 - 11:02 AM
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Quote:

Greetings Theres about 5 or so lakes in and around town. Lost Lake is up in Upper Village, near where I lived during the winter which is quite small and kinda tucked away. It's a lovely spot and super cool for bbq's and stuff in the summer. There's Green Lake which is fed by the glaciers, and is green. This is the biggest lake and quite a hike around. There's an old logging town in the woods just next to this lake which was abandoned in the 40's and 50's, before briefly becoming a hippy commune, and is now deserted - quite eery, with old buildings and old trucks sitting there and rotting. Also this is where the sea plane service operates The most popular is prob Alta lake which I lived near during the summer, and was a cool hangout. Big kinda beachy area at Rainbow park on the shores there, with jetty's to swim off and volleyball courts and all kinda stuff. Spent a lot of the summer there. Also some other parks on the north side of the lake and all kinds of kayak hire places to have a paddle around in and stuff.

Then there's Nita Lake which is adjacent to Creekside. Pretty lake, don't know much about it. Got a cool tree overhanging the path round it tho!

Quote:

Leaving presents are cool - my boss got me two cos the one he'd ordered one of t'interweb which hadn't arrived in time for my leaving dinner, so he bought me a watch. Then the ones he'd ordered arrived and I got some books on north american trees as well! Yay. And a t-shirt! Yay

Anyway, I always enjoyed Snowboard Canada when I was out there. Normally more stuff to read than the advert filled US mags.

norton - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:09 PM
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i know i wont be checking this as often over there as i check facebook, so if anyone wants to ad me on facebook or if there is a group around let me know.

andrew.macnaughton@gmailDOTcom should bring me up.

norton - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:15 PM
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Have just checked snow-forecast.com (for the third time this morning) 2 feet of snow for the mid stations in whistler predicted over the next 3 days, and on friday the freezing level drops to village level... oooo yea.

norton - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:20 PM
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am totally hogging tis thread this morning

http://www.untrackedlines.com/?q=node/105 but this is worth watching! 5th Oct 50cm of POW at whistler...

ScottDrummer - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:21 PM
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wicked! looks like Whistler will be welcoming me with a snowy handshake.
I couldnt find you on facebook norton,I couldnt work out if you are the ozzy or the kid from leicester lol. add me if you like probably easier.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:22 PM
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summers - well ace pretty much summed up the lakes for me. As for fishing, most of the lakes are protected i believe but there are some that you can fish in, there is a company 'Whistler fly fishing' you can find then on main street and they do tours around lakes. The even do heli-fishing, you get a heli way up into the costal mountains to small remote lakes, and fish to your hearts content

lez_s - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:35 PM
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Quote:

http://www.untrackedlines.com/?q=node/105

i've logged on to that site but not sure if its me but i cant seem to do anything on it if thats the case why was i given a log on?

norton - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:40 PM
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http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

try that one fella

panda - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:43 PM
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paulparkie wrote:

there's Nesters which is a bit too far for me to walk back with shopping from, but I could bus it for $1.50. It's all a little more expensive but the only thing I've found to be much more expensive than back home is cheese... so expensive I haven't bought any yet, and I miss it Sad

So long as you shop sensibly, then you should be fine shopping in Whistler... if you have a car, definitely go to Function Junction or Squamish as they're way cheaper!

Hey, am coming out to whistler in Feb for a month - staying in Blackcomb. does'nt your lift pass cover buses around whistler or do you have pay for each ride?

Just throught I'd say am well jealous of everyone getting ready to go for the season, wish I could Sad

Anyway enjoy the pow just leave some for Feb Smile

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 16, 2007 - 12:49 PM
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Quote:

does'nt your lift pass cover buses around whistler or do you have pay for each ride?

No. there is a free bus that does a loop round town, from upper village/blackcomb and down to main village, round it then back up to upper. All other buses will cost, $1.50 with exact change as paul said.
You can get a bus pass if you plan on using it ofter which works out better

@@@ - Oct 16, 2007 - 01:21 PM
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Man i wish i was heading out this week, 77 days 22 hours to go

@@@ - Oct 16, 2007 - 01:23 PM
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not that i'm counting down or anything Wink

lez_s - Oct 16, 2007 - 01:24 PM
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Quote:

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

try that one fella

sorry i was meaning i dont understand what the web site is about. i have a log on and have logged onto it, but i cant find anything to do on it e.g. a forum that i need a log on for.

Quote:

lets hope so, its lacking snow on the web cams

pricey74 - Oct 16, 2007 - 01:40 PM
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norton wrote:

Now that is the best news I've heard all day! Still 6 weeks before I arrive, but fingers crossed it dumps for all you lucky swines who are already there or heading out in the next few days.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 16, 2007 - 02:44 PM
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Quote:

lets hope so, its lacking snow on the web cams

don't worry it won't be open for a month or so yet!!

lez_s - Oct 16, 2007 - 03:05 PM
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i'm not worried. was looking at last years photos of the same time on the whistler web site and there wasn't any snow.

ScottDrummer - Oct 16, 2007 - 04:21 PM
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another sprinkling (the bird on the bottom left didnt have snow on it yesterday)
http://www.earthcam.net/users2/interfac ... ientid=707

Denizen - Oct 16, 2007 - 05:31 PM
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JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Quote:

does'nt your lift pass cover buses around whistler or do you have pay for each ride?

Buses use an automated coin counter, you put your coins in and they get counted. This machine is not the best so 2 pence coins work as a loonie (Dollar coin) in them. If you bring a load of 2p coins over you can ride the bus as much as you want for cheap.

Dazzler74 - Oct 16, 2007 - 06:25 PM
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does anyone know how far Revelstoke is to Whistler as I feel a roadtrip coming on!

paulparkie - Oct 16, 2007 - 06:38 PM
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Dazzler74 wrote:

does anyone know how far Revelstoke is to Whistler as I feel a roadtrip coming on!

erm... I did some kayaking there a month or so ago, and my journey back to Van was over a couple of days, stopping off at other places on the way, but I guess the total travel time would have been around 7 hours to Van...

T'was a cool place though

norton - Oct 16, 2007 - 06:41 PM
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Dazzler74 wrote:

does anyone know how far Revelstoke is to Whistler as I feel a roadtrip coming on!

<a href='http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=&saddr=whistler&daddr=revelstoke&sll=49.891235,-97.15369&sspn=42.056082,82.265625&ie=UTF8&z=8&om=1'> Google Maps </a> says it takes about 7 hours and is 508 km, though in winter i dont know what the roads'd be like in winter.

would be quite possibly up for it though

panda - Oct 16, 2007 - 07:22 PM
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Ok bit of a long shot here - anyone know if its possible to get to Mount Baker by bus from Whistler/Vancouver? Always wanted to go and ride some of that legendary pow. Maybe I should be happy with Whistler, but if am in the area!

Denizen - Oct 16, 2007 - 07:43 PM
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panda wrote:

Okay it is easy to get to Bellingham, by bus, which is the closest city/town to mt baker. Getting from bellingham to mt baker is not so easy, there is no regular direct bus as far as i could find out. I'm sure people post up rides on craigslist during the season from bellingham to baker though, check there before you travel and try to organise a ride before you get there. The other alternative is a shuttle bus from bellingham but that only runs on sundays and not at other times. Or you could try hitchiking if you wanted, someone is sure to give you a lift.

http://www.airporter.com/baker-shuttle/bellair-baker-shuttle

Dazzler74 - Oct 16, 2007 - 08:24 PM
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My mate is coming for 2 weeks from dec 29th and he is hiring a car for those weeks so we may drive up to revelstoke, saty over night, ride the next day then head back through the night...

and Mt Baker too......

so how far is Alaska?!>!>!>!

chamon!!!!

paulparkie - Oct 17, 2007 - 06:28 AM
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er.... on the 'Batalion Boards Front'... a guy I live with works at Evolution... and they're not stocking that brand this year as far as he knows... Surprised

and.... if any one knows...... he knows Wink

Tomahawk - Oct 17, 2007 - 07:20 AM
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norton wrote:

Dazzler74 wrote:

does anyone know how far Revelstoke is to Whistler as I feel a roadtrip coming on!

yea id say aobut 9 hours inwinter. and the road is reguallay closed for avies around.

trust me i was dropped of by the grey hound in this town in the middle of no where at 3 am. (wen drivers sadi sorry end of line hte line, avy blocked road. had to wait till 12 next morning with nothing to do. kinda cold.

Pieman - Oct 17, 2007 - 06:07 PM
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Hi all,

Just booked at Seasonaires, staying at Swiss Chalet. Smile

Now have to work out when I will arrive. Probably sometime after the 20th Nov, have to have a look at flights.

Now to look at what shopping I need to do before hand.

lez_s - Oct 17, 2007 - 06:11 PM
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wow pieman, only 3 years and 6 days for your first post!!! Laughing

i'm with seasonaires in white gold chalet.

Pieman - Oct 17, 2007 - 07:09 PM
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ha ha, normally on adrenalintrip although not been posting much on there lately

lez_s - Oct 17, 2007 - 07:36 PM
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do you use the same user name on there too? i post on there and like to read the rejects forum Laughing

Pieman - Oct 17, 2007 - 07:59 PM
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yeah same name. part the reason I joined ages ago to nab the username before someone else.

I keep out of rejects Laughing

pricey74 - Oct 17, 2007 - 08:33 PM
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Just read a "top tip" in document mag about taking teabags up the mountain with you. Apparently all the cafes/restaurants on the mountain will give you a cup of boiling water for free, and also as much milk and sugar etc as you want from trolleys. CALLING ACE!! Ace, is this something you've come across or is it a wind up?

Tens - Oct 17, 2007 - 09:18 PM
Post subject:

sorry to interupt free tea but pricey i am landing at 6.30pm on the 27th nov and seeing as you and mattj are about i assuming/hoping we are all gonna travel upto whistler together whenever you guys were wanting to as i too wouldnt mind kicking about in vancouver for a few days. So add me to messenger, you too matt-j. iant81@hotmail.com

ace you can now answer his boiling water tea question.

lez_s - Oct 17, 2007 - 09:40 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Apparently all the cafes/restaurants on the mountain will give you a cup of boiling water for free, and also as much milk and sugar etc as you want from trolleys.

that would be so cool. i would fill my heli pack up with tea bags, 1) for a cup of tea 2) something soft to land on

pricey74 - Oct 17, 2007 - 10:00 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

Apparently all the cafes/restaurants on the mountain will give you a cup of boiling water for free, and also as much milk and sugar etc as you want from trolleys.

that would be so cool. i would fill my heli pack up with tea bags, 1) for a cup of tea 2) something soft to land on

LOL!! I feel a teabag debate coming on. Tetley all the way for me...

Lez - I've been looking at getting a new pack and was looking at the dakine heli/heli pro. Is that the one you have, if so is it any good, and would you recommend it?

Ta

lez_s - Oct 17, 2007 - 10:10 PM
Post subject:

i've got the heli pack and its all i need. you can put everything you need in it for the day. you can also put a shovel on it, carry your board, attach your helmet on the out side. its not the biggest, but like i said its everything i need.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 17, 2007 - 10:26 PM
Post subject:

ok, I'm afraid I don't actually know about the tea bag trick - it's not something I tried. I can't see why not. SOrry I can't help further Crying or Very sad

Can't hurt to try!

As for the heli pack I had one of them. They're pretty good and will definately hold most stuff you need. In fact, you may find one lying about Whistler somewhere, cos I lost mine whilst I was out there!

Pieman - Oct 18, 2007 - 02:17 AM
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It's been a while since I went to Whistler, but there was free hot water and microwaves as well. So as well as tea bads packets of hot chocolate, soup, etc can be handy to reduce your costs on the mountain.

Some of the ski bums saving their cash used to grab the free ketchup and make a dodgy tomato soup from them.

norton - Oct 18, 2007 - 08:36 AM
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ahhh must remember to nab about 50 packets of cadburys instant hot chocolate from work then.
thanks for the tip.

can you get decent tea out in Canada? I remember french tea being quite rubbish.

dryslopeboy - Oct 18, 2007 - 09:44 AM
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Ha ha. Just reading everybodys interest in the tea bag thing. It is true, it was me who wrote the article in document. The canadian tea they sell on the mountain is called Red Rose and it's totally RANK. They also do every herbal tea you can think of nearly all of which taste like a cup of boiled nettles! Can you get decent breakfast tea on the mountain, NO! Luckily Creekside market sell big boxes of different Twinnings tea and they also do Tetleys! 1 month today until i'm back out there for the season. Can't wait.

@@@ - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:01 AM
Post subject:

reminds me of that genex episode where they had a guy doing a season as cheap as possible so for lunch he got a bowl of boiling water from a restaurant and squeezed a load of free ketchup sachets into it! Then followed it up with a handfull of snow in a cup with some lemon wedges (also free from the restaurant) squeezed over it!

Good tip though don't think the missus could survive 2 month's without a cup of tea Laughing

wolfie - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:26 AM
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tasty!

lez_s - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:32 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

handfull of snow in a cup with some lemon wedges

yellow snow? Laughing

Tens - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:51 AM
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i tihnk half your posts les are aimed at yellow snow in some way..

lez_s - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:55 AM
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who is les? Laughing

norton - Oct 18, 2007 - 02:54 PM
Post subject:

Goggles!!!

Probably a question best suited Ace or Mr Belfast, What type of goggles did you use. Are there alot flat light days, is it worth getting a pair where you can quickly change lenses in the morning if need be???

I've got a fairly basic pair of anons, and struggled through any cloudy days in france to be honest, with the amount of snow whistler gets i imagine there to be loads of white-out days.

edit

also do many places have free wi-fi? or should i bring my 1337 hacking wireless card and destroy wep networks?

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 18, 2007 - 04:28 PM
Post subject:

norton - I have used Dragon DX's for 3 seasons now with absolutely no problems. I have 4 lenses and they are interchangable in seconds. Black irridium for the bright days, Ionised Orange for mixed light, orange for real dull days and yellow for night riding/ mega poor vis days. Normally you can get the DX's on offer with a spare lens for £60 here or a bit cheaper in Canada, and there are loads of designs to choose from.
I have tried plenty other brands but have never found any that are as comfortable or reliable as them. Spys broke, Oakleys just felt wrong, not very comfortable and didnt like the shape. It all just depends on the shape of your face, try a few different brands on, but i would definately go with one that you can change the lens easily. I change mine all the time and they just snap in and out.
As for the wi-fi question, there are a number of spots around the village where you can get free connection, coffee shops and some bars, you will see people sat on benches outside shops. Most houses however have their conection guarded (from personal experience) you will be able to pick up a signal but chances are it will be passworded

Pieman - Oct 18, 2007 - 04:35 PM
Post subject:

I bought a few years back some Oakleys with Black Iridium lens and have found them a good all rounder. Friends have some Adidas Robin googles, not sure what lens, but they always take theirs off towards the end of the day due to flat light whereas I can still see better with mind on.

As for wireless other that there is a scheme "$15 a day, $33 for three days or $51 for a week". Otherwise most accomodation seems to have there own internet access, some wireless, but of course only for guest. Someone out there already may know of someplaces where it's free.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 18, 2007 - 05:01 PM
Post subject:

Hello!!

Goggles:

Yes you will have loads of flat light days! Luckily there;s lots of trees to play in as well!

Personally I used Von Zipper Sizzles. I got them for about 40-50 quid, though I got a bit of a deal cos the salesman in the shop got confused - I actually got the top of the range mirrored silver lenses for the price of slightly cheaper ones. I also got a spare lens included which was a yellow, which was really good for really flat light. So together with what JohnnyBelfast said above, try on a bunch of different brands to see what fits!

hairymtbiker - Oct 18, 2007 - 05:48 PM
Post subject:

Hey been a reader for the past few weeks but thought it was time to post up my plans.. Looks like they'll be quite a few of us over in Whistler..

Anyway flying out with KLM via Amsterdam on the 28th Nov - gonna have a few days in Vancouver before heading up to Whistler on the 1st Dec... Accom sorted through Seasonaires...

Also bringing my bike as I'll be staying for the summer (not all of it in Whistler though)...

Can't wait

No doubt catch up with some of you for a beer... Very Happy

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 18, 2007 - 06:17 PM
Post subject:

Has anyone seen this yet,
MTV are making a 'Laguna Beach' type reality show based in Whistler being filmed over this coming season. Its meant to be a real life programme just following people round seeing their lives and what they get up to. The link has some more info on it and an application form to apply. The only condition is that you are able to work in Canada and will be living in Whistler this season.
I'm just sat here thinking........should I? lol actually getting paid just for being in whistler doing what i normally do, i mean, i lost most of my dignity long ago so why not.
I might send off an application form and just see what happens.
http://toronto.craigslist.org/tfr/450922466.html

lez_s - Oct 18, 2007 - 06:32 PM
Post subject:

i saw that. would cool to remember your season by. the only thing is you need a work visa.

pricey74 - Oct 18, 2007 - 07:51 PM
Post subject:

hairymtbiker wrote:

Hey Hairy, welcome to the thread! A few of us (all travelling alone) who land 27/28th are trying to get a group together to stay in a hostel in Van and then travel up to Whistler on Dec 1st. No digs have been arranged in Van yet but if you want to get involved just say the word.

Same goes for anybody else landing around this time who wants to kick back in Van for a couple of days before heading up to Whistler.

Tens - Oct 18, 2007 - 09:01 PM
Post subject:

beat me too it pricey.

hairymtbiker: If your up for meeting up with a few of us in vancouver and travelling upto whistler after a few days add me to msn iant81@hotmail.com . So far theres 3 of us that were looking at getting a place together in Vanc for the few days and getting a coach or car up together.

I am landing on 27th in the evening and i think the other 2 guys are on the 28th around midday or afternoon.

ScottDrummer - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:13 PM
Post subject:

right, just popping on to say, im on my way whistler!!! see you tomorrow.
Scott

ace_mcgraw - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:28 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

right, just popping on to say, im on my way whistler!!! see you tomorrow.
Scott

enjoy dude, you luclky little swine!

lez_s - Oct 18, 2007 - 10:45 PM
Post subject:

hope you both have a good flight. see you in about 15 days.

steddie76 - Oct 18, 2007 - 11:04 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

hope you both have a good flight. see you in about 15 days.

Woh, when you put it like that "15 days" its not long, another week at work for me then time to start packing!!

Also time to start the leaving drinks, first one this sat! Beer

paulparkie - Oct 19, 2007 - 04:39 AM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

right, just popping on to say, im on my way whistler!!! see you tomorrow.
Scott

give me a shout when you land here dude Wink

norton - Oct 19, 2007 - 08:35 AM
Post subject:

Ahhh scott im only two days behind you but the jealousy is still raging within me.

Cheers to every re the goggles. think thats the one thing i desperatley need to upgrade so thanks for the advice.

have already sent away my application for the mTV thing. Figure it would be awesome to get paid extra to have some camera follow you round rockin with an entourage who are dying to get 10 seconds of tv time...

55 hours til departure

@@@ - Oct 19, 2007 - 09:58 AM
Post subject:

Safe journey guys. Another question for those who have been, do you need to wear a leash in Whistler?

lez_s - Oct 19, 2007 - 10:27 AM
Post subject:

never riden there but i wouldn't have thought so. hope not or i'll have to go and buy one and i dont like them.

norton - Oct 19, 2007 - 10:48 AM
Post subject:

i had a look at this the other week
http://www.worldsnowboardguide.com/reso ... /index.cfm

down the bottom it says that you dont need a leash, and i would be surprised if you do. How likely are you to snap both bindings at once these days anyway..

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 19, 2007 - 10:49 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Another question for those who have been, do you need to wear a leash in Whistler?

It says on the mountain safety code somewhere in the small print that you should to wear one, but it mainly for blades and click in bindings. Their exact works are "Always use proper devises to prevent runaway equiptment"
To cut it short no you dont have to wear one if you have strap in bindings. But i would if you have click ins, if your board comes loose and flys dwon the hill you can get your pass revoked

norton - Oct 19, 2007 - 10:50 AM
Post subject:

hmm that also says that last lift is at 3:30??? wtf?
thats pretty damn early

ace_mcgraw - Oct 19, 2007 - 10:57 AM
Post subject:

Greetings - checking for leashes would mostly have been down to us lifties, and we were never told to look out for them. The only times we had any problems like that was with skiers whose brakes had bust on their bindings. Just hold onto your board when you take it off - I saw about 10 boards flying off down the piste on their own in the season!

Norton - after 330 there isn't too much light left anyway in the depths of winter. It does get slightly later later on in the season. The bottom lifts will operate till about 4-430, but the alpine lifts (Harmony, Flute, Peak, T-bars etc on Whistler, Glacier, Horstman and Showcase T-bars, 7th Heaven on Blackcomb) shut down earlier - the ski patrol has to do a sweep of the entire mountain, obviously starting at the top and working their way down. The actual last lift will be 345 (A pr trick by the lifties cos it makes people think the lifts are staying open just for them) but they will be pretty strict once it turns quarter to!

norton - Oct 19, 2007 - 11:10 AM
Post subject:

i've given up any chance of doing any work today...
last day at feck Cadbury ever!

sh1t that sucks about the light...
i guess it just means i wont be pissed about starting work at 4 or something

ace_mcgraw - Oct 19, 2007 - 11:21 AM
Post subject:

It's just the same as here - it's only really mid Jan when it gets dark that early. I think Whistler is more or less on the same latitude as us, so it's prettry similar

norton - Oct 19, 2007 - 11:33 AM
Post subject:

yeah i guess.
i keep comparing it france, but its much further north than that, so hence the difference...

Tens - Oct 19, 2007 - 11:41 AM
Post subject:

just think about the whole day being an hour ealrier from wake up to start ski to end ski and then go out i assume, do poeple still stay out till 2-3am or is it ealirer because of the whole day starting earlier?

lez_s - Oct 19, 2007 - 11:44 AM
Post subject:

in iceland on the ipp we were snowboarding at 3am in day light. such a good trip.

hairymtbiker - Oct 19, 2007 - 12:13 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Thanks, sounds good... Think I get in around 14:00 on the 28th def be up for meeting see if we keep each other awake on the first night as we're trying to switch timezones..

Tens: I'll add you to MSN - first name David in case you wonder who's added you...

Oz. - Oct 19, 2007 - 01:18 PM
Post subject:

Ace whats it like getting work in the summer for the mountain? Am thinking of heading over for the start of the summer season and staying on for winter, what sort of jobs do they have going then? Whats the atmosphere like in town and how busy is it?

Pieman - Oct 19, 2007 - 02:08 PM
Post subject:

When someone picks up their season pass can you drop a little post about the $300 Retail Coupons. Are they decent or is it some thing crap like a number of spend $50 and get $10 off.

pricey74 - Oct 19, 2007 - 02:33 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

When someone picks up their season pass can you drop a little post about the $300 Retail Coupons. Are they decent or is it some thing crap like a number of spend $50 and get $10 off.

Good question, and yeah that would be good to know. Not sure that a number of "spend $50 and get $10 off" vouchers would be crap though Pieman. I need to buy a new board, bindings, goggles, helmet, sungogs and other bits and bobs over there so that could amount to quite a few beer tokens saved.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 19, 2007 - 03:21 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

I reckon it should be pretty easy to get a mountain based job. Lots of people leave at the end of April when the official winter season ends and they go to only one mountain open, then more people leave at the end of May which is the end of the spring season. When I was there a lot of new people joined the lifty crew so you should be ok!

In terms of atmosphere, Whistler is ace in the summer. The place generally feels a lot more chilled. There's less people trying to get the lines, and from about April onwards the sun is shining more, the mountains are way less crowded, there's no queues anywhere. There's also way more to do - snowboarding still available through till end of August, the bike park is open, there's endless x country MTB trails there as well as the bike park, lots of hiking to be done. Everyone goes down the lakes and has bbq's. It's basically a really fun chilled out time. And some of the best parties go on then - went to a great one just before I left in Sept at someones house where they managed to nick a load of scraped ice from the ice rink, put it on their rockery, borrow a box from somewhere and much snowboarding was done! Good times.

Oz. - Oct 19, 2007 - 04:27 PM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Ha cheers Ace lots more info than expected there. Im also juggling with the idea of going out there as a bum next year in November instead then heading home in april/march to earn some quick cash and get the working visa before coming back out again.

Wouldnt mind a lifty job though! If I got it in the summer then Id get to keep it for winter to right? What times would be best to head back to Whistler for the jobs? End of May?

ace_mcgraw - Oct 19, 2007 - 04:33 PM
Post subject:

I think if you got the lifty job for Summer / late spring, then made a good impression you should be a shoe in for liftying over the winter. I reckon end of may, perhaps slightly before you should be able to get a lifty job for summer.

GordyD - Oct 19, 2007 - 06:15 PM
Post subject:

Hey

Just wondering if anyone on here is doing a season in Whistler and has got got seasonal accomodation from SeasonInWhistler? My friend and I are staying in their White Gold property from Dec 1st thru to May sometime.

If anyone else is staying with this company give me a shout!

G

lez_s - Oct 19, 2007 - 06:40 PM
Post subject:

i'm staying in the white gold area.

GordyD - Oct 19, 2007 - 06:52 PM
Post subject:

Awesome. When are you heading out?

lez_s - Oct 19, 2007 - 07:03 PM
Post subject:

nov 3rd

Tens - Oct 19, 2007 - 07:56 PM
Post subject:

GordyD there are so far 4 or 5 of us that are heading from Vancouver to Whistler on the 1st December. Most of which will be in vanc for 2-4 days previous to that. If your around or fancy heading up in a group or whatever say or or add my msn which i posted a page back or so.

Denizen - Oct 19, 2007 - 08:18 PM
Post subject:

It has been pissing it down in the village the last few days, but snowing just a bit further up. The snow level is down to about 1000 metres at the moment. Shame that the freezing level is going to blow back out to about 3500 metres by the end of the weekend. Still it is on it's way, winter is only just round the corner. As soon as we get snow in the village I'll post some pictures to make everyone still sat in an office sick. Smile

Pro-Ride - Oct 19, 2007 - 09:19 PM
Post subject: Snow to the Valley in Creekside

Denizen wrote:

It managed to snow in Creekside this morning however not enough to stick to the ground. It is still early days but it is on track for this time of the year.

Is anyone going to the Metro Ski and Snowboard Show? If so drop by and say hi as I will be on the Whistler booth.

If you are thinking about working out a little before you get here for the winter you can check out http://www.findyourdetour.com - a bunch of yoga and other work out ideas to get you fit. Lots of stuff you can do at home while you count the days down until you come to Whistler. I will be posting a great ab workout next week to get your core strong for snowboarding.

Cheers

Anthony

frazz - Oct 19, 2007 - 10:04 PM
Post subject:

For you guys heading out here soon, bring yourself plenty mach 3's got the shock of my life when i saw they cost $17 for 4 Shocked

.

Anyone who's out here already up for grabbing a beer give's a shout!

lez_s - Oct 20, 2007 - 01:42 PM
Post subject:

how much does it cost to get boards wax and serviced in the shops?

Will - Oct 20, 2007 - 01:59 PM
Post subject:

for anyone that has already been to vancouver airport/Canada, what sort of questions did they ask for getting into the country?

I have heard loads of different stories about them being strict and other people saying they arent strict!

did they ask to swipe ur clothes for drugs/substances check and did they ask for a copy of ur bank statement to show how much money you have?

am i missing anything?

cheers

Dazzler74 - Oct 20, 2007 - 03:04 PM
Post subject:

You might want to lube up ready for the probe, you dont want them going in dry.....it can be a bit cold too!!!

Will - Oct 20, 2007 - 04:15 PM
Post subject:

hahaha

lez_s - Oct 20, 2007 - 04:20 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

you dont want them going in dry.....it can be a bit cold too

how would you know?

paulparkie - Oct 20, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

Will: I seriously didn't get asked anything... which surprised me, as I'm usually the one out of all my mates that DOES get stopped when we go away... everyone just seemed friendly and any conversations I did have were just about what I was going to be doing for the year, where I was headed etc.

Frazz: I'm in town... if you fancy a beer I'm on Facebook: Paul Parkinson (look for the green glasses) or skype (paulparkie)... I check those two a bit more often than on here.

The snow level is almost in the village now... the trees across the valley inline with my balcony are covered in snow, and there's snow on the cars across the street this morning... woop woop Very Happy

frazz - Oct 20, 2007 - 09:06 PM
Post subject:

Will wrote:

for anyone that has already been to vancouver airport/Canada, what sort of questions did they ask for getting into the country?

Will just like Paul said the whole immigration thing is pretty straight forward,no tricky questions,no swabs or sniffer devices.
Just make sure you leave any bongs at home lol!

ScottDrummer - Oct 20, 2007 - 09:46 PM
Post subject:

Hi People,
got here eventually, loooong flight, then immigration who spend half an hour chatting to each other, but all is well no complications.
Will post more detail when internet is available as on payg atm
this place is big, some snowfall at village level last night.
Paul, if your about tomorrow night and fancy meeting up give us a shout.
Scott

Denizen - Oct 21, 2007 - 12:14 AM
Post subject:

Hey scott glad to see you made it here okay, if you let me know where you're going for drinks tomorrow I'll come out and bring some of my housemates to say hello.

ScottDrummer - Oct 21, 2007 - 08:38 PM
Post subject:

Hi Danzien.
Yeah the more the merrier.
We are thinking of maybe going amsterdam bar at around 7.30, not sure what the decent bars are around here yet but that seems a good place to start.
Anyone else fancy meeting at amsterdams at 7.30, ill be the guy in the bright yellow animal t-shirt.
Scott

Denizen - Oct 21, 2007 - 08:43 PM
Post subject:

Yeah sounds good, I'll be wearing a blue stripy wesybeach beanie and a blue arcteryx jacket.

ScottDrummer - Oct 21, 2007 - 08:47 PM
Post subject:

ok, will look out for you, we are just in starbuck atm in marketplace. free internet!

pricey74 - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:06 PM
Post subject:

Scott - It only seems like yesterday that you kicked off this thread asking for musicians. Just under 6 weeks before I arrive but I'm dead jealous of all you peeps already over there!! Hopefully you'll check this thread on Dec 1st so you can meet & greet all us latecomers, ha! Enjoy...............

lez_s - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:07 PM
Post subject:

just looking at the web cam of the village, looks like it snowed down there.

ScottDrummer - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:13 PM
Post subject:

ye there will be plenty of meet ups, we are a bit short of friends atm lol,
there was snow on the ground at vilage level when we arrived on friday, but the freezing level has gone right up by the look of it. not as cold as it was

lez_s - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:33 PM
Post subject:

i'm out a week on saturday so when you've found the good bars i'll be up for a couple of drinks and a tour around if you all are not working. i would think after 5 years it would have changed.

ScottDrummer - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:37 PM
Post subject:

yup, not been out on the night just yet, but had a cracking steak at kegs last night. give us a shout when you arrive.

lez_s - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:47 PM
Post subject:

how long did it take you to get to whistler from the airport. i think its about 3 hours. just working out what time i'll get there when i land at 18:00

Denizen - Oct 21, 2007 - 10:02 PM
Post subject:

Sounds about right lez if you do it direct on the perimeter bus, maybe a bit less I think but definitely not more than that.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 22, 2007 - 12:16 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

but had a cracking steak at kegs last night

yooo thats where i work, in the bar downstairs, and damn the steaks are excellent, also try the beef dips you can get in the bar with a frosty pint of keiths, so good. Back to work in 3 weeks. See you kids then

wolfie - Oct 22, 2007 - 11:11 AM
Post subject:

cor guys your making me jealous....I still got 10wks to go.

Dazzler74 - Oct 22, 2007 - 12:52 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

cor guys your making me jealous....I still got 10wks to go.

I've got 6 weeks to go and you guys are like a steering wheel in my pants, you're driving me nuts ;o

Dazzler74 - Oct 22, 2007 - 12:52 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

cor guys your making me jealous....I still got 10wks to go.

I've got 6 weeks to go and you guys are like a steering wheel in my pants, you're driving me nuts ;o

pricey74 - Oct 22, 2007 - 01:49 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

Quote:

cor guys your making me jealous....I still got 10wks to go.

I've got 6 weeks to go and you guys are like a steering wheel in my pants, you're driving me nuts ;o

Thats shocking Dazzler! Laughing

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 23, 2007 - 03:03 AM
Post subject:

So guys how did the night in the 'dam go??
Was there a Brandys stop in there?
I leave today for toronto, 2 weeks there with the gf, then fly to van on the 6th with my 2 housemates. Have to say i'm more than a bit excited!
Craig- my number is 9061653 do you have a cell? Call you when i get to Whis, or just find me drunk in brandys on the 7th 8th 9th 10th......

Denizen - Oct 23, 2007 - 03:25 AM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Hey johnny, yeah it was cool, everyone was complaining that nowhere is hiring yet! Just sat in the dam and drunk, it was pissing down so no-one could be bothered to move anywhere else. My cell is 9026899, give me a ring when you get into town; I need to get my tolerance to bombs up before then I think.

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 23, 2007 - 03:55 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

everyone was complaining that nowhere is hiring yet

as i said, everyone should know this by now, you go early to get a house and cant get a job till late november

Quote:

I need to get my tolerance to bombs up before then I think

Yeah you do bud, cause you know sh*t is gonna hit the fan when i get there!!

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 23, 2007 - 03:57 AM
Post subject:

ps craig do you have an msn, and anyone else for that matter, that wants to talk crap!
you can add me as johnny_mcmillen@hotmail.com

Bendudman - Oct 23, 2007 - 12:41 PM
Post subject:

Hi guys,

Im out in Whister with Seasonaire for a Jan, cant wait!

lez_s - Oct 23, 2007 - 01:08 PM
Post subject:

where you staying with seasonaires?

steddie76 - Oct 23, 2007 - 01:25 PM
Post subject:

ok I guess this question has been on here somewhere before but the whole mobile phone thing, some of you have phones already, did you just buy a pay as you go before you left or get one out there?

Dazzler74 - Oct 23, 2007 - 01:58 PM
Post subject:

the next question being 'is it easy to get a Pay as you go sim card?'

lez_s - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:00 PM
Post subject:

wont you need your phones unlocking if you use a sim card from canada?

ace_mcgraw - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:10 PM
Post subject:

My phone didn't work over there even tho it was tri-band - have to get it unlocked. Got a pay as you go phone for about $60-80 in Whistler

Bendudman - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:12 PM
Post subject:

im in Tree top chalet

lez_s - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:15 PM
Post subject:

i'm in white gold chalet.

Bendudman - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:23 PM
Post subject:

Cool when are you heading out?

lez_s - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:33 PM
Post subject:

next saturday, nov 3rd. i'm out for 6 months.

you're heading out jan until when?

Bendudman - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:42 PM
Post subject:

Im in canada for six weeks but staying in Whistler from Dec 29 to Jan 26th, in Banff for the first two weeks, cant wait!

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:51 PM
Post subject:

Pay and go sims are easy to get, but if you are going for the year it is normally better value to get a contract.
Here most pay and go phones now are bought locked, you can unlock them before you go in some stores. Most phones you buy on a contract will be unlocked already.
Carphone warehouse sell all their phones already unlocked as they deal with all the networks. Plus if you have had your phone for more than a year or two it often unlocks itself.

I just had to get a new phone as broke mine, got a tidy little nokia from carphone warehouse for £80 on pay and go with O2, and it come unlocked so my canadian sim works fine

lez_s - Oct 23, 2007 - 02:55 PM
Post subject:

i'll have to get my phone unlocked some how.
got it from the O2 web site at the start of the year.

Denizen - Oct 23, 2007 - 05:41 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

ok I guess this question has been on here somewhere before but the whole mobile phone thing, some of you have phones already, did you just buy a pay as you go before you left or get one out there?

I took an unlocked phone out here and bought a pay as you go sim card. Only 2 networks in Canada sell PAYG sim cards, rogers and fido; and only rogers has a store in whistler. Basically PAYG here is like johnny said a bit sh1t, you have a minimum spend of $20 a month or your credit expires, although with rogers if you get a $100 voucher it will not expire for a year. You may as well get a contract, if you can find a decent one that is not 3 years long.

As a side note where you buy the phone is important as if you go out of that area you have to pay roaming rates which are more expensive. For example if you get your phone/sim card in vancouver you will have to pay roaming rates while you are in whistler. Basically when you get your phone you need to ask for a whistler number, or if the can't do that make sure you can change it as soon as you get to whistler.

ScottDrummer - Oct 23, 2007 - 06:05 PM
Post subject:

we went with rogers, as its free to call other rogers users in whistler, so we get free calls to each other on the mountain etc.. (thats if it works up there)
if anyone fancies meeting up again my number is 604 902 4505

steddie76 - Oct 23, 2007 - 06:11 PM
Post subject:

Cheers all, guess I'll bring a unlocked tri band phone (work are letting pinch one) with me and get a rogers sim in Whistler.

Apparently you can get phones unlocked for a fiver on some websites, I'll post the site when I find it and know it works!

ScottDrummer - Oct 23, 2007 - 06:15 PM
Post subject:

uk dealers have to give you an unlock code if you ask them for it, they charge you £20-30 for it, but they have to provide it by law

norton - Oct 23, 2007 - 10:42 PM
Post subject:

im here. after missing my perimeter bus due to my flight sitting in calgary for 2 hours and being delayed at gatwick for 1. had to sleep in vancouver airport and get the first bus in the morning.

im pretty sure there was another bus that you could from station 5 outside the arrivals, though cant confirm as i was in a daze as i walked past it.

haven't got a phone yet though, am about to sort that out. have lined up work already, due to some awesome people ive already met, but dont start for a while.

its super warm out today, tshirt weather loads of sun, nice (though not what i want)

anyway im out, will post number soon.

hairymtbiker - Oct 24, 2007 - 12:27 AM
Post subject:

For mobile phone unlock have a look at this site:
http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/phones ... bile-phone

Most phones are really easy and only around £3...

paulparkie - Oct 24, 2007 - 04:00 AM
Post subject:

if you buy a phone in Van, you can request a Whistler number... that was fine.

If anyone does want PAYG, then the 7-11 in town has a good deal... for $100 you get a nokia phone and $100 of credit. I haven't got one but I know a bunch of people that have.

wolfie - Oct 24, 2007 - 12:41 PM
Post subject:

paulparkie wrote:

Sounds like a pretty good deal...I assume the credit it wont expire?

lez_s - Oct 24, 2007 - 01:15 PM
Post subject:

will you get better deals in van then whistler?

Dazzler74 - Oct 24, 2007 - 06:25 PM
Post subject:

think I will just get some walkie talkies Wink

paulparkie - Oct 24, 2007 - 06:38 PM
Post subject:

wolfie wrote:

paulparkie wrote:

Sounds like a pretty good deal...I assume the credit it wont expire?

Er... I'm not sure about that... I know he hasn't bought any more since he got here... I'll ask him and let you know.

ScottDrummer - Oct 24, 2007 - 09:53 PM
Post subject:

you usually have 30 days to top up. both on fido and rogers

lez_s - Oct 24, 2007 - 11:10 PM
Post subject:

have you guy got your season passes yet? just wondering about the $300 discount vouchers you get.

Pieman - Oct 25, 2007 - 12:43 AM
Post subject:

Glad I waited a little bit on plane tickets. Just booked direct flight with Air Canada for £311 return. Was about £460 a week ago. So now flying out on the 21st Nov.

Another thing ticked off my list of things to do Smile

Denizen - Oct 25, 2007 - 12:47 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

have you guy got your season passes yet? just wondering about the $300 discount vouchers you get.

Loads of people seem to be getting excited about these vouchers for no reason, they sucked 2 years ago, they sucked last season and they still suck this season. Nearly everyone I've met who is here for their first season seems to be under the impression that it is basically $600 of free money to spend in the mountain owned shops or non-specific money off vouchers they are wrong.

http://media.intrawest.com/whistler/passes/0708_retail_coupon.pdf

Tens - Oct 25, 2007 - 02:25 AM
Post subject:

Whats wrong with the $100 off when you spend 600 or more, im sure i will be spending 600 when buying a new setup be it skis and bindings or board and bindings, then even better if they take off more cos your a seasonaire (season pass holder) but doubt it cos its basically 2 of the same things.

I wont be spending anything on outer wear tho and not for over 250.

Denizen - Oct 25, 2007 - 03:21 AM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

As a season passholder you get 10% off at all those shops anyway so the discount is hardly anything at all. You can't use your pass discount as well as the voucher so you only get a maximum of $40 over and above what you would have got off anyway. The other problem is that all those shops carry a very limited range of brands in terms of the boards and bindings especially. For a mid range board and bindings it will still cost around $800 giving you a saving of just $20 more than using the pass 10% discount. The deal is better if you are a skier, as there is more choice of brands, although for top of the range skis you are looking at over $1000 which means you are better off using the 10% pass discount.

What I'm saying is it is not as good a deal as it looks when you look beyond the promotional blurb. Big businesses don't get rich by giving things away, but they can by appearing to.

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:28 AM
Post subject:

i would be happy with $10 off, its better then nothing.

all i need is a jacket and pants.

Pieman - Oct 25, 2007 - 11:18 AM
Post subject:

Hmmm, better off selling them to a punter instead for half price.

Pieman - Oct 25, 2007 - 12:22 PM
Post subject:

Will probably be cheaper to buy out there, but this might be of use to someone.

Save 10% when you spend over £60 at www.blacks.co.uk by entering promotional code IA010TFB, and save 10% when you spend over £30 at www.millets.co.uk by entering promotional code IA010EMS, at the website checkouts

harryh06 - Oct 25, 2007 - 01:16 PM
Post subject:

Hi All,

Heading to whistler at the end of Dec. Looking to book a hostel for a few days in vancouver before hand.

Anyone any good suggestions, preferably near a bus stop from the airport & some decent boarding shops, planning to pick up a new board while in vancouver.

pricey74 - Oct 25, 2007 - 01:38 PM
Post subject:

harryh06 wrote:

Harry - I'm going to be staying in a hostel (not sure which one yet) in van for 3 nights at the end of Nov, so i'll let you know if its any good...

GordyD - Oct 25, 2007 - 03:43 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

i'm in white gold chalet.

Hey lez, just reading through, pretty sure that is where I am staying. Booked through seasons in whistler/ pro ride. Me and a mate are out there on Nov 28th then heading up to town on Dec 1st.

You can get me on msn : crazybee321@hotmail.com

or facebook : Gordon Dent

Be good to chat to anyone else who is gonna be heading out around the same time as me, or anyone staying in White Gold, or just anyone who wants to get wasted on arrival!

G

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 05:01 PM
Post subject:

just looked on season in whistler web site. their place is in the same area as where i'm staying, but i different chalet.

pricey74 - Oct 25, 2007 - 05:29 PM
Post subject:

GordyD wrote:

lez_s wrote:

i'm in white gold chalet.

Gordy - what flight are you on mate? At last count there were about 5 or 6 peeps all landing in Van on 27/28 Nov and heading to Whistler on Dec 1st to stay in various chalets. Get in touch if you want to get involved as I think the plan is to all stay in the same hostel in Van, which should be a laugh...

pricey74@yahoo.co.uk

GordyD - Oct 25, 2007 - 05:56 PM
Post subject:

I'm travelling with BUNAC on 28th Nov, flight leaves midday from Heathrow or Gatwick (not sure which one!). I've already sorted my accom in VC, got it through BUNAC, but be good to meet up once we are there anyways. Might be difficult to sort out but hopefully I'll get a phone asap and post details on here.

Where are you flying from?

pricey74 - Oct 25, 2007 - 06:06 PM
Post subject:

GordyD wrote:

You're well organised! Yeah everyone meeting up in Van for a few drinks sounds like a plan and shouldn't be too tricky to sort.

I'm flying from Manchester with flyzoom on 28th, but i think it starts off from gatwick/heathrow.

Tens - Oct 25, 2007 - 06:14 PM
Post subject:

wicked i thought it would be just you me and matt pricey but as you said there seems to be loads of us about so should be a laugh and will be made easier as at least some of us should know how to do some stuff.
iant81@hotmail.com
^ for anyone who is nice

Will - Oct 25, 2007 - 08:37 PM
Post subject:

for anyone who is out in whistler just now.

Whats the atmosphere like there and any chat about plans for opening early?
whats the temps like in the town?

cheers

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 08:48 PM
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the temp yesturday was high. i looked here http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... mps_102107 and it was around 8c and raining. on the web camswhere there has been snow it had been washed away, but it looks better today http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weather/cams/index.htm

Will - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:00 PM
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yeh i have been following that pretty much every day (proper geek) but was just wondering if it was actualy like that over there.

Im heading out on Thursday and if i manage to get past border control (nervous face) then its going to be a hefty wait until the 21st when its planning on opening.

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:05 PM
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after the things you been asking about with border control we should had a sweepstake Laughing

Will - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:08 PM
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haha im hoping it will be fine but im always paranoid. Is there reason for me being paranoid?

can anyone answer that lol

frazz - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:10 PM
Post subject:

Will wrote:

for anyone who is out in whistler just now.

Whats the atmosphere like there and any chat about plans for opening early?
whats the temps like in the town?

cheers

Not sure what temp is but it was pretty nippy and frosty this morning,blue skies though! Has rained since i got here on the 17th Oct apart from 2 days, snow fell the 1st morning i woke up in Whistler Smile

Been out a couple of times,good times had! Went to meet some of the people i'm living with after work last night, waited 30 mins to get in Buffalo Bills got fed up waiting so headed for the bus via the pizza shop Smile

Saw my 1st bear last night,well 3 actually.Got the sh1t ter of my life as i walked home from work,they were all of 10ft away, reckon i'll be taking another route home from now on!

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:11 PM
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you'll be fine just dont shout bomb when you're walking through Laughing

Will - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:21 PM
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hahaha the channel 4 programme 'balls of steel' should try that one, although you would get totaly feck by security lol.

I dunno if this is just BA or if it is every one but i am only aloud in my board bag a board, a pair of boots and a pair of bindings. i have a few boards i wanna take etc and was thinking about putting my snowboard clothes in as well.......does anyone know if they check a lot and if they find out you got plenty more stuff in your bag than you should what they would do for amking you pay more or having to leave stuff?

cheers

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:28 PM
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i've never been checked and flown to france, italy, usa etc. i'm putting both boards, both set of bindings in plus all my board stuff and my towels under my board. if they do ask, which they wont i'll just say its so the board dont get damaged.

Will - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:34 PM
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sound yeh was thinking of putting cardboard around the edges anyways to protect them.

There is a minimum amount to have in your account to get into Canada isnt there? does anyone know how much it is?

cheers

lez_s - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:37 PM
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as long as you can should you have the money to support your self for the time you're there and can buy a return flight, if you dont have you'll be fine.

Will - Oct 25, 2007 - 09:42 PM
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sweet

ScottDrummer - Oct 25, 2007 - 10:25 PM
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Will wrote:

£500, they asked if we had funds, and to show them, didnt really ask how much, also asked if we had a credit card.

just got in from a stroll and pizza slice. gorgous day today, blue skies all round, fresh air. bloody cold this morning, and you can see the snow cannons firing on the hill, not many.

Been busy hitting the streets with resumes, so not had much chance to go out yet as my feet are about to drop off,
might be out tonight if anyone is about?

ScottDrummer - Oct 25, 2007 - 10:28 PM
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Will wrote:

best to use somthing that your actually going to use, i.e scarfs , socks, jackets etc...
i put 4 pair of boots, a board, bindings and tons of socks and scarfs in my wheelie bag and it was fine, we were both 4kg overweight on our luggage and we wernt charged anything, quite pleased about that, although its hit and miss with the weight and allowance i think.

right im off to the pool for a swim Smile

how was your day a the office people :-p

Tens - Oct 26, 2007 - 12:05 AM
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we will all be asking you that when join us on the hill after working up untill lunch Very Happy

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 06:16 AM
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some pics taken around upper and village today, also some pics of the place we are staying
http://web.mac.com/mooseblog/Canada/Pho ... raphy.html

Will - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:46 AM
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sweet pics man

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:55 AM
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yeah look good. cant wait to see it for my self. i bet things have changed since i was there 5 years ago.

wolfie - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:09 AM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

some pics taken around upper and village today, also some pics of the place we are staying
http://web.mac.com/mooseblog/Canada/Pho ... raphy.html

nice pics, you should do a before and after the snow comes from the same position

pricey74 - Oct 26, 2007 - 01:33 PM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

Will wrote:

how was your day a the office people :-p

Scott - did you go to the lesiure centre thingy for your swim? If so i don't suppose you know how much monthly membership to the pool/gym is do you?

Cheers

norton - Oct 26, 2007 - 04:27 PM
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theres a few gyms around, one it he leisure centre which is about 60 a month, one which is creekside which is the best one supposedly as not many people go, and its cheaper, and then there is one in the village called metal something which is 70 or so. (think that is right)

sorted out me a phone yesterday, 604-902-4559, ended up going with a plan from rogers which is 25 a month, but with taxes is more more like 35. free calls to rogers, get 1000 free minutes, free incoming calls, 125 messages, free received messages, voicemail. then when you leave you pay 100 cancellation fee or 20 dollars a month... which sounds pretty good

starting work today as well at Merlins, went round and met everyone yesterday, sound bunch of lads. moved in staff housing as well, massive amount in the brio complex. like dining room, massive loungue with big couches, everything in the kitchen, balcony etc... pretty alright for 400 a month. plus only 10 minutes to lifts.

will be in merlins tonight having a few beers after work, its opening night so pop down for a few if you are around.

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 05:07 PM
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i didnt, we have our own pool, sauna and hot tub so we use that for free. paul parkie has a gym membership you could ask him.

yeah will pop in merlins, also gonna drop a resume by in a few mins on the way out

pricey74 - Oct 26, 2007 - 06:10 PM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

You have your OWN pool and sauna? Now that's swanky!

Thanks for the info norton.

Denizen - Oct 26, 2007 - 07:23 PM
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norton wrote:

What part of Brio do you live in as that's where I am this season? Not in staff housing though, I'm on Arbutus Drive.

Nice job working in Merlins though, it is a pretty good bar, especially when Guitar Doug plays on payday fridays.

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 07:42 PM
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i know where i'm stopping off for a couple of beers on the way back from riding blackcomb.

any scuk discount Laughing

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 08:09 PM
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pricey74 wrote:

ScottDrummer wrote:

You have your OWN pool and sauna? Now that's swanky!

Thanks for the info norton.

well its shared but so far we are the only people who ive seen in there

Merlins opens tonight if anyone fancies meeting up for a beer there?
gotta try them legendary nachos

ace_mcgraw - Oct 26, 2007 - 08:18 PM
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Mmmmmmm, merlins nacho's! You know, no matter how many people shared them, we never managed to finish a plate of them!

The Brio staff is pretty sweet - certainl compared to Glacier or whatever it's called. Watch out for them bears - my mates who lived there used to see em outside most days.

I'm actually almost crying right now with nostalgia - looking through those piccies, hearing all you guys seeing it for the first time, I've got some tunes on that were played at my friends memorial service at Whistler, and just chatting on MSN to a lifty buddy who now works at the Brewhouse!

BTW, my mate said that Brewhouse need some cooks, so if you can cook, get down there and you'll be likely to be hired. Althought he also said he hasn't sorted anywhere to stay for the upcoming season, so if you have a spare room give him a shout! Just head down to Brewhouse, and give him a good tip for me!

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 08:22 PM
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can you get us some serving jobs at brewhouse :-p , ive handed in my resume but they said they arnt looking at them until nov.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 26, 2007 - 08:29 PM
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well, I'll ask him! To be honest, I don't think he has that much power down there! But, you could give it a try - head down there, his name is Brad - kinda goofy looking kid! Tell him you know Gav - at the very least it may help to have someone on the inside!

ace_mcgraw - Oct 26, 2007 - 08:31 PM
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at least it looks like a nice day there - I cna remember when I was handing out resumes it was March and raining in the village and I was really depressed!

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 08:31 PM
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ok cool, ill give it a go worth a try.

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:10 PM
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only 7 days until i head out. it sucks staying in to save money.

how much in total does someone need to bum the season, 4k, 5k,6k?

ace_mcgraw - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:13 PM
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well, I went out with 3k and came baack nearly bankrupt. And iworked. But i think that is more to do with my total lack of sense with money!

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:18 PM
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well i've got 5 or 6k for the 6 months. i dont plan on eating out as i can cook plus only have a couple of beers a week.........so i say now

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:21 PM
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loll for now, wait until the season starts! whats the cheap beer here, i cant make out what the cheap beer is.

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:24 PM
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lets hope my idea of beer for riding tip and waxing boards works

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:33 PM
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forgot to ask, have you been up the whistler gondola yet, thats if its still running

ScottDrummer - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:35 PM
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no, not yet, not sure where it is yet, might go have a look actually.

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 09:40 PM
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when i was there i got the gondola to the top and walked to the peak. we walked through a cloud and it was hailing walked out the other side and it was sunny agian.

pricey74 - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:14 PM
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lez_s wrote:

well i've got 5 or 6k for the 6 months. i dont plan on eating out as i can cook plus only have a couple of beers a week.........so i say now

5 or 6k? sh1t, I'm only taking £2.5k spends for 5 months which I'm hoping will be enough. I reckon it will be a return to my Uni days with loads of home cooking and drinking before stumbling into town later on...

ace_mcgraw - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:26 PM
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The cheapest beer when I was there was Kokanee or Canadian. Different bars had different cheaper beers. I think in Merlins the $10 jugs were either Kokanee or Keiths.

And i think you took a picture of the village gondola Scott. It's in the building to the right of the three lifts from the base in Whistler village.

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:31 PM
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i have the money, but dont want to spend all of it.

4k is for spending money which is for a new jacket and pants too.

Tens - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:32 PM
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yeh jeez lez what are you planning on buying, a solid gold board?

are you including all your accom price in that which you have already paid or are you planning on spending that 5-6k on just food and drink and a little more gear, as i found something on a site budgeting about 300 a month and that wasnt scrimping and saving, budget was for food and drink only with a teenaged activity included (ice skating or cinema)

2 months ago i was happy with the amount i had to take and now with 1 month remaining i only got 1.5k but have another month earning and an overdraft from my uni days and a credit card!
Spent a fair bit over the last few months when i should have been concentrating on saving.

Got a work visa tho just incase and got my laptop with poker installed....

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:41 PM
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i've already paid for my accom. i just want to have a good season and not to worry about money, so i thought i would save sh1t loads than too little.

i do want to buy a few things once i get there and send a few things home for the family.

i feel bad now for saying how much i've saved.

pricey74 - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:41 PM
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Tens wrote:

2 months ago i was happy with the amount i had to take and now with 1 month remaining i only got 1.5k but have another month earning and an overdraft from my uni days and a credit card!
Spent a fair bit over the last few months when i should have been concentrating on saving.

Got a work visa tho just incase and got my laptop with poker installed....

I reckon there will be a few who are bankrolled and able to go out on the lash every night, but the majority will have to watch their money. Yeah my laptop is coming with me as well, so hopefully my footy accumulators will keep me going, ha!

pricey74 - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:49 PM
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lez_s wrote:

Don't feel bad lez, you've worked for it and saved it so fair play to you mate. I wish I'd have managed to save that much. Just don't get offended when I invite people round for some food and charge you $10, ha!! Laughing

Tens - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:50 PM
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its ok lez, you can make it up to everyone by buying them all dinner once a week Very Happy

Im not worried about the money at all, in fact it will probably be a good thing for me to get a job as I cant see myself even wanting to be on the slopes every hour i can be and is also a great way to get to know everyone and have a different angle.

Also at uni everyones loan 3kish usta do them for eating for the 8ish months your at uni for all drinking and eating.

Dont know how to go about buying some gear tho. Im a skiier (i think) so am on at a couple of mates to give me their skis and poles, buy some boots myself as I will always need boots even if i turn into a boarder as im sure i will want to do both. Also if anyone is taking their old board/bindings out with them and are looking at getting rid of them I may well be interested.

lez_s - Oct 26, 2007 - 10:56 PM
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by the sounds of it a few of you are at uni where i work and a few years older so it was easier for me to save.

when i went travelling around the world and i left the uk with about 2k and an oz working holiday visa to last me 12 months and came back in debt, which i dont want to happen this time.

pricey74 - Oct 26, 2007 - 11:13 PM
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lez_s wrote:

Ha, I wish i was still at bl00dy uni, i graduated in 2001 so its just a distant memory now!
I spent 6 months in asia in 2005 and came back in debt. Then worked for a few months to pay off the debt and save for a 4 week trip to Germnay for the world cup last year. Came back in debt again and have saved for the last 16 months to clear that and save for whistler. I'm in no doubt that i'll be spanking my plastic and overdraught whilst in whistler and will yet again come back in debt. I'm partly hoping we don't qualify for euro 2008 so i won't have to save for that trip as well, ha!

Denizen - Oct 27, 2007 - 12:25 AM
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In terms of money for the season, 2 years ago I spent between £6000-£6500 for the whole season, that included everything though, flights, insurance, lift pass, accommodation, food, drinks, new bindings, and 2 new jackets. I probably took in actual money £1800 for 6 months which worked out at just about £300 a month, although for at least 5 months of the season I was going on £200 a month due to gear breakages meaning I neededa new jacket and bindings near the start of the season. I wouldn't say that I lived like a king but I never had to go hungry because I couldn't afford to eat, booze was what I did have to cut out though; I couldn't afford to go out more than once a week for the majority of the season.

Tens - Oct 27, 2007 - 12:45 AM
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cheers for that, havent read comments from anyone who has actually done a season there recently and explained what how and why they spent.
Im up for running a little into my overdraf and maybe into the credit card for the last month(s).

JohnnyBelfast - Oct 27, 2007 - 01:58 AM
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its all just relative to what you want to do and spend. You can get by with a couple hundred for a month but its definately possible to spend alot more, i bartend so get decent tips but am always out for food here and there, and would be drinking 5 nights a week, and at the end i would be spending 800+pounds a month.

Denizen - Oct 27, 2007 - 08:23 AM
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JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Haha johnny just think how much it would be if you didn't get free drinks in brandy's?

pricey74 - Oct 27, 2007 - 09:11 AM
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Denizen wrote:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Haha johnny just think how much it would be if you didn't get free drinks in brandy's?

I'll buy 40 bathtubs from a hardware store and brew my own moonshine as per the "beer baron" episode of the simpsons! Mmmm....moonshine!

Tens - Oct 27, 2007 - 11:14 AM
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what an episode.

lez_s - Oct 27, 2007 - 11:30 AM
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that was on last night, or was that where you got the idea from

pricey74 - Oct 27, 2007 - 11:46 AM
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lez_s wrote:

that was on last night, or was that where you got the idea from

Yeah i watched it last night and thought it was quite appropriate considering our financial/beer discussions! Glad i wasn't the only one stopping in on a friday night! Currently grabbing some cheeky o/t at work, and as you can see i'm busting my balls!

GordyD - Oct 27, 2007 - 02:29 PM
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Ahh all this financial chat is worrying me! From previous experience doing a season in Val D'isere, which is pretty damn pricey, I was thinking £500 a month should allow for a comfortable lifestyle. I managed to live off £280 a month in Val and to be honest that paid for the regular night out (3 nights a week) and weekly shop at the 'Lidl' esque supermarket (one of those scandi supermarkets) in Bourg. That was all that was needed after the initial big spend on arrival. I did however get seasonnaires prices on drinks so I suppose that had an effect.

I'm sure if you stick to your budget but have a decent amount i reserve should you need it everything will all be fine!

Nearly a month to go until I fly out. I am now surviving by watching various videos on youtube, and on scott's photos! I cannot wait.

Oz. - Oct 27, 2007 - 03:00 PM
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yeah am stuck doing o/t saving up for next year! Sad

lez_s - Oct 27, 2007 - 03:25 PM
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Quote:

Glad i wasn't the only one stopping in on a friday night

stayed in to save money.

i'l looking to spend £400 a month after i've brought pants, jacket and some street wear stuff. i'm only thinking of going out for a couple of beers once a week plus drinking at peoples chalets.

Tens - Oct 27, 2007 - 03:48 PM
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haha you made it sound as if you wanna keep your chalet clean and leave your empty bottles around others.

There are quite a few on here from SCUK staying with you i think lez so looks like your chalet is gonna get the brunt of the first few weeks.

Bought some nice and cheap salomon ski socks from tkmaxx today, just looked on ebay and they are more expensive than i got em for and a 2nd pair of tousers for £30, plain black tresspass ones.

Dont think i will buy anything else now maybe some more socks if i can find em as they are very comfy but another pair of gloves will come in a few months into the season and will get some sunnies and goggles in vancouver.

ps. i stayed in last night too when everyone else was out to save and won a little on the poker too so doubled the saving.

Pieman - Oct 27, 2007 - 04:33 PM
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I sure it won't take long to find out which places do seasonaire specials on certain nights of the week. All I can remember from years ago being mentioned was Crab Shack doing a pitcher of beer and bucket of wings and Merlins doing some sort of half price deal. So there will be ways to still go out and keeping cost low. I also remember with some of the nightclubs would go in early get your hand stamped then leave and drink elsewhere then come back later. However, they got a bit upset about that especially when you didn't even buy a drink.

I got enough to live on that I don't need to worry, but don't want to spend it all. My cooking not great, so I might find myself getting a few more takeaways than others. Resisting the urge of fast food after leaving the pubs will be interesting.

Anyway will fly in on the 21st Nov, so will have to meet up with a few of you there already then another meet up for those arriving on the 1st Dec.

Dazzler74 - Oct 27, 2007 - 04:39 PM
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I think there is a bar in my seasonit place..everyone round mine for drinkies then!!

I am sure i will be out drinking but I am there to snowboard so wont be getting wasted all the time, and i definitely intend to try out the ketchup soup!!!

Tens - Oct 27, 2007 - 05:26 PM
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haha that ketchup soup idea will stay with me untill the day i dont have any money with me on the mountain and i will be forced to give it a go, and im sure after that i will have a different memory of ketchup soup.

Dazzler74 - Oct 27, 2007 - 05:46 PM
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How do you ask for a bowl of warm water?!?!?!?!

maybe we should take a load of cup-a-soups with us Wink

ScottDrummer - Oct 27, 2007 - 05:58 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

cheap(er) pitchers of beer arent a good idea, as my aching head is telling me this morning. not sure if it was the quantity or quality of the beer but i dont think ill be drinking konakee again.
lol had half a plate of nachos last night, except the server made a mistake and gave us a full platter of nachos, we just about managed half of them until danzien turned up and helped out, it was huge.

ace_mcgraw - Oct 27, 2007 - 06:10 PM
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Quote:

but i dont think ill be drinking konakee again.

how can you dump kokanee already - that stuff kept me going thru the whole season!

ScottDrummer - Oct 27, 2007 - 06:13 PM
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it tasted ok, maybe im just dehydrated

Tens - Oct 27, 2007 - 09:30 PM
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can you buy cupa soup out there? i assume you can but im sure i could get into having a very cheap cupa soup every day on the mountain and maybe buy a bread roll or sommit haha.

Dazzler74 - Oct 27, 2007 - 09:56 PM
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when i was in whistler in 06 you could get a breakfast bun and cup of joe for $3 - had it most mornings up on blackcomb mountain, there would be hardly anyone around.... would then go ride down 7th Heaven...

I so need to get on that plane.......................................

Tens - Oct 27, 2007 - 10:02 PM
Post subject:

as most of you know i am a skiier but am interested in boarding. today i quized a guy in the dry slope shop (sandown). He showed me a 163 intermediate board called a de***** something cant remember what the word was but was about that long and deffinatly started with a D. Price included bindings and again not got a clue probably just a cheapy. All for £170 obviously buy some nice boots.

Not sure if i would even use it much as i dont know if i like it but what people think as i was planning on hiring a board for a week or 2 to see how it goes mid season.

Pieman - Oct 27, 2007 - 10:22 PM
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That's cheap - quality could be a bit poor, but not bad way to start. Hiring will add up in cost in the end. You could always borrow a board. Not as if you will damage it while learning. Then you can decide to buy if you really get in to it.

Pieman - Oct 27, 2007 - 10:25 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

can you buy cupa soup out there? i assume you can but im sure i could get into having a very cheap cupa soup every day on the mountain and maybe buy a bread roll or sommit haha.

That's what I was thinking, maybe bring a sandwich and have a hot soup with it.

ScottDrummer - Oct 27, 2007 - 11:39 PM
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yeah wait until you get here, otherwise you will need to buy a bag to ship the gear over with, might aswell rent here try some boards out and buy if you like.

Pieman - Oct 28, 2007 - 12:19 PM
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Just saw this http://www.whistlerfilmfestival.com no idea on what films yet to see if passes would be worth it. From the look of it screening tickets will be about $10 each and opening and closing parties $25.

Or for those of you looking to do some volunteer work there is a link on the site as well.

pricey74 - Oct 28, 2007 - 03:05 PM
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Pieman wrote:

Well the closing party on Dec 1st is sponsored by Stella Artois. They wouldn't be silly enough to offer a free bar to lots of thirsty Brits would they?! Imagine the carnage...

Denizen - Oct 28, 2007 - 05:26 PM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

Pieman wrote:

Well the closing party on Dec 1st is sponsored by Stella Artois. They wouldn't be silly enough to offer a free bar to lots of thirsty Brits would they?! Imagine the carnage...

Ahh no I doubt it, although when I volunteered on the Telus festival you got a free beer token for every shift that you worked. I think at the end of it I had about 15 tokens to use in one night. And the amount of free stuff I ended up with was unbelievable.

I recognise a few af the people organising the festival from last time I was here; Carson the guy you email to volunteer is a good guy, he organises pretty much every volunteer event in whistler. If you are here when the film festival is on and aren't planning on working, volunteering is a great way to meet people. The people I'm sharing a house with now are people I met volunteering last time i was here. I'm going to sign up if I get work sorted out before then and I know what hours I'm doing.

ScottDrummer - Oct 28, 2007 - 05:30 PM
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anyone know any 686 dealers in whistler or whether I can get discount at comor sports or evolution with season pass, seen some stuff I like, just wondered before I buy.

Cheers

walnuts - Oct 28, 2007 - 05:35 PM
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Finished my job in Vancouver yesterday, got a few days off now and then arriving in Whistler on Thursday this week. I hope it's gonna get a bit colder soon!!

My girlfriend has just been reading the thread with me and is worrying that you are all going to starve to death. She says she might run a soup kitchen (she's a damn good cook Smile

).

See you all for a beer or nine soon!

lez_s - Oct 28, 2007 - 06:16 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

My girlfriend has just been reading the thread with me and is worrying that you are all going to starve to death. She says she might run a soup kitchen (she's a damn good cook).

how about sunday dinners instead?

Tens - Oct 28, 2007 - 06:18 PM
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does she offer vinegar, mayonaise & brown sauce soup. If not im not interested.....

walnuts - Oct 29, 2007 - 05:57 AM
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Lez has the right idea! As for Tens - WTF !?! Smile

Dazzler74 - Oct 29, 2007 - 12:50 PM
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My wife does a damn fine roast as well - not that I would like to suggest that th eonly thing women are good for is in the kitchen!!!! Wink

I am sure I can rustle up some cheese on toast - though give me a few days warning !!!!!!!

Tens - Oct 29, 2007 - 12:58 PM
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if you read back a few pages there was talk of poeple saving money by making a free soup from tomato kethcup and water - im not a complete nut

steddie76 - Oct 29, 2007 - 01:49 PM
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I guess walnuts couldnt figure out why you left the croutons out, thats all Laughing

norton - Oct 29, 2007 - 09:19 PM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

Pieman wrote:

was that at merlins??? i totally remember making that and vicki feck up and it came through as a full nachos (they are the biggest pain in the arse to make)

just to let all you tight people know, merlins does $5 burgers and fries, which are pretty good and $10 pitchers. the burgers are pertty solid, and if im working ill chuck some onion rings or something on if we are quiet. this is only til the end of the dead season though.

its really no where near cold enough at the moment which is disappointing...

ill be at merlins tonight, probably at the corner of the bar near the kitchen if anyones around. probably wearing a green burton hat complete with pom-pom

norton - Oct 29, 2007 - 09:26 PM
Post subject:

oh forgot to mention. Merlins is hiring like crazy at the moment.
Dave the chef doesnt really want to do the job fair, so if you want to be a cook, porter, dishie etc drop down with a resume. it really is a pretty sweet place to work, top crew so far.

they dont have any bar or serving jobs going though

lez_s - Oct 29, 2007 - 09:29 PM
Post subject:

i'll be at merlins sat night depending what time i get to the chalet if not then sunday.

what time is it open until?

norton - Oct 29, 2007 - 09:36 PM
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sort of depends really on how busy we are. kitchen closes at 11, the latest the bar has been open is 12:00 or so, though we have a later license, it just hasnt been busy enough to bother.

lez_s - Oct 29, 2007 - 09:38 PM
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i think i would get to the chalet for 10pm.

ScottDrummer - Oct 29, 2007 - 09:54 PM
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Me and Ruth dropped our resumes into Merlins the other day, not heard anything from them, I thought they did their hiring through intrawest.
Whats the pay for those positions?

lez_s - Oct 30, 2007 - 11:27 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Carson the guy you email to volunteer is a good guy, he organises pretty much every volunteer event in whistler. If you are here when the film festival is on and aren't planning on working, volunteering is a great way to meet people

i was told you can only volunteer if you have a work visa. i would have volunteered at some comps and one or two other things, but as you get a lift pass for doing so its classed as a payment for you doing the work.

tomcdermott - Oct 30, 2007 - 11:49 AM
Post subject:

just while we are on the subject of jobs guys...anyone got any ideas for getting a job without a work visa? i.e. where? i know it ain't a good idea but needs must! not in whistler until 17th nov tho which may make things worse. saving didn't go as planned....

Denizen - Oct 30, 2007 - 03:55 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Quote:

Different thing, that is not volunteering for the mountain/intrawest. The free stuff you recieve is in the form of sponsors goods. When you sign up you are not promised any payment in return ie. a lift pass. I didn't have a work visa last time I was here and had no problem volunteering on any of these things.

lez_s - Oct 30, 2007 - 03:58 PM
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thats cool. what sort of stuff can you volunteer this that are not on the mountain e.g. helping out at comps

Denizen - Oct 30, 2007 - 04:33 PM
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You can volunteer for all the festivals that go on in the village, the food festival, the film festival, the telus ski and snowboard festival and if you are still here in the summer the Crankworx MTB festival. I'm sure there's others too. The telus festival and the crankworx festival are on the mountain, but they are not organised or run by intrawest so the volunteering is not organised through them. If you work on the mountain they give you a day pass for the day you work, if you don't have a season pass. When I worked on the telus festival I did event set up for the slopestyle, big air and superpipe events. Basically I just put up the sponsorship banners; then on the day of the events I was doing crowd control. For crowd control read watching pro skiers and snowboarders going nuts in the pipe from the best seat in the house.

ScottDrummer - Oct 30, 2007 - 04:35 PM
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cornocopia (food and wine fest), im doing a few of these.
telus fetival, film festival, most of the town events seem to have volunteers.

Oz. - Oct 30, 2007 - 05:07 PM
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Denizen wrote:

Where/who did you speak to to volunteer for all of that?

ScottDrummer - Oct 30, 2007 - 05:12 PM
Post subject:

Carson - snowpig@telus.net

Tens - Oct 30, 2007 - 05:28 PM
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ooow food sounds good but thats very soon (next week) and that telus looks wicked, might get into that now see what happens. Anyone know any perks of volunteering for telus festival and any good jobs to do it in??

was looking at the job list - on hill or off hill

Denizen - Oct 30, 2007 - 06:12 PM
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Oz. wrote:

Where/who did you speak to to volunteer for all of that?

Generally they put posters up round the village and ads in the Pique and Question. Easiest way to do it is usually through the website for each event as they have a link about volunteering.

For the telus festival i signed up a couple of weeks before it started, they had a sign up evening at merlins and I went along. You get a goody bag when the telus festival, things like t-shirts, beanies and stickers that sort of thing. You also get a free lunch and free beer for every shift you work. When I did it you also got 'mountain money' for every hour you worked, can't remember the rate but at the end of it I had about $400 on a gift card to use in any of the intrawest owned shops.

Event crew was pretty good, the one day during the festival that it really snowed the whole crew decided to sack off and go riding instead. The excuse was something like it was too windy to put the banners up or something. Laughing

Tens - Oct 30, 2007 - 06:53 PM
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so its worth signing up now as it sounds like something cool to do especially nearer the end of the season by which time i would have been doing the same thing over and over again and get a few freebees?

any particular roles you would suggest or just anything thats out and about.

pricey74 - Oct 30, 2007 - 09:48 PM
Post subject:

Denizen wrote:

Oz. wrote:

Where/who did you speak to to volunteer for all of that?

Sounds good, thanks for the info Denizen. Definitely something I'll be looking into when I get over there. I'll miss the film festival but will hopefully get involved with some of the other things going on later in the season.

Dan888 - Oct 31, 2007 - 09:35 AM
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Reckon ill look into it when i arrive too sounds like a good laugh, $400 sounds pretty good too! I assume you could spend it on food and drinks on the mountain?

Just wondering, have any of you guys already out there seen many adverts for rooms?

Still havnt got anything sorted and im a bit worried its going to be a struggle when i arrive on the 14th, unfortunatly couldnt leavce any earlier because of work Mad

pricey74 - Oct 31, 2007 - 01:39 PM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

Just wondering, have any of you guys already out there seen many adverts for rooms?

Still havnt got anything sorted and im a bit worried its going to be a struggle when i arrive on the 14th, unfortunatly couldnt leavce any earlier because of work Mad

Seriously? You're heading out there with no digs sorted out? I take my hat off to you Sir, thats proper ballsy! Just to be on the safe side though I would recommend a backup plan and getting yourself booked into one of the hostels for your first days at least. You don't want to be forking out for expensive hotel rooms!

Dan888 - Oct 31, 2007 - 02:09 PM
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Ha ballsy or stupid, probably the latter.

Was meant to be getting a place with my mate for the year but hes buggered his knee so im heading out solo. Im going to book a few days probably a week in a hostel for when i get there.

Or ill happily pay 15 dollars a night for a sofa if anyone has one spare!

If I cant find anything I might just build an iglu and live in that for the season, although i think the valley might be a bit warm for that at times.

wolfie - Oct 31, 2007 - 03:16 PM
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Dan888 wrote:

If I cant find anything I might just build an iglu and live in that for the season, although i think the valley might be a bit warm for that at times.

What about a wigloo....wigwam meets igloo.....

http://www.snowactive.net/

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 04:24 PM
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Dan888 wrote:

Dan, ive heard of people sleeping in hot tubs, and walking round town due to no rooms, although ive been told by a few "grown ups" that when construction finishes shortly there will be places freed up

walnuts - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:01 PM
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To those who are already there:

We're arriving tomorrow (woohoo!) in a hire car which we'll have for the rest of the day.
Can anyone think of anything worthwhile we could use it for in the afternoon? Is it worth driving a short way out of town for cheap groceries for example?

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:03 PM
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yeah you could take us to squamish to get some groceries, or you could pop me down to vancouver to get a 686 jacket? :-p

Oz. - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:15 PM
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ScottDrummer wrote:

yeah you could take us to squamish to get some groceries, or you could pop me down to vancouver to get a 686 jacket? :-p

not find a canadian online retailer who sells it?

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:18 PM
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yeah, comor sports do it, but they only have xl in, and if they want me to order a M in they want me to pay upfront!, which i may have to do, id prefer to try the medium on to make sure it fits first

Oz. - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:24 PM
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which one is it?

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:46 PM
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686 smarty uzi in moss tweed

Denizen - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:53 PM
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Go to squamish for the afternoon, although tbh groceries aren't all that much cheaper there. The amount you save is spent on petrol so unless there is a lot of you it's not really worth doing it regularly. Save on foods is ok, it sells lots of things in bulk, you can get big bags of pasta and huge jars of sauce. It is worth going down to go to wal-mart and canadian tire; you can buy work clothes and things you can't get easily or cheaply in whistler like toasters, kettles, pots and pans etc.

EDIT: plus they have a tim hortons which they don't have in whistler, how could i forget tim's?

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 05:55 PM
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anywhere in squamish that does 686 jackets?

Denizen - Oct 31, 2007 - 06:00 PM
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Don't know, do they have an online dealer locator?

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 06:04 PM
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yeah but its outdated, apparently evolution in whistler does 686 but when i went in they denied all knowledge. I might just go ahead an pre pay to order it, the other smarty jacket comor have in medium fits ok i guess the uzi will too.

walnuts - Oct 31, 2007 - 06:18 PM
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I'll have just driven in from Vancouver, so driving all the way back might be a bit much! Smile

If you want me to pick up anything from Vancouver today and bring it up, no problem.

Also, the cost of a car+petrol to Vancouver and back is only 35 quid, split that between four people who fancy a day out and it's under 9 quid. I certainly reckon I'll be doing that a few times over the season.

Dazzler74 - Oct 31, 2007 - 06:22 PM
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Scott,

Why dont you try to get yourself on the whistler webcam...would be very funny....there is one at the base of the lift!!

hehehe

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 06:25 PM
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lol ye was thinking of doing that, but ive not yet hit that level of boredom to stand there for 15 mins. If im in the area though ill let you know.

lez_s - Oct 31, 2007 - 08:04 PM
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pricey74, it is you that is on the same flight as me? sorry i forgot again. if so i'll pm you my mobile number so you can give me a shout at the airport.

pricey74 - Oct 31, 2007 - 08:10 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

pricey74, it is you that is on the same flight as me? sorry i forgot again. if so i'll pm you my mobile number so you can give me a shout at the airport.

Hey Lez - Afraid not mate, I'm flying on Nov 28th.

pricey74 - Oct 31, 2007 - 08:24 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

Scott - what are the shops like in Whistler? I need a new board, bindings, goggles, socks, thermals etc and a few other bits and pieces. Is the range of stock in the Whistler shops ok, or do you reckon I'd be better off getting everything in Vancouver?
Cheers, Andy

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 08:31 PM
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apparently there isnt much difference in price, ive not looked at boards n stuff yet to resist temptation but there seems to be a bit in, showcase got all this seasons burtons, comor have a good range, ive seen some ride boards here too, tbh ive not really looked yet but im sure i will shortly.
thermals and socks your better off buying from UK, there are some spy goggles going cheap in comor sports atm, 40% off last seasons , theres some orbits and soldiers in there.

pricey74 - Oct 31, 2007 - 08:38 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

Thanks for the info Scott. I was looking at some North Face thermals and smartwool socks, which I thought would be cheaper over there? I've heard some good things about spy goggles so that could be a possible purchase if the 40% off is still available...

Will - Oct 31, 2007 - 10:27 PM
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Thats me coming out tomorrow, will be there on friday.
Whats is there to do out there until the slopes open?
I am 16 so cant go out to pubs etc which sucks......
any ideas?

cheers

Tens - Oct 31, 2007 - 10:34 PM
Post subject:

you could take some lego with you or maybe some top trumps.

haha sorry had to do it, wanted to look cool in front of everyone...

and top trumps is cool and i would play it whatever anyone says

ScottDrummer - Oct 31, 2007 - 11:30 PM
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anyone going out tonight for halloween? havnt got a costume so i dont think ill bother, everyone in the town seems to be dressed up

Dan888 - Oct 31, 2007 - 11:58 PM
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The wigloo looks quite good to be honest, get a candle going in there get it upto a toasty +4 and your laughing. Plus when you bring the ladies back you can use the "share bodyheat" line, a classic in my opinion. Im not sure about the hottub idea Imagine the hand+feet wrinkles after 8 hours of good kip! Might pack my inflatable pillow just in case of desperate times though.

On a more serious note, do you know when does construction finishes? I imagine around the beginning of the season Which would suit me fine.

Denizen - Nov 01, 2007 - 12:50 AM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

It will finish when the first major snow falls, probably around the middle of november. You'll have a window of about a week to get into somewhere or it'll be back to the usual struggle. Going to whistler without accommodation is brave but not impossible; my friends and I arrived here without a house and found somewhere to live and then moved in all within 2 days.

pricey74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 09:09 AM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

and top trumps is cool and i would play it whatever anyone says

Seeing as you've already admitted to being a poker shark, I'm not playing any card games with you Tens! I'd probably walk away from a friendly game of Doctor Who top trumps needing a new board, ha!! Only kidding, hopefully there'll be a couple of card schools during the season.....

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 09:39 AM
Post subject:

[quote="Denizen
It will finish when the first major snow falls, probably around the middle of november. You'll have a window of about a week to get into somewhere or it'll be back to the usual struggle. Going to whistler without accommodation is brave but not impossible; my friends and I arrived here without a house and found somewhere to live and then moved in all within 2 days.[/quote]

Cheers Den, Hopefully me arriving and the end of the construction season will coincide nicely. All the people I know who did seasons just blagged when they got there. Good to hear you did too! The way i look at it even if i endup paying $1000 a month its better than paying £3k for the season to share in a seasonit place.

Just looking at the live temps, +3 at 2am is a bit warm. It was about that cold in Hull yesterday!

Why-my-legs? - Nov 01, 2007 - 10:43 AM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

During th 05/06 season when I was out there two of my mates built a massive igloo in a secret area high up on Whistler mountain and stayed in it on New Years Eve. They were the first people to snowboard down Whistler mountain in 2006. I was too busy getting drunk at a party to join them though.

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 11:55 AM
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That sounds really sweet, I wouldnt mind having a go at building a big iglu. Would be good fun if you could get a crew together. Post some pics if you have them!

Where abouts is this secret spot then?

steddie76 - Nov 01, 2007 - 12:37 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

pricey74, it is you that is on the same flight as me? sorry i forgot again. if so i'll pm you my mobile number so you can give me a shout at the airport.

Lez, it was me mate, sorry not been on for a while, been doing the rounds of heart felt good bye's, messaged you on Facebook earlier!

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 01:19 PM
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i know it had a 7 in it Laughing

just replied to you.

Dazzler74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 01:33 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

The way i look at it even if i endup paying $1000 a month its better than paying £3k for the season to share in a seasonit place.

Funny, I am staying at seasonit and am not paying anywhere near £3k for 3 months...

seasonit is probably a little more expensive than we needed to pay but judging by some of the stressing going on on here about arriving in whistler and having to find somewhere to stay I think paying the little extra was probably worth it... but then I am getting on a bit and like my pipe and slippers

steddie76 - Nov 01, 2007 - 01:50 PM
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Quote:

but then I am getting on a bit and like my pipe and slippers

There seem to a few of us old gits going out, thats if those of you with 74 etc is a give away to your age like me!

pricey74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:00 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

Quote:

but then I am getting on a bit and like my pipe and slippers

There seem to a few of us old gits going out, thats if those of you with 74 etc is a give away to your age like me!

Being born in 76 makes you a whippersnapper steddie! I'm hoping Dazzler was born before August so I'm not the grandaddy out there, ha!

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:00 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

Quote:

but then I am getting on a bit and like my pipe and slippers

There seem to a few of us old gits going out, thats if those of you with 74 etc is a give away to your age like me!

My last season was just after I got back from WW1 or "The great war" as we called it, back then scotland got 15m in an average season...

Daz - I wasnt knocking the seasonit place but I want to stay in whistler for atleast 6 months possably a whole year(might move down to squamish for the summer), Its about £3K for 6m and thats more than im willing to pay to share a room, Id rather gamble on paying $6K and get my own space. Also there are quite a few rules in those places, like not having friends for the weekend ect which is a bit annoying. I have faith that itll work its self out,

pricey74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:06 PM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

steddie76 wrote:

Quote:

but then I am getting on a bit and like my pipe and slippers

There seem to a few of us old gits going out, thats if those of you with 74 etc is a give away to your age like me!

My last season was just after I got back from the crusades, Back then scotland got 15m in an average season...

Daz - I wasnt knocking the seasonit place but I want to stay in whistler for atleast 6 months possably a whole year(might move down to squamish for the summer), Its about £3K for 6m and thats more than im willing to pay to share a room, Id rather gamble on paying $6K and get my own space. Also there are quite a few rules in those places, like not having friends for the weekend ect which is a bit annoying. I have faith that itll work its self out,

You'll be fine mate so there's no point losing sleep over it. You'll be doing plenty of that when you're woken from your doorstep slumber by the sound of your bones rattling and teeth chattering!! Laughing

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:22 PM
Post subject:

the people that went by zoom, what sort of stuff do you get onthe flight e.g. number of films, number of meals, free drinks etc?

if i remember right you get one meal? just trying to think of the stuff that will stop me from being bored on the flight.

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:36 PM
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Ha cheers, Im not losing any sleep over it. Like i said Im sure itll be fine..

zoom - from what I read on the email you get one meal, one snack and unlimited softies. Think I might take a small bottle of gin with me..

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:39 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Films - 4, Evan Almighty, Die Hard 4 (brutally edited), Blades of Glory, and Shrek 3
Food - one main meal with the choise of soft drink or red/white wine, and a snack box later on
Drinks - only the one with your food, unless you pay for them or are in posh class.
Bad thing about the movies is you have to buy your earphones, just a few pounds, you can use a normal pair but its the dual sokett so you will only get sound in one ear.
It goes fast enough, movie food movie movie snack movie land

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:40 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Think I might take a small bottle of gin with me..

...and they dont let you drink your own alcohol

steddie76 - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:40 PM
Post subject:

I've got loads of vids on my Laptop to keep me entertained plus the rest of Heroes!

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:42 PM
Post subject:

yeah that sounds right. i rememeber reading something like that. i'll take something to eat with me as well. i would take a drink but you cant take your own liquids onto the plane, but have to buy it once you have gone passed passport control.

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:43 PM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Quote:

Think I might take a small bottle of gin with me..

...and they dont let you drink your own alcohol

Looks like it will have to be decanted into an evian bottle before boarding...

Ha just noticed i got quoted mid edit, nothing more embarassing than getting caught crafting a joke!

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 02:50 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Bad thing about the movies is you have to buy your earphones, just a few pounds, you can use a normal pair but its the dual sokett so you will only get sound in one ear.

my idea was, i have two sets of ear plug headphones so was going to plug them in and use i ear bit of each.

Quote:

I've got loads of vids on my Laptop to keep me entertained plus the rest of Heroes!

never dont it before, but can you use your laptop on the plane? i've got loads of stuff on mine too.

Tens - Nov 01, 2007 - 03:00 PM
Post subject:

i have got a serious amount of videoage i want to take with me as i can see me getting a fair bit of spare time over 6 months and have all of 24 to watch and many other series.

Am planning on buying an ext hdd to take with me but this voltage thing is doing my head in, i know it has been covered and what i am looking for is the adapter to be 100v-240v which is what my laptop adapter is and the hz is the same here i beleive.

Been looking at some ext hdds and none of them say the adapter voltage so im gonna have to ring em up and get them to check as none of the manufacturers sites even say.

Am i correct in what i have said and will it all work?

walnuts - Nov 01, 2007 - 04:17 PM
Post subject:

Yes, you're exactly right Tens.

You might want to think about getting one of the external laptop-drives versions instead, as these son't need any extra power, they just run off the USB. (This is what I did). They're much much smaller too.

(Leaving for Whistler in about two hours here!!!!!)

Denizen - Nov 01, 2007 - 04:33 PM
Post subject:

walnuts wrote:

Don't come here it sucks, never snows and there's nothing to do. Laughing

Have a good flight, 10 hours is so dull. After 10 minutes I was bouncing around the cabin, after 10 hours the cabin crew couldn't wait to get rid of me I had gotten so hyperactive.

Tens - Nov 01, 2007 - 04:41 PM
Post subject:

the smaller ones dont have as much storage, are more expensive and my laptop is a crappy oldish one so it cant power hardly anything, but if it could i would go for one i think cos they are cool

ScottDrummer - Nov 01, 2007 - 05:12 PM
Post subject:

JohnnyBelfast wrote:

Bad thing about the movies is you have to buy your earphones, just a few pounds, you can use a normal pair but its the dual sokett so you will only get sound in one ear.
It goes fast enough, movie food movie movie snack movie land

the trick with the earphones is, if you hang them out so they arnt quite fully pushed in you get stereo, it took me 7 hours to get it just right lol.
temps are 2 to -8 at peak atm, looks like we had a slight dusting overnight, and a little bit further down the mountain by the look of it, nothing to get excited about but im mega excited, I was even tempted to get my board out on the little patch on blackcomb where the snow cannon had been firing.
Anyway tried all my gear on last night (come on, i know youve done it too already) and im in the market for some different boots.

If anyone is looking for some boots im selling some
Vans Fargo Boa, 06 model. Look and feel as new. They are an excellent boot, with a great lacing system. They are sized US10/UK9
in Black.
http://media.rei.com/media/908110.jpg
Absolutely nothing wrong with them, no signs of visible wear.
will deliver to anywhere within Whistler.
Scott

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 05:25 PM
Post subject:

Hey Scott, If you havnt sold them in 2 weeks when i arrive, I would be interested. Would like to try them on or if possible do a run in them before I buy if that would be ok.

ScottDrummer - Nov 01, 2007 - 05:30 PM
Post subject:

you can certainly try them on, but I dont know where you can do a run in them as the lifts wont be open then. You are welcome to wear them for a bit to make sure they are comfortable and fit correctly etc....

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 06:12 PM
Post subject:

not read all of the above, in a bit of a rush, but the same thing with me. i'm taking my laptop and ext hdd plus other things with plugs. i was told by someone that you can buy a transformer that boosts the power?

Dazzler74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 06:21 PM
Post subject:

I too am taking my laptop, a 60gb portable hard drive (off ebay for £20 - usb powered) - I have also converted about 100 films into psp films which I can watch on either my psp or laptop.... including series 5 of Scrubs in full. I have already seen Heroes but am getting through series 2, also into the bionic woman series, the terminator series, I also need to catch on my battlestar galactica as only half way through series 2!!! I am also bringing a load of DVDs..

I am also bringing my psp hacking kit if anyone has a psp they want doing Wink

including a load of psp games.

I also have a 6gb ipod

so I doubt i will be doing much drinking, snowboarding, sighseeing, just going to lock myself in my room for 3.5 months Wink

I am gonna use this 3.5 month sto catch up on all the cack I have been missing while working like a bitch!

Tens - Nov 01, 2007 - 06:53 PM
Post subject:

didnt really think that voltage changer thingy was worth while seeing as i only need it for my laptop which has a suitable adapter on it. and anything else will work okish like chargers for things apparently may just take a little longer to fully charge stuff.

Just gotta make sure that the ext hdd that i get has an adapter thats suitable.

pricey74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:00 PM
Post subject:

What the hell are you lot on about? Whats an ext hdd? Who's an ext hdd? Forgive my ignorance, but all I know is that I'll be bringing my laptop and it will need electricity pumping into it. I know the current adapter will be no good with the CAD sockets, but is it not just a case of picking up an electricity converter thingymajig from the airport?

Dan888 - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:20 PM
Post subject:

The problem is all of europe is 230Volts 50 cycles per second. so all you need to do when going to another country is buy a different shape plug. The US and Canada is 110Volts and 60 cycles, this means for some products you need a transformer to change the voltage as well as a different shape plug. As far as i know though most laptops are ok, as they usually work on both, just look on it if it says 100-240v your ok. If not you may have to buy a transformer to make it work.

Hope that explains

Dazzler74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:20 PM
Post subject:

external hard drive - luddite!! Wink

ROBster - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:22 PM
Post subject:

right just to save me from trawling through 90 pages...whos actually goin to whistler for the season?

i'll be there the at eh end of jan/beginning of feb and was thinking we should have a SCUK meetup!!

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

read the 90 pages you lazy git Laughing

i'll be there.

lez_s - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:26 PM
Post subject:

or look here http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/index.ph ... 969#367969

Tens - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:27 PM
Post subject:

theres the hardcore 6-8 that are consistantly posting crap over the last 10 pages and then theres a few more poeple who have chipped in a whisper every now and then.

but yes im up for a big meet up and i would take a guess at about 15 poeple who are going from this thread if not 20.

pricey74 - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:28 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

external hard drive - luddite!! Wink

I must have a fancy dan laptop then because I'm sure my hard drive is internal Very Happy

Tens - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:31 PM
Post subject:

i got a 40gb hdd inside but am gonna want more than that, got a load of films and lots of series and music. Also probably gonna be doing 2gb of photos over the season.

wolfie - Nov 01, 2007 - 07:38 PM
Post subject:

So happy I sold my old board now off to get my new Bataleon Goliath. I decided against getting it sent to me out there, not much of a saving in the end...also my bag will be a bit floppy with no board in it!

Getting it from http://www.extremesportsworld.co.uk with a nice 10% discount brings it down to £270.

add me to the big meet up some time out there.

ScottDrummer - Nov 01, 2007 - 09:31 PM
Post subject:

if you have an apple laptop the charger switches the voltage and frequency for you. I just use a plug convertor to change the shape.
My boots are now definitely for sale as ive just bought some new ones. email me or phone 604 902 4505

MagicalTrevor - Nov 01, 2007 - 10:24 PM
Post subject:

I think most modern laptops do take either power as they are sort of designed to be portable and taken all over the world. Same with things like ipod chargers, PSP's etc. Most portable devices wouldn't sell much if they didn't work on either voltage. Exception is the Burton Waxing Iron, irritatingly.

walnuts - Nov 01, 2007 - 11:09 PM
Post subject:

Arrived a couple of hours ago.... it's pretty quiet here right now eh!

Anyone out for a beer later today?

ScottDrummer - Nov 02, 2007 - 01:19 AM
Post subject:

anyone got anything to do tonight? lol

walnuts - Nov 02, 2007 - 01:32 AM
Post subject:

Heheh, no! Suggestions welcome!

Denizen - Nov 02, 2007 - 02:20 AM
Post subject:

I had a fairly heavy night last night, but would be up for a couple of quiet drinks tonight if anyone is about. If I stay in I think i'll probably end up falling asleep on the couch at about eight thirty?

How about the crystal lounge at about 8:30; if no one replys in here i'll assume you're not interested or haven't got the message.

walnuts - Nov 02, 2007 - 03:52 AM
Post subject:

Ah crap, got the message late. Nevermind, we should def hook up sometime. Perhaps tomorrow? It's Friday night after all....

Denizen - Nov 02, 2007 - 04:16 AM
Post subject:

Tomorrow would be cool, how about again the same Crystal Lounge at 8:30?

ScottDrummer - Nov 02, 2007 - 04:40 AM
Post subject:

yeah up for crystal lounge tom too, sorry missed your message too.

Denizen - Nov 02, 2007 - 04:51 AM
Post subject:

Thats ok, didn't go in the end. Decided Crystal Lounge wasn't hardcore enough for me tonight so played scrabble with my housemates instead. Just who says rock'n'roll is dead?

ScottDrummer - Nov 02, 2007 - 05:11 AM
Post subject:

i went to mongolie grill as its 50% off so i had double the amount...so im just rolling atm.

Pieman - Nov 02, 2007 - 08:46 AM
Post subject:

I've setup slingbox on my laptop so I'll be able to still watch UK TV. So I'll be watching Match of the Day each week to keep track of all the football etc. Just have to hope nothing goes wrong with the connection while I'm out there and also hope the wireless connection in the chalet isn't rubbish.

19 more days till I fly out Very Happy

Oz. - Nov 02, 2007 - 10:24 AM
Post subject:

from seasonaires.com

"The Electricity
In Canada they run on 110V. This doesn't have the juice to power British appliances. What you can do though is buy an converter which provides 220V.
DO NOT BUY IN ENGLAND, if you buy this in England you will pay about £70, if you buy this in a hardware shop in Whistler you will pay $19(Canadian). This device is safe and allows the use of hairdryers, shaver and stereo"

lez_s - Nov 02, 2007 - 10:29 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

So I'll be watching Match of the Day each week

beers once a week round at your then Laughing

pricey74 - Nov 02, 2007 - 11:15 AM
Post subject:

Oz. wrote:

Brilliant, thanks for the info Oz, I was getting a bit confused with all the electricity conversion stuff. Bit of a dullard as previously mentioned!

Lez & Pieman - I'll be hoping to watch the live games on sopcast whilst out there, but weekly MOTD meet-ups sounds like a must!

Dazzler74 - Nov 02, 2007 - 12:30 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez & Pieman - I'll be hoping to watch the live games on sopcast whilst out there, but weekly MOTD meet-ups sounds like a must!

I am in....

Will - Nov 02, 2007 - 03:18 PM
Post subject:

im in vancouver!!!! border control was fine, heading to whistler at 1...

lez_s - Nov 02, 2007 - 03:22 PM
Post subject:

my board bag and back pack are going to be so over weight and there is still more stuff to go in. it was easier to pack to travel around the world for a year.

walnuts - Nov 02, 2007 - 04:57 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

yeah up for crystal lounge tom too, sorry missed your message too.

Sounds good, see you there...

pricey74 - Nov 02, 2007 - 05:18 PM
Post subject:

Will - now that you've made it safely into the country, you can tell us all why you were so worried about immigration/border control in the first place?

Lez - Good luck with all your luggage mate, sounds like you're taking a fair bit with you!

All - If you've travelled with zoom can you let me know how you got on with your carry on luggage? I've never taken my laptop on a flight and wanted to know if you can take a laptop bag AND a small backpack (dakine heli or similiar) or if they are strict on just taking 1 carry on item?

Cheers...

ScottDrummer - Nov 02, 2007 - 05:22 PM
Post subject:

yup you can take a backpack and a laptop case according to zooms baggage policy.

pricey74 - Nov 02, 2007 - 05:25 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

yup you can take a backpack and a laptop case according to zooms baggage policy.

Brilliant, thanks Scott.

lez_s - Nov 02, 2007 - 05:49 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez - Good luck with all your luggage mate, sounds like you're taking a fair bit with you!

thanks. i'll tell you all tomorrow how much so you can have a laugh.

steddie76 - Nov 02, 2007 - 05:56 PM
Post subject:

Lez, I can hardly pick mine up, I'm having to put more and more in the board bag to keep the weight down on the other!

norton - Nov 02, 2007 - 07:38 PM
Post subject:

its pay day for all mountain employees today. should be feck carnage tonight.
$10 pitchers and $5 burgers at Merlins, ill be at the end of the bar from 11:30 or so til closing, then probably moejoes after, no doubt ill have my green hat on as usual if anyone wants to catch up.

Denizen - Nov 02, 2007 - 08:16 PM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

NO NO NO you cannot take 2 bags through as carry on luggage in te UK. That is a BAA rule and nothing to do with the airlines, travelling back to the UK from canada you can have 2 bags carry on, from the UK only 1.

Airport Control Rules

REMEMBER only 1 bag through security controls no matter what the airlines allowance for carry on luggage is.

Sorry for all that just don't want you to have to ditch a bag at the airport.

Edit: long URL broke the page so fixed it.

pricey74 - Nov 02, 2007 - 09:00 PM
Post subject:

Thanks for that Denizen. Looks like I'll just be taking the laptop onto the plane then...

Will - Nov 03, 2007 - 02:35 AM
Post subject:

in whistler now, not what i expected and im going to get lost in the village! going out for dinner now. if anyones out and about im going to be wearing a brown westbeach jacket and a beanie. im 16 so pretty small haha.

and i was asking so many questions about border control because im always soooo paranoid!

Dan888 - Nov 03, 2007 - 05:13 PM
Post subject:

Hey, Just wondering what networks work best in whistler? I know with small towns in the uk there is usually one provider who has the best coverage.

Also any to steer clear of? Is it possible to get a contract? or as a foreigner are you restricted to pay as you go?

I imagine scott has thoroughly researched this matter already!

ScottDrummer - Nov 03, 2007 - 06:11 PM
Post subject:

lol, i went with rogers as you get free rogers to rogers calls, so both me and the gf went on rogers, you can go on fido. the tarrifs for PAYG are similar anyway. apparently its cheaper in the long term if you go on a contract, but I just went PAYG.
you need to top up every month at least $10, any remainder rolls over.
your charged for incoming calls. there are no fido shops in Whistler as far as i know, there are about 2 or 3 Rogers shops.
just make sure you get a whistler number, this can be done in Vancouver too.

walnuts - Nov 04, 2007 - 01:47 AM
Post subject:

Had a good laugh last night, anyone out again this eve? - it's been (another) quiet day!

ScottDrummer - Nov 04, 2007 - 02:19 AM
Post subject:

yeah was good to meet more people, we have stayed in tonight to watch some crap canadian TV lol. Maybe we should get a curry/card night going or somthing similar. Cant afford to go out much atm without a job.

walnuts - Nov 04, 2007 - 03:06 AM
Post subject:

Sounds like a great idea, can't go wrong with a bit of curry.

Just found out we have a couple of housemates arriving tomorrow so we're going to take advantage of having the place to ourselves for the last time for a while.... there must be something good on the TV somewhere!!

Will - Nov 04, 2007 - 03:59 AM
Post subject:

Canadian tv is sooo crap! please involve me in something apart from going to pubs coz im to young. there is hardly anything to do here so im pretty bored all the time.
there is only 3 of us in an 11 person chalet so pretty quiet as well.

Dan888 - Nov 04, 2007 - 08:24 PM
Post subject:

Cheers Scott, Rogers sounds quite good especially if they're the only people with shops in whistler I imagine the majority of people doing a season will be with them. Looks like they do a nokia for $90 might have a look at ebay for a cheap phone before i go instead.

Would I be right in thinking I will need to purchase a Tri-band phone if I want it to work in canadia?

walnuts - Nov 04, 2007 - 08:52 PM
Post subject:

yep, gotta be tri-band.

lez_s - Nov 04, 2007 - 10:24 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

thanks. i'll tell you all tomorrow how much so you can have a laugh.

i was under weight, 17.5kg.

ScottDrummer - Nov 04, 2007 - 10:31 PM
Post subject:

lol it was them hair straighteners you left out.

lez_s - Nov 04, 2007 - 10:33 PM
Post subject:

yeah i left the drugs in Laughing

pricey74 - Nov 04, 2007 - 10:37 PM
Post subject:

Underweight? I might take my bag to the gym to get weighed before I set off to the airport. If its under I'll pack shed loads of bacon to bump it up to the allowed weight, ha! Mmmmm, bacon!

Tens - Nov 04, 2007 - 10:46 PM
Post subject:

does anyone know when whistler will either run out or stop selling ex rental and last seasons gear as im considering getting a cheap set of skis before leaving (or ex rental from whistler) and then buying some nice normal priced skis after a few months.

ScottDrummer - Nov 04, 2007 - 11:05 PM
Post subject:

If I were you I'd save money and get the good skiis to start with that suite your ability and skiing type. Ive not looked at ski stuff but I know showcase and westbeach have some boards from last season, not bad priced either.

Tens - Nov 04, 2007 - 11:32 PM
Post subject:

well i think i am gonna end up with 2 sets any way, 1 for piste and 1 powder.

ScottDrummer - Nov 04, 2007 - 11:35 PM
Post subject:

even better get a snowboard Smile

norton - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:40 AM
Post subject:

showcase are sellling this seasons burton for 30% off to staff at the moment, and i know comor are having a sale soon as well

norton - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:42 AM
Post subject:

showcase are sellling this seasons burton for 30% off to staff at the moment, and i know comor are having a sale soon as well

Tens - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:46 AM
Post subject:

aint gonna be there till end of nov thats why i ask cos just aint sure if anything will be left by then

@@@ - Nov 05, 2007 - 10:47 AM
Post subject:

8 weeks 2 days to go. Gotta hand in my notice for work in the next week or 2 once i get that out of the way hopefully the snow will start faliing for you guys and full on jealousy will set in Laughing

blipblip - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:27 PM
Post subject:

Hello, My names Tom I'm new to the site.
I'm flying out to Van 28th November staying for two months. My accomadation starts 1st December in whistler, does anyone fancy meeting up in Van for the couple of days before?

Dan888 - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:29 PM
Post subject:

I dont know if any of you are interested but I have a couple of boards for sale 154 K2 Luna's. Theres lots of pics over on the for sale board.
Theyre brand new at 100 Quid, Honestly surprised I havnt been able to sell them at that price. Guess 154 is quite long for a girls board. Willing to bring over to canada with me if you honestly want to buy.

Cheers Dan

Dan888 - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:37 PM
Post subject:

Also on a seperate note the canadian dollar is GAY 1.94 honestly. Wish I was going to the states!

pricey74 - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:45 PM
Post subject:

blipblip wrote:

Hey Tom, welcome to the forum!
There are a few people (about 8-10 at last count) arriving in Van on Nov 27/28 who will be staying there for a few days before heading to Whistler to begin stays in accomodation on Dec 1st. Not sure if anybody has sorted out a hostel in Van yet though, but as mentioned on earlier posts the more the merrier!

pricey74 - Nov 05, 2007 - 12:49 PM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

showcase are sellling this seasons burton for 30% off to staff at the moment, and i know comor are having a sale soon as well

You're $hitting me right? 30% off this seasons burton gear? If anybody wants to do me a massive favour and pick me up a new custom board and mission bindings then I can deposit the funds into a UK bank account straight away!! I am deadly serious by the way so PM me if you can help!
Cheers
Andy

seanoe - Nov 05, 2007 - 01:43 PM
Post subject:

Just wondering if anyone reading this is out there already and staying with Seasonaires in Creekview I at all??

Anyone know what the place is like? How far to lifts etc? Would be great to know who we are staying with..

We arrive in about 10 days now, so looking forward to meeting everyone then..

Sean

Pieman - Nov 05, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject:

seanoe wrote:

If I'm right you are in Whistler Creek area. There is a lift that runs up to the mountains from there. The downside it's further away from the main village so you'll be getting a bus if you want to get there I think for $50 you get free travel for the whole season or it something like $1.50-$2 a trip.

As you can imagine it quieter there with few choices on bar/food places, but it is slightly cheaper and you get to know people there a lot quicker as there are fewer people there and there won't be as many tourist as well.

here is a map of the whole of whistler so if you have a street address you should be able to find it http://www.canadaenespanol.com/Mapas/Whistlermap.pdf

seanoe - Nov 05, 2007 - 02:31 PM
Post subject:

Hey, cheers for that...

I know where we are.. On Gondola way, they did say we are about 300 metres to the lift, was just looking for confirmation.
The location should suit us fine, as long as we are close enough to an establishment that sells alcohol, and somewhere that sells food! All good there.

Cheers for the help

But if anyone else has any info on the Creekview I house at all, feel free to chip in!!

blipblip - Nov 05, 2007 - 02:33 PM
Post subject:

Hi Pricey.
Cool, Will be good to be with a few people who are in the same boat. I will keep an eye on this thread for Hostel booking action.

Also is anyone stayin with Seasonit, in the Smoke tree Place?

Tens - Nov 05, 2007 - 02:35 PM
Post subject:

BLIPBLIP TOM

add me to msn iant81@hotmail.com
there is at least 4 of us that are looking at staying in a hostel together

im staying with seasonit but in snow vally lodge and im sure there is someone on here staying smoke tree and lots in trappers and bon ami.

blipblip - Nov 05, 2007 - 03:04 PM
Post subject:

Alright Tens, I will add you to my MSN. Not long now until getting out there.

Snow valley lodge, I almost booked that one, the out door hot tub looks good.

steddie76 - Nov 05, 2007 - 03:38 PM
Post subject:

blipblip wrote:

Also is anyone stayin with Seasonit, in the Smoke tree Place?

Hey Tom,

I'm staying in Smoketree, in Van now travelling up to Whistler this afternoon, see you in a month!

lez_s - Nov 05, 2007 - 04:37 PM
Post subject:

i got a missed call from someone last night. was going to ring back but i would cost sh1t loads for us both.

if you want grab my msn and add me.

who ever is in whistler now seasonaires is having a piss up tonight. not sure of the details but i'll let you know when i do.

Dan888 - Nov 05, 2007 - 06:00 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

seanoe wrote:

Im afraid its 50 dollars a month 35 if your a student. Might have to scratch the expiry date off my old union card!

http://www.bctransit.com/regions/whi/fares/

Dazzler74 - Nov 05, 2007 - 06:31 PM
Post subject:

the walk from whistler village to creekside only takes about 15 minutes.. did it plenty of times and its a piece of cake...

apparently the bus is fooled by 2 pence pieces if that helps...

Dazzler74 - Nov 05, 2007 - 06:32 PM
Post subject:

I am hoping to get a Burton Custom wide when I am in whistler, I am hoping they do some sales sooner rather than later after I arrive.....Dec 5th -1 month to go!!

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 05, 2007 - 07:18 PM
Post subject:

Well i'm leaving the gf in toronto and flying to Van tomorrow Smile

oh yeah! Spending the night drinking in Van then heading up to Whis sometime on wed. So if anyone is about, i'll be the drunkest person in town. You should be able to find me by the trail of distruction.

Dazzler74 - Nov 05, 2007 - 09:09 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

So if anyone is about, i'll be the drunkest person in town. You should be able to find me by the trail of distruction.

that's like saying. 'I'm mad, I am..crazy as a mad hatter, they call me Johnny PARTY ANIMAL Belfast'....

which means look for the guy on his own in the bar sipping a Sprite tearing up beermats... Wink

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 06, 2007 - 02:19 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

they call me Johnny PARTY ANIMAL Belfast'

wow how the hell did you guess my nickname!!
lol
I'm just saying im pretty excited to get back out, and will certainly not be sipping a sprite.

Dazzler74 - Nov 06, 2007 - 12:23 PM
Post subject:

I am only jealous coz I have 4 more weeks of waiting to go through............

Tens - Nov 06, 2007 - 01:00 PM
Post subject:

im watching a program called "bear attacks" right now on c5 about mad super athletic bears in alaska which really isnt too far away taking down people and ripping them apart.

so glad there are some nice firnedly bears in whistler

blipblip - Nov 06, 2007 - 01:39 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

Hey Tom,

I'm staying in Smoketree, in Van now travelling up to Whistler this afternoon, see you in a month!

Cool, see you then. How close is smoketree to everything? looks like it's got the best location.

pricey74 - Nov 06, 2007 - 01:41 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

There's more chance of getting attacked in Whistler by a shark than by an Alaskan bear!! Laughing

pricey74 - Nov 06, 2007 - 01:42 PM
Post subject:

Tom, what flight are you on for 28th nov?

blipblip - Nov 06, 2007 - 01:57 PM
Post subject:

I'm flying with Zoom. Leaving Gatwick at 12:15, arriving in Vancouver at 16:05 (local times) via Manchester.

Jaded_Parrot - Nov 06, 2007 - 01:58 PM
Post subject:

Surely they will all be in hibernation now aswell or at least most of them? Or am i chatting rubbish and i really should watch some more really wild show? Laughing

pricey74 - Nov 06, 2007 - 02:00 PM
Post subject:

blipblip wrote:

I'm flying with Zoom. Leaving Gatwick at 12:15, arriving in Vancouver at 16:05 (local times) via Manchester.

Sweet, I'll see you on the tarmac in Manchester then mate!! Matt-j is also on the same flight and he'll be getting on with you in London so you might want to get in touch with him for a few beers in departures?! I think Tens has his e-mail details or you could pm him.

ace_mcgraw - Nov 06, 2007 - 03:20 PM
Post subject:

I don't think I saw any bears till April time I think. They rock though - luckily only browns found in Whistler - as far as I know none of the more agressive Grizzlies are in the valley!

ScottDrummer - Nov 06, 2007 - 04:28 PM
Post subject:

yer they are still awake, the bus i was on nearly ran one over last night

Tens - Nov 06, 2007 - 05:02 PM
Post subject:

FOR PEOPLE IN VANCOUVER FROM 27th Nov - 1st Dec

Been looking into some hostels/cheap hotels and have got 3 on my list which I will probably end up staying at, pricey and I and as far as I am aware matt-j (and possibly the new guy on their flight) may be interested in staying in the same place/room. Prices range from $15-25 a night depending on where and how many.

I would like to get this sorted by the end of the week so anyone with an interest get me on msn and we can sort sommit out.

steddie76 - Nov 06, 2007 - 05:40 PM
Post subject:

blipblip wrote:

Cool, see you then. How close is smoketree to everything? looks like it's got the best location.

Real close to the village, in fact you couldn’t be any closer without being in it, 5 mins walk to the lifts max!
Also this gaffs a lot better than the seasonit website suggests I’m we’ll happy!

matt-j - Nov 06, 2007 - 06:05 PM
Post subject:

blipblip im on the same flight from gatwick a hook up is in order i believe.

tens-let me the score im down with whatever

pricey74 - Nov 06, 2007 - 07:54 PM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

blipblip wrote:

Cool, see you then. How close is smoketree to everything? looks like it's got the best location.

Real close to the village, in fact you couldn’t be any closer without being in it, 5 mins walk to the lifts max!
Also this gaffs a lot better than the seasonit website suggests I’m we’ll happy!

Thats good news for me too as I'm just down the road from you guys in Bon Ami.

pricey74 - Nov 06, 2007 - 07:57 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

FOR PEOPLE IN VANCOUVER FROM 27th Nov - 1st Dec

I would like to get this sorted by the end of the week so anyone with an interest get me on msn and we can sort sommit out.

Tens - I'm easy with whatever to be honest so if you want to book somewhere that you like the look of then give the rest of us a shout and i'm sure we'll follow suit.
But be warned, if its a $hite hole you'll be getting stick for it all season, ha!!

hairymtbiker - Nov 06, 2007 - 10:16 PM
Post subject:

I'm booked into a hotel downtown - http://www.georgiancourt.com/... Did it through: http://www.purelyamerica.co.uk/

Was much cheaper than Expedia and the like.. If you want to do it cheap then it could be worth looking into a room for three people as they charge by room not person... Could be a similar price to the hostels and you get all the amenities of a 3/4 star hotel...

pricey74 wrote:

Tens wrote:

FOR PEOPLE IN VANCOUVER FROM 27th Nov - 1st Dec

I would like to get this sorted by the end of the week so anyone with an interest get me on msn and we can sort sommit out.

norton - Nov 06, 2007 - 11:02 PM
Post subject:

there are still loads of bears around.
there is 1 with 2 cubs that has worked out how to open the back gate at merlins, and has also worked out how to smash the locks of the garbage compactor.

still need to be slightly careful.

paulparkie - Nov 07, 2007 - 03:49 AM
Post subject:

er yeah seeing a bear is an almost regular occurrence! I'm teaching at Whistler Children's Centre though, and we couldn't let the children out to play last Friday afternoon cause there was a cougar stalking peeps in the area that afternoon... and those guys are way more scarier than bears!!

... it's actually on Black Bears found in Whistler... I think someone said further back that it's only Brown Bears... I thought brown bears are just another name for Grizzlies...

... though they are found in Pemberton, which is only 20km north... not a long walk for a bear!?

hmmm... and I'm supposed to be walking into town, along a forest trail alone soon to meet some peeps for food, and I'm starting to scare myself! haha

if this is my last post... it's been great meeting all you guys. haha

ace_mcgraw - Nov 07, 2007 - 08:45 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

... it's actually on Black Bears found in Whistler... I think someone said further back that it's only Brown Bears... I thought brown bears are just another name for Grizzlies...

Just like someone with orthopaedic shoes, I stand corrected. note to self - do your research!

Quote:

hmmm... and I'm supposed to be walking into town, along a forest trail alone soon to meet some peeps for food, and I'm starting to scare myself! haha

Yeah the first time I saw one was on my own on the way into work at about 6am! I was desperately trying to remember whether I have to make loud noises and run at them, or be quiet and stay still, or a combo of the two!

blipblip - Nov 07, 2007 - 11:49 AM
Post subject:

steddie76 wrote:

Real close to the village, in fact you couldn’t be any closer without being in it, 5 mins walk to the lifts max!
Also this gaffs a lot better than the seasonit website suggests I’m we’ll happy!

Thats wicked news, have you tried out the hotub?

matt-j wrote:

blipblip im on the same flight from gatwick a hook up is in order i believe.

Yes mate. I've emailed you.

pricey74 - Nov 07, 2007 - 11:55 AM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Quote:

I was desperately trying to remember whether I have to make loud noises and run at them, or be quiet and stay still, or a combo of the two!

I thought you just gave them a pic-er-nic basket and they'd leave you alone?

ace_mcgraw - Nov 07, 2007 - 12:00 PM
Post subject:

only if they're smarter than the average bear

Dazzler74 - Nov 07, 2007 - 12:50 PM
Post subject:

and they were shirt and tie....but no trousers!!

blipblip - Nov 07, 2007 - 12:57 PM
Post subject:

What should I do if I see a bear?
STOP AND ASSESS
Remain calm. Never approach a bear for any reason.

BACK AWAY
Back away slowly facing the bear.
Never run. Running can invoke chase.
Be predictable. Don’t surprise a bear.

TALK CALMLY
Talk quietly so the bear can identify you as human, and continue to back up.

IF A BEAR APPROACHES…
Don’t panic!!!
Speak firmly and wave arms or a stick above your head to make your presence bigger.
If a black bear becomes persistent, stand your ground and prepare to use your deterrent. Do not play dead. Seek the safety of a secure building or car, if possible. The bear may bluff charge. If a black bear attacks, fight back with any weapon you can find, including stones and branches.

Buying a massive bear gun might be worth it, aswell.

pricey74 - Nov 07, 2007 - 01:38 PM
Post subject:

blipblip wrote:

Hhhmmm, sound advice but I think i'll pack a marmalade sandwich just in case!

wolfie - Nov 07, 2007 - 05:33 PM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

Hhhmmm, sound advice but I think i'll pack a marmalade sandwich just in case!

maybe a Marmite on too?

Dazzler74 - Nov 07, 2007 - 06:08 PM
Post subject:

If you go down to the woods today, you're sure of a good surprise!!!

Simmons - Nov 07, 2007 - 06:11 PM
Post subject:

I found out today that bears can run as fast as the average horse...Better get those running spikes on!

"If a black bear attacks, fight back with any weapon you can find, including stones and branches."

I can see how this would help!? Twisted Evil

lez_s - Nov 07, 2007 - 06:14 PM
Post subject:

the only thing you need to worry about when you see a bear is, can you faster then the person with you.

ScottDrummer - Nov 07, 2007 - 06:24 PM
Post subject:

Has anyone go any lock cutters per chance? Need to chop the combi lock off my ski locker.

norton - Nov 07, 2007 - 07:20 PM
Post subject:

looks like its finally on its way. fingers crossed

http://snow-forecast.com/resorts/Whistl ... 6top.shtml

ScottDrummer - Nov 07, 2007 - 07:25 PM
Post subject:

yeah although I find snow-forecast to be a little optimistic somtimes, i try to get an average from weather.com, snow-forecast and the WB site. the good news however is that most forecasts are saying there is snow definitely on the way this week and over the weekend, even if it is in the alpine
oh snow-forecast is free today.

looking at the 6 day forecast it seems things are gonna get cold! -12 at top lift according to them. man im excited.

norton - Nov 07, 2007 - 07:37 PM
Post subject:

-19 with windchill. thats pretty damn cold.
good thing i have a puffy jacket, just need some decent mitts and should be away.

Denizen - Nov 07, 2007 - 08:07 PM
Post subject:

The forecast you need to pay attention to at the moment is the one for 1480m not the one for the top of the mountain. None of the terrain above about 1850m will be open on opening day or likely even during the first couple of weeks. The alpine areas are all really rocky so need much more snow to open than the tree-lined and grass covered mid-mountain. The start of next week is looking good though.
*anti-jinx*

Will - Nov 08, 2007 - 04:06 AM
Post subject:

im hoping so much it is going to snow.

just came back from market place and some random guy offered us dope. was so dodgy. wouldnt like to take anything of him haha.

i heard it was easy but didnt realise people offered you it in the street lol.

wolfie - Nov 08, 2007 - 09:36 AM
Post subject:

Will wrote:

sounds just like Camden

Tens - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:09 AM
Post subject:

blip blip and pricey

me and matt were talking on msn last night and are keen on staying in a hotel compared to a hostel, i personally want to goto vancouver rather than just be there otherwise could just head straight to whistler and think matt agrees, if you are up for it we have found a price of £57 each for the three nights (28th-1st) in http://www.georgiancourt.com 4* hotel, looks lovley and im assuming without any extra cost use their facilities, that price says it includes taxes and what not.

There are perhaps slightly cheaper hotels but we arent looking at paying all that much more than staying in a crappy hostel.

Tens - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:14 AM
Post subject:

also have just found out that if you stay with them they can hook you up with some canucks hockey tickets and theres a game on the 29th November, seems perfect timing to me and would love to go, if your not all that keen I am going to goto a game through out the season but im getting very excited.

ScottDrummer - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:37 AM
Post subject:

lol I have some Ride Flight Tomcat 2006 bindings if anyone is interested in Whistler. Free delivery. PM if interested

pricey74 - Nov 09, 2007 - 09:56 AM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Sounds good to me Tens.

Whats the deal with the rooms, is that £57 for a single room or will it be for a shared room. Just thought i'd ask as myself and 7 mates stayed in a hotel in boston and were shocked to find we were in 2 rooms, each with 2 double beds in them!

Dan888 - Nov 09, 2007 - 10:05 AM
Post subject:

Just looking at exchange rates and the like and was wondering what its like bringing stuff over the border from the US to Canada? If its not a problem would people be interested in a early season shopping trip? I want to buy a laptop when i arrive and could save 200 quid or so by buying in the states. Also Id really like to see seattle.

pricey74 - Nov 09, 2007 - 11:46 AM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

Dan, I need a new board, bindings and few other things so an early season trip sounds good. How early are you thinking? I arrive Nov 28th so hiring a car/van and driving down could be a laugh. Let me know as I need to let Tens know about digs in Vancouver. No worries if not though as I'll just buy my gear in Whistler.
Oh yeah, Seattle is pretty cool by the way!

Dan888 - Nov 09, 2007 - 12:32 PM
Post subject:

Pricey, I arrive next weds (the 14th) so 28th would be good for me. Need to find out what the rules are on taking stuff over the border before we plan anything. But in principle sounds good, especially if we can get a bit of a gourp together hire a van and do it cheap.

pricey74 - Nov 09, 2007 - 12:58 PM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

ROAD TRIP...........!

Tens - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:05 PM
Post subject:

i would like to do it but im not buying enough to make a saving and i cant see seatle being any or much cheaper than vancouver especially after the expense of the trip.

Pieman - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:05 PM
Post subject:

Does anyone know how the visa works in regard to going over to the US then getting back in to Canada? I know you can't renew a 6mth (3mth for US) visa by just going over the border, but wonder if you get more hassle if you go from one to the other a couple of times over the season.

Pieman - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:09 PM
Post subject:

Dan888 wrote:

Yeah the exchange rate hurting a bit now. Have you compared bestbuy.com with bestbuy.ca? Just wondering on the amount you save vs the cost to get to US.

Dan888 - Nov 09, 2007 - 01:19 PM
Post subject:

Yeah the exchange rate is crap, wish it was where it was last during the summer!

Just a comparison of 1 product the cheapest macbook

CAD 1249 GBP equivalent 634.70
US 1099 GBP equivalent 524.22
UK 699

I know those are exact rates and i wouldnt get that good but still a big saving.

Like I said though not worth it if Im going to have to put it in a johnny and eat it to get it over the border.

With regards to crossing the border I cant imagine it would be a problem at all. Dont think theyll look at your visa as long as your passport is in order. I hope not as i already have plans to visit family in the states over xmas.

wolfie - Nov 09, 2007 - 04:46 PM
Post subject:

It might have been mentioned before in this mammoth thread but is anyone thinking of taking a 2/3 day trip over to another resort while out there? At the Metro show the chap on the 'world snowboard guide' stand recommended to check out Revelstoke...as there opening there first lifts this year...normally this place was only available to Heli or CAT.

Just had a look on there site:

http://www.discoverrevelstoke.com/
http://www.seerevelstoke.com/snow

$56 per day lift pass or the hostel there does a $72 (1 night stay with brecky and 1 day on the hill) Its not a million miles away...will 312 (according to google). Would anyone else be up for this...or has anyone else been to this place or heard anything about it?

Tens - Nov 09, 2007 - 05:06 PM
Post subject:

i would be up for a little trip mid season but dont intent to plana nything now, will be better and easier to sort it all out one day once there

pricey74 - Nov 09, 2007 - 05:41 PM
Post subject:

Wolfie - I am defo going to chip to a few other places during the season, some other resorts, cities etc so Revelstoke sounds good. Certainly worth chatting about over a beer when we are all in Whistler....

Tens - Nov 09, 2007 - 05:49 PM
Post subject:

intrested in going ice hockey on the 29th pricey?

pricey74 - Nov 09, 2007 - 06:15 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

intrested in going ice hockey on the 29th pricey?

Probably not mate to be honest. I've already ticked off ice hockey from my "to do list" when i saw the bruins in boston.

matt-j - Nov 09, 2007 - 06:24 PM
Post subject:

im defo up for road trip whats the age to hire a car is it 25

pricey74 - Nov 09, 2007 - 06:32 PM
Post subject:

matt-j wrote:

im defo up for road trip whats the age to hire a car is it 25

Not looked into the minimum age to be honest, seeing as I'm the wrong side of 30 I know I'm ok!

ScottDrummer - Nov 09, 2007 - 06:33 PM
Post subject:

yup 25

blipblip - Nov 09, 2007 - 06:34 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

That sounds good mate, looks quite swanky compared to a Hostel.

Also I'd be very interested in the ice hockey, sound good.

lez_s - Nov 09, 2007 - 06:36 PM
Post subject:

guys i'm getting a sim card today now i know my mobile isn't locked. pm me your numbers at some point and i'll pm you mine back once i've got it.

Pieman - Nov 10, 2007 - 09:46 AM
Post subject:

Road trip sounds good. Will probably be best if we can do it with mimimal notice. i.e. not much new snow in Whistler for powder elsewhere.

Not that I want to jinx things, but last (and only) time I went to whistler they said it was the worst conditions in 10 years as in no snow, so it owes me. Laughing

pricey74 - Nov 10, 2007 - 05:05 PM
Post subject:

Tens & Matt - do you have any more info on the georgian court hotel you were looking at? Is it 2 doubles in the room or a different setup? You can mail/msn me on pricey74@yahoo.co.uk.........

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 10, 2007 - 11:15 PM
Post subject:

ok im just going to put my number up here, its easier than pm ing everyone, 906 1653

ScottDrummer - Nov 10, 2007 - 11:25 PM
Post subject:

whehey 100 pages! I guess the thread has gone beyond useful now, no one is gonna sit through 100 pages of us lot rambling about whistler.

Tens - Nov 10, 2007 - 11:51 PM
Post subject:

its only for us, and well done to everyone who has managed to fill out a useful 15-20 pages to 100

matt-j - Nov 11, 2007 - 01:03 AM
Post subject:

pricey it looks sick for 57£ for three nights bargain!!! !! its gotta be done.

Tens - Nov 11, 2007 - 01:56 AM
Post subject:

^^ matts pissed, had a conversation with him on msn and its making me chuckle

lez_s - Nov 11, 2007 - 07:27 PM
Post subject:

morning all, what you up tomorrow night? its my birthday so a load of people will be out for a drink or two, three, four.........

if anyone is up for meeting up give me a text 604 902 7619 and i'll let you know were we are. also put your name on it so i can save the number to the right name.

-Zach- - Nov 11, 2007 - 09:52 PM
Post subject:

Hey guys,

Im headin out to whistler for 3 months in january and hoping to fully re-kit myself out. It seems a fair few of you know your way around whistler and was wondering if you could give me a heads up on the best places to go, and if theres good deals on, ie discounts etc. Just planning ahead because if i know its worth waiting il wait, if not il just buy over here in england instead.

If this info has already been posted in this thread im sorry to ask again, but 100 pages was to much to check through!

ScottDrummer - Nov 11, 2007 - 10:43 PM
Post subject:

there are 50% off last years boards in westbeach and comor
there are mostly Nitro Team, T2(quite a range of sizes in these), Custom X(about 3 sizes), T6 (a'56), Burton Fish(didnt look at the size), a load of vapours for around $599, erm a couple of K2 freesyle boards, and also quite a few Burton shaun white boards. if you want us to grab you one I can go fetch it for you for when you arrive, let me know.

-Zach- - Nov 11, 2007 - 11:37 PM
Post subject:

The t2 is proberly the only one id think about gettin, im after a all rounder but slightly leans towards freestyle. Il have a think about and get back to you, I tend to like getting the board myself, demo it etc and also because im a bit of a girl and need to like graphics.

Cheers for the info mate, in terms of discounts when buying full setups you know if theres any going about? A mate of mine ended up gettin 10% off his + a 5% cus he was there for a season which sounds too good to pass up if anyone offers that in whistler!

ScottDrummer - Nov 11, 2007 - 11:43 PM
Post subject:

the Intrawest-shop deal this year is the 2007/8 custom x with 2006/7 custom bindings, theres another board but I cant remember what it was. Yeah your best demoing if your not sure which one.

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:11 AM
Post subject:

ok tonight, meeting in brandys at 8, then going to take it back to my place, everyone is welcome, im the guy with a black eye (long story) i live at 6124 eagle drive in cay heights.

Tens - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:18 AM
Post subject:

lets hear this "long story"

poeples long stories can usually be explained in less than a minute and i wouldnt mind a laugh

Will - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:22 AM
Post subject:

whats the place called johnny?im at 6136 eagle drive....a car just rolled out of a driveway with no-one in it.....its just sitting in the middle of the road now and there is no-one in the house i dont think!

Loftyrider - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:47 AM
Post subject:

staying with friends for a few weeks in Vancouver in March, gonna head up to Whistler for most of the time but also want to go spend about a week in Fernie.

Anyone know how easy or hard it is to drive to Fernie from Vancouver? I know it's about a 10 hour drive (hopefully with some good scenery), but wondering if anyone knows what the road conditions will be like in March?

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:48 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

lets hear this "long story"

poeples long stories can usually be explained in less than a minute and i wouldnt mind a laugh

yeah its really not that long a story, i just got really drunk and ko'ed, i tripped over a leaf or something, had my hands in my pockets, so just straight on my nose.

Quote:

haha, nope thats not our car, our house is not called anything, i know where your place is, im like 3 houses up, right opposide the entrance to smoke tree

Will - Nov 12, 2007 - 02:19 AM
Post subject:

orite sound sound, yeh i know were you are.

you got msn or anything like that?

cheers

wolfie - Nov 12, 2007 - 09:29 AM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

Cool, yeah we can sort something out nearer the time. Its meant to be a cracking drive through the mountains too.

(got no internet at home hence my lack of response over the weekend.)

Its frigging cold over here this morning....good winter ahead...lets hope

pricey74 - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:39 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

if you want us to grab you one I can go fetch it for you for when you arrive, let me know.

Hey Scott, is the 30% sale on this seasons burton gear still on? If so how are you fixed for picking up a board and bindings for me?
Cheers
Andy

pricey74 - Nov 12, 2007 - 01:48 PM
Post subject:

How's everything going with all you guys already in Whistler? Have all those looking for work found something yet? Everyone howling at the moon and doing crazy shamanic snow dances? Do all the barstaff in town know your names yet?
Jeez work is boring today....!

Pieman - Nov 12, 2007 - 02:07 PM
Post subject:

I'm going to be at Swiss Chalet at 6142 Eagle Drive. So glad to see some of you are going to be nearby. And I know to watch out for random cars rolling down the street and not to walk with my hands in my pocket!

Why-my-legs? - Nov 12, 2007 - 02:18 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

I lived in that very house for a couple of weeks in the 05/06 season. Another forumer on here lived there for the whole 7months. It's a good place to be.

ScottDrummer - Nov 12, 2007 - 05:22 PM
Post subject:

THERES SNOW ON THE GROUND! getting washed away a bit but the hill is getting dumped on

lez_s - Nov 12, 2007 - 05:43 PM
Post subject:

yeah, i ordered it for my birthday Laughing

anyone up for merlins about 7ish then head into the village for a few?

Tens - Nov 12, 2007 - 05:57 PM
Post subject:

only 2-3 more weeks till the cool gang arrive and we are bringing the snow with us

Dazzler74 - Nov 12, 2007 - 06:00 PM
Post subject:

actually its 3 weeks 2 days before the coolness arrives Wink

Tens - Nov 12, 2007 - 06:14 PM
Post subject:

no no, 1st of december is less than 3 weeks away.

Anyone got any tips for the transfers from vanc to whistler, is it wise to pre book or is it all good to just rock up around the time we are going to travel.
Could always book when we are in vanc a day or 2 before we want to travel.
Or anyone got any good cheap private taxi/limo/SUV places they want to pass on.

Dazzler74 - Nov 12, 2007 - 07:39 PM
Post subject:

I booked the perimeter bus, wanted to do the limo but couldnt find enough people arriving on 5th december!

norton - Nov 12, 2007 - 08:32 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

yeah, i ordered it for my birthday Laughing

anyone up for merlins about 7ish then head into the village for a few?

im working tonight so will be in attendance for sure. if its quiet you may see me hovering around the bar in chefs blacks with a red cap on.

tens wrote:

i would try and book it for sure if you know times...
pacificcoach.com offer a service from the airport, similar to perimeter but cheaper (i think). greyhound from downtown could be an option, but they dont let you take loads of gear (2 bag max i think) but try and speak to them as its only 20 bucks... you may be able to blag a bag for some coin. or you could look at the

pricey74 - Nov 12, 2007 - 09:00 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Anyone got any tips for the transfers from vanc to whistler, is it wise to pre book or is it all good to just rock up around the time we are going to travel.

Tens - I've been looking at going on the snowbus (www.snowbus.ca) as it picks up from a few places downtown and is only $21 one way! As its specifically a bus just linking Van to Wh there shouldn't be a problem with luggage either.

Dendromad - Nov 13, 2007 - 12:01 AM
Post subject:

norton,
cheers for pacificcoach.com not seen that one before. Has anyone used them or know if any good compared to perimeter?

Will - Nov 13, 2007 - 12:04 AM
Post subject:

i got perimeter bus up to whistler and it was class.....really nice and the guy did like a tour thing telling us about all the sites and everything like that

Pieman - Nov 13, 2007 - 01:49 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

yeah, i ordered it for my birthday Laughing

anyone up for merlins about 7ish then head into the village for a few?

Hope you had a good birthday booze up.

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 13, 2007 - 05:01 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

cheers for pacificcoach.com not seen that one before. Has anyone used them or know if any good compared to perimeter?

There was talks a while back that perimeter buses were going to be phased out, due to licencing or something complicated. Pacificcoaches were going to continue the service in exacty the same way with no disruption for customers. Basically the same service different name.
By the way the party is going to start on Saturday when they hopefuly open the mountain early, not sure if anyone has seen but we got over 1meter base already, and there is so much snow up top the maintainance crews cant use sleds in some parts. mmm i am so ready

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 13, 2007 - 05:01 AM
Post subject:

delete me
stupid connection

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 13, 2007 - 05:03 AM
Post subject:

delete me,
stupid connection

ScottDrummer - Nov 13, 2007 - 06:45 AM
Post subject:

yup heard from two places now they are opening saturday. i almost cant keep in my excitement.

Will - Nov 13, 2007 - 07:19 AM
Post subject:

woop woop!!

blipblip - Nov 13, 2007 - 07:51 AM
Post subject:

I think I've solved the problem of getting from Vancouver to whistler.
A Helicopter it costs $1820. Thats only £230 each. Oh, and we won't be able to take all our stuff, only enough room for a small bag each. But we'll look pretty dam flash.

Dan888 - Nov 13, 2007 - 09:24 AM
Post subject:

Mountain opening sat hey..Still says 22nd on the home page atm. Would be goods though.

Looks like Ill be arriving in the afternoon on the 15th. Do people fancy going out to get some eats? I have a feeling Ill be starving, Ive been recommended the pitapit for good cheap eats. Anyone else got any suggestions?

seanoe - Nov 13, 2007 - 10:57 AM
Post subject:

We arrive on Thursday also, in the afternoon. We are on Air Canada which arrives at 2.15pm.. Anyone else on this flight??Then on the next perimeter bus service to Whistler for a quick off load of bags and then for a feed!

harryh06 - Nov 13, 2007 - 11:36 AM
Post subject:

Not hitting vancouver till the 28 Dec. Anyone know of decent shops to pick up a new board. Preferably one that sells atomic alibi.

pricey74 - Nov 13, 2007 - 01:50 PM
Post subject:

harryh06 wrote:

Not hitting vancouver till the 28 Dec. Anyone know of decent shops to pick up a new board. Preferably one that sells atomic alibi.

I need loads of new gear and am seriously considering driving down to seattle to buy it, especially as the £ is so strong compared with the $US.

Its only 150 miles from Van so reckon it will be a 3-4 hr drive there, a bit of shopping and then a leisurely drive back. A 7 seater 4x4 would cost about £70 total for the day so if anybody fancies sharing the cost let me know. I arrive in Van Nov 28 so may do the trip on 29th/30th.............

Tens - Nov 13, 2007 - 02:27 PM
Post subject:

wont you get stung for tax on your way back in with the new gear?

pricey74 - Nov 13, 2007 - 03:04 PM
Post subject:

Only if they ask to have a look in the boardbag. And even then I could just say i bought it in canada.

Denizen - Nov 13, 2007 - 05:18 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

wont you get stung for tax on your way back in with the new gear?

Don't think so, the US and canada have a free trade agreement much like the European Common market. The only things that aren't covered are booze and fags I think.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada-U.S._Free_Trade_Agreement

Dan888 - Nov 13, 2007 - 05:50 PM
Post subject:

In that case im definatly in on the seattle trip.

Whos up for food on thursday night?

so far its me and seanoe by the looks of it

meet merlins at 6?

Tens - Nov 13, 2007 - 06:03 PM
Post subject:

i could be up for this trip too, dont really need all that much, just some goggles and gloves, gotta buy me a pair of boots in resort and may purchase some ski's or a board if i get a dirt cheap price.

seanoe - Nov 13, 2007 - 06:04 PM
Post subject:

I thiunk i will struggle for 6.. Maybe 7ish, if we are lucky, might have to play Thursday by ear... Will have to let ya know. But if i am there, i am the one with my girlfriend and i have a dody MOvember tash going on...

norton - Nov 13, 2007 - 07:46 PM
Post subject:

burton and all of its companies is ridicuosly cheaper in the states compared to canada if you are after that stuff. so is airblaster, nomis, and just about every other brand that i have looked at.

you also may not need to go as far as seattle as there are some shops on the way that sell bataleon, just over the border (i remember looking but cant remember names, check the bataleon stockists page maybe)

Dazzler74 - Nov 13, 2007 - 07:50 PM
Post subject:

anyone want to wait tilmid december before they make the trip as I need a new board and am up for a roadtrip!

pricey74 - Nov 13, 2007 - 08:14 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

anyone want to wait tilmid december before they make the trip as I need a new board and am up for a roadtrip!

Dazzler - I'm keen to make the trip while I'm in Vancouver Nov 28 - Dec 1 so I can arrive in Whistler with all my gear and get straight on it. But if you know what you want then I'd be happy to pick it up from Seattle for you. Within reason of course Laughing

kieren24 - Nov 13, 2007 - 08:22 PM
Post subject:

damn it... I have not been on this thread for a while and now realise all you jammy gits are going to be there soon... damn you all...

panda - Nov 13, 2007 - 11:55 PM
Post subject:

hey, anyone staying in the Seasonit's Snowbird Lodge in Blackcomb?

Tens - Nov 14, 2007 - 02:28 AM
Post subject:

i think there is at least 1 person in snowbird panda, im in snow vally and theres others in bon ami trappers and the other ones i cant remember.

Seeing as people are chucking ideas around I thought i would throw in some cheap ($50 and probably less) tickets to the nba, seattle sonics 7pm on the 30th if thats when the proposed trip to seattle was going to be around.

Tens - Nov 14, 2007 - 02:29 AM
Post subject:

or the nfl but thats a little more expensive and not as good, have actually been to a few american football games and they arent massivly exciting and you will probably sit about 2 miles away too unlike hockey and bball

wolfie - Nov 14, 2007 - 10:34 AM
Post subject:

panda wrote:

hey, anyone staying in the Seasonit's Snowbird Lodge in Blackcomb?

hey great to have another snowbird lodger I was worried I was the only one. I'll be there from Jan 2nd to the end of Feb...when are turning up?

pricey74 - Nov 14, 2007 - 11:19 AM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

Tens - I'd defo be up for the sonics game. NBA and NFL are both something i want to go see on this trip.

Dazzler74 - Nov 14, 2007 - 12:45 PM
Post subject:

I am after a Burton Custom Wide 162 but I want to check out the board myself beofre buying... I am hoping to try one in whistler before parting with my cash as I may go for a Salomon Patrol...

I am in Trappers Cabin with Seasonit by the way.. Wink

Dazzler74 - Nov 14, 2007 - 12:46 PM
Post subject:

I should add my boardbag is now packed, I just need to wash my duck down jacket as its a bit funky after last season!!!

just my suitcase to pack which is half done..

like you say, its never too early to pack!

Pieman - Nov 14, 2007 - 01:07 PM
Post subject:

If anyone is out there atm and want to see American Football (Wish I was there already). There is the Canadian league. BC (Vancouver) have a playoff game on Sunday. Sun Nov 18 Saskatchewan at BC.
http://www.bclions.com

goodfriend - Nov 14, 2007 - 01:27 PM
Post subject: put your dvd and video onto ipod/psp/zune/iphone/apple tv

Do you have an ipod video or ipod touch ?
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If you want to cut any part of video to ipod , just using a software at http://www.oursdownload.com/dvd-and-video-to-ipod.html
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Tens - Nov 14, 2007 - 01:41 PM
Post subject: RE: put your dvd and video onto ipod/psp/zune/iphone/apple t

that may possibly be some spam...

out of 104 pages i think its almost fair

rachie - Nov 14, 2007 - 01:45 PM
Post subject: RE: put your dvd and video onto ipod/psp/zune/iphone/apple t

i love this thread and admit im an avid reader.......

February cant come around soon enough Smile

Tens - Nov 14, 2007 - 02:39 PM
Post subject: RE: put your dvd and video onto ipod/psp/zune/iphone/apple t

haha also those who are about in vancouver on the 2nd of Dec (we just miss out but could hold on just 1 more day) are lucky enough to catch the spice girls reunion tour. 1st venue is vancouver!

pricey74 - Nov 14, 2007 - 03:03 PM
Post subject: RE: put your dvd and video onto ipod/psp/zune/iphone/apple t

Forget about doing a season in Whistler, I'm cancelling so I can follow the Spice Girls tour!!
Mmmm.....Ginger Spice Love

Denizen - Nov 14, 2007 - 05:49 PM
Post subject: RE: put your dvd and video onto ipod/psp/zune/iphone/apple t

Forget Ginger Spice, mountain looks almost certain to open on Saturday. The latest forecast is predicting much lower freezing levels than originally for the weekend.

Alpine Recreation Forecast For The South Coast Mountains Issued By The Pacific Weather Centre Of Environment Canada At 5.00 Am Pst Wednesday 14 November 2007 For Today Tonight Thursday Friday Saturday And Sunday.
The Next Scheduled Forecast Will Be Issued At 2.00 Pm.

Synopsis..A Frontal System Will Approach The Bc Coast Today Spreading Snow And Strong Southerly Winds To The Area This Afternoon Through Thursday.

Whistler - Blackcomb.
Today..Cloudy. A Few Flurries Developing This Afternoon.
Alpine High Minus 1.
Snowfall Accumulation 0 To 5 Cm.
Freezing Level Valley Bottom.
Mountain Top Winds Light And Variable Becoming Southeast 40 To 50 Km/H Near Midday.
Tonight..Snow Heavy At Times.
Alpine Low Minus 4.
Snowfall Accumulation 15 To 20 Cm.
Freezing Level Valley Bottom.
Mountain Top Winds South 50 To 70 Km/H.
Thursday..Snow.
Alpine High Minus 1.
Snowfall Accumulation 10 To 15 Cm.
Freezing Level 1800 Metres.
Mountain Top Winds Southwest 40 To 50 Km/H.

5 Day Trend..A Couple Of Frontal Systems Will Move Slowly Across The Region Friday Through Sunday Giving Periods Of Snow Or A Few Flurries To The Region.

Extended Forecast For Whistler - Blackcomb.
Friday.. Periods Of Snow. Snowfall Accumulation 10 To 20 Cm.
Freezing Level 1250 Metres.
Saturday.. Cloudy. A Few Flurries. Snowfall Accumulation 0 To 5 Cm.
Freezing Level 1000 Metres.
Sunday.. Cloudy With Sunny Periods. A Few Flurries.
Snowfall Accumulation 0 To 5 Cm. Freezing Level 750 Metres.

Copyright 2007 Environment Canada.

/ANTIJINX

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 06:09 PM
Post subject:

my alarm is set for 6am saturday morning. lol

matt-j - Nov 14, 2007 - 06:18 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

my alarm is set for 6am saturday morning. lol

i take it there opening up early scott??????

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 06:19 PM
Post subject:

not sure yet, they are apparently making their decision this afternoon, but things are looking good.

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 07:49 PM
Post subject:

just called the snowphone....

WE ARE OPENING SATURDAY!!!!!!!!!!!
man im way too excited now.

Denizen - Nov 14, 2007 - 09:12 PM
Post subject:

Snowing in Brio right now; you don't need pants for the victory dance, the mountain's opening ear-ly.

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 09:33 PM
Post subject:

its weird, just walked into town, there is about a half inch of snow on the ground around the wizard lift, but no where else. Must have had the cannon on it i guess.
hope this snow keeps up

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 09:38 PM
Post subject:

ah crap, looks like its just the Whistler lifts opening, no blackcomb yet
*goes and sets his alarm another 15 minutes earlier* :-\

"Whistler Mountain will open on Saturday with access from the Whistler Village and Creekside base areas. The Whistler Village Gondola, Creekside Gondola, the Emerald Express, Franz’s Chair and the Big Red Express are all scheduled to open.

Guests should be aware that early season conditions will exist on and off-piste and caution should be exercised when venturing beyond the ropes.

A rail park will be set up in the Emerald Express Habitat Park area. Jumps, more rails and other terrain park features will be added as the snow falls and more terrain is opened. "

norton - Nov 14, 2007 - 09:43 PM
Post subject:

yes yes its all very exciting.

somehow my days off (normally tu/we/th) fell on sat/sun for this week. how lucky can you get...

65 hours or so by my watch...

Denizen - Nov 14, 2007 - 09:49 PM
Post subject:

Cool, anyone else up for a trek through Harmony up to the top?

panda - Nov 14, 2007 - 10:34 PM
Post subject:

wolfie wrote:

hey great to have another snowbird lodger I was worried I was the only one. I'll be there from Jan 2nd to the end of Feb...when are turning up?

Cool. Turning up the beginning of Feb, you know of any other people going to Snowbird or do we have the whole place to ourselves!

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 10:58 PM
Post subject:

Denizen wrote:

Cool, anyone else up for a trek through Harmony up to the top?

yeah if i find my legs quick enough, otherwise ill prolly be taking it easy first day.

Denizen - Nov 14, 2007 - 11:13 PM
Post subject:

ScottDrummer wrote:

Denizen wrote:

Cool, anyone else up for a trek through Harmony up to the top?

yeah if i find my legs quick enough, otherwise ill prolly be taking it easy first day.

Hey Scott last time I checked they were attached just below your waist!

ScottDrummer - Nov 14, 2007 - 11:22 PM
Post subject:

hahaha

ScottDrummer - Nov 15, 2007 - 03:02 AM
Post subject:

dumping atm, just been out threw a snowball at a random person and run off. if this keeps up overnight, its gonna be a good day tomorrow.

norton - Nov 15, 2007 - 03:02 AM
Post subject:

just heard unconfirmed rumours that all intrawest staff this year get 50% of heli-skiing.
feck right

Tens - Nov 15, 2007 - 03:24 AM
Post subject:

sounds like one hell of a discount

Denizen - Nov 15, 2007 - 06:57 AM
Post subject:

Dear everyone thinking of coming to Whistler don't bother. There is no snow right now and all the locals are saying there never will be, for this season at least. You may have seen pictures of snow on the WB website; these are all a lie. I repeat there is no snow in Whistler. The mountain does not open on Saturday and it does not have a retardedly deep early season base, lies, lies and more god damn lies. It really makes me mad that a big corporation like Intrawest does this to build up the hopes of people who aren't here to see for themselves.

Please save your money, there is no decent riding to be had within 500 miles of BC; you do not want to come here. And for people already here I suggest you pack up and go home just like I am going to do.

Yeah right! See you on Opening Day bitches. It's going to be Sickter McRickter.

blipblip - Nov 15, 2007 - 07:35 AM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

just heard unconfirmed rumours that all intrawest staff this year get 50% of heli-skiing.
feck right

I'm don't work for intrawest unfortunately but I deffinetly want to go Heli-skiing once while I'm out there. Anyone else interested?

pricey74 - Nov 15, 2007 - 08:59 AM
Post subject:

Denizen wrote:

Cool, anyone else up for a trek through Harmony?

I know that Canadians are accommodating, but this Harmony chick sounds very very friendly! Never heard it called trekking before though, I'll have to consult my Profanisaurus! Laughing

pricey74 - Nov 15, 2007 - 09:00 AM
Post subject:

Denizen wrote:

Cool, anyone else up for a trek through Harmony?

I know that Canadians are accommodating, but this Harmony chick sounds very very friendly! Never heard it called trekking before though, I'll have to consult my Profanisaurus for the exact definition! Laughing

ace_mcgraw - Nov 15, 2007 - 09:01 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

wolfie wrote:

hey great to have another snowbird lodger I was worried I was the only one. I'll be there from Jan 2nd to the end of Feb...when are turning up?

Cool. Turning up the beginning of Feb, you know of any other people going to Snowbird or do we have the whole place to ourselves!

Yay - have a good time in snowbird guys - awesome place. When I was there there was only 4 people which meant we had a room each which was sweet, instead of the 2 per room it was supposed to be!

You'll have to telll me if they have the same red couch (it was pretty feck when I left in 06!) and the same tv cabinet that is about to fall apart!!

And make use of the hot tub - it's amazing for parties as it fits about 30 people in!

pricey74 - Nov 15, 2007 - 09:01 AM
Post subject:

Denizen wrote:

Cool, anyone else up for a trek through Harmony?

wolfie - Nov 15, 2007 - 09:44 AM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

Quote:

nice, will do. Can you actually board in and out?

Tens - Nov 15, 2007 - 10:25 PM
Post subject:

been having a panic attack, not been able to get onto this thread all day!

Tens - Nov 15, 2007 - 10:29 PM
Post subject:

ace how often do they not completly fill the chalets, not just the one you were in, other seasonit places?

ace_mcgraw - Nov 15, 2007 - 10:29 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

nice, will do. Can you actually board in and out?

Not quite - to get to the slope it's basically 5 min walk (At most) to the side of the slope, which runs down to the bottom of the wizard chair. Or there's a bus stop to get the free bus to the base of both mountains if you're feeling really lazy!

ace_mcgraw - Nov 15, 2007 - 10:32 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

ace how often do they not completly fill the chalets, not just the one you were in, other seasonit places?

To be honest I can't say - when I was there snowbird was being run by Seasons on Snow / Alpine Elements, so I only really knew about other Alpine Elements condos. We had 4 people in this 8 person condo (Max - only two of us stayed all the way through till May), whereas another condo out on Eagle Drive, Whistler Cay had a bout 20 people in, with at least 2, sometimes 4 people in a room!

Pieman - Nov 15, 2007 - 11:35 PM
Post subject:

Glad to hear about the snow, getting really excited now.

Think it going to take me a week to get my boarding legs sorted. I've not done any boarding or exercise since January. I did a bit of carrying up stairs the other day and I felt like I'd just hiked up a mountain lol

Pro-Ride - Nov 16, 2007 - 08:56 PM
Post subject: Fresh Pow Turns November 14 Video

Two days ago Marc Andre Tarte and I scored some sweet turns in the Whistler backcountry. You can check the video at http://www.pro-ride.com/videos/whistler_sled_shred_nov07.cfm

Neil and I were also in the Ullr Party Rail Jam last night at the base of Whistler.

Tomorrow the mountain is opening!

It's happening - if you want to come out and ride with us thus winter check out www.pro-ride.com - camps start the beginning of December here in Whistler, Canada

Cheers

Anthony

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 17, 2007 - 05:00 AM
Post subject: RE: Fresh Pow Turns November 14 Video

Not to get anyone excited or anything but Whistler opens in 11 hours and 30 mins
I'm so f'in ready!!

blasphemy - Nov 17, 2007 - 03:31 PM
Post subject:

Hi guys,

Anybody know of any availibility on the season-it/ seasonaires accomodation for the 07/08 season? In a bit of hole at the moment, been waiting since june for my working visa for Vail. But received an email yesterday from my lift ops supervisor, indicating that i wont receive my visa in time for the winter season (due to visa cap being reached back in oct).

So now looking into alternatives. I have subsequently taken time out from my Engineering career, after being told my vail supervisors that my visa would be straightforward. - Therefore jobless in the uk, and pondering what to do next.

Any information regarding season-it/ seasonaires availability, would be appreciated. Contacting them direct is proving difficult.

cheers

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 17, 2007 - 06:52 PM
Post subject:

Ok so i'm just back from shredding the opening day on Whistler. Heres the low down.
Me and my buddys were at the lifts at 5am this morning, we were behind a few people (some kids had camped out from 6pm the night before). Lifts opened at 8:15 and we were 4th gondy up, which if you have ever been to whistler, especially an opening day, is hell good. The crowd behind us was massive. Our first runs were epic untouched fresh pow, next few we got some sweet lines again. I have to say though, not as much snow as previous years, thay had groomed a fair bit, if you didnt know where to go it would be harder to find the good continous lines. The line ups were non existant for our first few laps but by 9:30 they were massive, so we rode down to mid station which was a bit sketch(it was out of bounds), just death cookies everywhere, couple gullys. So were down by 10, it was a perfect first day, some sick lines and just enough to warm up the legs, missed all the crowds who were still in a line to upload.

Dazzler74 - Nov 17, 2007 - 06:58 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Ok so i'm just back from shredding the opening day on Whistler

You utter git!!! Wink

2 weeks to go!

ScottDrummer - Nov 17, 2007 - 08:36 PM
Post subject:

yeah was a good day, just got down as the queues were growing and got enough for today. bring on tomorrow!

arby - Nov 17, 2007 - 10:20 PM
Post subject:

blasphemy wrote:

ahh mate MASSIVE no deal! maybe have a look in europe?? if you look at the "SCUK members benefits" part of the website then theres a few other lodges. also have a look at "natives"

norton - Nov 17, 2007 - 11:00 PM
Post subject:

just back from my first day. survived, but feck sore. in line at 7, had 3 nice fresh runs before the crowds, and then found some nice tree stashes after that.

was a good day. havent been so sore in ages, am off until thursday and its feck snowing hard as i look out the window now!!!

ScottDrummer - Nov 17, 2007 - 11:57 PM
Post subject:

its sticking! lol

lez_s - Nov 18, 2007 - 03:12 AM
Post subject:

well, getting in line at 7am and get up there about 08:15 for opening day all i can say that it was sick.

going up tomorrow for a couple of hours.

norton - Nov 18, 2007 - 03:51 AM
Post subject:

a girl who i live with works for the snowmaking team, and her fella works as a lift supervisor. she said there was at least 2 people carried down by ski patrol, and one helivac, all were before midday.

theres 200 days this season, so be a bit sensible when there is not much coverage, would hate to hear that any of you guys who have been so excited over the past months did themselves in...

Pieman - Nov 18, 2007 - 11:56 PM
Post subject:

I just realised that I'm arriving the day before US thanksgiving day and Dallas Cowboys (team I follow) are playing on TV around 1pm, if I've got my timezones correct.

Has any pub advertised that they are showing the game and perhaps there being some sort of festive grub on hand as a bit of turkey could go down well Smile

Of course will any of you guys be interested in meeting up for beers and watching the game? As it will be more fun than being on my own and it's a good early chance to meet up with you.

Also on another note, not sure how well advertised the early opening at Whistler was, but there might be loads of Americans in for the long thanksgiving weekend. So make the most of the snow before it all gets trashed at the weekend.

lez_s - Nov 19, 2007 - 12:01 AM
Post subject:

i'm watching redskins and cowboys playing now.

i would think the sports bar would have it on.

which weekend do you mean? was riding yesterday and it was fine.

Pieman - Nov 19, 2007 - 12:22 AM
Post subject:

I'm watching the game as well while surfing.

Well This Thurday 22nd is Thanksgiving so that day is a holiday so most will take Friday off as well and have a long weekend. So from 22-25th could be busy. Most times there is a US holiday those weekends are extra busy on the slopes. But like I said all depends on how well advertised the early open was, most people may of already made plans and so as many people will come to Whistler.

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 19, 2007 - 01:46 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Has any pub advertised that they are showing the game

Brandys the bar at the Keg will be showing it, we have 9 massive plasma screens and one projector.
There will also be a number of specials on like wings and beef dips (if you havnt had one you must) and beer, but no turkey.

rachie - Nov 19, 2007 - 10:12 AM
Post subject:

Has anyone got any pics of the slopes, peeps riding etc??

Pieman - Nov 19, 2007 - 12:20 PM
Post subject:

rachie wrote:

Has anyone got any pics of the slopes, peeps riding etc??

there are some photo on the whistler website http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

Also some video clips of some people on the 14th Nov
http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

panda - Nov 19, 2007 - 01:44 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

Also some video clips of some people on the 14th Nov http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/weathe ... /index.htm

eh! looking so good. rock on february is all I can say.

rachie - Nov 19, 2007 - 01:52 PM
Post subject:

Thanks Pieman, ive got that in my favs clickety click everyday and check the webcams Smile

, but i meant anyone off here gonna upload piccys Smile

Summers250 - Nov 19, 2007 - 04:59 PM
Post subject:

all you guys out there already - how quickly did you get out of the airport in Van? its only 55 minutes between my landing time & the 7.30pm bus to Whistler. will i make it?
<

lez_s - Nov 19, 2007 - 05:06 PM
Post subject:

yeah you should be fine. which bus you going with?

russ_e - Nov 19, 2007 - 06:26 PM
Post subject:

come om get those pics uploaded!!

Pieman - Nov 20, 2007 - 12:05 AM
Post subject:

it might be better using the facebook site http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2460950097 for putting pictures. However, I think everyone is enjoying the snow and not thinking of the photo ops at the moment. But I could do with seeing some photos as well. Very Happy

I was thinking of buying a camera, but think I will make do with my mobile phone instead lol

lez_s - Nov 20, 2007 - 12:14 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

I think everyone is enjoying the snow and not thinking of the photo ops at the moment.

too right. just got in from riding all day. taken my camera twice now and not got a photo because i'm loving riding whistler even tho most of its is closed. i'll get photos tomorrow.

JanSolo - Nov 20, 2007 - 01:16 AM
Post subject:

I'm in Vancouver for a job interview later this week, and I've arranged the flights so that I have a few spare days afterwards to go up to Whistler for some riding!

I need:
Somewhere to stay (27th -> 2nd)
A lift pass (3 or 4 days)
Some people to go riding and drinking with!

If anyone can give me any advice on where to go for good accomodation, cheap lift passes, or fancies meeting up for some riding or drinking please drop me a reply or a PM!

Cheers

Jan.

ace_mcgraw - Nov 21, 2007 - 09:18 AM
Post subject:

Just thought I'd show everyone a message I just got from Voleurz (Whistler based video company):

Howdy Folks! We're really excited for the "More For The Astronauts" Whistler premiere at the Longhorn this Sunday, Nov 25th! This is one of our final destinations on the Coors Light DEEP SPACE tour.

We've just received word that there will be a SEASONS PASS to Whistler-Blackcomb up for grabs PRIOR to the screening of the film!
We also have a butt-load of FREE swag from Glacier Shop, TMC and NossaTV.com.

Be there EARLY, and rock out harder than ever before. The Voleurz Family will be in FULL-FORCE...Coors Light on special!
Doors open at 9:00pm.

-Voleurz Family

I've seen some clips of More for the Astronauts, as well as last years film (Yes No Maybe I think it was called) and they looked pretty good. I know a couple of them as they worked on the lifts when I was there, and they're pretty sound lads, so go say hi!

ScottDrummer - Nov 21, 2007 - 04:32 PM
Post subject:

nice one, will check it out

Pieman - Nov 22, 2007 - 09:19 PM
Post subject:

Finally in Whistler!!! Got my phone number is 604 902 4682. Went with the 7-11 option of $100 credit and free phone.

Will aim to be out on the slopes tomorrow so anyone in the eagle drive area who are up early give me a text and if I'm up will meet up outside on the road.

Well now I think I will go in the Keg and watch the american football and drink a little beer.

If anyone out tonight let me know and I'll try and come along for a beer if I'm not still in the pub watching the NFL games.

Pieman - Nov 23, 2007 - 01:59 AM
Post subject:

Keg didn't open till 3pm so went to Crystal lounge instead. Saw tonight Crystal is doing some sort of event where you can win a season pass. Won't be going myself.

also my skype is pierrevel and live messenger is pdyv@hotmail.com

lez_s - Nov 23, 2007 - 07:17 AM
Post subject:

did everyone hit blackcomb today. cant wait until all of it is open.

getting my self a new board tomorrow, a lib tech trs

norton - Nov 23, 2007 - 07:24 AM
Post subject:

yeah man i hit it. was up early and had some sweet runs down to jersey cream, and then over the top along the cat track to near 7th chair. hopefully there is still some freshies tomorrow

BoardingJay - Nov 23, 2007 - 07:25 AM
Post subject:

you won't be dissapointed with the trs Smile

lez_s - Nov 23, 2007 - 07:32 AM
Post subject:

do you know how stiff the trs is? i like how stiff my dh is.

going to my mates shop in whistler to have a look in more details. the lib techs are cheaper the ride boards. did think about the skate banana, but have a dh for all that stuff.

i was loving the powder moguls today, but, my knee is hurting now. going to take a couple of days off.

Stu_H - Nov 23, 2007 - 11:32 AM
Post subject:

Sorry for going slightly off topic, but has anyone who has flown out with Zoom had problems checking their board bag in containing more than just a board?

As I understand it, it's free 'sports equipment' carriage so I'm planning on putting my board, helmet, jacket, pants, etc in there as I believe this is all 'sports equipment'. I have been reading elsewhere that they may have issues with this and you're only allowed to take a board? What have you guys been cramming in there?

Thanks,

Stu.

ace_mcgraw - Nov 23, 2007 - 12:13 PM
Post subject:

I basically put everything i owned into my board bag (Yes it;s a big bag!), and I was more or less ok, with slight probs at both ends.

At Gatwick, basically my bag was over 45kgs, which meant for some quick repacking as that was over the limit for baggage handlers to carry - Zoom didn't bat an eyelid!

At Toronto I had a bit of a strange look, but told them I'd phoned their customer service people and they said it was ok, and I got it through ok.

This was Sept 06 when I came back tho, so it may have changed since then

pricey74 - Nov 23, 2007 - 01:38 PM
Post subject:

Not quite following on from recent posts, but does anybody know the procedure for buying stuff in the US and then re-entering Canada with it?

I land in Van next week but was thinking of popping down to Seattle to pick up a few things. Just wanted to know if they would sting me at the border for any additional taxes/charges when i re-enter Canada?

Burton and The North Face gear is so much cheaper in the US compared to the UK and Canada so I'll be saving quite a few £££'s. An example is the Burton Custom board - £400 in the UK but $545 US incl all taxes (£275 total) Will be buying a new board, bindings, boardbag, daypack, goggles, helmet, socks, thermals, hats, fleeces etc so the trip will be worth it, providing there are no extra charges at the border of course?!

Any help/advice/experiences would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers

Andy

Tens - Nov 23, 2007 - 05:14 PM
Post subject:

pricey i have mailed kasie back saying roughly when we are going to arrive and put all of our names in it. I also asked the question your asking above but she hasnt replied yet, will put it up as soon as she does/if she does.

Dazzler74 - Nov 23, 2007 - 06:01 PM
Post subject:

dont forget if you go to the US you can only come back into Canada for 3 months!!!

you get 6 months if you come from the UK - commonwealth privilege I think

Dazzler74 - Nov 23, 2007 - 06:35 PM
Post subject:

good to hear everyone is obvsiuly having an ace time..

only 11 days to go...man, its draggin'

pricey74 - Nov 23, 2007 - 06:57 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

dont forget if you go to the US you can only come back into Canada for 3 months!!!

you get 6 months if you come from the UK - commonwealth privilege I think

Dazzler - You're kidding me, right?! Hhhmmm, I can see this putting somewhat of a spanner in the works!

Tens - Nov 23, 2007 - 07:01 PM
Post subject:

i think it may be more than a spanner, i do beleive it would be a whole garages toolkit

pricey74 - Nov 23, 2007 - 08:02 PM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

i think it may be more than a spanner, i do beleive it would be a whole garages toolkit

LOL! I've just mailed you and the other 2 about it. Have a look and see what you think....

Dazzler74 - Nov 23, 2007 - 08:53 PM
Post subject:

am 99% sure its true.....

Tens - Nov 24, 2007 - 12:44 AM
Post subject:

from kasie.

"In regards to buying gear in the states, it should be fine – you are allowed up to a certain amount of good duty free (I think it might be around $700 – but I’m not sure if that’s still the case so I’d definitely double check that). You should declare all goods, a group of young guys traveling around together always arouses suspicions at boarder control and you’re much more likely than the average family van to be pulled over for a random check (fines for not declaring goods are expensive!!)"

I will ring someone fully in the know before I travel.

Could one of you lot let me know what time you are expected to get into vancouver so i can sit around in the lobby for you of our lush hotel waiting for you lot. Will have already booked in by then but will be waiting for you in the lobby for a certain time.

Tens - Nov 24, 2007 - 10:51 AM
Post subject:

from kasie,

"I’m not too sure on all the immigration details; however, I would image that when you fly into Vancouver you will be issued with a 6 month tourist visa and your issue then is getting into and out of the US. I wouldn’t think it would be a problem as I’m sure plenty of people do days trips etc into the US, but it’s worth phoning and checking out before you enter the US as you don’t want to be stuck there. "

makes more sense

Tens - Nov 24, 2007 - 02:38 PM
Post subject:

stupid monday to friday jobs, no one around to talk to today at either the canadian embassy or bunac. Will have to wait till monday. Doesnt make much difference as we were only gonna sort it out when there anyway but should fully know by then.

Oz. - Nov 26, 2007 - 11:40 AM
Post subject:

Lez whats the place your staying at like and what are seasonaires like to deal with?

Elvis - Nov 26, 2007 - 12:59 PM
Post subject:

sorry to hijack the thread, but just booked to go to Whistler - get in.

Denizen - Nov 26, 2007 - 11:38 PM
Post subject:

It may or may not be snowing in Whistler at the moment. Wink

seanoe - Nov 27, 2007 - 01:04 AM
Post subject:

and if it were to be snowing it would have been bucketing down... But thats only if it was snowing...!!! Very Happy

lez_s - Nov 27, 2007 - 01:31 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez whats the place your staying at like and what are seasonaires like to deal with?

very nice. hot tub, pool table lots of room. david who runs seasonaires is a top guy.

oh its dumping down out side

lez_s - Nov 27, 2007 - 01:41 AM
Post subject:

photo from today. think its about 20cm

HP-S - Nov 27, 2007 - 02:00 AM
Post subject:

Lez, didn't know you were over in Whistler......you should've mentioned it or something Razz

KirstSM - Nov 27, 2007 - 02:00 AM
Post subject:

Finally here and had a great day riding, can't wait until tomorrow!

Where can people recommend to go out - bars/cheap places to eat?

lez_s - Nov 27, 2007 - 02:07 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez, didn't know you were over in Whistler......you should've mentioned it or something

Quote:

Where can people recommend to go out - bars/cheap places to eat?

check this link http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/PNphpBB2 ... t-660.html

Pieman - Nov 27, 2007 - 07:53 AM
Post subject:

Great to see the snow. Had a great day today and looking forward to more tomorrow.

Dazzler74 - Nov 27, 2007 - 09:03 AM
Post subject:

you intolerable gits Wink

stop rubbing our noses in it...

though I am sure I will be doing the same when I arrive in 8 days...

BoardingJay - Nov 27, 2007 - 05:28 PM
Post subject:

bah! 3 years til my season... hmph!

Will - Nov 27, 2007 - 10:39 PM
Post subject:

my birthday today. snowboarding in pow and blue bird. cant beat it.

lez_s - Nov 27, 2007 - 11:11 PM
Post subject:

happy birthday Beer

yeah it was a top day. was riding harmoney most of the day.

Denizen - Nov 28, 2007 - 12:58 AM
Post subject:

Harmony early then peak later was money, well worth the 10 minute hike over. First gondi up today, did the jump at mid station and ended up 4 gondolas ahead of everyone except 3 other people who did the same as me.

Will - Nov 28, 2007 - 01:03 AM
Post subject:

yeh i got the 4th chair up on harmony....was waiting for an hour for them to open but well worth it!

ScottDrummer - Nov 28, 2007 - 04:53 AM
Post subject:

Happy 11th birthday William Razz

lol
getting to the front of the harmony lift queue next to will and john = tired,but stoked
waiting for an hour and half before lift opened = annoying
having a snowball fight with the queue = fun
watching Will get 4th lift up after being at the front of the queue for an hour and half because he dropped his glove..... = Priceless Laughing

Pieman - Nov 28, 2007 - 09:21 AM
Post subject:

I played around on the emerald and big red until harmony opened didn't want to be waiting around. But do have to say the runs off harmony was great and can imagine what first runs would of been like.

I really wanted to go to Blackcomb, but big group decided on Whistler so I thought better to have a laugh with them instead, but at least I did Blackcomb yesterday while it was snowing.

Looks like more snow tomorrow Very Happy

JohnnyBelfast - Nov 28, 2007 - 09:35 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

having a snowball fight with the queue = fun

haha that was us that started firing the snowballs.
Yeah was an epic day, we found some English guys (dunno if they are on here) kinda lost at the top of peak and took them down west cirque, we were the first few down and it was face shots the whole way.

wolfie - Nov 28, 2007 - 09:45 AM
Post subject:

you guys sound like your loving it.

ace_mcgraw - Nov 28, 2007 - 10:17 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

took them down west cirque, we were the first few down and it was face shots the whole way.

I love it out there. I miss not being there now Crying or Very sad

My fave runs were actually out on west bowl, getting fresh lines into them at the end of May! I wanna be back in Whistler!

Dazzler74 - Nov 28, 2007 - 12:37 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Smell My Cheese You Mother

aren't you supposed to open the door first Wink

to you guys who are already there, how busy are the slopes it being November?

arby - Nov 28, 2007 - 01:44 PM
Post subject:

more pics more pics more pics! i appreciate you dont want to spend time on here putting up pics but... more pics Smile

Pieman - Nov 28, 2007 - 04:25 PM
Post subject:

yesterday the lift queues was a little busy as everyone was out enjoying the powder. But day before when it was actually snowing the slopes were empty. I had to wait for someone to turn up to get on the Crystal chair as they were not allowing singles on it due to wind.

ScottDrummer - Nov 28, 2007 - 04:50 PM
Post subject:

slopes arnt too busy atm now thanksgiving is over. i had a few runs to myself yesterday which was good

norton - Nov 28, 2007 - 06:25 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

we rode crystal chair in the afternoon and were still finding stashes at 2:30 with no-one around. literally didnt see a soul.
rode harmony in the morning, between mcconkeys and something else. was pretty sweet. nice cornice drops all over the shop.
so many injuries again yesterday, 22cm isnt all that much when there was no snow in places the day before...

wolfie - Nov 29, 2007 - 05:03 PM
Post subject:

http://www.snowsphere.com/canada/best-d ... n-whistler

quite a nice article of a season in whistler

blipblip - Nov 30, 2007 - 04:05 AM
Post subject:

Hello. Quick question, do any of the shops in whistler stock Lib tech Travis rice/Dark Series or GNU Riders choice also the K2 Zepplin?
In Van at the moment checking out the shops, heading up on the 1st.
Cheers.

norton - Nov 30, 2007 - 06:39 AM
Post subject:

pretty sure evolution do...
i know they stock those brands anyway

blipblip - Nov 30, 2007 - 07:27 AM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

pretty sure evolution do...
i know they stock those brands anyway

Cool, cheers mate.

lez_s - Nov 30, 2007 - 08:40 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Hello. Quick question, do any of the shops in whistler stock Lib tech Travis rice/Dark Series or GNU Riders choice also the K2 Zepplin?

yep, evolution do have lib tech there, a guy in my chalet works there and i've been in and seen them.

GordyD - Nov 30, 2007 - 03:18 PM
Post subject:

hey guys, just arrived in Whistler. Are there any plans for a big meet up in a bar somewhere this weekend?

wolfie - Nov 30, 2007 - 03:42 PM
Post subject:

I see over on snow-forecast you guys have got a nice dump coming over Sunday eve.

Has anyone ever done stuff with http://www.whistlerguides.com/ I'm thinking of doing a avalanche intro course with them and wanted to know if they have a good rep. I also found a link to an online avalanche course over here:

http://access.jibc.bc.ca/avalancheFirst ... /index.htm

rachie - Nov 30, 2007 - 03:52 PM
Post subject:

Can I ask a Q...... Is it actually snowing in the town or not, I keep a close eye on the webcams and its showing as snowed in the town but then you get another shot and the canons are on Smile

norton - Nov 30, 2007 - 04:53 PM
Post subject:

yeha its def snowing in the villages. they have the guns on just to try and cover the lower part of the mountain as we havent had much down low yet.

i've attached a photo from my balcony, taken just the now.

also. has anyone been checking the weather on the whistler site???
looks like there may be an inversion happening and alot of rain rather than snow. lets just hope its a mistake cos according to there site we shuold be getting over 50cm if it doesnt rain.

rachie - Dec 01, 2007 - 08:35 AM
Post subject:

norton your pics not showing up Sad

Glad the snows down to the village Smile

I check the Whistler site daily for snow reports its saying snow today and tomorrow Monday rain or snow and Tuesday rain Sad

Cant you get the site??

Pieman - Dec 01, 2007 - 10:14 AM
Post subject:

snow for sometime Saturday and more on Sundau from what I see. Hopefully it's correct.

really need another dump.

ScottDrummer - Dec 01, 2007 - 06:42 PM
Post subject:

ye but there is a pineapple due apparently so chance of rain Sad

check out http://www.whistlerweather.org/ for report

pricey74 - Dec 02, 2007 - 02:14 AM
Post subject:

GordyD wrote:

hey guys, just arrived in Whistler. Are there any plans for a big meet up in a bar somewhere this weekend?

Hey gordy, yeah we're heading out tonight for a few and a bite to eat. not sure where/when though as we're going on a "seasonit village tour" at about 7pm. not got a mobile number yet, but my house number is 604 938 1180 if you wanted to call and arrange to meet somewhere.

Same goes for everyone else who fancies a beer and meet later...

ScottDrummer - Dec 02, 2007 - 02:18 AM
Post subject:

would love to, but had enough last night. We will have to get some more nights out arranged

pricey74 - Dec 02, 2007 - 02:26 AM
Post subject:

Yeah defo, it will be good to finally meet eveyone and put faces to the names...

lez_s - Dec 02, 2007 - 02:31 AM
Post subject:

i'm waxing my board tonight, but i know a couple of people from my place are out so i might come out later.

dryslopeboy - Dec 02, 2007 - 04:23 AM
Post subject:

I'm building an ark tonight ready for the 100mm of rain which is coming in on Sunday afternoon / Monday! Very Happy

I've uploaded a few pics onto Flickr, if anyone wants to take a look follow this link http://www.flickr.com/gp/54203952@N00/u1703K

Pieman - Dec 02, 2007 - 07:42 AM
Post subject:

will be good to meet up at some point. A few days notice will be good so that everyone has time to read the forum

blasphemy - Dec 02, 2007 - 03:46 PM
Post subject:

Heading out on thursday the 6th of december for 5 months........... Looking forward to my first season, and a career break! Although i have a few pre- season butterflies. (5 month non working)

Would be good to meet up with some ridding buddies! when i arrive and get settled in.

*BTW - you guys recon i will be ok getting through Vancouver baggage claim/ customs in '70 minutes' after flight lands, in order to catch the whistler express transfer? *

Pieman - Dec 03, 2007 - 12:45 AM
Post subject:

blasphemy wrote:

You should be ok, waiting for the luggage to arrive took the longest. I had the fun of being stop twice by security asking me what I was planning to do in Canada while I waited for my bags, but thankfully didn't get stopped at customs.

wolfie - Dec 03, 2007 - 10:11 AM
Post subject:

dryslopeboy wrote:

I'm building an ark tonight ready for the 100mm of rain which is coming in on Sunday afternoon / Monday! Very Happy

I've uploaded a few pics onto Flickr, if anyone wants to take a look follow this link http://www.flickr.com/gp/54203952@N00/u1703K

nice pics...is that your car then?

ace_mcgraw - Dec 03, 2007 - 05:05 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

i'm waxing my board tonight,

is that a snowboarding equivalent of "I'm washing my hair"?

lez_s - Dec 03, 2007 - 05:07 PM
Post subject:

whistler is closed!!! too much snow, only one the gondola on blackcomb is open and the line is back to showcase

lez_s - Dec 03, 2007 - 06:36 PM
Post subject:

from whistlers web site -
Wizard and Excalibur are now open on Blackcomb.
Remaining lifts on standby.
Extreme avalanche advisory, stay on marked trails and do
not go out of bounds.

ScottDrummer - Dec 03, 2007 - 06:58 PM
Post subject:

good job i checked the lift status before setting out this morning, would have been well peeved to get all that way.
hopefully they will open up today, im sitting in my gear atm not been up for two days so im itching to go atm.

lez_s - Dec 03, 2007 - 07:05 PM
Post subject:

i got up and ready and text kye who was in the line for gondola and the line was passed showcase, now crashed out on the sofa in all my stuff.

dryslopeboy - Dec 03, 2007 - 07:59 PM
Post subject:

Wolfie - nah it's not my car wish it was! It was an avis hire car that we got from YVR to Whistler, $200 for one way, sweet! It was fully loaded with cream leather interior and a V8 petrol enigne which was fun! We managed to get 4 of us and all our bags in it.

Lez - I was talking to one of the patrollers this morning and he said the reason they couldn't open Whistler mountain this morning was because there was too much icing going on on the chair lift and gondola calbles. We waited an hour at Creekside gondie this morning and the cabins were slipping. Mind you the rain crust on this new snow is gonna cause slabbing everywhere off piste. The new snow is gonna be ruined by now with the warming trend, it will be heavy as hell. That's just the way it goes in Whistler, we had plenty of similar days last season, still at least it will help bulk the base up a bit.

ScottDrummer - Dec 03, 2007 - 08:04 PM
Post subject:

reackon they will open today? or shall i take my gear off lol

lez_s - Dec 03, 2007 - 08:09 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

Lez - I was talking to one of the patrollers this morning and he said the reason they couldn't open Whistler mountain this morning was because there was too much icing going on on the chair lift and gondola calbles. We waited an hour at Creekside gondie this morning and the cabins were slipping. Mind you the rain crust on this new snow is gonna cause slabbing everywhere off piste. The new snow is gonna be ruined by now with the warming trend, it will be heavy as hell. That's just the way it goes in Whistler, we had plenty of similar days last season, still at least it will help bulk the base up a bit.

yeah i read some about and got an email on facebook from whistler saying about the wind etc.

dryslopeboy - Dec 03, 2007 - 08:10 PM
Post subject:

Dude i can't see it opening today, even if it does it will be like riding on elephant snot at all elevations. Call me sceptical or do you reckon the reason that Intrawest have opened one lift is so they don't have to refund people who have bought day passes or refund 1 day on weekly passes!

lez_s - Dec 03, 2007 - 08:16 PM
Post subject:

yeah i thought the same about the opening of two lifts, plus we cant claim as lifts are open.

ScottDrummer - Dec 03, 2007 - 08:27 PM
Post subject:

creekside, garbanzo and village just opened

Dazzler74 - Dec 03, 2007 - 08:57 PM
Post subject:

Right thats it guys and gals,

I am all packed up and ready to go, work tomorrow but then straight up to Manchester then fly on wednesday.. my last post in the UK

I did just get an email from whistler/blackcomb saying that only 1 lift was open on blackcomb and whistler was closed due to so much snow....hehehehehehe should be bluebird when I arrive!!!!

see you all there...

Denizen - Dec 03, 2007 - 09:13 PM
Post subject:

Dazzler74 wrote:

Nice propoganda, due to too much rain rather than too much snow. Will likely be very icy and cold for when you arrive.

Pieman - Dec 04, 2007 - 02:01 AM
Post subject:

Going to TA for 80's night later. Will try and not drink too much (as if) and get up on the mountain tomorrow.

Been a bit of a crap day seeing all the snow get washed away by the rain.

lez_s - Dec 04, 2007 - 02:08 AM
Post subject:

tommy africa's is the place to be on mondays Beer

ace_mcgraw - Dec 04, 2007 - 09:18 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

Been a bit of a crap day seeing all the snow get washed away by the rain.

Welcome to Whistler! These things happen!

cazkins - Dec 04, 2007 - 01:45 PM
Post subject: See ya soon guys

See ya tomorrow kidz Laughing

il be at white gold if anyone wants to be a friendly neighbour and bring me a beer hamper?!!

Caz x

rachie - Dec 04, 2007 - 02:33 PM
Post subject: RE: See ya soon guys

Caz have a FAB time and save some snow for me Smile

Denizen - Dec 04, 2007 - 05:24 PM
Post subject:

Whistler is so wet at the moment, still torential rain. 4 inches of water on all of the roads around the area.

Most annoying thing is I have to dig our car and drive out this morning, the person the landlord paid to clear our driveway hasn't turned up so if I don't do it now we'll be stuck till the end of winter most likely.

If anyone wants to give a hand you will be rewarded with beer and maybe knowledge of secret spots on the mountain. Just look for the guy in the brown jacket near the end of Arbutus Drive swearing loudly!

norton - Dec 04, 2007 - 11:52 PM
Post subject:

we rode whistler park this afternoon. was soft at the bottom, heavier than spring snow but was snowing at the roundhouse and until about the last rail in the park. wet but its fun when its like that as you're not expecting an amazing day...

lez_s - Dec 05, 2007 - 12:55 AM
Post subject:

thinking of heading up tomorrow for a couple of runs, what are the pistes like. reading on the whistler site it says not to go off piste

norton - Dec 05, 2007 - 04:48 AM
Post subject:

we road out and it was sketchy at best below midstation, fun though ollieing rocks and creeks.

i wouldnt really do much other than park, the snow is pretty heavy, though im sure the groomers will be ok as well.

lez_s - Dec 05, 2007 - 05:13 AM
Post subject:

might not be worth going up then. i cant ride park for another month, until my knee gets stronger.

Tens - Dec 06, 2007 - 12:47 AM
Post subject:

was ok today, only did 3 or 4 runs, nothing below mid station tho. Warm but not slushy and only icey where bear of freshish snow which wasnt much.

Pricey said he prefers tam tho....

pricey74 - Dec 06, 2007 - 12:53 AM
Post subject:

LOL!! Yeah I'm booking my flight home tomorrow. The coffee in starbucks at tam just tastes nicer somehow, ha!

lez_s - Dec 06, 2007 - 01:41 AM
Post subject:

went up today and i was fine, the only bad part was the cloud level.

Pieman - Dec 06, 2007 - 06:06 AM
Post subject:

couldn't be bothered today, will aim to do a full day tomorrow.

Tens - Dec 06, 2007 - 06:53 AM
Post subject:

yeh few of us up early tomorrow and hoping to do same, should sort a meet soon really.

tomorrow ill have on some red trousers whitish jacket and some rasta von zipper gogs. (and some skis)

mia - Dec 06, 2007 - 06:13 PM
Post subject:

Hi, 3 of us got into vancouver yesterday with no job or accomodation....
Currently considering living in an RV for the season. Anyone got any better ideas for short term accomodation or better still full season accomodation? The obvious hostels seem booked up!

Pieman - Dec 06, 2007 - 10:10 PM
Post subject:

mia wrote:

Look here http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/pique/index.php and pick up the magazine on Thursday. Classifieds with have some accomodation listed. You just have to phone around.

Pieman - Dec 06, 2007 - 10:13 PM
Post subject:

Was out today. Couldn't see much higher up. And one guy next door broke his collar bone on a jump Sad

ace_mcgraw - Dec 06, 2007 - 11:04 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

went up today and i was fine, the only bad part was the cloud level.

yeah, i can remember I didn't see the sun for about a month and a half!

Dazzler74 - Dec 07, 2007 - 12:28 AM
Post subject:

was up blackcomb today, suddenly dawned on me I hadnt ridden since March and I was feckin sh1t!!!

nice shiny new bindings though so its all good....

now if I can just remember how to ride....

pricey74 - Dec 07, 2007 - 01:27 AM
Post subject:

mia wrote:

I know Tens has previously mentioned that if a lady needs a bed for the night he's more than happy to sleep in the hot tub. Just look for the guy with ski's reading poetry and sipping pimms.

Tens - Dec 07, 2007 - 03:09 AM
Post subject:

theres nothing wrong with pimms actually, and no comments please unless your skills outweigh mine.
Going to monks tonight for someones bday with pricey mattj blip blip and walnuts and many others so if anyone is about track us down, pricey only wears all black thinks hes a ninja or something and mattj will be wearing a white had with dangly bits. As i have more clothes and style it will be difficult to say what i will be donning tonight.

Pieman - Dec 07, 2007 - 09:15 AM
Post subject:

Bit late but where is Monks? Ended up eating my first bit of sushi in Whistler had a couple a beers in the brewhouse and then got a few bottles of red wine to drink back at the house. A nice sensible night - not had many of those lately!

Pieman - Dec 07, 2007 - 09:17 AM
Post subject:

Anyone planning to see the Ricky Hatton fight on Saturday? Not checked to see which bar will be showing it yet.

harryh06 - Dec 07, 2007 - 04:41 PM
Post subject:

Heading to whistler at the end of the month for the rest of the season. Looking to book a hostel in Vancouver for two days prior.

Anyone know of any decent hostels - preferably one were the perimeter bus picks you up outside?

Is it advisable to book the perimeter bus in advance?

Cheers

Tens - Dec 07, 2007 - 07:28 PM
Post subject:

pieman our reps say no where is advertising it but the barman at monks last night said they would probably put it on as it was pay per view so if poeple were there and expecting to watch they would buy it, im sure its the same as many other places too.
really want to get to a sushi restaurant and see if i like it as much as i think i do.

harryh:
Lots of poeple stay in cambie hostel and say its really good fun as everyone is up for doing something all the time. other than that im not to sure.

Denizen - Dec 07, 2007 - 11:36 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

Monks is at the base of Blackcomb, as you look at the wizard chair it is the building to the left with the big glass windows.

Dazzler74 - Dec 08, 2007 - 12:28 AM
Post subject:

if you sort out a place to watch the boxing, post it up, I havent seen any places advertising it though!!

Pieman - Dec 08, 2007 - 01:14 AM
Post subject:

I popped in to Tapleys, but they said call later on tonight as it hadn't been decided yet if they would show the fight. Crystal lounge said no.

pricey74 - Dec 08, 2007 - 02:24 AM
Post subject:

harryh06 wrote:

Check out the georgian court hotel on the purelyamerica website. its a 4 star hotel and not much more than a hostel. 5 of us stayed there before we came to whistler and it only cost us £19 each per night (2 sharing a 2 bed room).

You could try getting the snowbus instead, its way cheaper than the perimiter as it only costs $24 one way.

pricey74 - Dec 08, 2007 - 02:28 AM
Post subject:

If nobody shows the fight we could always ply blip blip with beer and then watch and wait for him to go off on one.

Will - Dec 08, 2007 - 05:59 AM
Post subject:

iiiiiight!

harryh06 - Dec 08, 2007 - 11:13 AM
Post subject:

Cheers Tens, cambie hostel looks to be pretty central located.

pricey74, thanks for the tip on the snowbus. georgian hotel looks sweet, but travelling out by my lonesome self at first, may have a bit more craic at the hostel. Noticed they were both located beside each other - near enough.

blipblip - Dec 08, 2007 - 05:23 PM
Post subject:

pricey74 wrote:

If nobody shows the fight we could always ply blip blip with beer and then watch and wait for him to go off on one.

Oi, thats fighting talk that is. Smile

Sounds like we need a big enough group of people to warrant a bar putting it on for us. 20 people turning up wanting to watch the fight and spend money, they couldn't refuse.

norton - Dec 08, 2007 - 08:51 PM
Post subject:

merlins is showing the fight.
we have a few signs up over the bar, but not many. i think we are the only place showing as far as i've been told. would get there rather early if you want to make sure you get in.

blipblip - Dec 08, 2007 - 11:29 PM
Post subject:

norton wrote:

Wicked news, thought we were going to miss it. Will be down in a bit.

Dazzler74 - Dec 09, 2007 - 12:01 AM
Post subject:

merlins it is then.....going about 6pm

Dazzler74 - Dec 09, 2007 - 04:21 PM
Post subject:

boxing was on in merlins but it was queueing to get in.....our housemates waited 2 hours and got in seconds before the fight...

which was funny as I was watching them from inside enjoying a beer or three...

lez_s - Dec 09, 2007 - 05:54 PM
Post subject:

when are we going to have a few beers people. what days/nights can people make?

ScottDrummer - Dec 09, 2007 - 06:02 PM
Post subject:

im working mon/tues this week

lez_s - Dec 09, 2007 - 06:05 PM
Post subject:

you remember what work is like Laughing

ScottDrummer - Dec 09, 2007 - 06:09 PM
Post subject:

yeah, ive not worked for 3 months! lol its not all that bad

Pieman - Dec 09, 2007 - 08:05 PM
Post subject:

Got to Merlins at 7:45, should of know better. Was no getting in so we went to Longhorns for a couple of drinks and watched UFC fighting then bought some beers to take home.

Will - Dec 10, 2007 - 06:31 AM
Post subject:

sweeeeeeeeeet, hot tubs, cant beat it.....anyone wanting to meet up for a shred in the park?

Will - Dec 10, 2007 - 06:31 AM
Post subject:

or anywere for that matter

JohnnyBelfast - Dec 12, 2007 - 12:00 PM
Post subject:

wow been quiet for a while, so whats everyone up to, where you working, hows the riding going at the mo, what is the sh1t thats going down?!

ace_mcgraw - Dec 12, 2007 - 12:08 PM
Post subject:

yeah, I just realised, that was like a whole day and a half with nothing being said!

JohnnyBelfast - Dec 12, 2007 - 12:20 PM
Post subject:

i know, people must have some stuff to say, like honestly, what have they been up to? All i've been doing is ripping groomers at mac 10, like, wow, i love not turning, its amazing how fast you actually get. Saying that, its snowing now and i should go to sleep for a bit of shred tomorrow.
PS i dont know names on here so who have i met out of you guys, i need name and SUCK name, lol, just so i know

Will - Dec 13, 2007 - 12:43 AM
Post subject:

orite jonny u seem pretty keen snowboarder so u wanna come up first lifts tomorrow? im hoping its going to snow...i think i live like 3 doors down eagle drive from u in chalet bon ami....went up today first gondola and it was amazing.
let me know man

Dazzler74 - Dec 13, 2007 - 02:15 AM
Post subject:

did 4 runs by 9am this morning - conditions were excellent, got a bit tracked out in afternoon...

been mostly up blackcomb as its closer to our chalet... GLC tonight me thinks...

wolfie - Dec 13, 2007 - 01:12 PM
Post subject:

I know this a probably been asked already but how long does it take to get through passport+bags after arriving? if I'm meant to land in at 14:20 do you reckon I'll make the 15:30 bus?

Dazzler74 - Dec 13, 2007 - 04:10 PM
Post subject:

we arrived late by 2 hours so missed our bus - but it made no difference as perimeter put us on the next bus and were very helpful - it was a completely stress free transfer... they had a big sign in arrivals and new exactly who we were and that we were delayed....

JohnnyBelfast - Dec 13, 2007 - 08:13 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

so u wanna come up first lifts tomorrow?

sorry bud, i might be out for a week or so, had a pretty bad slam yesterday, going to rest it up for a while maybe go to the clinic ths afternoon. I'll let you know when im back in action and we'll go shred

ScottDrummer - Dec 13, 2007 - 08:52 PM
Post subject:

hiked Chimney got some good turns in up there but fairly windy in places
its dumping right now, which most of you prolly know as your mostly all here.

Dazzler74 - Dec 14, 2007 - 04:50 PM
Post subject:

am full of cold which is even more annoying as I have a brand new board sat in our board room....!!!

may sneak out for a couple of hours this afternoon....

I did manage to catch up on my HEROES though so it isnt all bad!!

Pieman - Dec 14, 2007 - 11:52 PM
Post subject:

Had a great day today. pain in my leg more or less gone and enough snow to have fun in. Although seeing all the dips was a little difficult, but can't have it all.

And even more snow expected Very Happy

ScottDrummer - Dec 15, 2007 - 04:55 AM
Post subject:

ye light was flatter than cat deeleys chest today. hiked 7th before the lifts open tomorrow. Nakred now.

Dazzler74 - Dec 16, 2007 - 12:23 AM
Post subject:

the lifts didnt open today on 7th Heaven which is getting annoying now, blackcomb was just too busy

Harmony though was rockin and if you followed the path under the harmony lift it was still pretty clean right up til 2pm...

may have day off tomorrow to avoid the lift queues and try and get rid of this feckin cold, doing my nut in...

loads more snow due tonight - get in!!!

Pieman - Dec 16, 2007 - 02:20 AM
Post subject:

7th Heaven was open, just not till later. I didn't get on the mountain till around midday as I went to Maxx Fish last night.

Spent the afternoon on 7th Heaven around the Cloud 9 run, loads of powder still around. Stay there till the lift shut at 2:30 then dropped down Horstman T-bar/Glacier Express lifts off piste all the way to Jersey Cream lift for last lift up and then did the run down to the village.

Should of been out earlier, but still had a fantastic day.

Roll on tomorrow.

Dazzler74 - Dec 16, 2007 - 08:13 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

7th Heaven was open, just not till later

bugger it

Dazzler74 - Dec 16, 2007 - 08:14 PM
Post subject:

Quote:

7th Heaven was open, just not till later

bugger it

lez_s - Dec 16, 2007 - 10:34 PM
Post subject:

sitting in a gondola in high winds is fun

Dazzler74 - Dec 18, 2007 - 03:37 AM
Post subject:

7th Heaven was awesome today....best runs so far......

lez_s - Dec 18, 2007 - 03:49 AM
Post subject:

yeah we got some of the first lines down it Mr. Green

lez_s - Dec 18, 2007 - 03:50 AM
Post subject:

one other things, who is up for some drinks one night?

Pieman - Dec 18, 2007 - 04:04 AM
Post subject:

Anyone going Tommy Africa's tomorrow (Tue) to see Sharam?

lez_s - Dec 18, 2007 - 04:05 AM
Post subject:

who or what is sharam?

Pieman - Dec 18, 2007 - 04:16 AM
Post subject:

http://www.myspace.com/sharamdish

Denizen - Dec 18, 2007 - 08:41 AM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

yeah we got some of the first lines down it Mr. Green

First chair up 7th this morning woo! A few great runs back down to 7th and then Couloir Extreme was $$$.

JohnnyBelfast - Dec 18, 2007 - 09:27 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

First chair up 7th this morning woo!

F**k you and the horse you rode in on!!
I'm still out damn it, got the x-rays the other day, its a wedge compression in my spine and alot of muscle damage, so its good news, nothing broken or damaged too bad. Just got to take time off and rest it, hopefully not too long though.

lez_s - Dec 18, 2007 - 07:17 PM
Post subject:

sh1t man that sucks. how did it happen? not that it will make you feel any better, my knee is killing me can only ride a few day before needing a day off. looking back wish i got my acl and cartilage sorted.

JohnnyBelfast - Dec 18, 2007 - 07:56 PM
Post subject:

I know hindsight is a wonderful thing!
I managed to totally clear the large hip in the blue park, upsidedown. So it was a good 30feet to flat ice landing on my upper back. My helmet saved me from bad concussion for sure.

lez_s - Dec 18, 2007 - 08:03 PM
Post subject:

ouch!!!

good job you have a helmet on.

lez_s - Dec 18, 2007 - 08:38 PM
Post subject:

i'm not riding today so will be heading into the village so if your up for a drink let me know. i'll pm you my number.

Pieman - Dec 19, 2007 - 04:14 AM
Post subject:

Just in case you don't know. Fresh tracks tickets are 2-4-1 atm so get them now.

pricey74 - Dec 19, 2007 - 09:15 PM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

Just in case you don't know. Fresh tracks tickets are 2-4-1 atm so get them now.

Cheers for the headsup Pieman! I'll pick one up later today....

Denizen - Dec 21, 2007 - 10:13 PM
Post subject:

Flute was awesome today, think I might hike it again tomorrow if people are interested.

ScottDrummer - Dec 22, 2007 - 12:14 AM
Post subject:

yeah im up for that. what time/place?

lez_s - Dec 22, 2007 - 12:38 AM
Post subject:

whats flute like? been told it takes 25 mins to hike it.

cant make tomorrow, but for doing it another day.

Denizen - Dec 22, 2007 - 02:00 AM
Post subject:

Some hard lines and quite a few easyish lines. 25 minutes to hike is about right for most people although if you just put your head down and stomp you can do it in about 15. As you have to hike to it flute is usually one of the last places to get shredded.

Pieman - Dec 24, 2007 - 01:04 AM
Post subject:

Gone quiet again. Everyone playing in the snow Smile

Managed to do one run on 7th Heaven before they closed it Sad

Have a great Xmas If I don't get to post again before then.

Denizen - Dec 24, 2007 - 07:19 AM
Post subject:

Pieman wrote:

Gone quiet again. Everyone playing in the snow Smile

Managed to do one run on 7th Heaven before they closed it Sad

Have a great Xmas If I don't get to post again before then.

Peak was sick today, zero line up and great snow. The high winds and crap vis kept most people away which was perfect for us. The only downside was that I was working in the afternoon so couldn't get as many runs in as I would have liked.

JohnnyBelfast - Dec 24, 2007 - 10:29 AM
Post subject:

Quote:

I'm sorry all i hear is 'ooo im the best, i got fresh lines today, can i get a pat on the back please'
go craig lol
also, when did 7th close cause i rode it from opening till 12, hmmm suckers.

wolfie - Dec 28, 2007 - 11:18 AM
Post subject:

I hope all you guys had/having a good xmas....I'm feelign a bit heavier now, I was pretty fit before the xmas stoge hit me. 5 more days until I fly out....been checking the snow forecast everyday, looks super snowy.

flugeryl - Dec 29, 2007 - 10:31 AM
Post subject:

first week of Jan is going to puke down on whistler with over 100cm of new snow in 3 days up top

ScottDrummer - Jan 01, 2008 - 06:22 PM
Post subject:

Happy New Year people.

Pieman - Jan 01, 2008 - 06:35 PM
Post subject:

Happy New Year

wolfie - Jan 01, 2008 - 06:43 PM
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Happy New year guys, I see its going to be dumping over the next couple of days. I fly out tomorrow! wahoo

BoardingJay - Jan 01, 2008 - 06:55 PM
Post subject:

HAPPPPPPPY NEW YEARRR!!! im not actually in whistler but i thought i'd share the joy!

lez_s - Jan 02, 2008 - 01:00 AM
Post subject:

happy new year everyone

czar - Jan 02, 2008 - 01:53 PM
Post subject: Chalet Bon Ami......

Hi guys, i've got a question - i've been trying to keep track but 119 pages is a lot of reading to do!!

So, basically - i'm headed out to Whistler for 2 months from 1st Feb to 1st April, staying in Chalet Bon Ami........ so i was just wondering who my new housemates are gonna be!! Staying in a bunk room so if you know who's there already tell em they're getting the new girl as a roomate!

I've seen posts from a few people but would really appreciate if you'd say hello cos its getting real soon and i'm both really really looking forward to it and a bit nervous at the same time cos i'll be by my lonesome!

Email add is the_almighty_czar@hotmail.com

xxx

lez_s - Jan 02, 2008 - 06:17 PM
Post subject: RE: Chalet Bon Ami......

welcome to scuk czar.

i think the place you are staying is with seasonit? i dont know anyone from that chalet but i'm sure you wont have anything to be nervous about.

Oz. - Jan 02, 2008 - 08:57 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: Chalet Bon Ami......

lez_s wrote:

welcome to scuk czar.

i think the place you are staying is with seasonit? i dont know anyone from that chalet but i'm sure you wont have anything to be nervous about.

Lez what is White Gold chalet like now you have been there a while? Im thinking of grabbing a place there for 08/09.

Tens - Jan 03, 2008 - 12:06 AM
Post subject:

cue a sleezey private email from pricey who is in bon ami......

lots of poeple in bon ami are on here and is just down the road from me, all people in there are cool but it has been a boy house from the start and apparently you and the other are the only girls in bon ami but i am only going on what i have been told from other bon ami people.

see you soon
ian

harryh06 - Jan 03, 2008 - 12:17 AM
Post subject:

Have just arrived in whistler - staying in southside lodge hostel in creekside at present, but looking for long term accommoadation for the reminder of the season.

Anyone know or hear of anything going

If so very much appreciated

lez_s - Jan 03, 2008 - 04:06 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Chalet Bon Ami......

Oz. wrote:

lez_s wrote:

welcome to scuk czar.

i think the place you are staying is with seasonit? i dont know anyone from that chalet but i'm sure you wont have anything to be nervous about.

Lez what is White Gold chalet like now you have been there a while? Im thinking of grabbing a place there for 08/09.

its a cool chalet with hot tub, pool table and dry room for kit. there are two parts to it, the main house that has 10 people and a little flat part around the back attached to the main house for 4 people. i'm in the flat part which is nice and you can chill out or if you want a bit more life then head to the main house. the only bad thing you have to walk out side to the main house as there is no door into the main house in side - but that can be a good thing too if it gets load in the main house.
its about 15 min walk to the lifts or 20 if your hungover lol
everyone that has seen this place thinks its the best one.

i could write more, but if you have any questions just ask.

Will - Jan 03, 2008 - 04:30 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Chalet Bon Ami......

Hey hows it going, im one of the guys from Bon Massive (Bon Ami) and we are a very quiet and clean chalet and always quite for 9pm sharp!

We are always sitting around having battle ship tournaments...

We have loads of rules and some of our own to keep it calm in the chalet.

We also have book club every wednesday but only until 8:30 so gives people time to get into there pj's and do there teeth!

we have made our own little chapel in the back garden with the snow and we have to go every sunday which is manditory!

talk to you later

wolfie - Jan 03, 2008 - 08:06 AM
Post subject:

finally got to whistler. gee its like a winter wonderland here....been up 24 hours now so time for some kip. Are you SCUK guys planning another meet up/drink up which I could join in? would be good to put the faces to the names

wolfie - Jan 04, 2008 - 03:58 AM
Post subject:

Had my first day out on the hill today....christ it was a bit snowy, didn't let up all day. my new board feels super mellow fun ride. Still feeling the jet lag only 8pm now but sooo tired.

czar - Jan 04, 2008 - 10:12 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: Chalet Bon Ami......

Will wrote:

Hey funny man,

Glad to hear its so nice and quiet in the chalet, cos i'm not going there to snowboard, im going for some quiet contemplation and a chance to be at one with nature! Razz

So, just outta curiousity, is it really the complete opposite of that? Are we talking dirty, noisy and devil worshipping? Well, there sumthin to look forward to! Seriously - whats it gonna be like for the new girl?

Also, Tens (Ian) what chalet are you in?

ace_mcgraw - Jan 04, 2008 - 10:15 AM
Post subject:

wolfie wrote:

Had my first day out on the hill today....christ it was a bit snowy, didn't let up all day. my new board feels super mellow fun ride. Still feeling the jet lag only 8pm now but sooo tired.

I recognise that view! Have you used the hot tub yet! Is the trashed red sofa / sofa bed still there? Bringing back so many memories. I'm just going to go cry in the corner!

Will - Jan 04, 2008 - 08:58 PM
Post subject:

yeh the chalet is pretty much the oposite but no devil worshiping or sh1t like that....
dont talk to tens, hes a bawsack : )

You will love it here and probably have the best room in the house...

catch u later

Pieman - Jan 04, 2008 - 11:50 PM
Post subject:

All the higher lifts were closed today due to high winds Sad

which was a pain, especially as I just got to 7th Heaven when they switch back to standby, then closed it. So queues to all the other lifts were busy.

Snow was a bit wet so hopefully it will get a little colder tonight, then fresh tracks tomorrow to hopefully get some sweet runs in. Then off the mountain for around 1:30 to watch the NFL playoff game leaving the mountains to the tourists.

wolfie - Jan 05, 2008 - 03:59 AM
Post subject:

ace_mcgraw wrote:

wolfie wrote:

Had my first day out on the hill today....christ it was a bit snowy, didn't let up all day. my new board feels super mellow fun ride. Still feeling the jet lag only 8pm now but sooo tired.

I recognise that view! Have you used the hot tub yet! Is the trashed red sofa / sofa bed still there? Bringing back so many memories. I'm just going to go cry in the corner!

no hot tub action yet. yeah the big red sofa still here....along with a mega sized oven. its seems a pretty good pad starting to get my bearings a bit now. still feeling a bit jag-lagged and waking up super early. The place is only half full so I got a room to myself at the mo.

I went over to whistler today loving all the snow, never ridden in so much. Quite hard to see with all the cloud too.

Tens - Jan 05, 2008 - 04:26 AM
Post subject:

im in snow valley lodge 5 mins down the road. im in bon ami every day for at least an hour or 2, they pretend not to like me but they love seeing me so often.

Oz. - Jan 05, 2008 - 07:57 AM
Post subject:

"NEW - Chalet bon Ami will now have access to an outdoor Hot tub ! (NOTE: Usage restictions apply) "

Whats that all about?

Tens - Jan 05, 2008 - 06:53 PM
Post subject:

its shared with bon neige (i think) and you cant be in there past a certain time cos of the neighbours getting angry

Oz. - Jan 05, 2008 - 06:55 PM
Post subject:

hahah so you have to run down the road with your shorts on to go use the hot tub?

Tens - Jan 06, 2008 - 12:56 AM
Post subject:

i dont, i could jump into mine from the back door (snow valley lodge) but yeh they have a 30 second walk from the front door to the tub, the way back isnt a problem cos your already so hot.

wolfie - Jan 06, 2008 - 01:09 AM
Post subject:

caught some real powder today. Still quite blowey but it all added to the fun. Any tips on for to ride through/on it when it gets all chopped up...I ended up bouncing along it before getting my nose in or losing my edge and getting covered in snow. Had a great laugh with it though.

Denizen - Jan 06, 2008 - 03:37 AM
Post subject:

wolfie wrote:

caught some real powder today. Still quite blowy but it all added to the fun. Any tips on for to ride through/on it when it gets all chopped up...I ended up bouncing along it before getting my nose in or losing my edge and getting covered in snow. Had a great laugh with it though.

Keep relaxed and make sure your knees are bent. I find that having a bit of speed helps cut through the chop when it is still soft. Oh and you really need strong legs too.

The alpine is looking good for when it opens, with it being closed for the last couple of days and all this new snow it is going to be retarded. Would be great though if it stayed shut until after the weekend when most of the holidaymakers have gone home.

JohnnyBelfast - Jan 06, 2008 - 07:47 AM
Post subject:

they havnt done any avi patrol on whistler in the last few days just guns and bomb dropping, its going to be late if they open it at all. They can get the alpine sorted on blackcomb a bit quicker, glacier should open first giving acess to some phat conditions in spankys, 7th is super wind blown at the top but epic pow down below. Im drinking tomorrow too, if anyone want to do an apres.

Pieman - Jan 06, 2008 - 08:00 AM
Post subject:

Was on the 4th chair up Jersey Cream today some great powder runs. Went over to Crystal and had to wait around 20-25mins Sad

did just the one run via rock n roll and tree runs. Did a few other runs, by the queues were getting annoying so headed back down at midday.

Will try to do the same tomorrow. Lets hope the Apline lift say closed till Monday, so we can have the powder to ourselves.

JB, where you planning to going drinking? I might pop by to say hi and put a name to a face.

wolfie - Jan 06, 2008 - 04:15 PM
Post subject:

cheers for the tips Denizen.

We were stuck in that queue at crystal too, slowed the day right down. I think I'm skip sunday and go for wonder round, and up for a few drinks later on.

Dazzler74 - Jan 06, 2008 - 11:37 PM
Post subject:

was on 5th chair up 7th today,. managed 3 runs up there....was awesome...it opened pretty early,..

there is so much snow falling in whistler and it looks like it is going to continue.

Sup!

wolfie - Jan 06, 2008 - 11:52 PM
Post subject:

I walked by the base this morning saw that they had opened up the top, bit gutted I missed it today. Even saw a peak of the blue sky today too

DRIVER111 - Jan 07, 2008 - 12:26 AM
Post subject:

i am pretty good, has no one told you??

Will - Jan 07, 2008 - 12:29 AM
Post subject:

r u really brendan?

Pieman - Jan 07, 2008 - 01:10 AM
Post subject:

Wasn't going to go up as I was a little tired and didn't fancy the crowds. But looked on the websit and saw the apline lifts were open so managed to get up there for around 11am. Was surprised that the lifts were not that busy.

Wasn't as good as yesterday but still plenty of powder to find.

Roads back to Vancouver were jammed, so yesterday could be a nice quiet day on the slopes. Lets hope for more snow tonight.

DRIVER111 - Jan 07, 2008 - 01:53 AM
Post subject:

yewwwwwww!!!

kieren24 - Jan 07, 2008 - 09:53 PM
Post subject:

Did any of you guys go with Zoom Air? I am coming over and saw that my luggage limit is 20kg... do I just pack everything in my board bag and face the charges or can i call ahead?

Cheers for any help guys

wolfie - Jan 08, 2008 - 01:23 AM
Post subject:

I think alot a people went with zoom including me, and they didn't weigh my board bag.

I had the best day so far...no falls and improved my carving. I did one of the whister tours and found it pretty useful then went up the harmony before bombing down the orange peel run....then down ones of the blacks...cant think of the name but it was so much fun.

Anyone else staying with seasonit doing the tubing tonight?......I'm the guy with bright orange pants and a white whitelines hat. see you there.

ROBster - Jan 08, 2008 - 08:57 AM
Post subject:

how much is it to fly with zoom?

i got flights with KLM for £500 but my weight-limit is 42KG! plus i didnt have to pay extra for my board bag. as long as it dosent weight more then 21kg they just take it as normal luggage!

ionly 22 days till I head out to whistler!!!

Still looking to do a SCUK Whistler drinking night sometime between the 30th jan and 9th feb!

ace_mcgraw - Jan 08, 2008 - 09:22 AM
Post subject:

I think when I flied with Zoom it was about 350 return to Van, 25kg weight on normal baggage, then I had my board bag absolutely filled which luggage and weighed about 40kg, but they didn't weigh it, and let it on for free.

kieren24 - Jan 08, 2008 - 10:07 AM
Post subject:

ROBster wrote:

There are 10 of us going and I managed to get tickets for £405 return to Vancouver...

I am happy about the board bag situation... so the consensus is that I should just ram it full of kit as no one weighs it? do they charge for the board bag?

ROBster - Jan 08, 2008 - 10:08 AM
Post subject:

well i didnt mind paying £500 as it was the cheapest onf the dates i needed to fly

and here a new whistler related thread: http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&p=390951

April_Audo - Jan 08, 2008 - 10:16 AM
Post subject:

Just popping in to say howdy all Smile

I'm coming out to Whistler at the end of Jan! My first snowboarding holiday no less! Am very excited! Very Happy

wolfie - Jan 08, 2008 - 11:36 PM
Post subject:

Did the Whistler bowl today, mental...couldn't see anything, complete white out....we got a bit lost and had to walk/hike our way out in some super deep powder.

Dazzler74 - Jan 09, 2008 - 02:19 AM
Post subject:

hiked Flute today before the lifts opened.... best run of my life, spent the day over in symphony and it was excellent..

tracked to buggery now though....

Dazzler74 - Jan 09, 2008 - 02:21 AM
Post subject:

I flew from Manchester with Zoom and they weighed our bags, they were slightly overweight and they did get a little arsey but I just stood there staring at the woman, eventually she talked herself into letting us on with no fees Wink

Pieman - Jan 09, 2008 - 03:41 AM
Post subject:

Great day today. Fittest I've felt since being here lol
Did Crystal then 7th Heaven, then the Couloir Extreme then took the Showcase T-bar for a run off the back. Finally met up with some others to spend the afternoon in the park.

wolfie - Jan 11, 2008 - 03:21 AM
Post subject:

Loving all this fresh snow at the moment...but it does have it bad side, got stuck down on a flat field of deep powder, had to walk it out for a bit. Glad I went back up to slide down a steep tree run for a couple of nice turns at the end.

I'm starting to find the piste super easy after a few challenging days off piste.

Dazzler74 - Jan 15, 2008 - 02:38 AM
Post subject:

its all about the park for the next week, no big snow due and the rain isnt helping!!!

wolfie - Jan 15, 2008 - 02:59 AM
Post subject:

lets hope so...I'm starting to miss the sunshine. How did you get on today? I got soaked in the slush then frozen crispy in the icy winds. Started my Pro Ride freestyle clinic today. Bit nervous today knew I could ride better but just didn't have the legs until the end of the day. Certainly something a bit intimidating everyone watching you hit something. Got some nice wee air on some jumps and some flat land FS/BS 1's...also took some falls...all apart of learning something new.

lez_s - Jan 20, 2008 - 09:34 PM
Post subject:

just wondering, which mountain do you like most? i've heard people say they like blackcomb more, but for me whistler is the one i head for most as i know it more and like the riding there, but when its the park i head to blackcomb.

Dazzler74 - Jan 21, 2008 - 02:10 AM
Post subject:

surprisingly I am loving whistler this time round, just more variation in terrain...

symphony/flute wipe the floor with 7th heaven so I go straight there on pow days...

both parks are good but prefer whistler as you can ride through the trees and hit all sorts before you get the lift up...

whistler is kicking blackcombs arse this season...

Dazzler74 - Jan 21, 2008 - 02:22 AM
Post subject:

and I havent even got to Peak Chair yet!!

Pieman - Jan 21, 2008 - 02:30 AM
Post subject:

Currently injured Sad

But been spending time at Blackcomb more especially as I find it quieter than Whistler.

lez_s - Jan 21, 2008 - 02:47 AM
Post subject:

i find the alpine of whistler better then anything on blackcomb. the park on whistler is good, but i find more people go there, plus blackcomb park has the superpipe.

Tens - Jan 22, 2008 - 09:23 PM
Post subject:

I broke my wrist yesterday and have another xray on sunday which will probably determine if im off home. If its good then I will be needing stuff to do for 6-8 weeks till im out on mnt again, I have a work visa so could anyone suggest any jobs that they know of for someone with 1 good arm.
My typing isnt that bad with just the 1 hand compared to some other people

BoardingJay - Jan 22, 2008 - 09:39 PM
Post subject:

you could ride with a cast... it's what i did though it didn't end up too good with me as my bone slipped out of place and started healing in the wrong position so they had to rebreak and i am not the proud owner of a plate and 4 screws in my arm...

wolfie - Jan 23, 2008 - 01:35 AM
Post subject:

Tens wrote:

harsh, hope you take it easy if you carry on riding. Just curious, were you wearing wrist guards?

lez_s - Jan 23, 2008 - 02:11 AM
Post subject:

that sucks about your wrist. if it happened to me i would still ride. cut a glove and put it over your cast and get some tape so it stays on.

Pieman - Jan 23, 2008 - 03:44 AM
Post subject:

Unlucky dude. I just got on the mountain after 10 days of not boarding and it's hard not to get down when everyone else is having fun. At least I had a PS2 to play on.

Might be worth thinking of if you have the cash of popping home for a while and then coming back out or have a little holiday somewhere else to break up the recovery time.

Tens - Jan 23, 2008 - 02:55 PM
Post subject:

I think i can do the time just will be spending more money this way and a job would be perfect.

no wrist guards, I ski and managed half a run on a board before it happened. Was over confident as i had linked a few turns and had never boarded before, not even a large hit just put my hand down perfectly for a break.

kieren24 - Jan 23, 2008 - 05:42 PM
Post subject:

That's unlucky mate... chin up though, your still in Canada... go chase some chicks or something

Tens - Jan 23, 2008 - 05:51 PM
Post subject:

anyone know or suggest any jobs for 1 armed me

ace_mcgraw - Jan 23, 2008 - 06:35 PM
Post subject:

you could try liftying - they may well have somewhere where you can work without having two working arms! I know some of my friends carried on working in some places without being able to walk at all!

wolfie - Jan 24, 2008 - 01:49 AM
Post subject:

watch some snow fix...http://www.extreme.com/snowfix/ drink some beer, what about going on a snow limo?....might make it worse? keep positive.

wolfie - Jan 25, 2008 - 10:45 AM
Post subject:

I put together a mini vid of the last day or so in the Terrain Garden over on Blackcomb...well when we thought we should stop and record stuff.

Check it out over here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58t6RAdeIkY

PS: I'm the guy in the orange pants.....some boardslides, bigger airs & spins are next on my todo list

Love2shred - Jan 25, 2008 - 12:12 PM
Post subject:

The pow in Whistler this season has been epic!!!!

Defo the best snow conditions I've ever had. Awesome to say the least!

cmacphail - Jan 27, 2008 - 07:14 AM
Post subject:

Whistler has been awesome this year. Hell, all of the local Vancouver mountains have been completely DUMPED on with snow this season. I'm loving it Very Happy

There's gonna be lots of snow over the next week so I'm probably going to head up to Whistler for next weekend. It's so much more expensive though, I can't afford it for much longer! Sad

SAMBO_80 - Jan 29, 2008 - 02:54 AM
Post subject:

Hey all, has anyone heard of, or stayed in Peakview lodge? it worx similar to the seasonit places, found the website but no reviews or blogs.....shiiiiit the place may not even exist! haha.
Would you guys stay in a seasonit style place again or would you try and rent something on your own next time.. Im starting to think it may be worthwhile payin that extra bit of cash for peace of mind rather than dealing with landlords on pique magazine and risk paying similar amounts anyway once utilities etc come out? Any info would be awesome!!!!

rachie - Jan 29, 2008 - 07:30 AM
Post subject:

Ab Fab video wolfie, can i ask is it always that quiet on the slopes?? When was that shot (time of day roughly) Smile

Pieman - Jan 30, 2008 - 02:26 AM
Post subject:

SAMBO_80 wrote:

Everyone will have different views depending on what problems cropped up and how they were dealt with. I'm staying at seasonaires and I wouldn't stay again as I've felt the way it's been run has been a bit of a joke with getting any problem sorted. If the house was in a good state then I would be happy, but it hasn't been so we have had problems.

However, as I came over on my own I wanted to be in a house full of people as I wasn't working so meeting people would of been a bit restrictive. So on that front I've happy as it's a good bunch of people here.

I would say one thing if you book via a landlord you will probably sign a tenants agreement that pretty well states what they can and can't do and what your rights are. However, places like Seasonaires, Seasonit, etc don't run by those rules so they can get away with more things like having more than 2 people in a room etc.

wolfie - Jan 30, 2008 - 03:37 AM
Post subject:

rachie wrote:

Ab Fab video wolfie, can i ask is it always that quiet on the slopes?? When was that shot (time of day roughly) Smile

Yeah it gets real quiet on a weekday. The shot of me coming down the hill was about 10ish...and the kids park is sometimes empty but all the freestyle groups always hit it so it can get a bit busy very quickly. The mountains are hue so there is always some where else to go.

glad you liked the vid, got some more footage today for another short one.

Tens - Jan 30, 2008 - 07:31 AM
Post subject:

i would reccommend seasonit, if there is ever a problem it gets sorted suprisingly quickly, everyone you stay with are doing exactly the same thing as you and the events seasonit set up mean that you are introduced to all their chalets and have an instant knowing of at least 30 people or more if you wanted.
I cant think of anything reasonable that could be done by them to make it any better.
you will however be in a twin room and paying a lot for it but it is just a bed for most people and is only a problem if you have an inconsiderate roommate.
the rules are fair and not fully enforced and most of them are common courtesy, only one i can even think that people would break on purpose and get called up on is the hottub time restrictions and this is only cos of noise late at night for the neighbours.

if you cant get here early/late enough in the season then its a good way to go, you wont have a bad time and the worst that will happen is your experience will be the same but will cost more staying with companies like seasonit. out of all the people i kno staying with them i dont think anyone regrets their decision.

SAMBO_80 - Jan 30, 2008 - 10:41 PM
Post subject:

Hey Fellas, thanx for the info on your accom.. Im still undecided atm, but trying to decide if i want to get there real early and have 2 months of no snow and less work around or if I want to wait and book a place like that and land right at the start of the season. Which house are you guys in? Pieman you say your house isnt in a good state, and you say they are jamming more than 2 in a room? Is that being done by seasonit or by the tenants sneaking ppl in? Also what type of ppl are in the houses, couples, singles, guy/girl ratio... Finally Have any of you guys seen this PeakView lodge that I mentioned, it is a bit cheaper than the ones you guys are in, but there are no reviews or blogs that mention it anywhere??

Cheers again guys..
Run a muck for me!!!!

Tens - Jan 31, 2008 - 01:21 AM
Post subject:

think pieman is with seasonaires, im with seasonit and as far as i kno no rooms have more than 2 in. if u come in nov i think u may have a boring month compared to that extra month at end of season but u then face fight for accom.
never heard of peakview but i only kno a few seasonit places anyway. im in snow valley lodge and there are 3 girls out of 12 and 1 couple here which is similar to other places but apparently this yr there are a lot less girls than last yr

Pieman - Jan 31, 2008 - 03:16 AM
Post subject:

Yeah I'm with seasonaires. 9 of us 2 of which are girls. One room has 3 guys in it. We did have a couple, but they moved out as they didn't get on with some other people in the house. I don't want to say too much as other people seem find with Seasonaires, we just seemed to have more problems that others.

norton - Feb 01, 2008 - 11:52 PM
Post subject:

i wouldnt bother coming in november to look for accomodation. you need to be here start of october at the latest and even then it will be a sh1t show... i would come in august or something like that. theres so many people here that arent just here for a season, there here for years. your best bet is to come, get a job with the mountain and live in staff for the first year then try and find somewhere after that...

well thats what i think anyway.

Dazzler74 - Feb 02, 2008 - 02:14 AM
Post subject:

Funny, I see loads of jobs advertised all over the place and penty of people chop and change jobs if they dont suit...

Pieman - Feb 02, 2008 - 03:03 AM
Post subject:

I heard this year that there seemed to be less accommodation available this year and a lot more people had to head off to other resorts. One theory was people were taking there places off the market leading to 2010 Olympics. I would of thought more would be avaliable unless they are slowing fixing them up to hike the prices to competitors, etc.

norton - Feb 03, 2008 - 09:25 PM
Post subject:

yeah there is loads of jobs around...
its just near impossible to find somewhere to live...

norton - Feb 03, 2008 - 09:26 PM
Post subject:

Oh and scott if you see this you may want check it out...
http://tourismwhistler.com/www/tourism_ ... sp?oid=173

MC_Deli - Feb 04, 2008 - 01:19 AM
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I have just had the mother of lurks here - this thread has proved to be so much more entertaining than the superbowl. I have 6 weeks to go before Whistler and I am dead envious of all this whole season talk. I am only planning on 2-3 weeks but I can take some solace from Whistler being the first stop on a year of traveling round the world, which is going to include some Lake Tahoe end of season and some Chilean Valle Nevado later in the year.

My head is spinning after 48 hours of Whistler accommodation website browsing and now all I can think about is if I can afford to sacrifice a month somewhere in central america to stay longer in the real bowls. Mmm Miss Deli qualifies for the working visa - that's an idea...

wolfie - Feb 04, 2008 - 06:27 AM
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I took a lift we one of the people who work at the Four seasons...she said there was plenty of empty in staff accomidation....whether you can get a job there is a different mater.

rachie - Feb 06, 2008 - 05:05 PM
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Hows it going out there guys?? looking at the Whistler website youve had 6 inches of snow last 24 hrs?? Smile

Pieman - Feb 07, 2008 - 02:09 AM
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My season is over Sad

After physio since December and finally seeing a doctor and having a MRI scan the outcome is I have a slipped disc that's putting pressure on the nerve. So sciatica basically.

So now decisions on how long to stay out here partying, insurance company will partly decide that.

Doctor has said I need a upgrade on flight home so I have more space, but again that's going to be the airline or insurance companies decision.

Now to get that bottle of vodka out and drown my sorrows.

lez_s - Feb 07, 2008 - 07:27 AM
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that sucks

norton - Feb 07, 2008 - 10:12 PM
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yeah that really sucks...

hope all goes well with your recovery

wolfie - Feb 09, 2008 - 04:42 AM
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Shame to hear you out for the season pieman.

I've done another quick vid...some bigger jumps this time...which also mean some bigger bails. Take a look over here.

rachie - Feb 09, 2008 - 12:46 PM
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Pieman i am sorry your seasons been cut short, hope your feeling better soon if you do come home Englands having nice sunny weather at the mo.......wolfie fab video again, i cant believe im coming over in 11 days, had this booked since Feb 07 now its nearly time for our holiday Smile

Pieman - Feb 10, 2008 - 08:54 PM
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Cheers all. Kinder depressing, but I'm holding on to the brief hope I might be able to come back at the end of April for a week or two. This week I'll try and push the insurance company to cover me for an upgrade home, but as you can expect they don't really want to. Got a letter from Physo and doctor, but insurance want a update letter from the doctor, so that's another C$100 for a doctor visit.

Cool video, very well put together. Very good way to see how your progession is going throughout the season as well as it's easy to forget sometimes.

kieren24 - Feb 10, 2008 - 09:52 PM
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That's unlucky about the slipped disc mate.. hope the insurance fcukers sort you out with the correct stuff.

Wolfie, great video mate, which one is you? I'll be there in 10 days, be good to hook up for a shred.

wolfie - Feb 10, 2008 - 11:41 PM
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glad you liked it...was a bit of fun to do. I want the next one to have some more powder in it. I'm the one in the Orange pants 'luke'...who keeps looking at the floor...so stacks it. I landed the front flip the other day, after kneeing myself in the chin a couple of times before. I think I'll get back to the freestyle learning when it stops dumping so much. Hope you get better soon Pieman.

kieren24 - Feb 11, 2008 - 02:12 PM
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Sweet work... enjoying your commitment to the flips...

9 days until I come out to play... was thinking of a one on one session with an instructor to up my game... is it worth it? I just want to get myself out of bad habits and learn to land some bigger kickers... was only thinking of doing 1 or 2 days.

wolfie - Feb 12, 2008 - 03:58 AM
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I would get a couple of mates to spread the cost a bit...unless you have a bit of cash to play with as private lessons can cost a bit. They will certainly give you the technique and the confidence. Whistler does do some 40% off days for lessons. One of the pro ride instructor, Duncan Mainland, does do private lessons ocasionally at the weekend he's $600 per day.

Noob - Feb 12, 2008 - 03:56 PM
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Fingers crossed I should be heading out for the 08/09 season with a mate from University! Applied through BUNAC and have my visa, just need it to be fully approved by the high commission yet but waiting for all the relevant paperwork to come back to me and hoping it all goes through OK. Really looking forward to it!

As it's Canada, I'm guessing this is a stupid question, but is there anywhere in Whistler to play ice hockey recreationally?

ace_mcgraw - Feb 12, 2008 - 04:13 PM
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Quote:

As it's Canada, I'm guessing this is a stupid question, but is there anywhere in Whistler to play ice hockey recreationally?

yeah, i think they have pick up hockey games at the Meadow Park sports centre or whatever it's called at Alpine Meadows. Check this link out to see where it is!

http://www.whistler.com/pdf/maps/whistl ... ey_map.pdf

Dazzler74 - Feb 17, 2008 - 08:07 AM
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I can confirm that there is Ice Hockey as my housemate broke his arm playing...

also check out the guy on youtube who had his throat cut playing hockey the other day...cant remember his name, something like redvek!!! so feel free to play hockey, I will be iding pow back country style!!!

Sup?

kieren24 - Feb 18, 2008 - 09:11 PM
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Hey chaps... Will I need a photo for my lift pass in Whistler?

ace_mcgraw - Feb 18, 2008 - 10:50 PM
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Is it 10 days? I don't think you will, but when I got my seasons pass (Admittedly 2 yrs ago now) they had a sort of webcam thingy to take photos

ace_mcgraw - Feb 18, 2008 - 10:53 PM
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Quote:

also check out the guy on youtube who had his throat cut playing hockey the other day...cant remember his name, something like redvek

and i just now watched that - fecking horific! At least he survived!

Pieman - Feb 19, 2008 - 01:04 PM
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Here is one of my scan photos. Think you can see which part of the spine not the same as the others and the bit sticking out from it.

Back in London now (flew business class back with BA Very Happy

) and have had the fun of finding out that someone been doing a little credit card fraud on my Credit Card Sad

. Annoying as the only thing I did with it in 3 months was two Skype payments. They managed to rck up £1500 in purchases Evil or Very Mad

, but I should get it all back.

Now to fill in my insurance claim forms and more importantly meet various friends for lunches and drinks after work...oh work I suppose I should think about getting a job as well, maybe I'll leave that for a while in the faint hope my back gets better and I can come back out to play in April.

Noob - Feb 19, 2008 - 05:55 PM
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ace_mcgraw wrote:

Quote:

also check out the guy on youtube who had his throat cut playing hockey the other day...cant remember his name, something like redvek

and i just now watched that - fecking horific! At least he survived!

If you want to see a worse one search for Clint Malarchuk. It's pretty bad.

Glad there's hockey there though, need my regular fix, been playing that longer than i've been riding so need to play!

MC_Deli - Feb 22, 2008 - 05:29 PM
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I just booked 2 weeks at the Clock Tower in Whistler Village from 23.3. It is all paid so I hope the place isn't a rat farm! Got it for 60USD per night, which for condo for two seems pretty OK. I am supremely envious of you all who have been there all season. Just a month to go...

Tens - Feb 23, 2008 - 04:43 PM
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deli could you link me to where you found your accom and any other good places that you checked out, looking for a place for my parents to come out roughly the same time as you and think they want to go for a condo too.

MC_Deli - Feb 24, 2008 - 11:56 AM
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Darn - my post just vanished - Craigslist (BC, Vancouver, Vacation rental search Whistler), also Pique newspaper and Whistler/Blackcomb site.

I got replies from my wanted on Craigslist and found the Clock Tower bargain (fingers crossed).

striker - Mar 04, 2008 - 12:06 PM
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Im doing the 08/09 season in whistler (hopefully), whats the deal with CCUSA its £349 for them to sort you out job in whistler, are there better ways of doing this? Im applying for my visa via BUNAC, is there still a good chance of getting work in whistler by just turning up?

Also when working out in whistler is it possible to live of your wages i.e. to pay for food and accommodation without taking thousands out with you?

ace_mcgraw - Mar 04, 2008 - 12:17 PM
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Quote:

is there still a good chance of getting work in whistler by just turning up?

yup - that's what I did!

Quote:

Also when working out in whistler is it possible to live of your wages i.e. to pay for food and accommodation without taking thousands out with you?

kinda - depends what job. Working for the mountain (Intrawest)tends to be lower paid, but you get free pass, discounts etc. Working elsewhere tends to be higher paid, and i think with most jobs you prob get free pass as well. I worked as a lifty, and I was only getting paid $11 (£5.50) an hour at the end when I had been promoted - I started on about $7 or $8, and that ain't enough to live on in Whistler!

Dazzler74 - Mar 25, 2008 - 05:01 PM
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so I am back and majorly depressed..

word of advice for those doing a season - dont live with gunt munters as they never go riding, or they go to the same place over and over again!! (when they arent slagging each other off behind their backs) and they wonder why they are sh;te at snowboarding!!!

if you can avoid those fookwits do yourself a favour - DONT COME BACK

rachie - Mar 25, 2008 - 05:13 PM
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Dazzler74 wrote:

so I am back and majorly depressed..

word of advice for those doing a season - dont live with jon/becks/ade/shona as they never go riding, or they go to the same place over and over again!! (when they arent slagging each other off behind their backs) and they wonder why they are sh;te at snowboarding!!!

if you can avoid those fookwits do yourself a favour - DONT COME BACK

Oops...... Your piccys look good though Smile

good to be home?? lol

Dazzler74 - Mar 25, 2008 - 08:12 PM
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had an incredible time and its sh;t being back....

planning another season now Wink

Tens - Mar 29, 2008 - 04:15 PM
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Anyone want any ski lessons. I have a 3 day 4-5 hour a day ski esprit lessons to sell. It sells at $349 and I am selling at no less than $140. Levels 2-6 and the 3 days start on a monday. Valid untill the 14th april.
Am in whistler at the moment so lets see the offers flood in.