Snowboard Club UK (SCUK) :: View topic - Season in Whistler, advice needed

Snowboard Club UK (SCUK)

Abroad - Season in Whistler, advice needed

Jellybean - Jan 31, 2010 - 10:27 PM
Post subject: Season in Whistler, advice needed

hey,

I'm desperate to do a season and think i should stop putting it off and go for 2011. i'd really like to go to Whistler,
(been for holidays the last two years, and loved it. know i'm going to have to save like crazy though)
however, just not sure if i want to go for x.mas and leave start of the new year or whether my chances of getting a job would be better to go nov/dec??? I would be happy with bar work or anything really.

Aswell just not sure where to start with the whole thing?! Accomodation etc etc.

Help anyone!!!
Cheers.

robtheslob - Jan 31, 2010 - 10:49 PM
Post subject: RE: Season in Whistler, advice needed

apparently accommodation is the hardest to find and jobs arent impossible to find later on.

Ive already put down a deposit on my room for next season... Get there in Nov.

hopefully will be able to save enough so that I dont have to work whilst im out there.

lez_s - Jan 31, 2010 - 11:26 PM
Post subject: RE: Season in Whistler, advice needed

If you want to work out there you need to look into getting a visa now - check http://www.bunac.co.uk/uk/workcanada/ Getting out there at the start of Nov is best so you can set your self up, but there are jobs going all season long as people quit for a better job or leave to go home etc

With accommodation there are companies that do season accommodation such as seasonaires.com - there are mix reviews about them, but I never had a problem and would use them again.

Spending xmas out there is so cool and the mountain is empty xmas morning.

Jellybean - Jan 31, 2010 - 11:32 PM
Post subject: RE: Season in Whistler, advice needed

Do you need to be a student though to get a visa or can you get one then set up work when your there?
So much to do!!!! ahhhhhhhhh
thanks though, helen x

lez_s - Jan 31, 2010 - 11:36 PM
Post subject: RE: Season in Whistler, advice needed

There is a student and non-student visa's on the site.

Once you have a visa you can head over and hand CV's out in bars, shop etc.

Also have a look on here to get ideas of places to live http://whistler.en.craigslist.ca/

philboarder - Feb 01, 2010 - 07:36 AM
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The None student Visia Places are full for next year so you might want to get on a waiting list

lez_s - Feb 01, 2010 - 09:22 AM
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Normally every year they get more to give out to non student's so keep an eye on the web site.

Jellybean - Feb 02, 2010 - 11:29 PM
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Thanks everyone for help,
tried to apply but it is full, phoned them up aswell and they dont seem to think they'll get any more non- student visa. will keep trying though!!! need to apply in dec for the following year, hopefully get there one year!............
So, any recommendations on a resort in europe for a season!

DTMVTEC - Feb 05, 2010 - 06:19 PM
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Full already? Must be an influx of people who decided to stay away this year due to Olympics and go next yea. The mountians are so quiet tho its great. Towns business's are down on priofits from last year, and are hoping that the Olympic influx of crews, media and the like will improve this.

Jobs are so easy right now as everything is opening either 24hrs or near as damit.

If u do come then yes early Nov is usefull for jobs and accomodation. But i know people who arrived mid dec and sorted Job, accomodation out easily. U just got to be organised and persistant with emails and resumes and showing your face. Seasonairres is mega expensive, there are just as good places that will save u over half the money u pay there. Just got to scour craigs list and look for postings in the library and other public places. And word of mouth too.

Waitressing jobs offer poor basic wage but great tips and a lot of girls earn good money at this. same with bartenders. Great way to meet people too for accomodation and all the ins and outs that goes on. Oh and if u come read the Pique every week cover to cover it really is good for info and goings on.

U could save and do 6 months on a tourist visa here and not work and keep applying while your here. I know a couple who have done this and been here 15 months now.

Good luck with your season next year wherever u end up.

DG - Feb 05, 2010 - 07:42 PM
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Hey there,

I did a season in Whistler in 08/09 and have another visa for Canada for next season.Thinking about Whistler again as I love the place, but I am a bit worried that the year after the Olympics the resort will be crazy busy, and rents will be really high for the winter season. Wont be able to get out until mid November and want to spend the summer with some mates in Van, so will really be there for the peak rental season!! Stayed with seasonaires last time, but dont really want to pay the high $$$ again (although strong euro is helping right now!). Just wondering what people are expecting rents and numbers on the mountain to be like for the winter season, or if there has been any talk around town about this? Anyway, for any of you out there hope you enjoy the games and all the peace (on the mountain) and crazyness that come with it!! Thanks in advance.

Dave

Jellybean - Feb 06, 2010 - 12:09 AM
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Have seriously considered just saving and heading out on a tourist visa, would just cost soooooooooo much. i definately had waitressing or bar work in mind (just to meet loads of new cool people.... and good tips). i am a hairdresser but i just wanted something completely new and different. i wont give up though, i check bunac every day just in case.
really greatful of everyones advice, i need it.
thanks again.

helen x

JohnnyBelfast - Feb 06, 2010 - 10:46 AM
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My best friend owns a hair salon if you wanted to stick to hairdressing. The tourist visa idea is not as bad as you think, you might get a chance to work under the table and earn a couple $

lez_s - Feb 06, 2010 - 11:26 AM
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Whistler doesn't cost as much as people think when you are there for a season.

The flight, accommodation and lift pass are the big ones, even if you get the early bird season pass. Once you are out there unlike a holiday you dont have to go out ever night and drink, party or eat out. If you do want to head out for something to eat you go to the places that have the deal on such as Merlin's for the $5 burger and you chips etc with it and you are stuffed at the end of it.

There are other ways to save money if you know the right people that are working there.

Olibone540 - Feb 16, 2010 - 05:03 PM
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Jellybean wrote:

Hi Helen

If you are able to save enough to go out to Whistler on a 6-month visitor visa then you shouldn’t even think twice about it. Meeting/making friends out there is easy regardless of having a job or not and if you arrange your accommodation through someone like Seasonaires.com you will instantly be among a large community of like minded people.

I missed out on getting a visa for the 07/08 season but I just saved like crazy and lived like a hermit for 9 months, safe in the knowledge that it was a worthwhile sacrifice and I would soon be reaping the rewards!

Very glad I didn’t work out there in the end because the whole reason I went there in the first place was to go riding. As a result I got about 110 days on the mountain and many unforgettable powder experiences! – I wouldn’t have wanted to miss those moments for $8 an hour!

There are 4 essential expenses for a season in Whistler:

Accommodation - £3000-£4000.
Season Lift Pass – About £750 for an early bird pass – not bad considering a tourist pays about £550 for a 2-week pass.
Return Flights from UK to Vancouver (£500-£700).
Insurance (6-month SCUK insurance for North America) (£520) – 2 years ago I paid £200 less than this, not sure why it’s gone up so much!!!

The amount of ‘living money’ required for your trip is completely down to you and your eating, drinking, partying and general spending habits but as a guideline £2000 works out at around $125 a week which should be enough to keep your fridge well stocked, and still afford to eat and drink out occasionally (in moderation)

les_s is quite right, there are lots of deals to scope out in Whistler for food and Apres drinks (Merlin’s is an excellent example). My personal favourite is the Crystal Lounge for their 25-cent chicken wings and cheap pitchers of beer. Another great spot for cheap beers is the Cinnamon Bear in the Hilton hotel - $12 pitchers (nice toilets too – A rare thing for a bar in Whistler!)

If you need new equipment there are blowout sales everywhere in at the start of the season in November so you can pick up some real bargains on last years gear – especially on outerwear (up to 70% off rrp)

One last bit of advice is to get credit card before you go – regardless of whether you plan to use it or not. It’s well worth having one (or 2) for security and you can probably get one with 6-12 month interest free which is perfect if you’re not earning while you’re out there.

By all means keep checking Bunac every day if you still fancy working during your season - This post isn’t to say that working is a bad idea or that not working is better, there are pros and cons for both - you can get some awesome discount and hook-ups in certain jobs out there but for me it comes down to how much you value your time on the hill.

So good I’m going again.
Roll on Whistler 10/11!

bassman - Feb 22, 2010 - 05:23 PM
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Hey guys.

Also looking to go to Whistler, probably from Nov 2010 - May 2011.

Does anyone have any recommendations on places for shared accommodation besides Seasonnaires? I know a few people who have been with them and say they're pretty good, but does anyone know of any other places to find well priced shared season acommodation for Whistler?

Cheers

g

philboarder - Feb 22, 2010 - 06:12 PM
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Seasonit and Snow24/7 who offer a discount to scuk members

Jellybean - Feb 28, 2010 - 05:28 PM
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hey again,
thanks all for all your help, but theres no way i can save enough to not work in whistler, (on a crap wage!!!). decided though definately still gotta do it this year, so am thinking tignes! just come back from a weeks holiday, absolutely loved it. by far the nicest european resort i've been to. so job hunt here i come, learning some french aswell, and roll on november!!!
never know may make it to whistler 2011/2012
thanks again
helen xxx Very Happy

DJb - Mar 02, 2010 - 10:48 PM
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Whistler is definitely back on my season radar after initially thinking I'd give it a miss because of all the hype it receives. I've hit the same problem as everyone else though in terms of lack of visas for non-students. However, taking that to my advantage, in case I don't get enough saved to head out in early November, I'm thinking of getting a flexible ticket and just delaying my departure and staying at work in the UK until I have enough money to afford it, maybe even until Christmas. In the meantime, I'll be praying on the pound recovering some strength through this year!

Olibone540 - Mar 09, 2010 - 12:32 PM
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A little headsup to anyone who missed out on a non-student visa for 10/11:

More are now available but act FAST!

http://www.bunac.org/uk/workcanada/

Bob_Gnarly - Mar 10, 2010 - 11:36 AM
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Hey I'm thinking of doing next season at Whistler. I should have around 7K saved. Never done a season before so would like to hear more experiences and advice on it...

Do I need to sort my visa out now?
Is it worth getting a work visa?
I would prefer not to work, is 7K realistic for 4.5 months?
What's the accom like? what is the cheapest? is it mainly shared rooms?
Are things really spread out in Whistler, is it easy to get around?
What is the snow typically like in mid Nov ...when does the season usually get going? (thinking of getting there around then to get accom)

Sorry about all the questions... I could do with some more insight! Nice1 Smile

philboarder - Mar 10, 2010 - 11:40 AM
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Do I need to sort my visa out now? YES if your going to work and when i say YES i mean today
Is it worth getting a work visa? Yes probably if you dont think your going to have enough money
I would prefer not to work, is 7K realistic for 4.5 months? Possibly but your going to be living cheaply
What's the accom like? what is the cheapest? is it mainly shared rooms? on your budget shared
Are things really spread out in Whistler, is it easy to get around? From what ive read and heard easy to get around
What is the snow typically like in mid Nov ...when does the season usually get going? (thinking of getting there around then to get accom) Season starts mid november normally nov 18th but this year was early like the 10th

R1ch - Mar 10, 2010 - 11:56 AM
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7K is more than enough for a few months in Whistler.

If you are just going for the holiday, and not to work then all you need to do is go through the airport as normal, they will want to see evidence of funds to support yourself and a return flight home. 6 month tourist visa, job done.

Obviously accommodation is the most expensive outlay, but it mostly depends on where you live. Closer you get to the Lifts, roughly more expensive it becomes. The most expensive options also tend to be the ones you can book from the UK, where as you will find better deals in the Piquenews magazine or by contacting local agents when you are there.

In the two years I spent in Whistler, I lived in a total of eight different places. The only time I had a room to myself was in the places I stayed during the Summer when rent is a lot cheaper.

Whistler is very easy to get around. Depending on where you live, you may need to buy a bus pass each month to take you into the Village.

It opened as early as October one year I was there, but bare in mind that very early season they will begin by only opening weekends, then the High Alpine lifts most likely won't open until December. If you are thinking of working, you need to be there end of October as that's when all the hiring is done.

Bob_Gnarly - Mar 10, 2010 - 05:17 PM
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When is the ideal time to arrive to get good/cheap accom? Mid Nov?

What is the price range on accomodation? ..what would be the cheapest and how much would it cost to stay in the village?

What's the nightlife like?

philboarder - Mar 11, 2010 - 02:48 AM
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If your going to be looking for accomadation locally i guess you probably need to be there mid october

R1ch - Mar 11, 2010 - 11:41 AM
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Yeah, you want to be there before the job fair is on... then you want to be there before you think the other people will be getting there ahead of the job fair!

Basically, you can try and find accommodation before you get there, but you will be paying for it, either through the British based companies that offer season accommodation or Canadian based property rental companies.

The best deals are found through the local paper and you need to be there to view them, the further it gets to the opening of the season, the more competition there will be for people responding to the accommodation ads.

When I first went there, I remember every Thursday waiting for the local Newspaper to come out and then trying everything which worked for us. It even tended to crash the server on their website when the online version was published around that time. I also e-mailed just about every property company in town until I got something. It was a lot of work.

I personally arrived just before the job fair and was too late to book a hostel or staff accommodation as they were all full. So had to get a 2 bed rental property in the village for a month, which was obviously a bit more per night than a hostel, but would have silly expensive when the season began, as it was for people coming out for a week or two really.

I think I was quite lucky finding the place I did as I knew a few people that couldn't find anything and had to move to other towns and hitch a car ride in.

sainsbo - Mar 21, 2010 - 12:08 PM
Post subject:

This is a great thread, thanks. Me and a mate are going to do whistler 2010/2011 too. We got in to the most recent release of Bunac visas (whoo hoo!) and are applying at the moment. We're considering using Overseas Working Holidays which is Whistler Blackcomb's official recruitment agency in the UK. They're holding a jobs fair in London 2nd-4th July 2010. You pay them £400 and you get a place at the jobs fair with interviews, work with the mountain and a place in their accommodation. Has anyone used this service? Would you recommend it? Seems a bit expensive but we might go for it.

Thanks!
Chris

PS We've got a blog about our season planning here: Chris and Simon do a ski season and travel the world

philboarder - Mar 21, 2010 - 01:37 PM
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Good to hear probably see you out there

lez_s - Mar 24, 2010 - 09:56 AM
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Just to let you know Whistler season passes are sale now

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/ticket ... /index.htm

One thing to think about is, with Intrawest looking like they might go down the pan should you buy it know and help them pay debts off or wait until later in the year and see if someone buys Whistler off them.

For me I'm waiting April 30th to buy mine.

philboarder - Mar 24, 2010 - 11:06 AM
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Thanks for the heads up Lez didnt realise they go on sale so early. I will certainley purchasing one on or before the 30th although i guess if i buy it with credit card its protected. (not that i have credit card with that much credit).

lez_s - Mar 24, 2010 - 11:18 AM
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They don't normally go on sale this early, but one of the theories (from my mate) is, Inteawest get the money and put in the bank and get the interest off it to pay some bills.

Didn't think about putting it on my credit card, but that's a good idea as it would be protected.

philboarder - Mar 24, 2010 - 02:06 PM
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Just ordered the credit card then i get the lift pass bought cant wait

DG - Mar 24, 2010 - 03:04 PM
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Cheers for the heads up Lez_s. I asked this a bit earlier, but does any of the locals on here know what people are expecting next season to be like being the year after the olympics? Will it be crazy busy on the slopes and prices going up? And will accomodation be mad difficult to find and expensive?

Getting very excited now, its real distraction from college!!

SnowAndrew - Mar 25, 2010 - 12:55 PM
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I guess there will be some people who were put off going this year due to the olympics so will be aiming to go next year instead. It's Whistler so it's always going to be a popular destination any year.

lez_s - Mar 25, 2010 - 01:12 PM
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I think next season will be just like the others. I don't think it will be crazy busy until its holiday time e.g. xmas, Easter etc.

As for accommodation it will always be snapped up but I think it will be back to normal prices so it wont scare people off because of the games this winter.

If you haven't got somewhere to stay I would start looking as there will always be people wanting a place.

Even if it is super busy when you are there for a season you know where to go on the mountain where its not so busy, or you go for a few run and take the rest of the day off to rest your legs.

Rob_Quads - Mar 25, 2010 - 01:40 PM
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I don't think the Olympics has done Whistler any good in terms of reputation IMO. I was away in Alpe D'Huez last week and chatted to a number of people in our Chalet Hotel about trips. When I mentioned I loved Whistler and am going back again next year they were very puzzled as to why.

They mostly commented that the snow loooked rubbish and very wet there...the interesting thing is most of them were refering to the snow at the boarder cross etc which was not at Whistler at all but much lower down the hills.

lez_s - Mar 25, 2010 - 02:05 PM
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The snow in Whistler is wetter than middle Canada as it come off the Pacific Ocean.

JohnnyBelfast - Mar 25, 2010 - 06:46 PM
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Whistler is situated in a rainforest so gets a large amount of precipitation, which normall falls as snow. The altitute of the village is only 650m so it can be greatly affected by fluctuating temperatures, and this january was the warmest ever recorded. Yes it may rain in the village, but its dumping snow up top where you want to ride. Thats why we have had almost 13metres of snow this year.

lez_s - Mar 25, 2010 - 09:59 PM
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Quote:

Whistler is situated in a rainforest

Thats why the tree runs are so good haha

Joe_hull - Apr 03, 2010 - 06:17 AM
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Hi Guys

This might sound like a stupid question but if you work in Whistler do people tend to find they can live off what they earn? i.e. Accom, Food, Few Drinks, General living etc

I'm hoping to work for the Mountain so I will have a lift pass included (Providing there's jobs left at the jobs fair as I don't fancy paying £800 for me and the mrs to have the UK interview!)

I'm going travelling before and will (hopefully) have around £3000 in the bank ready for the season but don't fancy losing that extra cash (It's for emergencies i.e. New Mac Book Razz

Also whilst I'm there I'm going to do a CASI 1 and try to get a job as a instructor for the new beginners around 8-12 years old so if anyone knows any good casi 1 courses a push in the direction wouldn't go a miss!

Cheers

See you in Whistler!! Very Happy

lez_s - Apr 03, 2010 - 10:26 AM
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Joe_hull wrote:

A lot of people in Whistler live from pay day to pay day, but for me I couldn't live like that. Try and save as much as you can before you head out and it will make for a better season.

I've not worked while in Whistler, what is the £800 about? If you have to pay that to get a job I would wait until you get out to Whistler and apply for jobs.

On of the guys off here works for an Apple shop type thing in Whistler so maybe Scott can help you out with that Mac Book.

I keep thinking about doing my CASI. The best way I found to do it is via CASI its self and not via a company/camp as its cheaper.

http://www.casi-acms.com/index.php?opti ... mp;lang=en

Also try and get CASI 2 as you will be more employable in Whistler.

moo - Apr 03, 2010 - 03:31 PM
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I think the £800 is what someone on page 2 mentioned, £400 for some company to sort you out a job out there, him and his GF = £800.

Re the macbook I'd get one duty free on the way out, probably cheaper than buying one the way the exchange rate is going.

lez_s - Apr 03, 2010 - 04:04 PM
Post subject:

I wouldn't pay a company to get you a job out in Whistler as there are always jobs going.

You might not get a job you want but people leave/quit job all the way through the season so sooner or later you'll get the job you want.

Also we have set up a Facebook group to help people who are looking to head out http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=1 ... amp;ref=ts

Its not to take away from this site/thread (so please keep using this) but people all over the world will be asking questions or might be looking for people to share with.

Joe_hull - Apr 03, 2010 - 10:20 PM
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Thanks for the advice, The £800 was to do with what the guy said on page 2, sounds like a RIP OFF!

We're going travelling around Asia, Aus/ NZ and Fiji before we hit Whistler so won't have enough money just to live without working but will hopefully have enough to do 4 day weeks as opposed to 5.

When I went to Whistler in Feb this year (Just before the olympics... I literally joined the Olympic torch parade on the greyhound back to Vancouver Very Happy

) our mates we stayed with were ski instructors with the mini kids and got chatting to people so hopefully if I pass my CASI 1 I can get a job with the 8-12 year olds so I think that will be an experience in itself and I will still be on the slope so will still be snowboarding Very Happy

With regards to doing it directly through CASI, I'm under the impression that as long as your a confident rider and can ride all terrain then you will be fine in passing it. I've only ridden 3 weeks so far but the time I've spent in the snowdomes must make it another week! I won't do the CASI 1 until I've got a few weeks boarding under my belt again, but it should make working in Whistler a real experience.

lez_s - Apr 04, 2010 - 12:10 AM
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I was meaning still work, but keep some for a rainy day (I hope we get no rain).

My mates that have taken CASI 1 (plus CASI 2) and some people on his course had only been riding a few weeks and a couple had learnt themselves so you shouldn't have no problem.

If you will be teaching the 'Whistler Kids' lessons and in Creekside you are at the bottom of the Creekside life or at mid station on the magic carpet area. Not trying to put you off, just letting you know.

If you need a hand my mate out there is CASI 3 so I'm sure he could give you a lesson and show you what you need to know before you do it.

Joe_hull - Apr 06, 2010 - 03:49 PM
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Hi Lez, Being on the slope even if it is the magic carpet is better than washing dishes etc to me, plus I will hopefully get good experience etc

Thats sweet about your mate. I'd really appreciate it if I need it if he could just spend an hour showing what they will look for etc. I can do all terrain so I'm hoping i'll be ok (although ratsfink is a bit intersting when you've never done it before!)

moo - Apr 06, 2010 - 04:20 PM
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[quote="Joe_hull"]Hi Lez, Being on the slope even if it is the magic carpet is better than washing dishes etc to me, plus I will hopefully get good experience etc

It won't be on a powder day and you are stuck mid mountain baby sitting while everyone else is out getting the goods! I would really give some thought to trying to get night time work and maximise your time riding.

One other thing to consider is that you can get a free lift pass if you volunteer for the mountain, I think you have to work 23 days of the season. It looks pretty easy just telling people to slow down at the end of the day (normally Belfast or Lez), putting banners out etc.

lez_s - Apr 06, 2010 - 04:24 PM
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Where is Ratfink?

I know Whistler mountain very well and which chairs are which, but don't know the names of runs.

moo - Apr 06, 2010 - 04:41 PM
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Ratfink is on Whistler heading from roundhouse towards Harmony chair, sort of to the left of the main piste (chunkys choice) that goes that way, a bit further over than the one which is the old lift line.

lez_s - Apr 06, 2010 - 11:00 PM
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You mean from the top of Emerald go left down that cat track, but drop off the corner?

JohnnyBelfast - Apr 07, 2010 - 02:23 AM
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pretty much Lez, you dont have to take the cat track but can drop underneath green and then head skiers right into the trees.

Quote:

just telling people to slow down at the end of the day (normally Belfast or Lez)

lol excuse me, but i am a model example of perfect hill etiquette

lez_s - Apr 08, 2010 - 06:13 PM
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I know where you mean. The way Belfast has said is the way I've been most times.

I didn't know Belfast could ride fast as I never see him as he is always behind me........unless on upper franz's haha

lez_s - Apr 20, 2010 - 05:52 PM
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Some links for you

Accommodation

http://www.seasonaires.com/ - I've stayed with them my first season and had no problems
http://www.seasonit.co.uk/

If you fancy sorting your own place out

http://whistler.en.craigslist.ca/apa/
http://www.affordablewhistler.com/ - Used these for my 2nd season and they are very cool. If you email these say Lawrence passed you on to them.
http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/pique/index.php - local newspaper (and jobs are in there too)

For jobs

http://whistler.en.craigslist.ca/
http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/pique/index.php

and use Whistlers site

lez_s - Apr 22, 2010 - 06:11 PM
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Just to remind you all that the cheap early bird pass is on sale until the 30th.

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/ticket ... /index.htm

lez_s - Apr 29, 2010 - 02:52 PM
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Just a note to let you all know that the cheaper early bird season pass finishes tomorrow.

It will save you $200 (about £133) on the normal early bird pass which goes on sale Sept time, which in turn is cheaper than the cost of the non early bird pass.

lez_s - May 01, 2010 - 07:45 PM
Post subject:

Due to someone dropping out I might be looking for someone to share my condo with.

Its 2 mins from Creekside life and and Dustys bar.

If anyone is interested PM me.

Chey - Jun 22, 2010 - 09:22 PM
Post subject: Accommodation to avoid in Whistler

Just to let anyone know who is considering a season in Whistler and looking into accommodation, to AVOID peakviewlodge.com. The guy who runs it does NOT conduct himself in a professional manner. You can also find far better located accommodation for much better prices. You'll be better off turning up with nothing long term booked and find something when you get here. Everyone keeps saying that it's going to be a renters market.
Anyway, can't go into too much detail as my dealings with this guy are ongoing, but please please please do yourself a favour and do NOT use this company.

As for staff housing, I know that all returning staff members for winter 2010/2011 have to move out of staff housing by the end of October (excluding House Advisers) so there may be a bit of extra space, but you'll still need to get in there pretty early on.

Lez, I know that we haven't actually met yet, but may I join your Facebook group? Smile

See you in Creekside!

lez_s - Jun 25, 2010 - 04:41 PM
Post subject: RE: Accommodation to avoid in Whistler

Wow, that last bit throw me.

I just checked your email address and recognized the name. What ever has been said about me its not true haha

Chey - Jun 27, 2010 - 03:19 AM
Post subject: RE: Accommodation to avoid in Whistler

Hahaha, I don't think anything outrageous has ever been said about you! Smile

I can't wait for November, I'm totally over this non-starter summer.

lez_s - Jun 30, 2010 - 09:23 AM
Post subject: RE: Accommodation to avoid in Whistler

What ever has been said it's because of that Crown of Horns drink in Maxx Fish haha.

The summer here is spot on right now. Nice and warm and hope it stays like this until I head out.

alanc - Jul 05, 2010 - 10:21 PM
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Hi guys,

Is anyone looking to share some accomodation. I'm looking to head over for the season but haven't started looking into accomodation yet.

Lex87 - Jul 07, 2010 - 12:45 AM
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bassman, you can have a look at the whistler accommodations at whistlerretreats.com. You might be able to find some shared accommodation there. Now that the Olympics are over prices have come down at the ski resorts (that's what I heard from a friend anyway) It will probably get more expensive again in the winter but if you check around I'm sure you can find a deal. There's always Craigslist too but you have to beware of scams.

rideonwhistler - Jul 07, 2010 - 05:32 AM
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Hey,

when are you thinking of heading over?

Skinjive - Jul 08, 2010 - 11:16 AM
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Me and the gf are waiting for our visa to come back so beginning to look into properly now.

Looking to come out start of jan and stay for around 4-5 months before doing a road trip round the US.

I've tried reading this thread as throughly as possible, but will we find work/accomodation relatively easy between jan-may?

Probably going to buy a car/truck when im over but dont really want to be treking mega miles everyday.

Work wise are free passes included on resort jobs this late and are these positions pretty much like gold dust? (tight jock gene kicking in)

Cheers

Freddie

Olibone540 - Jul 08, 2010 - 02:39 PM
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You will probably find work quite easily once your accommodation is sorted out but I think you might struggle to find half decent affordable accommodation if you're arriving in January. I can only advise that you book accomodation in advance (see the various companies listed in previous posts).

As for free passes, last time I was there in 2008, I knew people who got jobs with the mountain in January and still got their passes free so I reckon that would be fine. Although once you get your visa sorted and are definitely going it might be worth buying an earlybird pass just in case and then WB can re-imburse you if/when you end up working for them (i'd phone the resort to discuss this in advance)

rideonwhistler - Jul 09, 2010 - 07:18 AM
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Agree with the post above accomm is going to be by far the hardest thing. Some places will give you free passes that time of year some won't. Jobs with the mountain come with free passes any time of year but other companys only generally offer them to people who are there for the whole winter..

Getting a refund as oli suggested is very possible and probably a good idea nothing worse than being in a ski town and being able to ride!

Check out our whistler guide http://www.rideonwhistler.com/Whistler_Guide.html

Also speak to us closer to the time and we may be able to help with accom!

lez_s - Jul 09, 2010 - 09:59 AM
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Agree as well. Best thing to do is look for a place to stay before you get out there and then you know you have one.

alanc - Jul 12, 2010 - 06:17 PM
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rideonwhistler wrote:

Hey,

when are you thinking of heading over?

Was thinking of late nov, early dec. Wasn't able to get a visa, so plan is now to save up and go for 4-5 months depending on funds.

lez_s - Jul 13, 2010 - 09:50 AM
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If you are still looking someone is asking on the 'other site'
http://www.goneboarding.co.uk/Forum/Whi ... hread.aspx

There is always companies like Seasonaires, Seasonit and others or you could look on Craigslist and look on the Pique's (Whistlers newspaper) web site.

Pro-Ride - Jul 13, 2010 - 10:47 PM
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hey guys, if you are looking for accom then the Pique is one of your better bets, otherwise try Craigslist. It starts to get hard to find accom if you get here much after November although if you are coming out later in the season you probably have a decent chance of picking something up once the Southern Hemisphere kids peace out back to uni (end of Feb). Also check out http://seasonsinwhistler.com/ for long term accom.

Billie - Jul 15, 2010 - 08:40 PM
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bring on whistler

Oz. - Jul 19, 2010 - 08:29 AM
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So with work I can buy extra days holidays and I have a around 10 days left of allowance this year plus my new allowance starting on Jan 1st with the extra 10 days I can buy off. Having spoken to work they have no issues of me block booking 4 weeks or so off in the new year.

So I have 2 ideas, one book the last week off of December and the whole of January off maybe 1st week of feb to and head out to whistler on December 27th.

Or save more money up and go say the last week of February and for the entire of March.

So what would others do, have that extra week or so in Whistler or go out in March and have a lot more money saved up but for only 4 weeks or so?

I remember we had more snow in March than Feb, when I was there although it wasn't as dry.

lez_s - Jul 19, 2010 - 09:18 AM
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I would head out in March with more money and go heli or cat boarding with the extra cash.

Saying that you know by the end you wish you had that extra week.

Oz. - Jul 23, 2010 - 09:52 AM
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yeah I think I have decided on waiting till March, more cash is always a good thing when in Whistler!

mattdawes - Jul 23, 2010 - 04:03 PM
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Hey there,

I've read through all the information and it is really useful stuff thanks. The only problem i've found doing my research so far is that the UK based companies have chalets which are quite a walk out of the village itself. Does anybody know of any companies which have places closer to the lifts? (i'm obviously willing to pay more)

Also, please could someone give me some information on where to go for working visas? I won't be coming out until 2011/2012 but wanted to get it sorted sooner rather than later

Thanks

lez_s - Jul 23, 2010 - 04:19 PM
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Which companies have you looked at?

I know with seasonaires they might look far from the lifts, but they are not.

If you have looked at the seasonaires web site or seasonit and you look at the map the place in White Gold it a 10 min walk from the lifts.

Visa, check the BUNAC web site out.

JohnnyBelfast - Jul 23, 2010 - 06:06 PM
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I know Seasonit have at least 3 places 5 minutes walk to the lift. You really cant get any closer unless your staying in a hotel

mattdawes - Jul 25, 2010 - 07:52 PM
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thanks for the tip of bunac, website looks good i'll apply through there.

Seasonit looks good just not sure if i'll be cool with sharing a room with someone i don't know for 6 months.. do you know of any single room occupancy? thanks for all your help so far

philboarder - Jul 26, 2010 - 07:24 AM
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Seasonit and Seasonaires will both do Single Room its just a lot more expensive. The only other way to do single room would be to find a house with a group of people normally going out really early in the season

sophmdek - Aug 04, 2010 - 09:43 AM
Post subject: whistler accomodation

hello

I'm coming to Whistler by myself late this november. I recently emailed seasonit about availability for the 3 months between dec jan and feb and they said they did still have spare rooms, but as not that many solo girls come to whistler they wouldn't rent the room out unless I could find another solo girl or someone else I 'know' to fill the other half of the room. I was just wondering if anyone was thinking of going with season-it and would be able to fill the other half a room.

thanks

JohnnyBelfast - Aug 04, 2010 - 11:08 AM
Post subject: RE: whistler accomodation

First off i would say to wait a bit because if another girl applys then you can be put with her to share. But say to them that you want to stay and are not too bothered on which house, giving you more choice (all the houses are pretty close to the village and very decent). I'm not sure of their policys, they might not permit it, but if you were not opposed you could share with a guy. I know the Season-it guys personally and they are great people, really genuine, and honestly want you to have the best time ever. Feel free to ask them anything because they will try their best to accomodate.

sophmdek - Aug 04, 2010 - 03:19 PM
Post subject: RE: whistler accomodation

Yeh thats the thing, I emailed them to explain that I wasn't opposed to sharing with a guy if it meant that I was able to book in but they said it was against their policy or something. I'm also keen to get my accomodation sorted now and don't want to hang around waiting to see if another girl decides to book in while all the other good places get taken up in case another girl doesn't end up deciding to book in.

lez_s - Aug 04, 2010 - 03:42 PM
Post subject: RE: whistler accomodation

You could look into getting a room in a shared house.

Have a look at http://whistler.en.craigslist.ca/apa/

Lex87 - Sep 03, 2010 - 07:38 PM
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mattdawes wrote:

Personally I would keep checking for whistler accommodation on whisterretreats.com because their listings keep changing. Also, Canada.com will have the classified listings for the city of Vancouver so that's a good bet too. As for getting a work visa try www.governmentagents.gov.bc.ca/ (Service Canada) because they're the main office for government services and they will be able to help you. Good luck!