Snowboard Club UK (SCUK)

Abroad - Whistler 2012/13 yo!

Humperdink - Mar 28, 2012 - 08:42 PM
Post subject: Whistler 2012/13 yo!

Hi guys,

Appologies if there is already a thread on this, I did search but searching the word 'season' brings up 171 pages of barely-relatedness Surprised

Basically, I NEED to do my first ever season this year. I am getting old-er and itchy feet. I am thinking Whistler, after a bit of thought and research.

I would like as many tips as possible from ANYONE really, on doing a season! I can't get my head around this finding a job malarky, as silly as that sounds. How do you go about getting a job for something so far in the future?! Or do you just turn up and wing it? Anything else I should be thinking about? As much info as possible is needed as I have no idea where to start really!

Have also seen some posts from other people in other threads possibly heading out to Whistler, and thought we could perhaps discuss how we're getting on in here, and get to know each other, as I'm planning on heading out on my own, which is scaring the Jesus out of me! Surprised

Yeah....so.....cheers Cool

JohnnyBelfast - Mar 28, 2012 - 09:09 PM
Post subject: RE: Season how to

There are Whistler season threads for each year, just takes a bit longer trawling through searches
Last years - http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/index.ph ... son+thread
Year before - http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/index.ph ... tler+10+11
You can find the previous year to in a link just down a few posts.
That should give you about 3 weeks reading material most of which should still be relevent. There are a bunch of people from SCUK that have either done a season in Whistler or live there permanently that are normally happy to help with questions.
Its daunting to look at everything that needs to be done as a whole, best to pick and prioritise, first of should be your work permit.
Hope this helps a bit to get you started

robyhsb - Mar 30, 2012 - 02:36 AM
Post subject: RE: Season how to

Hey im doing my first season out here in banff at the moment and its frickin sweet over here! i would start pretty soon getting your working holiday visa sorted as it takes a while to send off for your police check and to fill out all the forms for the visa and then for it to be processed! I came out here with a company called gap year canada which helped me with accomodation, with a job interview, bank account, sin number and aload of other bits, its only banff based but im sure there will be a similar company for whistler?i know alot of people who have just turned up and found jobs and accomodation pretty quickly and easily! i came out here on my own aswell and was full on sh1t it but you makes friends so easily Smile

hope that helps abit hah

northernwig - Mar 30, 2012 - 07:52 PM
Post subject: RE: Season how to

Hello there!

Just thought I'd leave a quick post to say i'm heading out to Whistler on 13th October, hopefully for the year, boarding in winter and riding in summer.

I've already booked my flight out and have got my visa through, and just yesterday paid the deposit on my season pass. It's all very exciting, just a shame i have to wait 6 1/2 months to get out there. I'm heading out on my own too, so it is a bit a nerve wracking but unless you give it a go you'll never know!

Anyway, if you want to ask me anything or just have a bit of general chit chat just drop me a PM.

Andy

TheKork - Mar 31, 2012 - 07:06 PM
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heading out there to start of October.. not quite as prepared but should have my visa soon and will book flights nearer the time. seems to be a few people on the forum mentioned they are going to whistler this year.

the101s - Mar 31, 2012 - 10:49 PM
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interview the people you plan to live with thorougly to make sure they arent unhinged before you set out. youre going to be living in a small space with them for a long time!

jdavies1976 - Apr 02, 2012 - 10:53 AM
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Don't worry about the travelling on your own as you're heading to somewhere full of people who love boarding and mountains so you're guaranteed to have some common ground. I've travelled all over the place on my own and it's great as you get to meet all sorts of interesting people you wouldn't have met if you were travelling with a group of people you knew.

Some good advice from the101s. The best way I've found of seeing what your prospective flatmates are really like is to go out and have a few drinks with them as as the evening goes on you see more and more of the real person!

moo - Apr 04, 2012 - 06:40 PM
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the101s wrote:

interview the people you plan to live with thorougly to make sure they arent unhinged before you set out. youre going to be living in a small space with them for a long time!

You will do well if you are the one picking and choosing who you live and where tbh. Seasonal accommodation can be pretty hard to sort out until you are out there.

Great place to do a season - this year you would have had the chance for it to last 6 months just watch out for the Caesars.

Humperdink - Apr 06, 2012 - 07:31 PM
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Wicked guys, thanks! Might change this thread to the Whistler 2012/12 thread then, so we can all keep up to date with each other! I'm just finishing up my visa applicaion, and I'm aware it's a bit late, so I'm not getting my hopes up just yet! Still pretty excited as I'll be out for a holiday even If my visa doesnt get sorted!

TheKork - Apr 08, 2012 - 05:29 PM
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Wouldn't say you are late really, this is the latest update on the IEC website:

Quota: 5,350
Working Holiday places remaining: 2,369
Updated: 05/04/2012

Still plenty of visa's left!

Humperdink - Apr 08, 2012 - 05:43 PM
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Yeah, checked up earlier today! Very Happy

Where abouts are you heading out to?

jazown - Apr 08, 2012 - 06:10 PM
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Im heading out to whistler also Smile

Going with www.the-workingholiday-club.com . It's not free, but they do guarantee you a job and some other little bonuses! Really nice guys, and they come reccomended from the resort themselves..

Sorry if that sounds like an advert for them :/

Jason Smile

TheKork - Apr 08, 2012 - 06:24 PM
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Humperdink - whistler hopefully, I actually added you on FB last week (Kyle Mc), forgot about that. Was going to ask what sort of plans you had.

Jazown - I looked at WHC, its great for peace of mind but not really practical for me as I would need to arrange being in London for an interview on top of the £599 fee. But it would be great heading out knowing you had somewhere to stay and a job.

jazown - Apr 08, 2012 - 06:27 PM
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yeah, that's why i went for it. it's kool that they give you the 4 days accomodation and stuff in vancouver too.

Bottom line is, I'm too busy (lazy) to organise it all myself!

Out of interest, what airlines do you people use? Every one i look at seems to be crazy expensive!

TheKork - Apr 08, 2012 - 06:38 PM
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Canadian affair (air transat), i've priced a one way ticket at £260 which seems pretty reasonable..

jazown - Apr 08, 2012 - 06:41 PM
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awesome mate, thanks!

Humperdink - Apr 08, 2012 - 11:22 PM
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TheKork wrote:

Humperdink - whistler hopefully, I actually added you on FB last week (Kyle Mc), forgot about that. Was going to ask what sort of plans you had.

Ahhh, excellent! I thought it was someone off here! Very Happy

Will keep in touch!

I'm going with BUNAC I think. They offer a decent amount of support with everything for not too much dollar, and advice on jobs, etc. Nothing guaranteed job wise, but the help they do give, along with help setting up bank accounts, phones, getting your SIN, organising social stuff all seems pretty good, I think...

tee1 - Apr 09, 2012 - 04:04 AM
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Humperdink wrote:

TheKork wrote:

Humperdink - whistler hopefully, I actually added you on FB last week (Kyle Mc), forgot about that. Was going to ask what sort of plans you had.

Ahhh, excellent! I thought it was someone off here! Very Happy

Don't use Bunac, it's a waste of good cash.

You still have to fill in the Visa forms yourself and it is no quicker.

Stay in the samesun on your first few nights in Van and you will meet half the peeps on Bunac plus a load more anyway.

SIN number takes 30 mins at a Service Canada centre in Van.

Bank account book an appointment with y chosen bank and BOOM!! new account and debit card in 30mins.

Phone, I'd wait until you get to Whistler to get a local number then walk into said phone store and again 15mins you have a Canadian phone.

Job - well you'll have to fight with the rest of the new arrivals in Whistler but Bunac can't help you with that.
Most jobs are hospitality based though so if you can get some experience between now and October it will help. I've found Canada to be the most anal place on earth for wanting experience and skills for a job that need's no skills or experience.

Accom - If you have mates or can put a group together then you can get the lease on a place. Or look for a roomshare on Craigslist. Realistically though your not going to be able to find a place to live until your in Whistler. You might get lucky but probably not. People tend not to advertise rentals until their tenants are leaving and are about to become vacant.
Arrive late Sept - mid Oct and expect to pay $400 - 550 for a shared room plus utility’s. Arrive after mid Oct and the price starts going up, again you might get lucky and land a sweet place but the earlier your here the better. Again Bunac cant help with this.

Result = No Bunac = more cash to shred Smile

lez_s - Apr 09, 2012 - 08:29 AM
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WOW!!! Is it that time of year already!!!

Any questions about Whistler there is a few of us on here now that have done a holiday, season or live out here that can help.

I'll try and log on here more than I have been to try and help.

Beer

Humperdink - Apr 09, 2012 - 10:45 AM
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So quick question... If I'm not sure if I'll be going with BUNAC, what do I put on visa application when they ask if I'm travelling with any recognised organisations? Does it matter if I put 'none' and then end up going with BUNAC, or vise versa?

northernwig - Apr 09, 2012 - 01:26 PM
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Humperdink - I really wouldn't worry about it. After doing some research into it i realised that BUNAC are a waste of money too. I'd just say 'none' on the form and then if you change you mind it wont make a difference to your work permit.

Lez_s - I'm coming out mid-oct and just wondered if you had any idea of who the best insurers were to use. As part of the criteria you may have to show that you have private medical insurance for your stay, so i've been looking around but it's a bit of a maze. Any advice would be appreciated!

lez_s - Apr 09, 2012 - 08:00 PM
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I use http://www.travel-insurance.net/ as they are cheap and they pay out quick.

Do you mean show private medical insurance when you enter Canada and get your visa in your passport? That is part of your travel insurance.

northernwig - Apr 09, 2012 - 08:06 PM
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Thanks Lez_s, i think that's what they mean. It isn't clear to me whether travel insurance is enough or if they wanted separate medical cover.

rideonwhistler - Apr 09, 2012 - 08:29 PM
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If you want an overview of advice for planning a season in Whistler, take a look at the Whistler Season Guide too! It might answer some starter questions for you...

northernwig - Apr 09, 2012 - 08:59 PM
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Cheers Rideonwhistler!

Humperdink - Apr 09, 2012 - 09:09 PM
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Yeah cheers dude, thats pretty helpful!

lez_s - Apr 10, 2012 - 02:43 AM
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northernwig wrote:

Thanks Lez_s, i think that's what they mean. It isn't clear to me whether travel insurance is enough or if they wanted separate medical cover.

They just want to make sure you are not going to cost Canada anything when you are here.

Humperdink - Apr 11, 2012 - 09:01 PM
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Sent my application off today. Terrified I've done something wrong on it, but had to stop checking and let it go Razz

Here's to a couple of months of waiting......

northernwig - Apr 11, 2012 - 09:43 PM
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Good skills Humperdink! Thumbs Up

TheKork - Apr 11, 2012 - 10:07 PM
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I know what you mean! Did you get your police check done already? I'm still waiting on that coming back, refuse to pay them double to get it done in 2 days... just makes me feel they could do it in 2 days regardless. blatant money maker!

Humperdink - Apr 11, 2012 - 10:35 PM
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Got my police check done last week. I paid for the 2 days thing, and then realised that my laptop at home couldn't open the damn visa application PDF's and had to do it all at work which took ages and in the end I could have just done the 10 days thing. FFS. Nevermind Laughing

lez_s - Apr 11, 2012 - 11:17 PM
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Some links for you all

Local Paper
http://classifieds.piquenewsmagazine.com/

The ebay of Canada that has everything from places to live and jobs to buying cars and truck
http://whistler.craigslist.ca/

Another local paper
http://www.whistlerquestion.com/

Some Facebook pages
https://www.facebook.com/WhistlerIsAwesome

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Whistler ... 4477267116

https://www.facebook.com/whistlerblackcomb

Below is something Belfast posted when I headed out for my first season. NOTE something have changed.

Quote:

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

northernwig - Apr 11, 2012 - 11:31 PM
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Thanks again lez_s (and Belfast!) Very Happy

TheKork - Apr 12, 2012 - 01:07 AM
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Cheers Lez, excited just reading that stuff.

lez_s - Apr 12, 2012 - 09:49 AM
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Just to let you know, each bit of info we give is worth a beer in return!

Humperdink - Apr 12, 2012 - 11:08 PM
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Ahh, well screw that then! Plans are off.

I mean.....thanks!! Cool

TheKork - Apr 13, 2012 - 02:06 AM
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typical girl Razz

fair doo's lez but as you quoted that in i'm gonna have to count all that as 1 bit of advice Wink

JohnnyBelfast - Apr 15, 2012 - 07:09 PM
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Wow that post is old, some things have definately changed, but gives you a general idea and raises stoke levels.
And Lez doesnt get a beer for quoting me! Wink

northernwig - Apr 15, 2012 - 08:46 PM
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Definitely raises the levels.

Oh, and don't worry about the Beer

, i'll make sure noone's left out!

skylinekid77 - Apr 18, 2012 - 10:10 PM
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Im heading over to whistler at the end of the year for a good few months as well, soo much to plan its unreal !!! Well should be fun job and accomodation hunting ! good luck Very Happy

Ben125 - Apr 20, 2012 - 11:16 AM
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I'm going to whistler about the end of september for the full season at least. well providing i get my visa haha, having bother with the whole living in NI (UK) but having an irish passport , but sent the application back and hopefully ok this time! i was just planning on trying to get a job while out there , and trying to organize accomodation before. cheers for that big list lez! .. and belfast Wink

skylinekid77 - Apr 20, 2012 - 11:59 AM
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Hey Ben, looking at what other people Have said from experience it looks like the best plan is to get there early (start of November), go to the intrawest job fair and first find a job, at least with them you get your season pass sorted for you free of charge straight up... Regarding accommodation, it looks like you could either get somewhere sorted for a cpl weeks while looking for a job and then sort something long term after getting the job or if u save up enough while here in the UK then pay for a few months accommodation and not have the worry about not having anything after the first few weeks ( seasonit ) looks like a decent well priced accommodation to set up base for a while... I'm either gonna get 3 months with them or get cheap staff accommodation after completing level 1 instructor course with alltracks... Suppose it depends if you want to be tied into a job with the mountain where you get paid and shelter or if ya wanna go your own way and wing it ! Very Happy

Ben125 - Apr 20, 2012 - 12:04 PM
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yeahh i was thinking of heading even earlier than that so i should be sweet time wise. what do you bean they sort your season pass for free? is that if you get a job for the mountain ? i was looking at seasonit , thats where i was thinking of staying, the place in cay heights? im just not 100% where is the best area to stay? i was thinking of trying to get a job on the mountain, but being tied down put me off a wee bit

skylinekid77 - Apr 20, 2012 - 12:26 PM
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Yeah if you get a job with intrawest ( nearly every job on the mountain ) then they give u a free season pass. You can even do 1 day a week volunteering or a few part time hours and still get it... But you are tied into the job or you get the season pass revoked... But if you go to the job fair and get some work in a bar or ski rental shop then you can get a discounted season pass and your not tied into working for the mountain

TheKork - Apr 20, 2012 - 05:08 PM
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Quote:

( seasonit ) looks like a decent well priced accommodation to set up base for a while...

Maybe if you have saved considerably, but even though I have not been i'm convinced a bit of searching whilst there will uncover something notably better than 1330 CD a month?[/code]

lez_s - Apr 20, 2012 - 07:05 PM
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You can get cheaper than seasonit etc if you look about. Try looking here http://whistler.craigslist.ca/

Maybe you guys from here sould get together and get a place if you have the same ideas.

northernwig - Apr 20, 2012 - 09:05 PM
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lez_s wrote:

You can get cheaper than seasonit etc if you look about. Try looking here http://whistler.craigslist.ca/

Maybe you guys from here sould get together and get a place if you have the same ideas.

I'm open to that idea! I can see the appeal of paying for a room before even getting out to Whistler but it does seem pricey to me.

I'm heading out middle of October, staying in Vancouver for a couple of days, then in a hostel in Whistler for a couple of weeks while i sort a room an job. If anyone fancies buddying up just give me a shout.

TheKork - Apr 21, 2012 - 06:39 PM
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I was thinking this too, I'll PM you wig can add you on facebook. I've got humperdink on there too.

Be great to hear from anyone else going over with nothing arranged, can build up a group over the months and see what people think.

Smile

jazown - Apr 21, 2012 - 07:31 PM
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I'll be out there and homeless! So I'd be up for place sharing if you'll have me? Smile

Add me on facebook if you want:

http://www.facebook.com/jason.kirton

northernwig - Apr 21, 2012 - 08:43 PM
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jazdown, i just added you on FB, Andrew Wiggins

klang180 - Apr 21, 2012 - 10:08 PM
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Hey everybody, after my previous posts about Mammoth vs Whistler I am seriously leaning towards Whistler!

I have a couple of questions mind.

First off, i would quite like a job just for the social aspect (not to mention the lift pass) but would want to work part time or weekends only does anyone know if this is realistic?

Secondly, my brother did a season in Fernie and was a rental technician. Having looked on the WB website i think either rental technician or ski repair/tech would be what i want to do, can you get those jobs easily and with the aforementioned lesser hours? My bros experience was that all the Aussies wanted extra work as they were so broke, same in Whistler?

Lastly, I am not a party animal. I mean i like socialising with people but more in a laidback sort of environment i.e. films, poker, games and am not a huge drinker, am i going to be massively out of place there? Should i even bother?

Thanks, i am really looking forward to hearing more!

skylinekid77 - Apr 21, 2012 - 11:52 PM
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hey guys, add me on FB .. sean reardon

should be able to get a decent price on a chalet or something similar if we get a group over at same time, owners direct have a few places 6/8 person chalets which are cheaper than seasonit and are in a good location...

lez_s - Apr 22, 2012 - 06:29 AM
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klang180 wrote:

Yes it is, but you'll have to work for the mountain to get your free pass. I know people that work as liftys at weekends.

Quote:

Secondly, my brother did a season in Fernie and was a rental technician. Having looked on the WB website i think either rental technician or ski repair/tech would be what i want to do, can you get those jobs easily and with the aforementioned lesser hours? My bros experience was that all the Aussies wanted extra work as they were so broke, same in Whistler?

I've not worked in Whistler, but what I do know is that you got for interviews and then you are placed in a job they think you are best at - could be wrong. If you want a ski tech job, email Summit http://www.summitsport.com/ - but I think you get a spirt pass with them.

Quote:

Lastly, I am not a party animal. I mean i like socialising with people but more in a laidback sort of environment i.e. films, poker, games and am not a huge drinker, am i going to be massively out of place there? Should i even bother?

Whistler is a party town but some people party more than others. I have a friend that doens't drink at all and still goes out for cokes etc when the UFC is on. Every other week we have friends over and we cook a meal for us all and the next week they do the same at there so there is always something going on thats not drinking.

klang180 - Apr 22, 2012 - 10:33 AM
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Thanks so much Lez that is very helpful indeed, you know your stuff.

Can i tack on a cheeky additional question please and ask about the staff accommodation. It seems a bit like Uni accommodation and not that appealing, can you take a job with the mountain but not take their accommodation or is it a pre-requisite?

The other thing being, i don't want both my pass and acco resting on the job, seems way too risky!

jazown - Apr 22, 2012 - 11:23 AM
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skylinekid, think I added you. Alot of sean reardons!

northernwig - Apr 22, 2012 - 12:00 PM
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skylinekid77 wrote:

Send me a PM mate with a link to your FB profile and I'll add you.

JohnnyBelfast - Apr 22, 2012 - 12:08 PM
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Quote:

can you take a job with the mountain but not take their accommodation or is it a pre-requisite?

absolutely, no problem taking a job and not accom, it is kind of just uni style housing, a sh1t of aussies and a fair bit of partying, it is cheaper than most other places you would find. Plenty of better places!

klang180 - Apr 22, 2012 - 04:23 PM
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Hey Johnny thanks for that, i thought it would be the case but just wanted to check.
Had a feeling it would also be crammed by Aussies, there seems to be more in Canada than the homeland!

TheKork - Apr 22, 2012 - 04:36 PM
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Got a wee facebook group on the go for Whistler season chat.. get involved!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/279398198814761/

lez_s - Apr 22, 2012 - 05:09 PM
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klang180 wrote:

There are 3 areas of staff housing Glacier, Brio and Westside. Glacier is the party place and Westside is more chilled and quiet.

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

klang180 - Apr 23, 2012 - 06:20 PM
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Thanks Lez, i do not like the sound of a shared room. I need some space although i now sound like a bit of a boring brat lol Smile

lez_s - Apr 24, 2012 - 06:58 AM
Post subject:

You can get your own single room in staff housing too.

ash1176 - Apr 26, 2012 - 10:38 PM
Post subject:

Hey guys, glad to have found this thread, hoping to head to whistler in november for the 12/13 too!
gona wing it when i get there, anybody found cheap hostels for the first few weeks until job and accommodation is sorted
just waiting for my police check to come back and i'll send off visa, fingers crossed...

pm me for facebook if you guys want to link up!!!

so excited !

ash1176 - Apr 27, 2012 - 12:07 PM
Post subject:

I know the bar job are quite hard to get, what about DJ gigs ?
I play a lot of stuff from: soul funk /reggae/ disco/ hip hop /old rock / electro im guessing this will be near impossible to get, but got to try... any tips?

Humperdink - Apr 27, 2012 - 01:35 PM
Post subject:

That would be a pretty awesome set up if you managed to get some gigs! I'm quite happy working something with very little responsibility, to make a change from my current job!

Also, I received my email of receipt from the visa people. Does anyone know if this means everything was correct and they don't have to send it back for me to re-do anything? I was terrified I'd done something wrong when I sent it off! :p

Ben125 - Apr 27, 2012 - 04:46 PM
Post subject:

yeahh pretty sure thats what it mean. I'd sent mine out twice not received the email then got it back and had to change it haha. 3rd time there i got the email and no application returned lol. thats what im thinking of doing , trying to get a hostel till permanent accomodation and job are sorted. ill let you know if i find any. let me know if you find any too please haha

ash1176 - Apr 27, 2012 - 05:18 PM
Post subject:

getting a few gigs and a few bar shift every week would be the dream (but i can dream on i think)
but yeah if anybody know bar managers or promoters looking for DJ's let me know...
I found a few things in terms of hostels when first getting there whilst reading some threads on here
its quite pricey though looking at 70 - 90 CAD$ per day....

http://www.hihostels.ca/westerncanada/3 ... ies.hostel

http://www.whistlervillageinnandsuites.com/

http://www.whistlerretreats.com/

Im thinking of flying on the 1st of november, stay a day in VAN and then head off to whistler, Let me know if anybody is on the same boat...
im on facebook: ashley martel

lez_s - Apr 27, 2012 - 05:31 PM
Post subject:

Depending on what bar work you want it can be very hard to find. Barman and severs are normally for locals as its the bast paying job in town.

If you want to work in a bar be a buser e.g. carry food out and clean up and if you work for the mountain you get a free pass.

One more place to look at http://southsidelodge.com/

Ben125 - Apr 27, 2012 - 06:45 PM
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70$ a night isnt too bad is it ? join this group ash http://www.facebook.com/groups/279398198814761/ .

lez_s - Apr 27, 2012 - 07:15 PM
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There will be a Whistler Seasonaires page being started soon e.g. the one I help run and a lot of locals on there too.

ColdComfort - Apr 27, 2012 - 11:34 PM
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Wow its that time of year already ! See you all out here real soon Smile

ash1176 - Apr 28, 2012 - 01:08 AM
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ben just sent a request for the group cheers, yeah 70 isn't bad but was hoping too find cheaper, it doesn't look like it though for now...
humperdink i know what you mean about the job, you managed to keep it for when you come back ?
lez, johny belfast, cold comfort.. i read all the other threads from previous years, thanks for all the tips, reading through that makes me want to be there now !

lez_s - Apr 28, 2012 - 01:50 AM
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Sorry, I might not be reading this right, but the HI in Whistler is $40 per night for a shared room for non-members in winter.

http://www.hihostels.ca/westerncanada/3 ... ies.hostel

ash1176 - May 01, 2012 - 11:34 PM
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Thanks lez, i didnt see that, only downside is that it looks like hi is miles away, but looks like there is busses....
Man now im briking it with the visa, only sent it off today and theres only 700 odd places left...im kinda thinking i aint gona get it, but im pretty determined to go,
how much money are we talking about to do mid november till end of may without any work?
probably looking to go out (getting silly drunk) once or twice a week and sip a few beers after the slopes... a guestimate would be cool
also any chances of finding bits and bobs without a working visa ? or will i end up on tv on border control
I guess the other option would be europe but.... it aint canada Sad

lez_s - May 02, 2012 - 12:33 AM
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Yeah its a good 20 mins from the village, but its cheap and it will let you stay somewhere until you find a room in a house in a location near the lifts and you'll get to meet people.

Trust me on this, no matter how much money you have you'll wish you had more. Save up as much as you can and you'll have a better season. I would say after flight, insurance, season pass if you can get $1300 per month you are here you'll be fine.

As for the visa, if you dont get it, you can come out here and apply for the next next by posting things home and getting someone to post them on etc.

ash1176 - May 02, 2012 - 10:18 PM
Post subject:

thanks, how much is the house rent in your estimate ? obviously i realise rent could be anywhere between 500 and 1000 cad... so i would need to find a good deal.

one last question if you don't mind: am i right in thinking that if you volunteer for a few weeks you can get your season pass for free, where could i get info on this ?
cheers

lez_s - May 02, 2012 - 10:25 PM
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For about $700 a month you can get a nice double bedroom in a nice house. If you want to share a room e.g. a twin room you'll be looking about $400 - 500, but the cost will change on location.

To be a volunteer you have to work 23 day over the season. When the big events are you'll be working them or covering when needed, but you do need a work permit as getting your season pass is classed as payment in return for you volunteering.

ash1176 - May 02, 2012 - 10:37 PM
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cheers dude!

Humperdink - May 11, 2012 - 01:56 PM
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So, just thinking about the 'Serving it Right' and Foodsafe certificates....Does anyone have any experience of these and are they a good idea? I doubt I'll be doing any bar work, but I was thinking it's perhaps better safe than sorry to have these under the belt before I head out.....

lez_s - May 11, 2012 - 06:40 PM
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I think Belfast is the guy to help you on this.

I would think if you want a job in F&B then do them as you would stand out from the rest of the people applying.

What sort of work are you think you would like to do?

Humperdink - May 11, 2012 - 07:13 PM
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I really dont mind to be honest! Very Happy

I'm quite happy to be a bit of a job hussy and take anything that I can get!

lez_s - May 11, 2012 - 07:28 PM
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Best jobs to get if you want to ride a lot is things like evening work in a bar, cleaning for the mountain, working on the mountain or rentals.

When you work on the mountain in the day you get time to ride, I think lifties get most. Cleaning for the mountain you start at 4pm so you can ride in the day, but you finish work at 3am as you clean the bars own my the mountain.

JohnnyBelfast - May 12, 2012 - 12:41 AM
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Serving it Right is the more important one you will not be able to work anywhere that serves alcohol without it. Super easy to get, its pretty much an open book questionaire. You have the test open in one window and the stuff you have to read open in another, read the question find the answer etc
Foodsafe is not really as important you can still work in a food environment without it, your employer may ask for it after you get employed but again its no big.

Flyingturtle - May 12, 2012 - 03:03 PM
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Bought my season pass yesterday, will hope to meet up with some of you also going for some great riding Smile

lez_s - May 12, 2012 - 04:31 PM
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Nice one. Only 7 months to wait until you can use it.

See you out here Beer

lez_s - May 28, 2012 - 06:38 PM
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Gaper Day!!!

Last day of the season and after 138 days of riding I'm looking forward to resting the body until summer riding on the Blackcomb glacier.

gymrite - Jun 05, 2012 - 03:24 PM
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Hello all.

I was in whistler (not working) this year but had my time cut short because I destroyed my collar bone after 6 weeks. I really want to come back out but just realised that there are no working holiday VISAs left.

Can anyone think of any other options for me to work out there. Is it possible to get a 2013 working holiday VISA to start in Jan 2013?

Jim

lez_s - Jun 05, 2012 - 05:06 PM
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I know people that have headed out to Canada without the visa, but before they did filled out all the paperwork at home and gave it to someone. Once the new visa's came out they got the person to post the paperwork off for them as it has do be done from the UK.

Was you get the visa you head down to the border and Flagpole e.g. go to the USA and turn round and start the visa.

lee.92 - Jun 07, 2012 - 08:46 PM
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Hey,
looking at the possibility of heading out to whistler for a few months, but wont be working due to visas, so im saving up now and once im out there (hopefully) i will just live off my savings and get maximum shred time in!
so i was wondering if anyone else was taking this route or if everyone's findings jobs...
anyway i was wondering about accommodation, due to cost's i would be looking to rent an apartment or house with others as it tends to work out cheaper and nicer so i hear (can someone clarify that) if so is anyone interested, i know you guys might be working but at the same time it would be nice to head out with others from here you already sorta know and just live and shred together, just a thought! as it sounds less daunting than jumping into the unknown by yourself

- also is whistler busy as they say it is, i have come back from a season in fernie where lift ques done really exist and the slopes dont feel crowded like europe...

thanks!

jazown - Jun 07, 2012 - 09:06 PM
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there's a group of us on facebook mate, mainly working but looking at house shares!

http://www.facebook.com/groups/279398198814761/

lez_s - Jun 07, 2012 - 10:31 PM
Post subject:

lee.92 wrote:

If you have a look on here for renting a room in a shared house http://whistler.craigslist.ca/ - what I would do is get to Whistler and stay in a hostel and look for a place once you are there so you can check it out. One tip is take the money for the place with you as if you have to go get the money someone else come along with the money and take the room.

Lots of people bum seasons, I've never worked one yet. As you wont be working its harder to meet people so staying in a shared house is a good idea so you can meet people.

As for lift lines, yeah they are busy, but only on holiday e.g. xmas/new year, long weekend etc but mid week its quiet. By the end of the season you'll know where to go and know where it wont be busy.

Humperdink - Jun 11, 2012 - 10:36 PM
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Does anyone have an idea of how much flights 'should' cost? I'm doing some research, but have no idea what a decent price might be. Virgin quoted me £1186 or something similar for one way, and I almost hyperventilated. Is that about average?!

SnowSheep - Jun 11, 2012 - 11:06 PM
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I wouldn't know how much flights 'should' cost but I've always found skyscanner.net to be pretty good when searching for flights, helped me out loads with a trip to Indonesia last summer, happy hunting Smile

lez_s - Jun 12, 2012 - 02:08 AM
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Mine cost me £450 return with Canadian Affair.

One way always cost so much more.

otlawrence - Jun 12, 2012 - 03:24 AM
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havent been on in a while as i moved to Australia at the begining of the year!!

But i am freaking excited to say i am finally heading out to Whistler for the 12/13 season (fingers crossed) had an interview with the guys at whistler yesterday here in Sydney.

Regardless of the outcome of the interview im coming anyway im just gonna wait till the end of the month to purchase my flights when i find out what the deal is with the job i applied for! be cool to catch up with a bunch of you when i make it out!!!

Humperdink - Jun 12, 2012 - 07:26 PM
Post subject:

lez_s wrote:

Mine cost me £450 return with Canadian Affair.

One way always cost so much more.

FFS, really?! Well, I might as well get a return and then just not bother catching the flight home if I fancy staying out longer then. Mental.

lee.92 - Jun 13, 2012 - 01:01 AM
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last season was around £460 gatwick to calgary return ticket, so there abouts.

edit - i will join the fb group when i make my mind up ha, but curious what jobs are you guys applying for and accommodation wise have you looked into anything yet?

lez_s - Jun 13, 2012 - 01:31 AM
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You always pay more for one way. Why dont you want a return?

For my visa I booked a flight and didn't use it.

JohnnyBelfast - Jun 13, 2012 - 04:46 AM
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Not sure if things have changed but dont you need to have a return flight booked to show customs that you dont plan on staying longer than you should?! I have definately wasted a flight or 2 in my time!

jazown - Jun 13, 2012 - 06:02 PM
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My flight one way with canadian affair in october is £270 from gatwick.... not too bad!

Ben125 - Jun 14, 2012 - 04:27 PM
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I just think you need to have enough money to be able to buy a flight back at any time. Are the ski passes the same price from now until the 10th october , or do they have any other deals between now and then ? also do you all wear transceivers when you're in whistler?

lez_s - Jun 14, 2012 - 07:52 PM
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Yeah you have to show you have the money e.g. cradit card or cash in the bank.

Normally they only have the early bird deal on until Oct and then its full price.

You dont need a transceiver while in bounds. Whistler is just like any other holiday resort. If you go beond the lifts and out of bound yes of course you need one and the rest of the kit and KNOW how to use it.

JohnnyBelfast - Jun 14, 2012 - 07:54 PM
Post subject:

Yeah passes will remain the same same price until Early Bird rates are over in October.
Transceivers, the majority of people would not wear them regularly, it is quite different from skiing in Europe. All of the 'off piste' areas are still in the area boundary so are avi bombed and patrolled. Unlike Europe when as soon as you step off the piste you are on your own. Saying that it never hurts to wear one, and if i am heading outside the ski boundary into the backcountry i will be carrying all my safety gear.

matt... - Jun 16, 2012 - 04:08 AM
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back to housing once again make sure you dont send and money with out seeing a place first, theres a thing in the paper again this week about sh1t landlords and so on. this is a good resource if your in doubt althogh i had nothing but good experiances -http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca/

for now its been snowing for the last 2 weeks up high, we went sleding today followed by bike park, coc opens next week so soon time for summer park laps. whistler is too good

robyhsb - Jun 17, 2012 - 06:15 AM
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Just got into whistler from banff! super hyped for coc Smile

just need a place to live now...

Humperdink - Jun 21, 2012 - 11:58 AM
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So yeah. Visa approved. B-) Get in!

Now comes the time when I get really stressed Razz

I'm terrible at planning and organising.

lez_s - Jun 22, 2012 - 04:55 AM
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No need to get stressed. I've been through it all for 4 seasons and you have people that have lived in Whistler and Vancouver that know what they are talking about and are happy to help.

Just ask us and someone will answer

Humperdink - Jun 22, 2012 - 07:49 PM
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Haha, cheers man! It's very much appreciated! Very Happy

oli_collins - Jun 28, 2012 - 02:44 PM
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What's it like for finding jobs out there in September? I want to try and get one lined up before hand but most of the places i have googled that help you out want quite a few £ to set it up. Im figuring its better to save the money for when im out there. I have also been emailing a few places i have managed to find that relate to what i do work wise at the moment (mostly web dev/design or advertising places). No response from them yet though Sad

rideonwhistler - Jul 03, 2012 - 12:13 AM
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Hi Oli,

September in Whistler is pretty dead for work. Although you might have more luck than most as you have some good skill set for a tourist town. Most employers hire from late october to mid december.

http://www.rideonwhistler.com/Whistler_ ... tler_Jobs/

I would not recommend paying to secure any kind of job or interview before arriving. These services are not very good value for money in my opinion.

If you have any other Qs ask away..

tom990 - Jul 05, 2012 - 09:22 PM
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Hi all,

I am wanting to do a season this year but not work and have a few questions as I’ve not done this before. Had a look through this thread and don’t think people have asked these questions, so apologies if someone has.

Are there any forms I need to fill out before I go as I won’t be working?

Is there any problems renting a place if I don’t have a Canadian bank account or is it advisable to get one(if I can)?

I have also read that I will have to show evidence I have enough money to support myself while I am in Canada. Would a bank statement be enough or do I have to have a letter from my bank signed or something?

Just a bit unsure about it all.

Thanks

lez_s - Jul 06, 2012 - 02:37 AM
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I've never worked any of my 4 seasons in Whistler so I think I can help you on this one.

You don't have to fill out any forms before you go to Canada as you are going on holiday. When you get to the airport and go to passport control you will be asked things such as, how much money do you have, do you have a place to live, do you have a return flight etc. I always take a bank statement (or a print off from my on line bank account) showing my money and of course have a credit card with me. Also I have my return flight printed off and any accomm I have sorted out.

The main thing they are looking for is do you have money to cover your stay and you wont look for a cash in hand work. If you can show you can support your self they wont care.

You can look for a place to stay before you head out to Whistler or you can book a bed in a hostel and look for a room/place while there and even meet people in the hostel and move in together.

rideonwhistler - Jul 06, 2012 - 05:04 PM
Post subject:

As usual Well covered by Lez!

As far as getting a bank account goes. It depends on the land lord. Many are happy (and prefer) to be payed in cash. But some will ask for post dated cheques. In which case you will need to get a canadian bank account.

If all your money is in the UK you will be transferring a lot of money over the course of the year. We have quite a bit of experience advising people on this and the best value method our guests have found is

*Getting a canadian bank account. (RBS and TD are pretty similar in my experience..)

*Then using UKforex to transfer money from your UK account to the canadian account.

On larger sums there are no fees and you can lock in at a better rate then cedit card or debit. Will save you a couple hundred quid over the course of a season if your not working!

rideonwhistler - Jul 06, 2012 - 05:08 PM
Post subject:

Also If your not going to be working I would highly recommend volunteering a couple of evenings a week! The hill closes at 3 everyday. Thats a lot of time to kill when you cant ride.

Its a great way to meet whistler locals and have another social circle.

If your interested I have a list of local organizations that are always happy to have more helpers!

philw - Jul 07, 2012 - 06:40 PM
Post subject:

As Lez suggests, if you're a "tourist" (no right to work), then the immigration people will ask you questions intended to find out if you're intending to cheat on that deal somehow.

They hassle me every year, so whilst a history of going there and coming back may well reduce their suspicion than you'll seek asylum, instead it makes them think you're working illegally. Single males are probably high risk from their perspective.

To spell it out, they don't say: "are you intending to make money from working here". Instead they ask you friendly or hostile questions about what you're doing. Have your story simple and have it ready.

If they get the slightest sniff that, for example, you could be intending to do something in exchange for something else, then they will get very excited.

I've had them excited by accident a couple of times. They take you off to a little room and ask you staccato questions. You don't get strip searched if you answer correctly; can't say about what happens if you don't. I found it rather amusing as I was on rock solid ground and I knew it.

I try to be polite, calm and to keep it simple. Absolutely do not joke when dealing with anyone like these people. Immigration into any country is pretty much the same world-over.

tom990 - Jul 07, 2012 - 10:04 PM
Post subject:

Thanks for those responses. Have been really helpful.

I know from the responses on here that if you want a Job go out early. As I only need accomadation. When would you suggest heading out as I dont really want to go before the slopes open. Is there normally still accomadation avaliable or would you suggest going out abit earlier. Was planning on staying in a hostel while I look for accomadition around the start of December(ish). Is this a bad idea?

Thanks again.

rideonwhistler - Jul 08, 2012 - 06:20 AM
Post subject:

Hi Tom,

I would recommend heading out no later than mid november personally.
I had a friend of the family arrive late november and it took her about 3 1/2 weeks to find a place last year.

check out this page of the season guide

http://www.rideonwhistler.com/Whistler_ ... mmodation/

Have you considered prebooking?

Three of the top benefits are

* Arrive whenever you want we pick you up from the bus and you can go ridin the next day.

* If you have a job at home you can stay and get a couple of extra paychecks in before you head out. No time spent waiting around for the lifts to open spening lot of money at the hostel and at bars!

* You know where you will be staying and everything is already setup for you. Weekly cleaning, bed linen, fully setup kitchen.

Keep an eye on our specials page too we have early season deals regularly updated on there.

Obviously this is my business and pre-book accommodation is not for everyone it depends what your budget and priorities are. But it can make great sense.

Im sure the other guys on the forum will have some good info for you too!

Oh and if you want to find love while your out here come as early as possible! the good ones go quick lol

lez_s - Jul 08, 2012 - 05:23 PM
Post subject:

The only problem with some volunteering roles is that you get something in return such as a season pass if you volunteer for the mountain. As you get something in return its classed as a payment and you need a visa for that.

Volunteering would be a good way of meeting people, so live in a shared house etc.

For me if I had a chance of getting a visa I would and work part time for the mountain to get a free lift pass and to meet people. All you need to do is work weekends when its busy and even then you get to ski/ride for an hour or while at work.

rideonwhistler - Jul 09, 2012 - 04:54 PM
Post subject:

Very true lez,

You def cant volunteer for WB without a visa but they are the only ones who get that official about it in my experience!

Cheers Dan

Humperdink - Jul 13, 2012 - 05:53 PM
Post subject:

Right, so I'm booking my flight over the next couple of days with Canadian Affair. Now, they say that you can have one piece of luggage up to 23kg, and up to two free sports bags up to 20kg.

I wanted to take one snowboard bag with all my snowboarding gear, and clothes in it, and one piece of hand luggage. I'm guessing this isn't possible as I'm sure my bag would weigh more than 20kg if I packed like that. Anyone any idea? I'm assuming most people would bring normal luggage, snowboard bag and hand luggage yeah?

lez_s - Jul 13, 2012 - 08:38 PM
Post subject:

I flow with Air Transat via Canadian Affair last time.

I took a backpack and my BIG snowboard bag. Normally my backpack comes at 17kg and my board bag is about 30kg.

I've never had to pay extra for my bag, because together they come in on weight or just over and becasue I'm normally the first to check in and I smile and be nice I get away with it.

I also have my hand luggage too.

Ben125 - Jul 14, 2012 - 03:08 PM
Post subject:

yeah that was my plan , 1 hold luggage and a board bag. They say in their terms that boots must be in a seperate bag ? i thought that was odd , i take it you just put your boots in with your snowboard and stuff? Also do you put a load of clothes and stuff in with them ?

lez_s - Jul 14, 2012 - 04:38 PM
Post subject:

I put my towels in the bottom of my board bag and my boards on top of them. Then boots at each end and helmet between my bindings and from there pack things around them AND put socks etc I'm my boots and googles under my helmet. Then any space I put street clothes in where I can.

Ben125 - Jul 14, 2012 - 05:11 PM
Post subject:

Sweet cheers, thats what i was thinking of doing , do they never say anything like " oh its only for sports equipment" or stuff like that? or do they not really check whats inside ?

lez_s - Jul 15, 2012 - 04:14 PM
Post subject:

Nope never ask what's in it. I have no idea why in on the web site when booking tickets.

rideonwhistler - Jul 16, 2012 - 09:14 PM
Post subject:

I almost always fly with air transat too and can echo what lez has said.. Never had any problems with having a board-bag with other stuff in!

If you have a lot of baggage its good value to upgrade to their premier class and get an increased baggage that way as opposed to paying by the kg plus you get a bigger seat!

(klm can have some decent prices via amsterdam aswell)

lee.92 - Jul 16, 2012 - 09:15 PM
Post subject:

i flew air transat last time ( Canadian affair)
just take your:
-main bag with clothes 23 kg,
-sports bag 20 kg (snowboard boots bindings extra clothes you cant fit in your main bag)
- hand luggage 5 kg they will weigh this to, so don't be over. though if you are just mention you have a laptop in it they will let you off. well they did me! though someone i met on the plane was over and they charged them a extra £165 to add it as a extra bag!

that is the standard solution, as if dont take a main bag your struggle to fit your boots board clothes and such in just a 20 kg bag

TheKork - Jul 31, 2012 - 11:15 PM
Post subject:

Just for anyone who hasn't already seen... got a facebook group up for prospective Whistler seasonaires with a good few folk in it now.

Currently discussing accomodation, looking at some nice big properties.

Get involved!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/279398198814761/

oli_collins - Sep 03, 2012 - 06:24 PM
Post subject:

Is there anyone who is going to be out there by the end of the month? Only got 3 more weeks of work left and am then jumping on a plane over.

Ben125 - Sep 04, 2012 - 05:32 PM
Post subject:

nahh , ive only got 3 weeks of work left too though Smile

, then i fly out to england on the 6th and me and 2 others off here , fly out to vancouver on the 11th , where abouts are you staying in whistler ?

Also for anyone who knows the place well, what would having a house in creekside and a job in the village be like ? are they easy enough to get between ?

rideonwhistler - Sep 05, 2012 - 05:04 PM
Post subject:

Hey,

In the winter there are buses running from creekside to the village every 10 minutes.

You can check out the winter schedule here

http://www.bctransit.com/regions/whi/sc ... ine=2&

But basically its very easy the bus takes 10-20 mins depending on what route it takes..

You can also quite easily upload on creekside gondola and then ride to the village if you prefer!

We have a useful map of where all the subdivisions are here

http://www.rideonwhistler.com/Whistler_ ... mmodation/

JohnnyBelfast - Sep 07, 2012 - 10:31 AM
Post subject:

So I have a room going for this winter/year if anybody is in need of accomodation. Its a 4 bedroom 3 bathroom house in Cay Heights, you will have a bedroom to yourself, kingsize bed, 5 mins walk to the village, loads of space and storage, just 4 people in the house, we ride all day and work nights. Looking at $700 + utilities.
Lez can vouch for the people and the place.

lez_s - Sep 07, 2012 - 04:47 PM
Post subject:

I might know someone that would fit in well. I've dropped them an email already.

If I was looking for a place to live for the winter, I can't think of a better place and better people to live with.

Hope I get money for that haha

Cpm360 - Sep 10, 2012 - 07:00 PM
Post subject:

I would love to go out to whistler in jan 13 for a couple of weeks from around the 7th (although im flexible) and would like to find a private room in a house/chalet in the village. If anyone has a spare room going please let me know. Chris

oli_collins - Sep 17, 2012 - 11:28 PM
Post subject:

Ben125 wrote:

where abouts are you staying in whistler ?

I'm probably going to be staying at one of the hostels for the first few days while i sort accom and job out. What are your plans for when you get out here?

Humperdink - Oct 03, 2012 - 04:58 PM
Post subject:

FFS, waited too long to book snowbus for transfer and now it's all booked up.

Anyone got any transfer recommendations? I'm assuming Greyhound take board bags. Where is the pick up, anyone know?

lez_s - Oct 03, 2012 - 05:54 PM
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With the Greyhound you will have to get to Downtown.

Have a look at http://www.pacificcoach.com/

Humperdink - Oct 03, 2012 - 06:36 PM
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Yeah I tried that, but I'm not flying the same day as my flight arrives, and they kept asking for my flight number and arrival time when I was trying to book.....

lez_s - Oct 03, 2012 - 07:28 PM
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You mean you aren't heading to whistler the same day you land?

You could see if you can get a lift via hitch whistler web site.

philw - Oct 03, 2012 - 08:23 PM
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What he said.

The Greyhound station is about a $20 taxi ride from YVR and not in a hugely nice area. I've spent many a happy Xmas eve etc there . Seriously, don't muck about outside the station there, here be dragons. The bus times can be more convenient, but the last one isn't hugely late from what I remember (23:00 or something like that). That one does get in late and may leave you needing a cab at the other end too.

Taxi transfer to Whistler is about... trying to remember the last time I screwed up and had to do that... about $200 or something like that. Try to find a driver who has winter tyres; some of them will never have been outside the city. They will think you're joking, so have the bucks to wave.

Alternatively you can stay in the airport hotel ($$$$ but excellent) and get the bus the next morning - not sure what time the shuttles run. You could alternatively go into the city, stay in a hotel down-town ($$$ but excellent), and catch one of the transfer buses directly from there the next morning.

Not sure what the issue is, but the other thing worth trying is that you can often just walk onto a Perimeter bus - they have an office right there and I think that they lay on more buses if there's demand, so you may get on that way. Plus if some people who are booked don't turn up.

I've done all of those and they all work...

rideonwhistler - Oct 03, 2012 - 11:49 PM
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Take a look here

http://www.rideonwhistler.com/Whistler_ ... _Whistler/

Will answer a lot of your qs.. Sky train is very easy to get from the airport to greyhound stop..

Humperdink - Oct 04, 2012 - 07:41 AM
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Yeah, sorry I meant I'm not going to Whistler the same day as my flight gets in, staying at my friends flat for 2 days first.

I was only getting the pacific coach from the airport because it seemed like it was an easier option for me to find, rather than one of the downtown hotel pick-up options....I think I'll try and do that though. I'm sure if I got a taxi from my friends flat they'll know where to go!

lez_s - Oct 04, 2012 - 04:34 PM
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In that case I would get the taxi to the greyhound, but book your ticket a couple of days a head as it start getting busy soon.

Or like I said put an ad up here http://www.hitchwhistler.com/

When do you fly in?

Humperdink - Oct 04, 2012 - 09:14 PM
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Its cool, I'm just going to pacific coach Smile

Cheers guys.....

I fly in on the 25th, and am staying in Vancouver till the 27th

lez_s - Oct 04, 2012 - 11:21 PM
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If you are going to be downtown I would get the greyhound as its cheaper, BUT saying that, the Pacific will take you to where you live.

Where abouts are you staying?

Humperdink - Oct 05, 2012 - 07:00 AM
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Our house is on Whistler Road...

lez_s - Oct 05, 2012 - 04:27 PM
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Thats a nice area.

Humperdink - Oct 05, 2012 - 11:36 PM
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Sweet

box - Oct 06, 2012 - 12:46 PM
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Hi all,

Just tried to buy my season pass before the early bird discount ends (Monday 8th) but their website is saying that no products are currently available.

Anyone know if they have a limited number of early bird passes and maybe they've run out?

http://store.whistlerblackcomb.com/Cont ... oryCode=62

Cheers

rideonwhistler - Oct 06, 2012 - 04:47 PM
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No limit!

Call guest service they will sort it out!

http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/about- ... index.aspx

box - Oct 06, 2012 - 04:53 PM
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Thanks! Will ring them when they open.

Edit- Just gave them a call and paid over the phone. Season pass booked![/u]

rideonwhistler - Oct 12, 2012 - 06:57 AM
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If you have the spare cash look into buying the $500 WB gift card as an add on to your season pass..

It costs $400!! It never expires and you can use it in any of their stores or on the hill for food! an extra 20% off everything!

(no I dont work for WB its just a good deal lol)

matt... - Nov 17, 2012 - 02:12 AM
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opening day tomorrow....

BUT....

dont get all carried away by the snow thats going to fall over the next few days, theres been zero snow other than snow making so stick to marked and open stuff or you will destroy your board or yourself

other wise ENJOY!!!

box - Nov 26, 2012 - 04:34 PM
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Alright,

Arrived in Whistler on Thursday and staying a friends in Spruce Grove, but it's only short term so need to find my own place. Also keen to meet up with some people to ride with, especially during the week, so if you don't mind me tagging along or need someone to ride with, hit me up! Also same goes if you know of any rooms for rent. Find me on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/iamboxy

stu83 - Dec 14, 2012 - 01:14 PM
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Hi, I'm coming Whistler for 2 weeks from 6th March and cant wait! Only used to Bulgaria and Andorra, so I guess it's gonna be epic. Anyway, I've started looking to get my own board and just wondering what prices are going to be like out there at that time, any better than here? Cheers