Content is created in partnership with Tourism Whistler and SkiftX, Skift’s branded content studio.
Planners looking for a picturesque backdrop for their next meeting should consider Whistler, British Columbia, at the top of their list. From airport transfers to the end of the conference, the entire experience will feature stunning views and a gold-medal experience.
As host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is accustomed to providing planners and attendees with warm hospitality and a fresh perspective that helps meetings and events reach new heights. While this scenic mountain is a favorite for many people to ski, there is no doubt that it is an exciting year-round destination.
Read on to learn more about how the combination of natural beauty and top-notch conference facilities make Whistler the ideal location for meetings, incentive travel, and events of all sizes.
enjoy the village
Attendees look forward to an experience outside of the conference room, and Whistler is a breath of fresh air. Although the mountains towered into the sky, the village where attendees stayed during the conference was refreshing.
It’s easy to get enchanted by the highly walkable, small-town atmosphere the village has to offer. It’s a radical departure from the day-to-day work in the office and is the ideal place to recharge and re-energize the organization’s members and executives. Planners might consider avoiding a crowded agenda and instead leaving plenty of free time for attendees to soak up a change of pace.
Beyond the simple pleasure of strolling the streets, Whistler Village offers amenities that blur the lines between business and leisure, adding to the overall event experience. Spas, shops, restaurants and bars are just steps away from your hotel rooms. Planners can let attendees explore Whitler’s arts and culture at their own pace—ideal for incentive travel—or arrange a private event in one of the galleries for an unforgettable reception.
Preston Miller, director of convention sales for Tourism Whistler, said visitors are pleasantly surprised by the number of options available. “Many event planners are attracted to Whistler’s campus-like atmosphere, and its pedestrian village provides a vibrant and safe environment day or night. Attendees can effortlessly immerse themselves in all that Whistler has to offer Everything is within walking distance of their hotel,” he points out.
Embrace the great outdoors
The charm of the village is matched by the excitement of unique outdoor activities that enhance team spirit and provide worthy prizes to award winners.
Ski enthusiasts will be excited to visit the resort pioneered by Lindsay Vonn in 2010. Families attending with participants can spend the entire day there, especially since snow tubing requires no special equipment or training – it’s just a lot of fun.
Planners can take advantage of the post-Paris surge in Olympic interest by arranging private bobsleigh and bobsleigh (face-up bobsleigh) experiences as well as cross-country outings. Adventurous groups may also be interested in ski jumping.
While the snow activities live up to the hype, Whistler is a year-round attraction. Cycling, hiking, fishing and golfing are familiar warm-weather activities, all enhanced by the scenic backdrop. Zipline rides offer stunning mountain views, while ATV tours allow you to take in the surrounding scenery from the ground. Whistler offers attendees a rare bear-viewing opportunity.
Slowing down to take in the scenery is an outdoor thrill in itself. Consider picnicking or hosting an outdoor reception on one of Whistler’s five lakes. “Imagine dining al fresco in one of Whistler’s picturesque parks, participating in mountaintop activities in Whistler or Blackcomb, and sipping champagne on top of a glacier or in a stunning ice cave,” says Miller.
Book a unique venue
State-of-the-art conference centers and world-class hotels host everything from intimate CEO retreats to large-scale events such as the Winter Olympics and the upcoming 2025 Invincible Games.
The Whistler Convention Center, located in the heart of Whistler Village, is undergoing a $3.5 million renovation in 2021. It also provides a full range of catering services and special green conference planning.
Unique architecture includes cathedral ceilings and stone fireplaces, creating a warm atmosphere conducive to socializing and meetings. State-of-the-art lighting added during a recent upgrade highlights the state-of-the-art AV capabilities. Catering includes showcases of local flavors and seasonal offerings from vendors, two pillars of the sustainability-minded organization.
Planners should be sure to take advantage of Whistler’s other inspiring venues. Two that stand out are:
- Squamish Lilwater Cultural Center (SLCC) Dedicated to Aboriginal culture. It provides an exciting evening atmosphere for galas, receptions and other special events, allowing attendees to learn about Aboriginal contributions to the region.
- Lakeside Park Add certain experience for special events. The park is secluded, hidden among cedar forests, but offers stunning mountain views and is accessible from the village.
Meanwhile, Whistler Village has a variety of conference hotels, from luxury resorts to budget accommodations. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler has the most meeting space, accommodating receptions of up to 1,500 people. The Westin Resort & Spa has 1,100 rooms. There are also several that offer medium-sized conference services for 200-500 attendees.
Take advantage of convenient travel and added value
Whistler is easily accessible, with Vancouver International Airport nearby and 115 direct flights to destinations in Canada and the United States. Frequent shuttle buses run along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, allowing attendees to enjoy the area’s natural beauty first. The initial drive to Whistler can be one of the highlights of a participant’s entire trip. Continuing the sensory experience, attendees can enjoy the views aboard the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, which connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
Traveling around the village is also very convenient and efficient, Miller added. “Transfers are virtually effortless and free. This allows your guests to maximize their time enjoying Whistler’s many attractions rather than spending it on logistics,” he said.
Another practical benefit for U.S. companies and organizations holding meetings in Whistler is that your money goes further in Canada. The exchange rate is very favorable for incoming Americans:
- At current prices, American tourists can save more than 20%.
- 5% GST Rebate – Enjoy up to 5% discount on conference-related goods and services.
- Special discounts on air travel are available for conferences in Canada and the United States.
Support sustainable development
Whistler embraces its natural amenities and works to protect them, consistent with the organization’s sustainability goals.
The city’s Big Action Strategy sets out a plan to combat climate change to reduce emissions by 50% below 2007 levels by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions in the long term. The village’s pedestrian and shuttle service furthers this effort by reducing the need for cars and reducing emissions.
Planners can also work with Tourism Whistler to work with community members, local businesses and organizations to prioritize sustainability and leave a positive legacy. As mentioned earlier, Aboriginal people are valued throughout the region, providing attendees with multiple opportunities to learn about the history of their surroundings.
Whistler’s natural beauty and amenities make it a popular destination for meetings and incentive travel. Planners have a variety of options to create experiences that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Learn more about why Whistler is right for your next event.
Content is created in partnership with Tourism Whistler and SkiftX, Skift’s branded content studio.
