Q & A

 

Suzanne Reid
Whistler

Contact Suzanne Reid

 

How long has TBA operated in this destination?

Although we just celebrated our 11th year anniversary in our office as a top Whistler DMC, we have actually had a presence in the village for over 15 years, working with clients to produce outstanding, adventurous programs in the wilds of Whistler!

What’s hot?

The 2010 Whistler Olympics! Everyone in the village is excited about the upcoming Vancouver Whistler Winter Games. Whistler will host Alpine and Nordic Skiing, Sliding, and all the Paralympic events. If you are bringing your corporate group to Whistler, a great theme right now is to tie the spirit of the games into your conference or incentive program.

What is there to do in Whistler that is not to be missed?

Whistler is a fantastic location for incentive trips or corporate events. In the winter, boarding or skiing the slopes of Whistler Blackcomb Mountain is a must-do! The mountain recently opened the new Symphony Express lift, a high-speed quad lift that gives those seeking Canadian powder access to 1000 acres of new terrain and boasts the longest ski season in North America (late November to early June). Plus the mountain just began construction on a record-breaking ski lift that will link together the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. It is set to open in 2008 and it will be the longest free-span lift in the world!

In the summer it is hard to pick just one thing that is not to be missed therefore, it is best to do an adventure activity day! ATV through the wilderness up the mountain; enjoy a wilderness salmon bake at the peak; then zoom back down to the village on a zipline suspended high above the ground – cap it all off with a visit to the spa so you are rested enough to hit the hotspots that night in the village and still make your tee time the next morning!

What is the best way to get to Whistler?

Planes, trains or automobiles! Soar like an eagle over beautiful Howe Sound on a floatplane trip between Vancouver and Whistler. Or helicopter over dense coastal forest and between mountain peaks – maybe even landing on a glacier enroute for a unique gourmet lunch. For the land-lovers, board Canada's most exciting new travel experience, the Whistler Mountaineer, and travel by rail on journey through BC's internationally-acclaimed Sea to Sky corridor. And there is always a stunning scenic drive along the Sea to Sky Highway, recently awarded one of the ‘Five Best Road Trips’ by The Guardian Newspaper (UK).

What are some creative meeting themes?

Whistler is famous for its outdoors. We try to incorporate elements of nature throughout our client’s programs, weaving the goals of their visit to the destination’s unique attributes. For example, guests can experience a “Midsummer Magic” evening on the shores of Green Lake, or a “Search & Rescue” party deep in the heart of the forest, accessible only by 4x4 or hummer. Or guests can enjoy an evening of “Luminescence” on a mountain peak surrounded only by snow, ice and the shimmering northern lights.

Tell me about an unusual venue…

Whistler will soon have another featured attraction worthy of the same interest as winter skiing and summer golfing. It will be the first ever centre dedicated to the history and culture of local First Nations, and will be known as the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre. Open to the public, the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre will be a world-class authentic cultural centre to celebrate the joint history of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations, past and present, by showcasing their histories, creative works and cultures. The facility will consist of 30,400 square feet in total, including both indoor and outdoor space, anchored by the monumental Great Hall. A great new place to host a First Nations dinner!

When is the high season?

High season is the winter months from the Christmas season through to the end of spring break. Late spring and summer are becoming more and more popular in Whistler as there are so many activities to do – but hotel rates are more reasonable at this time of year than in the winter – making these months the perfect time to visit!

Contact Suzanne Reid