So you’ve decided to spend a season in Whistler.
This isn’t a seasonnaire-bashing post—I haven’t been here enough seasons to feel that kind of disdain yet. In fact, I like seeing fresh faces in town, clutching stacks of resumes and wandering aimlessly, trying to find Cinnamon Bear or the Upper Village.
Thus, I say: welcome. I hope you enjoy your stay in town. Here are a few tips to make the most of your season in Wheestlah:
Secure Housing and Employment
Hahahahahah. Ha ha ha ha ha. If you haven’t already got your job and housing sorted out,
YOU’RE SCREWED.
Just kidding, even though it might feel like that. Things might not happen for you as quickly as you hoped, but you WILL find a job (even though it might take a few weeks longer than you anticipated), and you WILL find a place to crash (even if it ends up being a shared room with three other people for $600 a month). Perseverance and patience go a long way.
Leave the Village Every Once in a While
I know, I know—the Village has EVERYTHING. There are groceries, bars, gondolas, and staff housing is just an awkward 2 AM snowy hill climb away.
In fact, Whistler is full of magical places. There is a mystical neighbourhood called Emerald, with lakes and trails and lots of pro skiers. There is a whole are called Creekside—you can even ski out to it. Blueberry! Spruce Grove! Nordic! Hop on the Valley Trail (once you can figure out where it all hooks up) and explore the town, so you get more than just the tourist experience.
Make Old Friends
Your season in Whistler will feel like your first year of university in many ways. Here is a golden tip: make friends with the senior class. People who have been here for a few years are magical pots of gold. They know everyone in town, they know the best spots to ski, and they know how to have fun without descending into the Underworld of the Village (a.k.a. the clubs).
When you've consumed all the Crown of Thorn beverages you can, there's always Catan.
Be warned, those who have been around awhile may be hesitant to become best friends right away. They have probably had their hearts broken by best friends and lovers abandoning them after the season is up. But it’s worth taking the time to burrow your way into their old timey hearts.
Try, You Know, Skiing or Snowboarding
THIS IS FUN! YOU SHOULD TRY IT!
Put the partying down. You have been given the insane opportunity to live in one of the best ski resort towns of all time (not to mention the backcountry all around us—but best save that til you’re ready). If you’ve logged less than 50 days on your pass by the end of the season, YOU’RE DOING IT WRONG!
… But Do Party, Some
I remember my first week in Whistler. I went to Tommy Africa’s on a Monday night. I couldn’t believe that parties on a Monday night were a thing. So revel in the fact that you can hit Tommy’s on a Monday, Maxx Fish on a Tuesday, Bill’s on a Wednesday, Garfs on a Thursday, anywhere on a Friday and Saturday, and Moe Joe’s on a Sunday. Maybe do it all in a single week.
One time, I went out. (Literally, one time only).
But… here’s my disclaimer. All beers + hangovers = missing first chair on a pow day. All beers + buying rounds of shots = no money. All beers + no physical activity= what the heck happened to your beach body.
And one last mom tip: be responsible. Get home safely at night. If you’re out of sorts, take a cab, don’t walk. Unfortunately, every year there seem to be tragic stories of preventable deaths and accidents. Don’t let it be you.
You Only Whistler Once
(I hate myself for writing that sub-title).
Your time here is going to fly by. Make a bucket list (and add to it throughout the season), and do as much as you can. Go skating. Try skeleton or bobsled. Get yourself on a sled. Eat a meal at a fancy restaurant. Git ‘er done.
Ask For Help When You Need It
People here are kind, and will happily give you directions to Sachi Sushi when you need it. But I’m not just talking about that kind of help. Even if you’re surrounded by a million people, Whistler can feel lonely, especially at first. Your family, your bed, and your friends are miles away.
There are outreach programs, food banks, and people who are here to help you when things aren’t going 100%. Check out the Whistler Survival Guide for helpful contacts.
Enjoy your season in Whistler, but be warned: it’s addictive. More than a few of us came for a season… and we’re still here.
