Cheap flights to Whistler

Discussions over the merits of snowboarding over skiing (and vice versa) can get as heated as any and can be overheard breaking out between the sports’ respective proponents on countless buses setting out from Vancouver en route to Whistler. But these cease the instant their coaches round the final corner to reveal a view to remember: it is a fairy tale setting featuring snow-capped trees on the fringe of frozen lakes bypassed by the route into Whistler, a village that encapsulates what is a winter paradise.

Perched at the base of two mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – Whistler Village lies about 120km north of Vancouver. It has also seen its reputation spread to become recognized as one of the world’s most popular ski resorts.  As one of the venues for the 2010 Winter Olympics, the resort caters for the expert skiers but beginners have nothing to fear as every skill level is catered for. But that is not all as Whistler Village also boasts the necessary facilities for après-ski entertainment including movie theatres, restaurants ranging from the fast-food variety on through gourmet award-winning eateries and, of course, countless shops. In all, it is surprising that “merely” millions visit each year.

Cheap flights to Whistler arrive at Vancouver Airport. Visitors have a number of transportation options from here but one of the most common is the two-or-so-hour bus ride along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway.

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When is the best time to fly to Whistler?

Peak Season:

Winter sport enthusiasts book cheap flights to Whistler (via Vancouver) starting in mid-December though January and February are considered peak season.

Meanwhile, peak season to visit Vancouver spans July and August. However, the main tourist season covers the summer as well as parts of the spring and fall, starting in April. Summer events taking place in the city include festivals (jazz, folk and film among others), the HSBC PowerSmart Celebration of Light fireworks display.

Off Season:

Both Whistler and Vancouver are also at their best during the so-called shoulder seasons (May – June and September – October for Vancouver as well as December and March – April for Whistler) when both destinations are less crowded and the weather is milder. Both early spring and late fall are also ideal times for whale watching.

What is good to know if travelling to Whistler?

• There is no better way to overcome the fatigue that sets in after a day on the slopes or indeed on cheap flights to Whistler than to take in a day of pampering at one the resort’s spas. Many of Whistler’s hotels have these on offer but their prices can be a tad high compared with what is on offer at one of the independent spas in the village.
• An amazing and unusual experience that you will never forget is to take a tour of the Whistler backwoods via a dog sledding tour featuring Alaskan Huskies doing much of the work.
• Whistler would not be a ski resort of its renown without a lively après-ski scene. Check out Garibaldi Lift Co. Bar & Grill, or GLC, to experience some of the night life.

Whistler airport overview

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has a wide range of non-stop flights to Europe, Asia and the Americas and is conveniently located only 7.5 miles (12km) from downtown Vancouver.

What’s special about this airport is that it is located on Sea Island, just across the river from Vancouver.  A large conservation project, it is designed to offset the environmental impact of the airport

Passengers using Vancouver International will find that there’s a lot to do at the airport. Shopping ranges from small souvenirs to great duty-free items. There is a variety of restaurants and snack bars and there’s a host of other services to enjoy. As the second-busiest airport in Canada, it is easy to find flights to Vancouver International. The airport is a regional hub for Air Canada, Air Canada Jazz and Air Transat. 

Vancouver International Airport is the gateway to the famously cosmopolitan city of Vancouver and the natural charms of western Canada. There is plenty to do at the airport, and with its friendly staff and beautiful surroundings this is a great introduction to the region.