48 HOURS IN VANCOUVER

The host city for this year’s Winter Olympics, Vancouver is an international town, offering vibrant backdrop for this year’s 2010 Olympics. So pack warm and hit these hot spots to enjoy the Vancouver games (or anytime).

Stay: The Hotel Opus, this lifestyle hotel offers unique styles from modern, minimalist, artistic and eclectic while retaining luxurious comfort. As well as, boasts a coveted Yaletown district address within walking distance of posh retail and restaurants.

Day One: Tick Tock in Gastown

Do: Start your visit at Vancouver’s birthplace, Gastown, by taking a historic walking tour and learning about it’s namesake “Gassy Jack,” a legendary sailor and saloon owner. Today on the cobbled streets you’ll find art galleries, high fashion boutiques, flavorful restaurants and bars. Don’t miss the famous steam clock, which gushes steam every 15 minutes on the corner of Cambie and Water Streets. Self-Guided Walking Tours available at City of Vancouver.




Eat: History geeks and foodies alike can enjoy a savory meal in Gastown at the Salt Tasting Room. Experience an ever-changing menu of artisan cheeses, local cured meats, and perfectly paired wines, beers and sherries. Be sure to try the Cashel Blue Cheese from Ireland with Similkameen Valley Honey.












Day Two: Whistler in Winter

Do: Ride the Whistler Mountaineer train to Whistler Village for a Vancouver day trip and see the host mountain resort of the 2010 Winter Olympics. The three-hour train trip takes riders through the stunning scenery of snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls and the brilliant pacific coast. While on Whistler Mountain head to the Whistler Sliding Centre were you can catch the Olympic bobsleigh, luge and skeleton competitions February 12th thru 28th or starting Summer 2010 Passenger Bobsleigh Rides and Learn to Luge classes will be available.

Eat: Taste the aboriginal inspired dishes of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nation at the Fifty-Two 80 Bistro inside the Four Seasons Resort Whistler. Chef Scott Thomas Dolbee, creates his menu from the local ingredients and includes: Bannock, Caribou Sausage, Soapallalie Berry Juice, and Oolichan.

Scoring Tickets
Getting last minute tickets can be tricky but we’ve got the inside scoop on how to score.

Before: Tickets are being sold in phases at cosport.com. Check the web site to find next available date as well as accommodations and hospitality packages.
Tip: I found several on Ebay and Craigslist that are available to buy now.

During: If visiting during the Winter Olympics, February 12 thru 28, stop by the event location where remaining tickets will be sold.

Getting There
Anxious to get into the city? The easiest way to get from the airport to downtown Vancouver is the new Canada Line Skytrain. A quick 25 minute ride for usually $3.75 a person.

Getting Around
Avoid Olympic traffic and parking and opt for Vancouver’s convenient public transportation. Plus, your Olympic ticket includes a fulfillment fee, which allows you free local transportation in Metro Vancouver and Whistler on the date of event. (does not include transportation to Whistler) Plan your trip at tripplanning.translink.bc.ca