2010 Paralympics torch at Vancouver's B.C. Place on March 12. Sue Frause photo.
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Although the 2010 Winter Games have left Vancouver and Whistler a bit quieter and with a so-called Olympic Hangover, the 2010 Vancouver Paralympic Games got underway on March 12 with the Opening Ceremony at B.C. Place Stadium.
My husband and I drove up for the evening festivities on Friday afternoon. Although there was no line at the border, the infamous back-up in Massey Tunnel that goes under the Fraser River estuary before reaching the city limits was a 30-minute wait.
No worries. We made it to the 6 PM ceremony on time, and were dazzled by the heartfelt program that started the Paralympics, which run through March 21, 2010. More than 650 athletes from 45 countries are competing, and 333 awards will be awarded during the nine days of the Games. Tickets are affordable, ranging from $10-$50, and even better is that the Medal Ceremonies are free. This week's performers at the Medal Ceremony and in village Square at Whistler included Canadian artists Kathleen Edwards, Luke Doucet and the White Falcon and The Weakerthans.
Where to stay: My hubby and I stayed at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, located in the Upper Village. I'm a real fan of Fairmonts, and I love this moutainside one. Unlike urban Fairmonts, it's OK to walk through the lobby in your white Fairmont robe and slippers. You'll need to don a robe for the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, along with padding your way through the lobby to the onsite Vida Spa. My husband and I indulged in their Couples Massage, perfect after spending time on the slopes and before heading out to dinner. Tourism Whistler has some room/ski specials on its website, too.
Where to dine: I'm also a big fan of the Top Table restaurants that include Vancouver's Blue Water Cafe, CinCin and West. They also have Araxi at Whistler, where I hadn't dined for far too long. Known as the home of the Hell's Kitchen season six winner chef Dave Levey, who recently spent time in the kitchen under Araxi Executive Chef James Walt, it's also known for using fresh, locally grown, seasonal products in its menu. On a Saturday evening, I dined on BC lIne caught halibut (following appetizers of fresh, local oysters on the half shell and seared Qualicum Bay scallops). Wine Director Samantha Rahn is informed and articulate, but she's not a grape snob. Don't be intimidated to ask for a wine suggestion. I loved the Sumac Ridge Tribute sparkling wine from Okanagan, BC and also a yummy Loimer Zweigelt Rose from Austria. Oh, and order dessert. Quite heavenly.
What to do: Whistler has more than enough activities to fill a long weekend, depending on the season. During the Paralympic Games, don't miss the free music in Village Square starting at 3 PM daily; the Medal Ceremony starts at 7 PM (gates open at 5:30 PM), and unlike the 2010 Winter Olympics, there is no charge. For other events and activities, chec with the hotel concierge and also pick up a free copy of the Pique, It's a great local news magazine and also includes music and club listings.
How to get there: Driving is a breeze with the newly expanded and improved Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler. It took us only 90 minutes from downtown Vancouver to Whistler Village. If you're not into driving, Pacific Coah Lines makes travel easy between the two locales, providing pick-ups and drop-offs at hotels in Whistler and Vancouver-from and also to-from YVR.
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