Travel tips · Whistler · Canada
Whistler travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Clarisse Baudot, CC BY-SA 3.0
Quick answer
Whistler sits on the shared traditional territory of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations, whose cultural centre is in the Upper Village. The modern resort grew from a 1960s ski hill into a purpose-built village and co-host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Much of the workforce is young and international, especially from Australia, the UK and Japan, which gives the town a sociable, outdoorsy and transient feel.
Key facts
- Language
- English
- Currency
- CAD
- Plugs
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency
- 911
Things to know
- Follow the Alpine Responsibility Code on the slopes: the skier or rider ahead has the right of way.
- Never feed or approach black bears, which are common in summer and autumn; give them space and keep food away from them.
- Stay inside the ski area boundaries unless you are trained and equipped for avalanche terrain.
- On bike trails, ride within your ability and keep trails clear when you stop.
- Respect the silence policy at the Nordic spa and quiet hours in condo buildings.
- Book Whistler Blackcomb ski resort ahead: Lift tickets and passes are cheaper bought online in advance than at the ticket window; ski school spots fill over holidays.
- Book Whistler Mountain Bike Park ahead: Rentals and lessons sell out on summer weekends; reserve ahead.
- Book Scandinave Spa Whistler ahead: Reserve entry times ahead in winter and on weekends.
- Buy lift tickets online well before your trip or consider an Epic Pass for longer stays; window prices are the highest.
Tipping
Tip 15–20% on the pre-tax amount at restaurants and bars, about $1–$2 per drink, 10–15% for taxis, and $10–$20 per person per day for ski or bike instructors and guides if you are pleased.
Language
English is spoken.
What to wear
Layers year-round. In winter, you need waterproof ski gear, a helmet and warm boots; in summer, mornings and the alpine are cool even when the valley is hot.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency number
- 911
- Phone and internet
- Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés; mobile coverage is good in the village and on most runs but patchy on remote trails.
- Time zone
- America/Vancouver
The main risks are mountain ones: avalanches outside the ski area boundary, tree wells after heavy snow, sudden weather changes in the alpine, black bears on summer trails and winter driving on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Stay in bounds unless trained, check conditions before heading out and follow posted closures.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Canada's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Whistler?
Tip 15–20% on the pre-tax amount at restaurants and bars, about $1–$2 per drink, 10–15% for taxis, and $10–$20 per person per day for ski or bike instructors and guides if you are pleased.
+Can you drink the tap water in Whistler?
Tap water is safe to drink.
+What plugs are used in Whistler?
Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
+What language is spoken in Whistler?
English.