Visit the “Hollywood of the North” to check out the city’s Olympic upgrades ahead of the crush of athletes and fans who’ll descend for next year’s games.
—Chris Cannon
Lauded as the “world’s most livable city,” the sports hotbed of Vancouver has long been known for its stunning scenery, proximity to both the ocean and the mountains, temperate climate, and creative gourmet cuisine. Now you can add punctuality to that list: Construction is mostly complete for the 2010 Winter Olympics, so go now to take advantage of the sites and amenities of next year’s games with a fraction of the crowds — at an accompanying fraction of the cost.
What to Watch
There are more ice rinks in Canada than you can shake a hockey stick at, but only the new $178 million Richmond Olympic Oval will be hosting Olympians at the World Single Distances Speed Skating Championships, March 12–15. You can catch current Canadian world champ Denny Morrison, along with American gold medalist Shani Davis. Other events: the IPC Biathlon and Cross-Country Skiing World Cup Final, March 4–7, and the IPC Alpine Skiing World Cup Finals, March 9–14.
What to Do
Why watch when you can play? Ski the Dave Murray Downhill and Franz’s runs at Whistler, the slopes that will be used for the alpine skiing downhill, super-G, and slalom events (from $80). Or hit the halfpipe at Cypress Mountain to test the Olympic freestyle skiing and snowboarding fixtures (from $60).
Where to Crash
The Olympics have fueled a building boom, so enjoy the plush digs before lodging prices skyrocket at new
luxury hotel offerings from Fairmont, Shangri-La, and Ritz-Carlton. The downtown Shangri-La opened in January (from $280;) in the city’s tallest building. If you want to spot celebs, try the minimalist Opus Hotel in Yaletown (from $225).
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March 23rd, 2009 at 4:08 pm
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