Consistently voted the number one ski resort in North America, Whistler, British Columbia is a snow white paradise. With a lively alpine village and luxury accommodations, it is no wonder Whistler is hosting many of the events of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

Developed as a ski resort with the goal of hosting the 1968 Winter Olympics, Whistler didn’t get the games that year, but they were asked to be the host city in 1976 after Denver backed out. Once again the games didn’t call Whistler home, but for 2010 Whistler was bestowed the honor of first ever Host Mountain Resort for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics

There will be some spotlight on Whistler at the Olympics as the main site of Vancouver is just a two-hour drive away along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway. Whistler will be overflowing with tourists and Olympic visitors alike, as they will be hosting the alpine technical and speed events, sliding events at Fitzsimmons Creek, Nordic events at the nearby Callaghan Valley, and nearly all of the Paralympic events. You never know what Olympic star you might see, perhaps snowboarders Gretchen Bleiler or Shawn White will be flying down the mountain next to you.

Featuring two world-class mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, these two mountains offer the largest terrain in North America. There are over 200 trails between the two mountains, offering skiers of all abilities the chance to ski at a top destination. The Blackcomb side has great terrain for kids, with fun and creative elements to keep them entertained. To access the mountains, visitors take a ride on the gondolas from Whistler Village.

Kick off your skis and check out the other winter activities offered in Whistler such as ice skating and tubing, then take a spin at the Coca Cola Tube Park. Offering eight lanes of tubing fun, this park is open into the night via the Excalibur Gondola on Blackcomb. All ages are welcome, but the twelve and under crowd must be accompanied by an adult. Next, for a truly unforgettable experience, go on a horse drawn sleigh ride, and view the rugged beauty of Whistler.

The Village of Whistler is a shopper’s dream, with hundreds of shops including The Northface, Burton, Quicksilver, and the Olympic Store offering great deals. Other options when exploring Whistler include stops at the Whistler Museum and Archives and the newly opened Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center, which celebrates the local Squamish and Lil’wat First Nation by providing a glimpse into their history and creative works.

If you can't make it during the Olympics, don't fret because summer in Whislter provides a number of activities as well, from golfing and hiking, to horseback riding and biking. The Magic Castle at Blackcomb’s Adventure Zone is another fun treat, great for indoor activities during inclement weather. Here families can enjoy miniature golf, a climbing wall, and the Westcoast Luge at this majestic fun zone, open from June through September. Ziplining is another fun adventure, offered year-round. During the winter fly down the line while snowflakes land on your eyelashes, and in the summer, enjoy the natural sounds of the Fitzsimmons Creek trickling by beneath you.