Waffles + Wagers

It really is amazing how quickly time ticks away... days are becoming shorter, the mornings more crisp and the snow line on the mountains keep creeping closer to the valley floor.  We are now just a short 10-days away from the Nov. 15th Early Booking offer deadline to lock in your epic snowcation getaway.  I know it can be hard to imagine the awesomeness that is to come, but our friends at +WhistlerBlackcomb have just released a "taste" of things to come.... we present:
Waffles + Wagers

The Wonder Reels S2: Waffles, Wagers and the NEW Crystal Ridge Express features a foursome of skiers and snowboarders riding up the new Crystal Ridge Express chair who decide on a friendly wager for waffles at the Crystal Hut. The friends romp and race through the iconic Crystal Zone on Blackcomb Mountain and the last one to the bottom has to buy the waffles back at the top. This video is produced by Switchback Entertainment and the featured athletes include Ashleigh McIvor, Ian Morrison, Robjn Taylor and Jesse Millen.

Remember to lock in your deals today and see you throughout the season and at Whistler's #WinterPRIDE January 26 - February 2nd, 2014.  Call 1.866.787.1966 or online GayWhistler.com

Online event registration for WinterPRIDE Men's Event Passes 2014 powered by Eventbrite

Mckillop comes out at the 21st annual WinterPRIDE in Whistler, BC, Canada

GayWhistler’s WinterPRIDE & Mr. Gay Canada are proud to announce the official underwear & swimwear sponsor is: MckillopUW.com 

GayWhistler’s WinterPRIDE welcomes Mckillop Underwear & SWIM as the Official Underwear/Swimwear Sponsor. Founder & Head Designer Ryan Mckillop is leading the men’s below the belt revolution with the most ergonomic underwear/swimwear on the market today. Mckillop skillfully merges old world hand craftsmanship with modern ergonomic cuts and styles.

“We here at Mckillop are excited and honored to be apart of the 21st annual WinterPRIDE celebrations in Whistler this February 3-10, 2013. Throughout the week it is our pleasure to enhance your experience with our unique Mckillop style; showcasing our wears on the WinterPRIDE’s dancers at various locations around Whistler. We will also be outfitting the underwear & swimwear for the Thursday night Mr. Gay Canada Grand Finale Fashion show, to which the delegates will be wearing a custom designed Mr. Gay Canada Boxer" explains Canadian Fashion Designer, Ryan McKillop. “The festival guests can expect a few little surprises in their welcome bags upon arrival so everyone can experience MCKUW.com.”

“We are thrilled to have Mckillop on board as our official underwear sponsor for both WinterPRIDE and Mr. Gay Canada. It will be great to have such a premium hand crafted underwear to ensure all of the WinterPRIDE dancers and Mr. Gay Canada delegates are looking their best at all times,” says Dean Nelson, CEO & Executive Producer of the festival.

WinterPRIDE 2013 runs from February 3-10, 2013, and continues to revolutionize the traditional gay ski week format with its unique blend of four winter festival elements: Sports, Culinary, Health and Wellness, and Entertainment. 

  

In addition to the world-class skiing and snowboarding being offered in Whistler, many of WinterPRIDE's regular highlights will return for 2013, such as an array of dance parties, culinary events, zip trekking and dog sledding. WinterPRIDE 2013 also offers an expanded program of on-and-off mountain events, including special events for lesbians and bears as well as the annual Mr. Gay Canada competition. 

5 Night Lodging and 4 Day Ski Packages start at just $114/person/night.  Available until November 15th, 2012 for stays from February 3-10, 2013.  For Reservations call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online at gayWhistler.com

WinterPRIDE 2011 Welcome Party TWEET Up

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is just 10 days away and the Welcome Party TWEET up is going to be the place to get social and win some great prizing!! Sunday, January 30th at the Whistler Conference Centre - Grand Foyer from 8PM-10PM.

Finlandia, Whistler Beer & Barefoot Wine will be on hand ready to get the party started! The WinterPRIDE shot Ski will be back and in full force and did we mention all the prizes up for grabs? New this year we will be TWEETing and doing live status updates on Facebook - giving you clues and asking questions and when you Tweet or comment on Facebook your "answer" you could win some of these great prizes!
@gaywhistler #wp11 #gayskiweek

Some of our vendors include:
TRAVEL:
Echo Valley Ranch & Spa
Holiday Inn Aruba
Air New Zealand
North America Outgames
BMW Canada
SpyGuy

Resort Partners
Araxi
Ric's Grill
Starbuck's
Scandinave Spa
Healing Hands
Whistler Dental - Brighten your Smile!
ZipTrek
Canadian Snowmobile
Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
SatSports
Hayden Beck Gallery

So come on out and meet new & old friends, learn what is new in the resort, do some TWEETing and win some great prizes!
After party will move over to Buffalo Bill's for some dancing and then up early for our first day of Skiing on Blackcomb - including LIVE TV coverage from our friends at Breakfast Television on CityTV!

Call 1.866.787.1966 for all of your travel needs or visit online at GayWhistler.com Our host hotel is the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa

Travelocity Never Roam Alone Ski Guide - Training

Jan. 8th, 2011 was our first WinterPRIDE event of the season with the Travelocity Never Roam Alone Ski Guide Training day. Ski Guide Manager, John Sutherland, took a group of guides up onto Whistler & Blackcomb mountains for safety and coaching training.

The Snow conditions were incredible and a lot of great tips on how to be a better guide were learned. The day started out with a breakfast meeting at the Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub within the Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside. The guides learned about safety, the ski guide perks along with a presentation from Whistler Blackcomb, followed by an update on some of the programming for WinterPRIDE.

Next it was time to get out on the slopes and get some hands on experience - or at least "ski/board on experience!" We traveled up the Excalibur Blackcomb Gondola and raced around the various zones of Blackcomb including: The Glaciers, Terrain Park, Crystal, GMC Race Course and then down for lunch to the Glacier Creek Lodge. After lunch we headed over to the Peak 2 Peak and crossed over the valley to Whistler. Incredible views and within 11 minutes we are on Whistler Mountain!


After a great day on the slopes it was time to do some Apres Ski action at Dusty's with the local gay & lesbain ski club - skiOUT! Nothing like the crisp clean taste of Whistler Beer after a great day on the mountains. For more photos of the day click here to visit our Flickr photo stream!

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is January 30th - February 6th, 2011. Visit GayWhistler.com for more details on how you can be part of the magic of WinterPRIDE. For hotel reservations visit online or call 1.866.787.1966

WinterPRIDE Charity Ski Race

Test your skills and guess your time for the annual WinterPRIDE Charity Ski Race. Minimum donation $5/run proceeds benefit the Whistler Health Care Centre. Great prizes up for grabs including:

- 1 x Salomon Shogun Ski (retail $749.99)

- 1 x Descente Winter Wear ( retails $99.99)
...
- 1 x Spy Goggle (retail $109.99)

- 1 x Oakley A Frame Goggle (retail $129.99)

- RC Accessories (retail $20)

- Ski Sock (pair) (retail $30)

- Beanies (retail $30)

- Smith Goggles (retail $60)

- Kombi Gloves (retail $50)

- Ryders Sunglasses (retail $30)

- Hot Chilly’s Thermals (retail $30)

Prizes generously donated by the Whistler Salomon Store & Whistler Blackcomb

Friday, Feb. 4th on Blackcomb Mountain: GMC Race Centre
The GMC Race Centre is located on Cougar Milk on Blackcomb Mountain. The Race Centre is groomed and re-set daily with a dual Giant Slalom course.

The timed GS course is $5 minimum donation/run. The course is set on an intermediate slope and is open to skiers, snowboarders and telemarkers of all ages.

For more information visit gaywhistler.com

WinterPRIDE 2011 Dine Around Locations

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE 2011 Dine Around
✣ OpenTable.com Reservations


Mon., Jan. 31st
Bavaria Restaurant - has been in operation for 9 years and has become a popular spot for get togethers. The ambiance at Bavaria Restaurant is a fusion of Swiss, French bistro, German and Austrian style.
4369 Main Street | 604.32.6009 | bavaria-restaurant.com

Player’s Chop House - brings a fresh twist to the steakhouse concept. Featuring West Coast character, bright interiors and sun-soaked patios, this Creekside restaurant is an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts and lounge revelers seeking an eclectic menu of local, sustainable and perfectly prepared cuisine from Executive Chef Jon Campbell.
2015 Lake Placid Rd #120 | Tel: 604.938.1270 | whistlerchophouse.ca

Tue., Feb. 1st
Aura at Nita Lake - with stunning lakeside vistas, Aura conjures up iconic memories of yesteryear with a classic railcar dining experience where old world cuisine meets modern day trends.
- 2131 Lake Placid Rd | 604.966.5700 | nitalakelodge.com

Ric’s Grill - is one of Whistler’s legendary restaurants featuring fresh seafood, delicious steaks and mouth-watering pastas. Their bar is a popular place to have drinks, socialize and chat with friends.
4154 Village Green | 604.932.7427 | ricsgrill.com


Wed., Feb. 2nd
21 Steps - provides stunning 2nd floor views of Whistler Village. Their kitchen creates updated comfort food that are both big in portions and flavours for great value.
4433 Sundial Place | 604.966.2121 | 21steps.ca | ✣

Quattro at Whistler - is best known for its warm service, contemporary Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list, recognized by Wine Spectator as one of the world's best.
4319 Main Street | 604.905.4844 | quattrorestaurants.com | ✣

Thurs., Feb. 3rd
Whistler Tasting Tours - experience four of the best Whistler restaurants in one night! This progressive dining journey takes guided groups to several gourmet restaurants for a delicious multi-course meal paired with fine BC wines. Voted the #1 Thing to do in Whistler.
604.902.8687 | whistlertastingtours.com

Araxi Restaurant + Bar - is a crossroads of mountain elegance and approachable dining in the heart of Whistler village. Innovative and skillfully executed dishes deliver intelligent compositions and delightful flavours, carefully married to their award winning wine list.
4122 Village Gate Square | 604.932.4540 | araxi.com | ✣


Hy’s Steakhouse - has been Canada's premier steakhouse for over 50 years. This stunning location in the beautiful resort town of Whistler features Canadian Triple A beef, an award-winning wine list and exceptional service in a warm contemporary atmosphere.
4308 Main Street | 604.905.5555 | hyssteakhouse.com | ✣

Fri., Feb. 4th
Bearfoot Bistro - every night is a celebration of culinary excellence and extravagant joie de vivre! Executive Chef Melissa Craig, crowned Canada's Best Chef at the Canadian Culinary Championships in 2008, creates in her open concept kitchen while owner, André Saint-Jacques will teach you to wield a sword and saber Champagne in the award winning underground 20 000-bottle wine cellar. Oyster special available daily in the Champagne Bar from 3 to 6 pm.  Vodka tasting in the Belvedere Ice Room - Canada’s only vodka ice room and coldest room worldwide. Live music by pianist Cameron Chu. Open daily from 3 pm.
4121 Village Green | 604.932.3433 | bearfootbistro.com | ✣

Tandoori Grill - located in Whistler village North, has selected dishes that are most sumptuous as they were inspired by Great Indian Emperors and prepared to perfection by chefs of by gone eras. The Moghal Kings who brought renaissance and enrichment to the Indian culture favoured the technique of cooking in a Tandoor clay oven. Tandoori Grill has adopted this mode of cooking.
4368 Main Street #201 | Tel: 604.905.4900 | tandooriwhistler.com

Sat., Feb. 5th
White Spot - is a British Columbia legend with a passion for using only the freshest and finest quality ingredients. For breakfast, lunch, dinner or a late night snack, White Spot is the place. Fresh Thinking. Fresh Cooking.
4005 Whistler Way | 604.962.7770 | whitespot.com

Wildflower - invites you to enjoy a fresh and fun showcase of locally inspired dishes. Enjoy extensive 'by the glass' wine selections, a noteworthy variety of regional beer or a signature cocktail. Base of Blackcomb Mountain.
4599 Chateau Blvd | 604.938.2033 | http://bit.ly/wp11FCW |✣


Sun., Feb. 6th
Cinnamon Bear Grille - finding inspired ways to combine exceptional flavors in Pacific North West dishes drives the menu selection at Cinnamon Bear Bar & Grille. Directed by Executive Chef Jay Lynn, emphasizes fresh ingredients, unique taste combinations, creative presentations and top-notch service to create a dining experience as memorable as it is flavorful.
4050 Whistler Way | 604.932.1982 | hiltonwhistler.com | ✣

Remember to take advantage of Vancouver's annual "Dine OUT Vancouver" making a city stop the perfect pre/post WinterPRIDE experience. Room rates starting at just $68 and 3-course dinners from $18/person making it even easier to fuel that Pride romance for an extra night or so!

WinterPRIDE is the annual Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week in the resort of Whistler. For more information visit GayWhistler.com

Love Snow! La Nina Sashays into Whistler...

The gays are known to love the bling... but the gay skier & rider is known for their quest of White Gold. Insane amounts of this natural bling brings a smile to most skier/rider's face especially if you are lucky enough to enjoy face shot after another... we are talking SNOW! And how we love to ride it good and hard! Yahoo!! We are upon yet another epic snow season with Whistler Blackcomb getting over 11 feet of the white stuff to-date and heaps more in the forecast.


Just this week alone we have seen 56cm in the last week bringing the snow base up to 150cm. For the first week of December this is simply amazing... and WinterPRIDE is still some fifty days away!

This weekend (Saturday, December 11th, 2011) the Vancouver/Whistler ski club skiOUT! will be Out hitting the slopes on Blackcomb (10AM RendezVous Light Board) to shred some of that precious bling we all so love. 1PM is the usual lunch time at the Glacier Creek Lodge, followed by 3PM or so Apres Ski at Milestone's (formerly Monk's Grill).
Later that night things will get all festive with the annual holiday special... Yuletide WHOOSSH Martini Party... maybe try the Southern Comfort Egg Nog to get you into that festive spirit! WHOOSSH will be at the Southside Diner from 9PM - 12AM and is always a lot of fun.

So come on up and get OUT and have some fun. Call 1.866.787.1966 for some incredible last minute deals and stay at one of our partner hotels:
Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Coast Blackcomb Suites, Delta Whistler Village Suites, Evolution in Creekside, Aava Whistler Hotel, or perhaps a luxury home with Whistler Select. If you are looking to economize... why not sleep with an Olympian?! Try the Whistler Hostel for just $35/person/night. Let them know you are with "Pride."

Remember think Snow, Think WinterPRIDE!

November 30th Powder Day at Whistler Blackcomb from Whistler Blackcomb on Vimeo.

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE - the evolution of Gay & Lesbian Ski Week is January 30 - February 6, 2011. Host Hotel: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online for all the best deals.

Get your Event Tix by Nov. 30th for WinterPRIDE

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is gearing up for an epic snow season and Lady La Nina is already giving her blessings with a stellar start of the Snow Season! Nov. 26th saw an additional 23cm (9") of fabulous White Gold (aka SNOW) making the early season snow base 100cm (39") and counting!

To celebrate the start of the ski season with both Whistler Blackcomb mountains open along with the Peak 2 Peak Gondola we wanted to share with you highlights of WinterPRIDE past to get you excited for this coming season! Remember to buy your event tickets by Nov. 30th, 2010 to get the best deal - like Snowball Ticket for just $60! So what are you waiting for... get your tickets now!



Book your Stay & Ski Package by January 15th for $127/person/night for a 5 Night, 3 Day Ski - when you consider if you are one of those people that shows up last minute you can expect to pay approx. $100 for your Ski Pass at the window... so if you think in those terms... it is like you are getting a hotel for just $27/person/night! That is cheaper than the hostel! So what are you waiting for... call 1.866.787.1966 or book online today! GayWhistler.com

Whistler Film Festival - So Gay!

It is hard to believe but it is true, our very own Whistler Film Festival is coming OUT on their 10th Anniversary! Last year the film festival brought us the Canadian Premiere of "A Single Man" with Colin Firth and Produced & Directed by legendary designer Tom Ford. As most of us have experience "A Single Man" was incredible.


Well, it is now 2010 and the Whistler Film Festival has another film by yet another fashion designer: Yves Saint Laurent, one of the greatest names in French fashion in the 20th Century. The feature documentary “L'Amour Fou,” chronicles the life of Yves Saint Laurent starting when he was a timid 21 year-old starting work at the House of Dior and meeting his soon to be life partner Pierre Berge. For the fashionistas this movie gives you a rare glimpse of what inspires and hints of where inspirations come from in creating fashion forward designs. This movie shares Saint Laurent & Berge's story of love, arts, and ethics.

“If you love style and following the creative process from initial inspiration point to final frock, the modern art, exotic artifacts and luxe locales catalogued in the film deliver endless hints about where the designer's ideas began.” – Now Magazine

Tickets are just $13.00 Screenings: Thurs., Dec. 2nd @ 7PM and again on Sat., Dec. 4th @ 7.15 both at the Whistler Village 8 Cinema. Book online Now
** Want to Win Tickets for "L'Amour Fou"? Enter our contest now and you and a friend can go, courtesy of the Whistler Film Festival. **

Another hot ticket is the 10th Anniversary Gala and World Premiere of Hard Core Logo II on Saturday December 4 at 8:30pm. This rock and roll, story on the road is the follow-up to Hard Core Logo, considered by many to be one of the top Canadian films of all time.

The Whistler Film Festival has over 80 films, loads of celebrities and incredible parties! So come on up to Whistler and enjoy all the incredible snow, do a couple turns, take in a couple shows and party like it's 1999! Call 1.866.787.1966 for last minute deals. For more information on the Whistler Film Festival visit: http://whistlerfilmfestival.com/

GayWhistler's Host Hotel has a special WFF PRIDE offer just for you:
Quote Pride Film Festival for the following special rates. These rates are valid from November 28 – December 8, 2010.

November 28 – December 2, 2010 - $149
December 3 – 4, 2010 - $169
December 5 – 8, 2010 - $149

Call the Hilton direct at 1-800-515-4050 or email reservations@hiltonwhistler.com or BOOK ONLINE Now

GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is January 30th - February 6th, 2011 visit GayWhistler.com for more details

The Hills are alive with the Sound of Music at WinterPRIDE 2011

No, there will be no Julie Andrews, but the line up for DJ’s this year at GayWhistler’s WinterPRIDE 2011 is gonna shake the mountain. Thursday, Feb. 3rd Pool Party starts off with JC Simon of the globally distributed monthly mix show "JC Simon's ARCADIA". Influenced by the likes of Tiesto, Jason Nevins and Klubjumpers, his true talent, skill and ongoing love of music keeps his beats solid, crowd pleasing and mainstream.

Friday, Feb. 4th keeps rocking at the Village T-Dance with Marcus Purnell, excited to return to the stage this year marking his first appearance at Whistler since he was first heard at the closing party for Altitude 11. With a music career that has spanned more than two decades with residencies and appearances at some of the most prolific nightclubs and events in North America, Marcus Purnell has entertained dance floors with his unique style combining rolling house rhythms and riveting vocal progressions.

Later at Furrocious will be Ted Eiel, one of the brightest talents on the DJ scene today.
With over 15 years of club and radio experience, Ted has spun his supersonic sets of sexy, dirty beats at top-tier venues in the US and Europe. In the past 4 years, he's headlined some of the biggest leather and bear parties in the US: Folsom Street Fair, Lazy Bear Weekend, Provincetown Bear Week, Winter Party Weekend (Miami/Ft. Lauderdale), just to name a few. His 2009 closing party for IML, The Black and Blue Ball was voted one of the best events of the decade in Chicago. Ted’s aggressive, masculine sound that has been inspired by underground tracks drawn from classic house, electro, disco and rock. His music has been described as "muscle house" for men: sexy, funky, chunky house with an emphasis on dirty bass lines, melodic vocals and an intense energy that brings everyone to the floor.

Saturday, Feb. 5th - Snowball with open with local rising DJ Adam Dreaddy. Dreaddy has been throwing down some serious tracks over the past 3 years and there are no signs of slowing down. His passion for this art has far exceeded his expectations and everyday it’s a new track, a new skill learned and a new outlook on life. Having learned techniques such as beat matching vinyl, and Cd's, he launched himself in small lounges and restaurants all around Vancouver. Local promoters soon learned of this rising star and ushered him off to some of Vancouver's largest city clubs; Sharing the decks with international DJ's and meeting some amazing people along the way.

Ending the week at Snowball is DJ Eddie Baez, widely known throughout the dance music community. His impact upon dance floors worldwide is undisputed by industry peoples and dance music fans alike. Because of his genuine soul, vigorous persistence, and deep passion for music, Eddie Baez has blossomed into "superstar" status within the industry. Eddie has had much success with his innovative, tribal-inflected remixes of songs, representing some of the industry's most successful artists. Eddies recent version of Crazy, by Warner Brothers artist, Seal, hit the top of the Billboard Dance charts in its first weeks out, and continues to chart today. Now the long-awaited new compilation(s) keep coming and are filled with fierce vocal anthems, hypnotic house tracks and thunderous tribal beats. Eddies most recent remixes included Seal Crazy & Crime Mob Stilettos both on Warner Bros. Records, and Vivian Green, Tired, on Sony Music. In addition Eddie is continuing to work with other industry powerhouses, such as Pepper Mashay, in creating further original collaborations. Eddie Baez is one to continue to watch and watch we will.

For more information on GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE - the evolution of the annual Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week please visit GayWhistler.com for more details. WinterPRIDE has events both on and off the slopes from Skiing, Dog Sledding, Snowmobile Tours, Spa Experiences, Culinary delights and epic dance parties and everything in between! The only thing that is missing is you! Call 1.866.787.1966 to reserve your spot today or book online.

Whistler Mountain Opens Today: 11/19

It is true! Whistler opens today with another 12CM of Fresh, OMG, virgin powder just begging to be carved up! The only thing that is missing is you! Call 1.866.787.1966 with rooms starting at just $89/night or book online at http://www.gaywhistler.com
Snow Report: 12cm (5") NEW | 93cm (36") BASE | 156cm (61") TOTAL

According to Whistler Blackcomb the following lifts are open: Whistler Village Gondola, Creekside Gondola (free ski parking!), Emerald Express, Big Red and Franz. It is going to be an epic jaw dropping Yahoo kind of day! Remember it is early conditions so please obey signage, ski with care and have loads of fun!

Reminder: GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE is coming up Jan. 30 - Feb. 6, 2011... get your Super Early Bird value event tickets before Nov. 30th! Book early and save call 1.866.787.1966 or book online at http://www.gaywhistler.com our Host Hotel is the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa.

Whistler Mountain to Open Early! Nov. 19, 2010

It's official! La Nina has gifted our Coast Mountains with a lot of glorious White Gold allowing Whistler to open early on Nov. 19th! The buzz and excitement in the resort is in a frenzy with the announcement of a 6 day early opening! Remember to book your accommodations and lift tickets before Nov. 15th for the best deals of the season.

During the WinterPRIDE Week of January 30th to February 6th you can get ski packages starting at just $128/person/night. How good of deal is this? Well if you are one of those guys that plans last minute you can expect to pay $93/day for your ski lift ticket for same day window pricing... so that means you would only be paying an extra $35/night for a hotel! Now that is a deal. So what are you waiting for? Call 1.866.787.1966 today or book online at GayWhistler.com

Are you in the Silicon Valley or San Francisco area? This weekend is the Silicon Valley Ski Show November 13-14,2010. Make sure you stop by the Whistler Blackcomb booth and learn what is new this coming season and win some great show prizes.

Think Snow, think WinterPRIDE!
GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE the evolution of Gay & Lesbian Ski/Snowboard Week January 30 - February 6, 2011
Host Hotel: The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
For Reservations call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online at GayWhistler.com

La Nina is Coming to Whistler! 70+ CM in the Alpine already

Yahooo!! La Nina is approaching the spectacular resort destination of Whistler Blackcomb and has already thrown down 70+ cm in the alpine with way more of that glorious white gold to come! So boyz & gurrlz... get those boards shined up and get ready for one heck of a fabulous snow season! Reminder, book early to get the best deals call 1.866.787.1966 or visit online at GayWhistler.com

Take a look at what La Nina has gifted Whistler Blackcomb already... so what are you waiting for? Can you feel the excitement?!

Oct. 27 Skiing on Blackcomb Mountain from Whistler Blackcomb on Vimeo.

Hotel Room for $35?! Book by Nov. 15th

This year, Whistler Blackcomb is throwing down some epic savings with our hotel partners when you book your vacation by Nov. 15th. With rates starting at just $128/person/night for a 5 night, 4 day ski package... that is like getting your hotel room for $35!

How is that possible? When you consider that if you are one of those last minute decision makers and you just show up a few days before and walk up to the ticket counter to purchase your ski ticket, you can expect to pay $93/Adult per day. So when you consider this, for an extra $35/person you will get a pretty stellar place to stay! Or for an extra $88/person you can stay at our Host Hotel: The Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa - a Four Diamond, Conde Nast Gold List hotel.

So what are you waiting for? Call today at 1.866.787.1966 or book online at GayWhistler.com

Our official reservation partner, Whistler Blackcomb, guarantees to give you the best rate possible. When you make your reservation through our partner we are able to quantify our festival's room night production which means more support in future years, which only helps to improve the value and quality guest experience we are able to provide. So when making your vacation decision we encourage you to book with our official partners which gives back to our community.

For a list of our partner hotels click here:
Below are starting from rates for a 5 Night, 4 Day Ski Package when booking before Nov. 15th call 1.866.787.1966
HOST Hotel: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa starting from $181/person/night

Preferred Partner Hotels:
Coast Blackcomb Suites - starting from $173/person/night

Pan Pacific Whistler - starting from $180/person/night

Fairmont Chateau Whistler - starting from $215/person/night

Associate Partner Hotels:
Aava Whistler Hotel - starting from $128/person/night

Delta Whistler Village Suites - starting from $165/person/night

Evolution Whistler - starting from $177/person/night

Call 1.866.787.1966 or book online

WinterPRIDE Mountain Guides - Join our Guiding Team!

Travelocity Never Roam Alone Ski & Snowboard Guiding at GayWhistler's WinterPRIDE Jan. 30 - Feb. 6, 2011

If you are at least an intermediate skier or rider, and are familiar with Whistler Blackcomb, you could be a guide during WinterPride. Please read the details below, and if you think this is for you, just get in touch!

Remember – OUR # 1 GOAL IS SAFE FUN FOR ALL!

Program Highlights
Dates
WinterPride is Sunday, January 30 through Sunday, February 6. GUIDING IS MONDAY, JAN. 31-SATURDAY, FEB. 5.
Traditional Program
Our traditional program continues this year meeting between Blackcomb and Whistler. This year we'll be able to get back to Creekside!
ATAC!
ATAC stands for All Terrain, All Conditions. This is going to be the new name of our experts-only program.
Women’s guiding program
If there are enough women for a group, they will once again have the opportunity to ski or ride in women-only groups by meeting at specific women’s guiding signs. Obviously not all will take advantage of this, but we want to offer this service to help continue to build the women’s program.
Scheduling
Since we have a much better understanding of our day-to-day needs, scheduling will be specific this year. We will, of course, do the absolute best we can to accommodate your schedule. BTW, we already know we need you on Thursday, Friday and Saturday! LOL!
Minimum Volunteer Requirements
We ask that all guides, volunteer a minimum of 2 days. And our preference is that those two days include either Thursday, Friday, or Saturday if possible.

Training Requirements
We have new rules this year. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. If you guided and received training last year, you DO NOT need to attend on-snow training this year AS LONG AS you attend the Sunday, January 30 guide meeting/party that will be held on the evening of Sunday, January 30 in the WinterPride hospitality suite area. If you can not make that, YOU MUST attend one of the on-snow training sessions either Saturday, January 8 or Sunday, January 30. The only exceptions are Whistler Blackcomb ski instructors and volunteer guides. If you did not guide last year, you will need to attend on-snow training. Please don't ask for an exception - I can't make it.

Positions Available
This year, there are three distinct positions in the guiding program.
Guide - Responsible for safely guiding WinterPride groups of varying ability.
Sign Master - Responsible for strategically placing signs in the Go Zone.
Pod Leader - Responsible for greeting and interviewing guests to determine the best group. You will coordinate guest assignments for a specific level or program such as green, black, women's program, ATAC!, etc. You will also be responsible for getting guest counts for each group and turning them into John.

Perks!
- Every guide will get 1 apres ski ticket for each day they guide
- Daily lift tickets will be provided by Whistler/Blackcomb if you do not have a Season's Pass
- 45% off Ski/Snowboard Tuning all season long
- Complimentary rentals at any of the Whistler/Blackcomb rental locations on & off the mountain
- 10% off retail all season long; 5% off skis and snowboards all season long
- For each day you guide you will receive 2 volunteer coupons to be redeemed as Prize entry vouchers or exchanged for WinterPride events. Some restrictions and limits may apply.
- Volunteer appreciation brunch Sunday, February 6th, 2011

Date Summary
Saturday, January 8 - On-snow training day 1
Sunday, January 30 - On-snow training day 2
Monday, January 31 through Saturday, February 5, daily guiding.

My Contact Information
john@gaywhistler.com

RECRUIT!!
If you know of anyone that would be a great guide, please have him or her contact me via email with the required information.

RESPOND!!
Simply respond to this post and let me know the following:
Position
Ski or Snowboard
Which days you can work
Your training choice

I look forward to skiing and riding with each and every one of you, and truly appreciate your help to make WinterPride guiding a whole lotta fun! I will send out regular information as we learn it. In the meantime, keep your eyes on www.gaywhistler.com for news and information.

John Sutherland
Guide Director

Host Hotel: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa call 1.866.787.1966 or book online GayWhistler.com

GayWhistler on the Road - conference Season!

Wow, it must be that time of year again... Ken & Dean are on the road again and October, November are shaping up to be a busy travel month for us.

Our first stop will be to attend the 2010 InterPride Conference & Long Beach Pride Celebrations Oct. 21-24, 2010. If you are in the Long Beach area, please make sure you stop by and say hi! We are so excited to be attending where we can share some of our experiences in producing Whistler's WinterPRIDE as well as the 2010 Olympic Pride House Pavilion and what some of our future plans are. The last time I attended the conference was in Zurich and met so many wonderful people and learned so much on how to improve on what we are doing and how we can support those prides still in conflict.

Our second stop will be to attend the 2010 CMI LGBT Tourism Conference at the Mirage in Las Vegas. Tom Roth and his team always puts on an exciting and educational conference. Ken will be speaking at one of the workshops and sharing some of our experience in producing events. If you are in Vegas, make sure to check out the seminar and of course come by and say hello!

Our third stop will take us North to Toronto to attend Travel Gay Canada's first LGBT Tourism Conference at the Intercontinental Hotel. Here I will be moderating an exciting workshop on “Sport Tourism: The Importance of LGBT Sporting Events” with special guest speakers Greg Larocque, President of GLISA North America and Co-Chair of the Vancouver 2011 North American Outgames Human Rights conference; and Elaine Chick a SITE Crystal Award winner and former VANOC - Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games "Live Site" producer. Together they will lead the audience on an exciting and inspiring journey and give helpful ideas on what you can do for your own destination. If you are in Toronto area we hope you will attend this conference and show your support!

Make sure to check out our Facebook Group to keep track on where we are and what we are up to and hope to connect with you while we are on the road!

WinterPRIDE is Jan. 30 - Feb. 6th with the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa our host hotel.
For more information refer to: GayWhistler.com

2010 Ski Snowboard Shows Visit the WB Booth

It's that season again! The infamous Whistler Blackcomb Turkey Sale has come and gone.. and now the Ski & Snowboard shows are on the road. The first stop is Oct. 15-17 in Toronto, ON and Seattle, WA.

October 15-17, 2010 Seattle
First on the West Coast - Seattle will be hosting the Seattle SkiFever & Snowboard Show at the Washington State Convention Centre. Admission is just $12/adult and if you print your order online you can save $2. Learn all about what will be Kewl this coming season and what is hot in ski fashion & equipment with merchandise up to 70% off! For more info and times refer to
http://www.skifever.org/

Oct. 14-17, 2010 Toronto
In Central Canada - Toronto will be hosting the Toronto Ski & Snowboard Show at Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place
195 Princes' Boulevard, Toronto, ON. Tickets are $17/adult with over 200 Exhibitors including the Whistler Blackcomb booth. Make sure you stop by and check out what is new and exciting this coming season.

Nov. 6-7, 2010 San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Ski & Snowboard Show - Fort Mason Centre Festival Pavilion Admission $20

Nov. 13-14 Silicon Valley, CA
Silicon Valley Ski & Snowboard Show - Santa Clara Convention Centre

Dec. 2-5, 2010 Los Angeles, CA
Ski Dazzle Ski & Snowboard Show - Los Angeles Convention Center


Remember book your Whistler Blackcomb vacation by Nov. 15th for the best deals in accommodation and lift tickets. For WinterPRIDE we have rates starting at just $128/person/night for a 5 night 4 day ski package! Call 1.866.787.1966 or book online.

Host Hotel: Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa
WinterPRIDE: January 30th to February 6, 2011
visit: http://www.gaywhistler.com for more details

Snow Report 2010/2011 for Gay Ski Week Whistler

Snow!
Consistent snowfall throughout last winter made 2009.2010 the second snowiest season on record with 1,492cm/587inches. November 2009 was also the snowiest month on record with 560cm/220 inches of snowfall.  This year, meteorologists are predicting a colder winter with more precipitation due to the La Nina weather phenomenon, which will likely make for another great winter. 

Think Snow! Think WinterPRIDE!!

For Great Deals call 1.866.787.1966 or visit http://www.gaywhistler.com

Suite 2010 Specials for WinterPRIDE

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs073/1101795615828/archive/1102547519746.html
Suite Special for 2010
Get a jump on WinterPRIDE 2010 and book your Suite now at a very special early booking incentive! Our preferred hotel partner - The Residence Inn by Marriott Whistler is offering a special rate of just $299 + taxes / night! This is a limited time offer with limited number of rooms and once they are gone they are gone, so book now and save!
Studios: C$199
One Bedrooms: $299
Two Bedrooms: $299

Rates valid Feb. 28 - March 10, 2010. Subject to applicable taxes, quoted in Canadian Dollars, limited inventory for a limited time offer. Call 1.888.905.3400 for more details. Quote Group Code: WWP - WinterPRIDE

Whistler to Host Inaugural Mr. Gay Canada Competition

Whistler to Host Inaugural Mr. Gay Canada Competition

Whistler, BC – The first nationwide search for Mr. Gay Canada is set to take place September 18-21st, 2008. Hosted in the idyllic mountain resort of Whistler, BC, the primary purpose of the Mr. Gay Canada (MGC) is to identify leaders who will take responsibility not only in his own community but also on a global stage speaking out for equal rights. Mr. Gay Canada is a positive role model and will work on humanizing being gay and act as an LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) Tourism Ambassador for Canada.

Setting the stage of the inaugural event as Presenting Sponsor and Host Hotel is The Fairmont Chateau Whistler. “We are so thrilled to welcome the support of The Fairmont Chateau Whistler” explains Dean Nelson, Executive Producer of Mr. Gay Canada. “We are working with the Fairmont team to come up with some very exciting challenges for our delegates that will test their abilities to think on their feet while evoking the brand qualities of Fairmont. Working with a Canadian hotel chain and one that is so iconic was really important to the organization as we see many similar traits – we are both trail blazers!”

The Mr. Gay Canada Competition is a 3-day, indoor/outdoor series of events to help our judges identify a strong spokesman or ambassador to tell the world about our mission. The competition includes physical tests and interviews with a panel of judges. Only 15% of the judging points are assigned to appearance, which means 85% of the points are for qualities in character and leadership. The winner of the competition will receive an all expenses paid trip to Los Angeles in February 2009 to represent Canada in the International Mr. Gay Competition.

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About Mr. Gay Canada (MGC)
MGC is an organization working to build strong positive role models and leaders within the queer community. MGC is working in association with Mirateca Arts Management.
www.mrgaycanada.com

For more information:
Dean Nelson
Executive Producer
Mr. Gay Canada
Tel. 604.288.7218
Email: dean@mrgaycanada.com