If you're the kind of person who likes to be first on your block to have a new toy, the latest model car or trips to exotic localse tucked under your belt, you're probably used to paying premium prices. What if you want to learn a new sport? The Pan Pacific Whistler has a deal for you. And while this combo is overly expensive, it's only fair to point out that it's not budget, either. Their package works out to about $235 a night, in fact, per person. But you may think it's worth that, and it spells good value for all the diversions you get with the price.
The new sport is skate-skiing, a fusion of skating, skiing, Nordic skiing (cross-country) and roller blading. The resort claims it is easy to learn, similar to speed skating, with five different techniques. You can enjoy this trip through winter wonderlands at Lost Lake, a haven otherwise for cross-country skiers. The lake is a five-minute walk from Whistler Village, and provides some 30 kilometers (about 20 miles) of scenic woodlands in addition to the body of water and ice itself. You get a one-hour lesson and the package cost includes rental of skis and passes.
In addition to skate-skiing, the price includes three nights in a studio room, and the following activities: a Zip Trek Tour, the resort's newest outdoor adventure experience. On a 2.5-hour tour, you fly through the trees on a series of cable cords, suspension bridges, across gaping gorges and rushing rivers. Naturalists will lecture you about the local ecology and the ancient forest you're in as you whiz along. (Try to pay attention!)
Secondly, you can take a sleigh ride pulled along by giant Percheron horses. You sit on padded seats under warm blankets, and snuggling is encouraged. The ride along wooded trails, past Green Lake or the Nicklaus North Golf Course, is topped off by a fondue dinner. You can also drive a sled pulled by Alaskan Huskies through the spectacular Soo Valley Wildlife reserve if you care to.
Additionally, you can go snowshoeing, with or without a guide through the valley or atop Whistler Mountain proper. Passes, snowboots and snowshoes are included. These activities, plus the skate-skiing, add up to five adventures you can take advantage of during the busy two-day, three-night package designed especially for people with limited time to spare.
The cost is CDN $2,110 (US $1,409) per couple for a three-night, two-day package. Valid through April 20, 2003. Subject to availability and change. Price does not include tax.
For more information or to book, contact Pan Pacific at www.panpacific.com.