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Friday, Nov 20, 2009
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Seattle Gay News hits the slopes at WinterPRIDE 2008 in Whistler, BC |
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| Seattle Gay News hits the slopes at WinterPRIDE 2008 in Whistler, BC | |
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by David Luc Nguyen -
SGN A&E Writer Join me next week as I travel to one of the hottest places to be this time of year, where many Gays and Lesbians from Seattle, Canada, and both US coasts are expected to converge. I'm referring to Winter Pride at Whistler, BC, taking place February 3-10. Formerly known as Whistler Gay Ski week, the 17th annual event has evolved to include activities for those who enjoy the slopes and those who are more indoor-activity inclined. If you're headed to Whistler, or seriously thinking about going, here is what you should know before making the journey. TRAVELING TO WHISTLER Whistler is located 80 miles north of Vancouver, 220 miles north of Seattle. For those driving from the Emerald City, allow about four hours to get to the mountain. If you don't feel like driving in the snow, then there are other affordable alternatives. Try taking the train from Seattle to Vancouver BC; many people love this trip option because it's one of Amtrak's most scenic routes. This leg of the trip should cost $28 (one-way) and will take about four hours. After arriving in Vancouver, you can catch a charter bus to Whistler for $19 (one-way) and it will take about two and a half hours to get there. Surprisingly, there are rooms still available at some of the host hotels including The Delta Whistler Village Suites, The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, The Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa, The Mountainside Lodge, and the Residence Inn Marriott. Price ranges are anywhere from $88 (CAD) to $700 (CAD). There are some great package deals that include lodging and skiing on www.gaywhistler.com. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES The Winter Pride organizers have put together a slew of outdoor events for guys and gals at Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort looking to take advantage of the record snowfall on the mountain this year. This year's activities include climbing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and dogsled tours, and groups for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Also, organizers have geared some special events just for the ladies including women's ski groups and sleigh rides. About 80% of those attending Winter Pride are Gay men. INDOOR ACTIVITIES For those of you looking to bask in the great indoors, the schedule is packed with many opportunities to enjoy yourself while staying warm. There is a gambit of après skiing (after skiing) social events such as cocktail hours, martini parties, dining events and banquets in some of Whistler's top restaurants. Something to look forward to is the "Singles and Sex Food" mixer, in which single men will break bread while smashing ice over a glass of champagne. Then, they will prepare "sex foods" like oysters, figs, wrapped brie in filo, and other edibles touted for their "aphrodisiac" qualities. After having a few cocktails and bubbly, you can shake your booty with newfound friends at some fun-filled theme parties, including the costume-masked ball, the Brokeback Party (Rest in Peace Heath!), The Manhunt T-Dance, and the big social event of the week - the SnoBall. Finally, indulge yourself at one of 20 spas in Whistler or stop by the Arbonne Skin Care Pamper Suite. There, you can relax while you sip detox tea, reminisce with friends about your fabulous trip and treat yourself to a complimentary aromatherapy foot soak. For more information, check out the official website for Winter Pride at www.gaywhistler.com |
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