April 7, 2009

2010 Olympic Accommodation Price

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Vacation, Vancouver Olympics, Whistler, accommodations, british columbia, downtown vancouver accommodation, relocating to vancouver, short term furnished rentals, travel, vancouver furnished rentals, vancouver rentals
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As we near the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver there is much chatter about  what speculative renters will fetch for their homes.  Yes, there are some greedy grabbers out there and I would say that most of the rental sites that are only listing homes not servicing the homes or the guest are way too high for what you are recieving.  So, here are a few tips:

1. Ask what services you recieve when you are paying $2500.00/night…yes, that is what some listing sites are asking;

2. Ask if they have personally checked the property to make sure it is what it they have advertised it at;

3. Most owners are asking for a 1 month rental so look for a company that will allow for 1 week rentals as this means they are in the tourism industry vs. the slap up a site to make a buck industry; and

4. Most important is to make sure that if you call the number on the site you get a call back from someone in Canada, not someone outside of Canada that knows nothing about the area.  It’s been my experience that there are a lot of companies looking to cash in and who knows if there will be a place for you when you arrive.

Good Luck!!

 

March 6, 2009

Vancouver 2010 – Where will you be sleeping?

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Life, accommodations, british columbia, culture, travel
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I have been searching out the market, making calls, responding to home listings, etc… and I think I have a pretty good idea of what’s going on in the accommodation market.  You will be looking to pay approx. the following for accommodation during the games and most places will require a 21 day minimum night stay:

These are all executive highly appointed accommodations that include: Condominiums/Houses/suites

with in a 10 minute drive of the downtown core, or Olympic venues; approx, $250.00/night/bedroom, so a 2 bedroom would be approx. $500.00/night and can sleep up to 6 guests.

We plan to have over 100 properties to choose from so stay tuned!!!

http://www/boutiqueaccommodations.ca

 

March 5, 2009

Getting around during the 2010 Games in Vancouver

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Boutique Accommodations, Howe Sound, Life, Skiing, Vacation, Vancouver Olympics, Whistler, accommodations, british columbia, downtown vancouver accommodation, relocating to vancouver, short term furnished rentals, travel, vacations, vancouver furnished rentals, vancouver rentals | Tags: , , , , , , , , |
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What to Expect

The Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Paralympic Winter Games are the biggest events to occur in the history of the City of Vancouver, with more than a quarter of a million visitors and 10,000 media expected in the City during Games time. This will mean a significant increase in activity on city streets, and reduced road capacity in areas surrounding and connecting Games venues.

One of the most important things the City of Vancouver can do to make the 2010 Host City experience great for everyone is to work with our transportation partners to make it easier and more convenient to get around Vancouver in 2010.

Temporary changes to the City’s road network

Security road closures – primarily in the city’s downtown core – are equired to keep the public and Games participants safe.
To manage these Games-time conditions, the City of Vancouver is introducing measures designed to allow local businesses to operate and residents to get where they need to go, while allowing athletes and officials to travel reliably to events.

The City of Vancouver is also leading efforts to bring back streetcars to Vancouver. The Olympic Line – Vancouver’s 2010 Streetcar – is a state-of-the-art, accessible and sustainable transportation project that will connect Granville Island to the Canada Line Olympic Village Station (Cambie Street and West 2nd Avenue) during 60 days of celebration between January 21 and March 21, 2010. Transit trips on the Olympic Line will be free.

By choosing alternative forms of transportation, you will not only make our city an easier place for everyone to get around in 2010, and will also make the Games-time experience more pleasant for the people who live and work in Vancouver every day.

Increased demands on roads and public transit

People can expect a significant increase in demand on Vancouver’s streets and the region’s public transit system. We will respond to this increase in demand by looking at ways to improve the existing routes to get around the city, and working with our transportation partners to provide reliable and accessible alternatives to driving. There will also be some limitations on street use so it’s important when booking accommodation that you know how you will be getting to and from your venues and events.

 

March 4, 2009

Olympics in Vancouver 2010

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Skiing, Vacation, Vancouver Olympics, accommodations, british columbia, downtown vancouver accommodation, short term furnished rentals, travel, vacations, vancouver furnished rentals, vancouver rentals, yaletown apartments for rent | Tags: , , , , , , |
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The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (February 12 to 28, 2010 and March 12 to 21, 2010 respectively) will make it difficult to find a hotel room in Vancouver and its suburbs as there are limited rooms and we are told that about 90% if hotel rooms have already been booked. Lucky for spectators, athletes and larger groups, there are other options for accommodation that can actually work out to be much more reasonable and way more convenient. North, West Vancouver, and downtown Vancouver are  great options for accommodation close to most events  and venues with the exception of Richmond and of course Whistler.  Here is a sample of a North Vancouver rental that can sleep up to 6 guests.  http://www.boutiqueaccommodations.ca/accview.php?id=60&ar=4

Alternatives from a Hotel Include:

  • Private residential rooms,
  • apartments;
  • or house rentals

Outside of Vancouver, BC

Staying in the surrounding areas of Vancouver is also an option if hotel rooms are fully booked. If you are wishing to be between Vancouver and Whistler I would highly recommend Squamish, home of the Nordic events and a beautiful part of the province.  Located about 40 minutes north of Vancouver and 45 minutes south of Whistler with tons of amenities and shuttles to and from events.  In squamish you are likely to get a very good nightly rate with more space and in a newer property.  Here is a sample of the type of property you can expect to rent for about $550.00/night that can sleep up to 6 guests, so good value.  http://www.boutiqueaccommodations.ca/accview.php?id=109&ar=1

Venues of Events in Vancouver with distance from downtown: This central hub is close to all host city regions. Transportation is easy and fairly fast.

  • Pacific Coliseum
  • UBC Thunderbird Arena
  • Canada Hockey Place
  • Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre
  • Distance to Richmond: 13 km (8 mi)
  • Distance to West Vancouver: 12 km (7 mi)
 

March 5, 2008

Considering Relocating to Vancouver?

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under downtown vancouver accommodation, short term furnished rentals, vancouver furnished rentals, yaletown apartments for rent
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Well, be prepared to have a heck of a time finding long term accommodation. We get several calls a day from many people that are needing to relocate themselves to our beautiful city either for work, or simply for a change and they need a rental home. We often ask our clients why would you want to rent long term immediately when you a) don’t know the city; and b) don’t know if you will like it. We have a few recommendations for re-locators, they are simple and we think make sense:

1. Find a short term, furnished rental situation that will not require you to lock in to a lease;

2. Once you arrive in Vancouver, take your time and look around and ask locals about areas, or experience them for your self; and

3. Use a reputable agency/company to find you a short term rental so you are guaranteed you get what you think you are getting and there are no surprises.

Yes, you will pay a premium for a short term furnished but you can save yourself a lot of grief in the long run and won’t be tied to a lease.

Vancouver is an amazing, eclectic city and there are a variety of options in housing style and neigbourhoods. To maximize a positive experience…come…explore…discover and then choose what’s best for you.

Happy hunting!!!

 

February 27, 2008

2010 Olympic Games Accommodation

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Boutique Accommodations, Vancouver Olympics, Whistler, accommodations, british columbia, culture, thoughts, travel, vacations | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , |
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As we approached the 2 year mark before the 2010 Whistler/Vancouver Winter Games the buzz around town is where will people stay? We have bee told the Whistler is already 50% full with delegates and IOC Members…not sure if this is fact of fiction…but if it’s fact it leads us to believe that the spectator accommodation is going to be way out of reach for the average Joe.

Since accommodation is expensive for this period it’s a good option to opt for a self catered home, apartment or suite so you can cook and not have to eat out for every meal. This will help the pocket book a lot.

The following are things to consider when looking for a hotel substitute:

1. If you have a larger group or more than one family consider renting a private residence. Rumour has it that the prices will range from $300 – $3,000.00/night but if it’s on the lower end, it’s a good deal compared to a hotel room;

2. Consider renting in Vancouver with special interest on North and West Vancouver as they are closer to Whistler and also very close to Cypress Bowl (Freestyle Competition) and easily accessible to Downtown too;

3. Find out where the venues are and pick a place close to your event of choice…don’t get stuck out in the sticks where you will have to drive through crazy traffic to reach the events;

4. If you aren’t renting a car make sure public transit is accessible;

5. Consider booking through a rental company that can direct and place you close to where you wish to be;

6. Ask about the cancellation policy;

7. Make sure you see pictures of the property;

8. Most importantly…Book early!!!

 

November 15, 2007

Dream Ski Vacation

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Blogroll, Skiing, accommodations, british columbia, culture, dining, thoughts, travel
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A ski vacation allows you to experience an exciting part of the world while providing ample time for skiing and snowboarding. Shred one of the  world’s most famous mountains and par take in the charm of the Whistler village. Visit the winter playgrounds of legends and race down the slopes that will soon be the host of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Whether it’s fun, relaxation, partying, extreme powder, incredible vertical, or the most adventurous skiing, Whistler Blackcomb is your resort. To make it even more enjoyable stay in a ski-in/ski-out slope side condo allowing for easy access in the morning and an early start. Most Ski-in/ski-out condos offer free shuttle to and from the village for those in the groups and if you plan early enough in the season you can book one that has a private hot tub, so you can rest your weary bones after a day on the slops.

Whistler/Blackcomb, British Columbia is
consistently voted the “Best North American Ski Resort,”  and is climbing in the ranks as best ski resort in the world. These two mountains offer the largest vertical drop (5,280 ft), expert terrain, glaciers and wide alpine bowls. The vastness of the combined mountains offers 7,000 acres of skiable terrain and therefore has enough room for everyone and you will not feel crowded.

The well designed and architecturally appealing village boasts a variety of cafes, boutiques and over 100 restaurants, so there is something for everyone. If you enjoy a wild night on the town, this can happen too as the village is riddled with hopping bars and nightclubs.  For the fair weathered skier, or the more cultured traveller you can have the delight of experiencing a spa treatment, cooking lessons, wine tasting, shopping for art and much more…  Whistler can accommodate any vacationers needs but do book early!!!

timberwolf.jpg

 

August 1, 2007

Whistler Vacation Tips…Don’t Be Dissappointed

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Life, Skiing, Whistler, Writing, accommodations, british columbia, road trips, travel, vacations
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Whistler has thousands of rental properties scattered from the new Creekside Village to the Main Village and it can be a bit overwhelming for the first time visitor.  The prices vary significantly and there are dozens of management companies that offer great hands on service.  Accommodation rental services should be able to find you a property that fits your needs.  There is no charge to you (if there is, look elsewhere) as they work for the lodging providers.  Take the hassle out of your stay and don’t be dissappointed!!!

 Some Things You Should Know When Renting Accommodation In Whistler:

  1. Too cheap can leave you very dissappointed.  Often 10 – 15% more in price will get you 100% better in quality;   
  2. Don’t assume Owner Direct is the best option and going to be cheaper. Often owners are absentee and have no idea what condition their rental home is in;
  3. Booking through a reputable accommodation rental company is your best route.  The rental company should be local and should personlly check all accommodations to ensure quality; 
  4. The rental company should also be able to offer you discounted lift tickets and arrange transfers to and from the YVR (Airport);
  5. Make sure the pictures you are seeing online are of the actual property you are booking;

 Specific Things to Look For and Ask About the Property:

  1. Location is very important and is very individual, ask for a map.
  2. When choosing ski-in/ski-out, ask what level of difficulty the run is;
  3. Ask if there is a free shuttle from the property, this is an excellent service;
  4. Is the location noisy when the bars let out.  Village properties can be very noisy;
  5. How far from the Main Village is it located and is it an easy walk;
  6. Is the hot tub private or common area;
  7. Is it a family friendly complex, or more singles;
  8. Have there been pets in the property (for people with allergies);

 ah-dining.jpgArrowhead

 

July 16, 2007

Todays Desitination: Whistler!

Posted by Boutique Accommodations under 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Skiing, Sunshine Coast, Vacation, Vancouver Olympics, accommodations, british columbia, culture, downtown vancouver accommodation, log cabin, road trips, short term furnished rentals, thoughts, travel, vacations, vancouver furnished rentals, vancouver rentals | Tags: , |
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Road trip #3 in the last two weeks, off to Whistler today to check out Vancouvers biggest 2010 Winter Olympic venue and several potential accommodations. A couple of condominiums, a rustic log cabin and a nice small boutique hotel. This is a great drive which takes about 2.5 hrs even though there can be some delays for road construction. They are desperately trying to get this road a little straighter for the coming Olypimpic games. The Sea to Sky highway as it is passionately known winds along the waters of Howe Sound and then past the town of Squamish. While it is following the coast line it is full of tight S curves, right angle turns and some pretty fair straight aways. As you can imagine it has been a favorite for motorcyclist for years. However, in the winter when the the driving takes every bit of concentration you’ve got having a straighter road will be welcomed after a hard day of skiing. The scenery in breathtaking along this stretch of road. The coastal mountain range towers over the road and in the distance these mountains keep their snowy peaks until mid July.

The objective today is to really check out the accommodations we’ve agreed to look at. We look for a number of things like location, is it ski in ski out or how is it inside, is it well appointed,is it clean and does it have good enough bedding and last but not least…. does it have a hot tub? If it has all of these features we look at the building itself, its design and how it fits into the boutique idea of things. For us being Boutique is more than just being trendy, its about making sure that what the traveller is getting is authentic. By authentic we mean true to its roots so that our whistler log cabin is luxuriously rustic and the condominium that proclaims to be ski in ski out is really ski in ski out. We can only provide these kind of assurances by actually checking the properties out and approving of them. Its one of those jobs you do in a small business that is really rewarding, productive and fun.

Holidays in Whistler are pretty intense, there is the world class skiing in the winter, but summer shines as well. It is actually considered a four season resort but most people associate Whistler with Winter and Skiing. Summers bring adventure, fishing,kayaking, mountain biking, climbing, hiking, golf and a host of other creative ways of spending your vacation time. So don’t limit yourself to winter. The night life of whistler is always on the go with a variety of clubs bringing in some big acts to help attract summer activity. You will also find a series of outdoor concerts, special events and art exhibitions throughout the region.

Base yourself in Whistler and enjoy the whole Sea to Sky region including Squamish, Brackendale and Pemberton.So I will let you know how the trip went when we get back. I will try and drop in some pictures so you can see for your self how beautiful the region is, Winter or Summer. Till then Fair Winds and Happy Travels!

Artseatraveller