As the venue for the 2010 Paralympic alpine events, Whistler is putting the finishing touches on a bevy of access improvements. That's good news for wheelchair users and slow walkers, because the bulk of the improvements will remain intact long after the Paralympic torch moves on, making Whistler a very accessible year-round vacation choice.
A More Accessible Whistler
Sometimes it's the little things that make a place more accessible -- things like accessible parking, paved surfaces, ramps and wheelchair accessible grades. Nobody knows that better than Hugh Tollett, who has been monitoring the access improvements in Whistler for the past several years. He also keeps potential visitors updated on the changes on his Whistler for the Disabled website.
In preparation for the games, additional accessible parking spaces have been added and two gravel lots have been paved. Say Hugh, "Another benefit of the paving project is the re-grading of the pathways around the lots. Before the project, the pathways were pretty steep to climb in a wheelchair."
Hugh also notes access upgrades made to Whistler Village. "New wheelchair ramps have been added in Whistler Village; and Celebration Plaza -- where the medal ceremonies will take place -- was built to be accessible. An accessible playground was also constructed next to Celebration Plaza." All these additions will remain in place after the games.
Getting around in Whistler is easier these days too, with the recent addition of 21 accessible buses to the public bus fleet. Accessible taxi service is also available through Resort Cabs. And if you’re traveling on foot, the new access map of Whistler Village, developed by the Resort Municipality of Whistler, will come in handy.
Wheelchair Accessible Lodging
The availability of accessible lodging in Whistler has also improved, and thanks to Hugh's website, it's now much easier to locate suitable choices. In addition to listing the access features of each property, the website also includes information about properties that don't have roll-in showers in their guest rooms, but have them in their pool or spa areas. Although not the ideal solution, this work-around may do the trick when nothing else is available.
Hugh advises choosing a property close to Whistler Village, for easier access to services, events and facilities. His top pick is the Crystal Lodge, which is located close to the Whistler Gondola. "It's reasonably priced and has two rooms with roll-in showers," notes Hugh. The Hilton Whistler Resort comes in close second. "This property also has two rooms with roll-in showers," says Hugh, "however, it's one of the few that has two beds in the accessible rooms. The drawback is that it's a little pricier than Crystal Lodge."
No matter what property you pick, make your reservations through Whistler for the Disabled at (888) 933-9383. Not only will they make sure you get the access features your need; but all profits are channeled back into to disabled programs and services in British Columbia; which in the end will make Whistler and the province even more accessible.
