It's Not Too Late to Attend the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver... Book Now!

Whether you're lucky enough to have scored tickets to an event during the Winter Olympics or just imagine a few days of active fun, you don’t have to be a sports buff to get in the Olympic spirit.  The 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver will be abuzz with spectators, visitors and fans from around the world.  If you and your family are planning a last minute visit to check out the games and all of the wonderful attractions Vancouver has to offer, there are plenty of Olympian-themed travel deals in the area.  So get in on all the action.

All of your favorite events will be scattered across Vancouver.  Although we are getting close to the wire, some events still have tickets for sale.  Whether you want to watch figure skating or see some fast paced skiing or action-packed snowboarding, click here for specific event ticket information.  Here are some of the Olympic venues:

Canada Hockey Place & UBC Thunderbird Arena: The 2010 Olympic Winter Games ice hockey tournaments will be staged at two sites– Canada Hockey Place and the UBC Thunderbird Arena. Canada Hockey Place is also home to the celebrated Vancouver Canucks hockey team. The UBC Thunderbirds is located at BC’s largest university – the University of British Columbia (UBC) and will also host the ice sledge hockey events.

Vancouver Olympic Centre/Vancouver Paralympic Centre: This 108,000-square-foot center will host the curling competitions. With a peaceful location that includes Queen Elizabeth Park and views of the local snow-capped mountains, this location offers both a lively community and a charming garden setting. And in addition to sports, as part of the Vancouver 2010 Venues Aboriginal Arts Program, the center will showcase traditional and contemporary artwork by First Nations, Inuit and Metis artists from across Canada.

Pacific Coliseum: Minutes from downtown Vancouver, the Pacific Coliseum will host the figure skating and short-track speed skating competitions.

Richmond Olympic Oval:  Sitting on the banks of the Fraser River, just 14 kilometers south of downtown, this venue will host all the speed skating events.

Cypress Mountain:  As part of the West Vancouver district, Cypress Mountain will host the Olympic freestyle skiing and snowboarding events. With its majestic peaks, Cypress Mountain offers wonderful panoramic views of Vancouver.

Other venues that will be utilized during the Olympics for non-competition purposes such as the Opening and Closing ceremonies, cultural celebrations and medal presentations include: BC Place, Main Media Centre, and the Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver, which will be the home away from home from the more than 2,000 coaches and athletes.

Unfortunately, if you and your family are in town during the Olympics, you will not be permitted to stay in the Olympic Village.  However, there are many hotels and operators that have help you plan your stay.

If you can guess what year Vancouver bid to host the 2010 Winter Olympics, you could win a 25% discount off your next stay at Abigail’s Hotel in Victoria, BC, as well as a complimentary room upgrade and an Olympic souvenir.  Guests that stay in February can also take photos with an authentic Olympic torch.  Or if you’re in need of some immediate R&R that doesn’t involve a mob of tourists and fans, ask for the “Escape the Madness of the Olympics!” package and hide out at the inn during the games and settle in for daily gourmet breakfasts, evening hors d’oeuvres and make day trips to the spa for relaxation massages and special treatments. 

Other operators and options are available for last-minute booking.  Cantrav is offering customized tour packages that include accommodations, transportation and food.  Entrée Canada has deluxe personalized programs to both Vancouver and Whistler that also includes sightseeing options.  Co-sport, the official hospitality service provider for the Games, allows families o create their own package. Other operators to consider working with are TBA Global, Ludus Tours and PRIME.  For the latest updates on available accommodations, click here.

If you are reading this and thinking it is way too late in the game to be in Vancouver for the Olympics, don’t fret.  Have a simple staycation and watch the Games from the comfort of your couch at home and then plan to visit the city at another time.  To read the FTF Vancouver Attraction Guide, click here.