Canada: Early ski deals, and snow, at Whistler Blackcomb

Last year at this time, the Canadian ski resorts Whistler Blackcomb and Cypress Mountain in British Columbia were primping for their star turn at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. The white stuff was a “no snow” at Cypress, but Whistler’s big-snow rep came through for alpine and nordic competitions.

Snow has begun falling again at Whistler (check out this video made last week that shows off the early-season powder). And although the slopes don’t officially open until Nov. 25,the resort is taking reservations for early-season discounts on room-ticket packages.

The deal: Early Booking Deals apply to packages that include hotel stays and lift tickets throughout the 2010-11 ski season. For example, five-night stays, with lift tickets for four days, start at $82 per person per night, based on double occupancy, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 19. The package, still discounted, jumps to $214 per person during the holidays, Dec. 20 to Jan. 1. Note that prices don’t include tax and are based on double occupancy.

When: Good for stays from opening day (Nov. 25) to the end of the season (April 25). But you must reserve by Nov. 15.

Tested: According to the ski resort’s website, package prices rise sharply — as much as 36% — after the offer ends. I went on the resort website and found the five-night package for $82 per person per night available starting Dec. 5. Total cost for two with tax: $911, or about $455 each.

Note that the prices cited online are in Canadian dollars; prices in U.S. dollars (which I’ve used here) are slightly less. So at the check-out phase, remember to convert to U.S. currency for an accurate final bill.

Contact: Whistler Blackcomb, (888) 403-4727