Planning your trip to Vancouver, Whistler

FROM CITY TO SKI

On my recent visits to Vancouver and Whistler, I checked out several places to stay in both places, although those rooms may be sold out for the Games. I also added, to the extensive list above, a couple of restaurants in Vancouver that I liked and some in Whistler.

THE BEST WAY TO VANCOUVER

From LAX, nonstop service to Vancouver is offered on Air Canada, Alaska and United, and connecting service (change of planes) is offered on Delta, Air Canada, Alaska and United. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $217.

WHERE TO STAY

In Vancouver: Opus Hotel, 322 Davie St.; (604) 642-6787, www.opushotel.com. O is for opulent. This stylish boutique hotel is a favorite of celebrities and business moguls. Doubles from $209.

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, 1110 Howe St.; (604) 684-2151, www.holidayinn.com. This mid-priced hotel is centrally located and offers great amenities, including an indoor pool. Doubles from $81.

Best Western Château Granville, 1100 Granville St.; (604) 669-7070, www.chateaugranville.com. An economy hotel with all the basics. Stay away from the courtyard building with its entrance from a scary alley. Doubles from $89 in the main tower.

In Whistler: Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre, 4299 Blackcomb Way; (604) 966-5500, www.panpacific.com. This luxury hotel with a year-round outdoor heated saltwater lap pool is within walking distance of the ski lifts. Doubles from $314, including breakfast.

Westin Resort & Spa, 4090 Whistler Way; (604) 905-5000, www.westinwhistler.com. Spacious, comfortable rooms less than a block from the lifts on Whistler Mountain. Doubles from $180.

Whistler Village Inn & Suites; 4429 Sundial Place; (800) 663-6418, www.whistlervillageinnandsuites.com. Moderately priced hotel in the heart of Whistler Village. Doubles from $123.

WHERE TO EAT

In Vancouver: Hon’s Wun-Tun House, 1339 Robson St.; (604) 685-0871, www.hons.ca. Authentic Chinese food in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Entrees from $9.

Phat, 1055 Mainland St.; (604) 684-6239, www.phatdeli.com. Breakfast and lunch deli that offers great eggs Benedict. Entrees from $5.50.

In Whistler: Araxi, 4222 Village Square; (604) 932-4540, www.araxi.com. Rated as one of the best restaurants in Whistler. Basic American fare with a Canadian twist. Entrees from $28.50.

Caramba, 12-4314 Main St. Town Plaza; (604) 938-1879, www.caramba-restaurante.com. A colorful family-friendly eatery that specializes in pasta and pizza. Entrees from $13.

The Brewhouse, 4355 Blackcomb Way; (604) 905-2739, www.drinkfreshbeer.com. A burger and pizza joint with lots of blaring TV screens and a great selection of locally brewed beer. Entrees from $14.

TO LEARN MORE

Canadian Tourism Commission, www.canada.travel