Photo from WhistlerBlackcomb.com/photo index.htm

As we speak the Olympic Flame is making its way to its final destination of Vancouver in beautiful British Columbia, Canada where it will upon its arrival on February 12^th announce the beginning of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The Olympics, always entertaining and exciting on its own, will also highlight the rich diversity and spectacular destinations in and around Vancouver.

Photo by NDushesne

One of the most impressive parts of the Olympics for me is to watch the dazzling opening ceremony with all the pomp of lighting the torch and watching the athletes enter in the parade of nations. And equally inspiring is the closing ceremony where the flag is passed to the next country to host the games. All the days in between are filled with ice events, such as alpine skiing and jumping, snow boarding cross-country skiing, bobsleigh and luge – some taking place in metro Vancouver and Cypress Mountain and some in Whistler. The winter games are thrilling and my favorite to watch. For those lucky spectators who will be visiting during the Olympics, there is a plethora of sites offering  travel and ticket information and the NBC broadcast schedules.  Here’s a link  that will follow the events for the two weeks of broadcast.

                                                                  Photo by iShot

Whistler Village at Night by whistlergal78

But besides being a mecca for winter sport fans, Vancouver is touted as a world-class city and offers a range of amenities, cultural festivals, activities and must see sights. This link will show a wonderful overview of Vancouver with photos, places to go and things to do.  Also, are recommendations for shopping, accommodations and wonderful eateries and cafes.  Whistler, with a six month season, attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. Whistler Blackcomb, world-class and host resort for the 2010 Games, offers outdoor activities all year long for adults and kids and people of all skill levels.

It looks like Vancouver is going to turn out to be an awesome choice for the Olympic game goers and tourists alike.  Let the games begin!