What it's really like to live and work in Whistler

People describe Whistler as a playground for adults, almost like a Neverland.

When I first researched the possibility of doing a ski season here, I found it hard to believe that it would be such a place, but I can safely say my expectations were blown out of the water.

How did I end up here?

I came to Whistler as a 25-year-old who moved away from home for the first time. I left my corporate banking job to travel and see more of the world after being confined to a small, Scottish village during the global pandemic. After sitting at home online one day looking at various companies that you can do working holidays with, I decided to go ahead with BUNAC (now JENZA) as they offered the promise of finding affordable housing and a seasonal job at great ski resorts, alongside helping you with the rather complicated Canadian visa application process.

Moving to a country on the other side of the world is incredibly daunting, but JENZA helped me to secure a great job at a hotel in Whistler village that offered staff housing and guided me through every step of obtaining my work permit. I joined numerous of their Travel Talks online and connected with other people about to begin the same journey. This offered a sense of ease straight away.

My first week in Canada

When I flew to Vancouver, I won’t lie and say I was 100% excited. After a very teary and emotional farewell at the airport with my friends and family, all I could think on the treacherous journey was have I made the right decision (note to future self; the cheaper, longer travel option is not always the best!) however all my qualms were squashed as soon as I hit Canadian soil.

Through JENZA, I had accommodation booked in Downtown Vancouver with people who arrived through the same or similar avenues. I joined orientation at the nearby SWAP office where I received advice and guidance on obtaining a Canadian bank account, SIM card and SIN number; 3 vital things to begin your ski season. This gave me the confidence to go off on my own and obtain these things within the day.

Once I had some time to explore Vancouver and make some friends in the hostel, it was my time to finally take the gorgeous Sea to Sky highway up to Whistler. Whistler is about two hours north of Vancouver, and once you are out of the city, you are presented with the most beautiful views of the Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains - I recommend sitting on the left hand side driving north so you can take it all in!

I arrived in Whistler on day four of being in Canada and went straight to my new employer to organise where I would live and job orientation. I joined the hotel as a Housekeeper and was offered housing on-site in the hotel. Having never been to university, I was not used to the dormitory style of living, but quickly adapted. It’s worth noting that a lot of the staff housing in Whistler is shared living, which meant I was able to make a solid group of friends quickly that came from all different parts of the world such as Australia, Germany, New Zealand, England and so many more. Being so close to work over the winter was a huge bonus, especially during the cold snap where temperatures plummeted to almost -30 degrees celsius! I also lived about 50 steps away from the gondola which was ideal for skiing.

Whistler perks

I learned to ski in Whistler and took advantage of locals discounts and season pass deals for lessons. The terrain on Whistler mountain is incredible and some of the views are the best I have ever seen in my life. Don’t be put off by the size of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains; many of the runs are beginner friendly and I found the best way to improve my skiing was to go with those of a better ability. The après ski is also a great way to spend the afternoon after a tiring day on the mountain, with a large variety of bars and clubs to go to in the village.

Fast forward to now

I came to Canada intending to only do a 6-month ski season, but now summer is here I’ve decided to stay on. I have since moved into an off-site staff house, which is a gorgeous home near Whistler village and I have been lucky enough to move into here with my friends that I made when living in the hotel.

If you’re thinking about doing a ski season anywhere in the world, I would say you absolutely have to go and do it in Whistler. The memories you make and the people you meet are like no other, and they are something you will cherish for the rest of your life.

If Hannah's story has inspired you to make the move to Whistler, find out more information on how JENZA can help make it happen over on on our Work Canada page.