I was barely out of kindergarten when Seattle began preparing for the 1962 World’s Fair. Watching the cityscape change before my eyes as the Space Needle began its ascent to the heavens, I could see the city would never be the same, going from a sleepy port town to a world-class travel destination.

Since then, I’ve always enjoyed seeing how a city or resort has changed after hosting a World’s Fair or Olympics. So, while I was unable to attend Vancouver’s and Whistler Blackcomb Mountain’s 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, I couldn’t wait to see the changes. A stunning four-season alpine resort nestled in the Coast Mountains, Whistler Blackcomb has long been my favorite ski resort. I had hoped that the Olympic transformation would not be too dramatic; not spoiling its attractive mix of cosmopolitan amenities, pristine beauty and easy, low-key atmosphere.

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB TODAY

Having returned to Whistler Blackcomb Resort this past winter, I can happily report that there have been changes, but ones that only make the experience better -- without destroying what makes Whistler Blackcomb one of the top ski resorts in North America as rated by skiers and ski publications alike.

The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) from Vancouver to Whistler has been upgraded to a quick one-and-a-half-hour car or bus trip thanks to new passing lanes, wider shoulders, median barriers and improved intersections. There is also plenty of space on the side of the road for spectacular photo opportunities.

After stretching my legs in the pedestrian-only Whistler Village, I was delighted to find that it was still very much the enchanting alpine-style hamlet that features over 90 restaurants and 200 shops. I was also excited to see the newest addition – the Peak 2 Peak gondola.

Established in December 2008, the Peak 2 Peak gondola links Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains together at their peaks, boasting the longest and highest unsupported lift span in the world. An engineering marvel, it covers 1.88 miles and takes barely 11 minutes to cross, giving skiers and boarders quicker and easier options for skiing on both mountains. It’s also ideal for the non-skier to just bask in the alpine beauty or for summer travelers who now have better access to hiking trails.

MUCH REMAINS THE SAME

Sitting at an outdoor village eatery, I perused the most recent Whistler Blackcomb brochure learning there are still twelve magnificent bowls, three glaciers and more than 200 marked trails to enjoy and explore. Whistler Blackcomb has the distinction of receiving the most skier and boarder visits in North America, but lift lines continue to be the shortest thanks to the most extensive high-speed lift systems in the world. The mountain can also fulfill every extreme need, with snowmobiling, Helix-skiing and snowboarding and even authentic dog sledding. For the Nordic skier who yearns to get away from the madding crowd, there are over 80 miles of cross-country paradise.

If you're a rookie skier or simply need to brush-up on your skills, Whistler Blackcomb offers a world-class adult snow school with instructors that will show you the best techniques and terrain to suit your ability level. And remember, winter is not the only season to enjoy this magnificent resort. Any season is a superb time to visit and the spring and summer months offer hiking, biking, championship golf, canoeing, guided fishing trips and extreme sports such as white-water rafting and all-terrain-vehicle excursions.

THE ONE THING YOU MUST DO IN WHISTLER

For the ultimate après-ski experience, there is nothing like the Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa. The only authentic Javanese spa in North America and located in the heart of the village, the spa is modeled after a palace bathing house where generations of Javanese royalty enjoyed restorative health treatments. The exclusive and luxurious treatments combine water therapy and traditional herbs. There is no better way to end a day on the mountain. For further information call (888) 913-8811 or click on www.TamansariSpa.com

DINING IN WHISTLER

Without question, Bearfoot Bistro is Whistler’s finest restaurant. Located just steps from the gondolas, owner Andre St. Jacques has created an establishment that is as much about having fun as it is about great food and wine. Executive chef Melissa Craig is given free rein to create modern Canadian cuisine designed for the adventurous gourmand. The wine cellar, located directly below the dining room, is accessible to all guests by spiral staircase. Enjoy the thrill of seeing a fine Champagne opened with a sword by hitting the lip of the bottle with the blade, which severs the collar from the bottle’s neck. This technique of getting to the bubbly is called “sabrage,” and dates back to the Napoleonic Era.

Napoleon, a lover of Champagne, once said: “Champagne! In victory one deserves it; in defeat one needs it.” I would add that a Champagne toast is also a fitting way to end a day of battling the slopes and saying a fond farewell to Whistler Blackcomb Resort – still my favorite ski resort.

For more information on Bearfoot Bistro call (604) 932-3433 or click on www.BearfootBistro.com and to learn more about Whistler, click on www.whistler.com