Are you new to town?
Welcome to Whistler! Give the handy little Survival Guide a read... it will help you get settled and find your bearings faster so you can enjoy all the things you came here for! This guide is produced by the Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS), a not-for-profit organization that supports social sustainability in Whistler by providing programs and services that improve the ability of Whistler community members to meet their needs and enhance their lives.

Welcome Week
You're invited to Welcome week which runs every November. You'll get to meet loads of other new folks and long-time locals, too. For more information visit the Whistler Community Services Society website.

Some words of wisdom from those who’ve been here for a while:
To set yourself up in Whistler until the money comes in, you’ll need about $2000 for your first month (rent, electricity, phone, food, and entertainment).

• Expect to pay anywhere from $500 - $650/month for shared accommodation, possibly even a shared room. Landlords can legally ask for the first month’s rent and a damage deposit of half a month’s rent.
• The cost of food here is significantly higher than in other British Columbia (BC) towns.
• Phone and electricity (hydro) hook-ups require deposits of about $200. Be clear with housemates about who owes what before the bills start rolling in.
• Your work visa isn’t enough to get you working. You still need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) through Service Canada, and must bring your original documents (Employment Authorization, passport) when you apply. Click here for dates that Service Canada will be in Whistler. 
• Tailor your résumé for Whistler and pound the pavement if you’ve come for the ski season. Looking for work is a full-time job.
• The best time of year to get set up in Whistler is during the summer. More jobs, more rooms for rent, and lots of time to get ready for winter.
• Whistler has two slow seasons: mid-September to December, and May to July. Your work hours may decrease, so be prepared.
• Get your BC Medical coverage sorted out as soon as you get to Whistler. If you plan on spending any time on the mountains, you may need it. Applications can be found at the Health Care Centre.

Transportation Information
BC Transit - Local Bus System

Greyhound - Bus trasportation for Pemberton, Squamish, Vancouver and BC  

Pacific Coach Lines - Bus transportation for Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport 

Walk or Bike - The Valley Trail systems is a paved double track trail that runs throughout Whistler and is a great way to get around by foot or bike.

Taxi Cabs - There are two cab companies in town: Whistler Resort Cabs and Whistler Taxi.

On a Budget?
Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS) has the skinny on affordability for low-income Whistler residents. Check out the Whistler Affordability Guide at www.mywcss.org. The purpose of WCSS is to support social sustainability in Whistler by providing programs and services that improve the ability of Whistler Community members to meet their needs and enhance their lives. Call 604.932.0113 or visit www.mywcss.org for details on these programs:

• Community Kitchens - assists with shopping and preparation of healthy and budget-conscious meals.
  
• Food Bank – food is distributed on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month, 11:00am-1:00pm from the portable beside the Catholic Church at the end of Lorimer Road. For emergencies please call 604.935.7717.
  
• Re-Use-It Centre – The Re-Use-It Centre, located in Function Junction, sells everything you need to make a home during your time in Whistler. It has clothes, skiwear, sporting goods, winter wear, summer wear, dishes, electronics, books, linens, and kitchen appliances. It is also the best place to buy costumes.  The Re-Use-It Centre's proceeds go to support Whistler Community Services Society programs and services. So when you shop at the Re-Use not only are you helping the environment by recycling, but your money also goes to a great cause!
  
• Youth Outreach Workers – You talk, we listen. Free confidential support for youths and young adults struggling with depression, homesickness, drugs and alcohol, eating disorders and relationships. Call 604.938.3902 or 604 902 0670.

Also find out about:

• Recreation Credit – apply to receive free credit at Meadow Park Sports Centre. For Whistler residents only.
   
• LUNA – LUNA (Late Unique Night-time Alternatives) offers nightlife alternatives for 18-35 year olds in Whistler. Visit www.lunawhistler.com for more information.
  
• Spirit Pass – Ask if your employer offers this one; be an ambassador for Whistler and you’ll get a sweet deal on your ski pass. Simply learn about your new resort home at a customer service/intro to Whistler course and use your knowledge with resort guests both on and off the mountain.