The gorgeous resort town of Whistler in British Columbia is about a two-and-a-half hour drive away from Vancouver. What's the best way to get back and forth between these two destinations, especially with loads of ski gear? After talking to bus drivers, taxi drivers, tourism professionals and skiers, I've summarized the best ways to get from Vancouver to Whistler.

^{Photograph: Chris Cheadle / Getty Images}

Many of the best spas in Canada take advantage of the country's vast natural resources. Aqua-Mer Thalassothérapie in Quebec, for example, pumps in sea water from the Chaleurs Bay to use in restorative treatments. Le Scandinave spas in Collingwood and Mont-Tremblant offer Nordic-style water therapy in picturesque Canadian settings.

Related reading:

• Canada's Best Spas
• Ste Anne's Spa
• Spa Etiquette - Stripping & Tipping

Today, November 4, 2009, marks the 100-day countdown till the Vancouver 2010 Olympics.

In Whistler where many of the alpine and nordic events are taking place and in the Host City Vancouver, pre-Olympic buzz is tangible. Monday, snow fell on Blackcomb and Whistler mountains, getting people excited for the resort's November 26th opening. Whistler is offering great deals before the games start, including a stay and ski special starting at CAD$88. In addition, did you know that during the Olympics, the ski hills in Whistler are 90% open for business and accommodation is still available for this time.

Related reading:

• Whistler Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver 2010 Official Site

Lots of people need it........many people don't. I'm talking about a visa to visit Canada. Applying for a Canada visa is not a huge deal, that is, unless you've forgotten to do it. Be advised you can't get a visa once you've arrived in Canada.

Find out who needs a visa and how to get it done.

Related reading:

• Visa for Canada
• Do U.S. Citizens Need a Passport?
• Passport Equivalents