Top 4 myths about the 2010 Olympics

 

By Robyn Peter

I have to admit as the Olympic torch runs through my home town of Vancouver, BC, I get a little teary eyed in the pride I have for the city. The world is watching and now everyone will know what I’ve known my whole life — Vancouver is the best city on earth. O.K., I may be a little biased here, but I sincerely hope you will visit this breathtaking city during the 2010 Olympic Games and beyond.

In an effort to make your Vancouver vacation a “gold medal” experience, I have put together a few myths and tips for your trip.

Myths for the 2010 Olympics:

1. There are no Vancouver hotel rooms left. — FALSE
If you search Vancouver hotels on Orbitz right now, there is still availability at several hotels around the city.

We fully expect even more hotel rooms to open up once the Games begin judging by the history of previous Olympics. Don’t be afraid to stay outside the downtown core and save a bit of money, as the new CANADA LINE is a great way to get to the Olympic venues.

2. There are no tickets available at this late date. — FALSE
There are still tickets available for many Olympic events. Check out the preliminary events for great deals and the medal ceremonies — many of which have concerts afterward. You can even get 15% off your Olympic tickets. Just use promo code Olympics15%*.

3. Tickets for 2010 Olympic events are all too expensive. — FALSE
Half of all Games tickets are priced at $100 or less. There are also a number of free events taking place as well. Come check out the FREE family-friendly celebration sites like LiveCity Downtown on corner of Georgia Street and Beatty Street; LiveCity Yaletown David Lam Park, Pacific Boulevard at Drake Street; Robson Square – Robson Street between Hornby Street and Howe Street in downtown Vancouver; Richmond City Hall (6911 No. 3 Road) and Minoru Park (7191 Granville Avenue), Richmond just to name a few.

4. There isn’t going to be enough snow for the mountain events. – FALSE
We Vancouverites like our city sunny and our snow on the mountain — where it belongs. Whistler is primed and ready to go. Olympic organizers have trucked in snow to Cypress mountain to ensure it is ready forthe athletes to compete.

Tips when visiting the 2010 Olympics:

1. Arrive early for the event. Security at the Olympic venues is reported to be similar to airport security. It is recommended you arrive two hours early for your event. And make sure to wear clean socks — you could be asked to remove your shoes.

2. Avoid scams and buy tickets from a legitimate vendor. You can buy tickets on Orbitz, on the official 2010 Olympic Web site, or in person at an official ticket office.

3. There is NO spectator parking at ANY Olympic venue. Public transit is the best way to get around during the games.

4. Go LOONIE. Bring Canadian cash! When you are out and about, most Vancouver hotels, restaurants and stores will accept all major credit cards, and many will gladly take your U.S. dollars. Inside the Olympic venues, however, they will only accept Canadian cash,VISA and VISA debit cards.

5. Check your tickets. If you purchased your Olympics tickets well in advance, be sure to check your tickets versus the final schedule events. Some events have changed times and/or dates.

6. Don’t bring your own food or beverages. Outside food and beverages will not be allowed in Olympic venues.

7. Shop till you drop. Official Olympic gear is available at THE BAY at locations throughout Vancouver or online at the official Olympic Store.

Above all, come see our city. With glowing hearts we welcome the world!

Related Orbitz resources:

• Vancouver hotel

*Terms & Conditions
The promotion code can be entered at time of check out on tickets.orbitz.com only. The 15% discount applies only to the subtotal. The 15% discount does not apply to any shipping charges or fees. The promotion code is valid through February 28, 2010. Promotion codes can only be used once with each purchase. Discounts are not redeemable for cash for any reason. While Supplies Last.

Robyn Peter is the Pacific Northwest market manager for Orbitz.

Tagged: Family time