Fairmont Chateau Whistler in autumn

In October, my setmates and I from BCIT’s Tourism and Marketing program went to Whistler for a FAM tour (short for familiarization tour). These trips are meant to give future tourism professionals a firsthand feel for the destinations we might one day promote. For us, that meant one night of alpine luxury at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, just before the winter crowds arrived.

The village was calm, wrapped in gold leaves and cool mountain air. Inside the Fairmont, fireplaces glowed, and everything felt quietly grand. Throughout the hotel, fall was in full display. From pumpkin floor decor to autumn tone flower arrangements. It felt like stepping into a postcard or a Hallmarkt film.

A Very Fancy, Very Awkward Dinner at Araxi

Maddie, Reine, and I booked dinner at Araxi, one of Whistler’s most iconic fine dining spots. To make things interesting, Maddie told the staff that we were celebrating an engagement. I was the bride-to-be.

In my attempt to live up to the role, I ordered a three course meal filled with everything I had never tried before, oysters and duck included. The starter was chef’s choice, which to my dismay turned out to be mushroom soup. (I hate mushrooms.) I jokingly told the waiter this was exactly why I was getting married, because clearly I am no longer instead in trying new things. Hint. Hint. The waiter laughed and was kind enough to adjust the bill.

By dessert, we were all doubled over laughing, but we had to rush out of the restaurant to catch our next tour. I didn’t get to try the cheesecake with candied pear slices and airy foam mousse until later during our evening swim, making it a sweet reward after a full day.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Before dinner, we spent time at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, exploring the exhibits and learning about the history, art, and traditions of the local First Nations communities. My favourite part was discovering the intricate cultural attire, from patterns to textiles, and hearing the stories behind them. It was a slow and meaningful experience that set the perfect tone for our evening.

Valle Lumina

After dinner, our group explored Vallea Lumina, a nighttime forest walk filled with light, music, and storytelling. Imagine glowing trees, whispering voices, and a trail that tells the story only as you explore it. It was mesmerizing.

At the start of the walk, we gathered around a crackling fire, sipping hot chocolate to warm our hands and bodies against the cool mountain air. As we followed the glowing path into the forest, the best part wasn’t just the lights themselves but everyone’s reactions. The collective gasps and laughter as visual projections appeared suspended on transparent silk screens, weaving stories in midair.