Just another year in Whistler and another group of new friends and fun times
One of things I’ve noticed people ask me several times is “Will I meet lots of fun people if I go on a ski holiday by myself? Where do I meet people and make friends?”
Here’s my thoughts and recommendations.
1) Book into a backpackers
I’ve lost count of the number of friends I’ve made who started out as fellow backpackers and roommates. You’ll meet tons of people just like you, who are travelling by themselves. Most of them are pretty outgoing and friendly and you should have no problems making friends at a backpackers.
2) Housemates are your friends
If you’re on a longer ski holiday, you’ll typically end up renting a room somewhere. This means you get put into a house with a bunch of other people. Go out with them! Have some fun, drink a beer together, go get up to some shenanigans.
A large majority of my skier/snowboarder friends started out as random people who I shared a house with at some point in time.
3) Talk to people on the chairlift
You’ll find that skiing and snowboarding tends to attract a more outgoing, friendly type of person. Don’t be afraid to talk to other people on the chairlift. In particular, if you ride a lot of terrain park, you’ll end up on the chairlift with the same people.
Many of my friends started out as random people who ride in the Whistler Blackcomb park every day. If you recognize a person you’ve seen before, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. In the end, we all like riding with other people who want to ride the same terrain we do.
4) Take a snowboard/ski camp
Not all camps are meant for children. There are plenty of adult camps these days and they’re a great opportunity to meet lots of other people who are stoked on the snow, just like you! Not to mention a good camp is a fantastic way to advance your riding skills.
At the end of the day, remember that most people are friendly if you give them the chance to be. You just have to put yourself out there and be open to meeting lots of new people.