Why We Chose Whistler for a Family Getaway

Whistler is known for being a winter sports hub, but what many don’t realize is that it’s just as stunning and family-friendly in the warmer months. Whether you’re hiking through alpine meadows or enjoying the serene lakes, there’s something for everyone. For us, it was the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and laid-back luxury.

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler: A Luxurious Retreat

Our home base for this trip was the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, and it was absolutely perfect for a family-friendly, luxury experience. One of the highlights was arriving to find a crib already set up in our room, along with a miniature Fairmont robe and children’s toiletries for our toddler. These small touches made us feel like we could relax right from the start without worrying about what we may have forgotten to pack.

It’s always a plus when hotels are dog-friendly, and the Fairmont didn’t disappoint. Louie, our dachshund, got to enjoy the trip with us, which made the experience even better.

Poolside Fun

One of the highlights of our stay was lounging by the outdoor heated pool. If you’ve never experienced the mix of warm water and cool mountain air, it’s an absolute must. Whether we were soaking in the hot tubs or splashing around with our toddler, it was a rejuvenating experience. There’s something about being surrounded by the majestic mountains that makes pool time extra special.

Our little one absolutely loved it. We spent hours just enjoying the sunshine, fresh mountain air, and some much-needed family bonding.

Exploring Whistler’s Natural Beauty

Whistler isn’t just about the slopes. During our trip, we took multiple family walks on the scenic trails. We loved how the paths intertwined with the natural beauty of the area—towering trees, crisp air, and stunning vistas around every turn. Walking these trails became a part of our daily routine, and it was a great way to burn off some toddler energy!

What’s more, many of the trails ran alongside the golf courses, so we got to enjoy some lovely views while dreaming of when we could hit the greens. For now, we’re more into family-friendly activities like walking and hiking, but mountain biking and other summer activities are high on our list for future trips.

Louie, being the adventurous dog that he is, made sure to lead us to one of his favourite spots—Lost Lake. The serenity of the lake, paired with the beautiful surroundings, made it a wonderful family spot. Watching Louie splash around in the water while our toddler giggled made for some heartwarming memories.

Making the Most of Family Walks in Whistler

Walking with a toddler has its own pace, so we focused on shorter, more manageable trails. We brought our Uppababy Vista for the longer walks, but mostly we let our little one roam freely, exploring sticks and rocks along the way. These walks weren’t just about covering ground—they were about soaking in the present moment, enjoying nature, and just being together.

Dinner at Araxi: Fine Dining with a Family Twist

One evening, we treated ourselves to dinner at Araxi, one of Whistler’s finest restaurants. Known for its farm-to-table dining experience, every dish was fresh, seasonal, and absolutely divine. If you’re into food, this place should be at the top of your list when visiting Whistler.

Dining at a fine restaurant with a toddler can be intimidating, but Araxi made it easy. They were incredibly prepared for kids, offering little colouring pages to keep our child entertained while we enjoyed our meal. It was a seamless experience—one that we’ll definitely remember and look forward to repeating.

For families wanting a more laid-back meal, Whistler has a range of dining options that cater to different tastes. But for us, this was a special night, and Araxi made it all the more memorable with its impeccable service and unforgettable food.

A Memorable Family Escape

Our Whistler trip was the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and quality family time. Staying at the Fairmont made us feel pampered, while the natural beauty of Whistler provided all the outdoor activities we could dream of. From leisurely poolside days to exploring the trails, it was a trip we’ll cherish for years to come.

We can’t wait for our next visit—whether it’s skiing on Blackcomb in the winter or discovering new summer activities, Whistler has something for every season and every member of the family.

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Why We Chose San Diego for Our Babymoon

San Diego has always been on our list, and it felt like the right time for a warm-weather escape. Babymoons, much like honeymoons, are about indulging in quality time as a couple before life changes in big ways. We love that San Diego offers a mix of coastal beauty, family-friendly attractions, and a laid-back atmosphere—ideal for slowing down while still having adventures.

A Magical Beachside Gender Reveal

One of the most unforgettable moments of our trip was our beachside gender reveal. We worked with Paw Pleasers, a local dog bakery, to order adorable dog cupcakes. With the sun setting behind us and the waves gently crashing, we learned the exciting news with Louie by our side. The reveal felt extra special because we were able to share it as a family. This unique twist on a traditional reveal—combining our love for the beach, Louie, and delicious cupcakes—made it a day we’ll always cherish.

Capturing the Moment with Flytographer in Balboa Park

On this babymoon, we also scheduled a family photoshoot with Flytographer at Balboa Park. While they didn’t capture the gender reveal, they immortalized the magic of our trip with stunning photos. The lush gardens, Spanish architecture, and relaxed park setting gave us the perfect backdrop. We’ve hired Flytographer a few times now, and it’s our go-to for family vacations. These pictures let us focus on the moment without the worry of missing out on great shots.

If you’re thinking about booking a Flytographer session, use my referral code BARBCHUNG to get $25 off your first shoot!

A Day at the San Diego Zoo

What’s a trip to San Diego without a visit to the world-famous San Diego Zoo? We spent an entire day here, and it was the highlight of the trip for our little one. She was in awe of all the animals, especially the pandas and giraffes. As parents, watching her light up at every exhibit was priceless.

While it was a lot of walking, it was totally worth it. There’s just something about seeing the world through a child’s eyes that adds a new layer of magic to everything. If you’re visiting the zoo, remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and plan to take breaks—you’ll want to fully enjoy this incredible place.

Cherished Memories and Exciting Beginnings

This babymoon was exactly what we needed before our new adventure as a family of four begins. Between the sunset gender reveal, family photoshoot at Balboa Park, and an unforgettable day at the zoo, San Diego offered the perfect balance of relaxation and fun. We returned home with full hearts, ready and excited for the arrival of our newest family member.

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1. Four Seasons Whistler

This all-time favorite is the epitome of alpine luxury. They cater to both pets and their owners with thoughtful amenities like pet beds and bowls, plus a staff that makes Louie feel like a star. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or relaxing by the fire, it’s perfect for a chic mountain retreat.

2. Fairmont Miramar Santa Monica

One of the standout features of this beachfront beauty is that dogs are allowed poolside! The stylish bungalows and ocean views make this hotel a perfect mix of laid-back California charm and indulgent luxury.

3. Encore Las Vegas

You may not expect Vegas to be a pet-friendly destination, but Encore proves otherwise. Not only does this hotel ooze sophistication, but they also welcome pups, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice your travel style for pet accommodations.

4. Fairmont Pacific Rim

This ultra-luxe hotel offers the ultimate bonus: no pet fee! Their stylish rooms and exceptional service make the Pacific Rim one of our top choices for a downtown Vancouver stay. Your pup will feel as pampered as you do.

5. Shangri-La Vancouver

With its serene ambiance and top-tier service, Shangri-La Vancouver is a perfect urban escape. They go above and beyond to accommodate pets, making it a sanctuary for both us and Louie in the heart of the city.

6. Fairmont Waterfront Vancouver

Another Fairmont gem, the Waterfront offers stunning views and warm hospitality. They treat dogs like family, and the pet-friendly walking paths nearby make it easy to take Louie for an afternoon stroll along the harbor.

7. The Westin Rancho Mirage

In sunny Palm Springs, this hotel offers a blend of wellness and luxury, all while welcoming pets. Louie loved the open spaces and golf course views as much as we did!

8. Sheraton Wall Centre Vancouver

For a chic stay in the heart of Vancouver, Sheraton Wall Centre is an excellent option. The central location, stylish rooms, and pet-friendly services make it a staple on our list.

9. Marriott Pinnacle Vancouver

Marriott Pinnacle combines comfort and convenience in a pet-friendly package. This downtown Vancouver hotel offers easy access to pet-friendly parks, making it a breeze to explore the city with your dog.

10. Parc 55 San Francisco

Last but not least, Parc 55 in San Francisco offers a modern escape in the heart of the city, perfect for pet parents wanting to explore the city with their furry companions.

Conclusion: Traveling with Pets in Style

Finding the right hotel that blends luxury with pet-friendly accommodations doesn’t have to be a challenge. Each of these properties offers a perfect mix of pampering and practicality, so whether you’re planning a mountain retreat, a beach getaway, or a city escape, you and your pup can travel in style.

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