Visitors flock to Whistler BC for the many wonders this resort town offers – The gorgeous outdoors, lively night scene and exquisite dining. However, accommodations to this hot spot destination can definitely put a dent in your wallet, and it sure makes you wonder: why rack up a huge hotel bill when the truth is, you will be spending most of your time exploring the outdoor activities instead of lounging in your room?

Enter Pangea – Whistler’s newest Pod Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of Whistler Village.

Being the first of its kind in Canada, of course, the first question is: what the heck is a pod hotel? Well, the answer is simple: imagine a hostel and a hotel had a baby, and that baby grew up in style and sophistication. That’s the best way to describe it.

Pangea fills the void for affordable and shareable accommodations in Whistler. Travellers can spend a comfortable night(s) in their own private pod rooms. Unlike other hostels, pods are divided into units of 10 – each unit of 10 equipped with their own private entry, bathrooms, and change rooms. Rates run from $89.10 a night for single accommodations, to $198 for a couple.

But Pangea isn’t only about the pods; it offers superb shared spaces too. The Living Room, a stylish combo of lounge, bar, café, and espresso bar boast floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the bustle of Whistler’s Village Stroll, giving the space the feeling of an outdoor patio. The Rooftop Patio is Whistler’s only true rooftop bar, providing a bird’s eye view of Mountain Square. And The Toy Box, an open-plan secure storage area for skis, snowboards, mountain bikes, and other gear, was custom created to address the needs of equipment-laden outdoor enthusiasts.

So what was it like to spend a night at this pod hotel? I can tell you from personal experience, I was delightfully surprised. I spent the day exploring the great Whistler outdoors, had an amazing cocktail at the Pangea living room (their bar offers a variety of craft cocktails and beers), and then headed out for an amazing dinner at Hy’s Steakhouse – more on that in another post!

By the time I came back, my pod-mates where either out enjoying the nightlife, or tucked away in their own private pods –  I had the place to myself. I enjoyed a nice shower (the pod units have two showers and two private toilets per unit), and then it was my turn to relax and enjoy my own private quarters. The mattress was very comfortable and the linens were more than adequate. I was very tired from my adventures and fell asleep in no time. I woke refreshed and ready to take on the day!

Of course, shared accommodations are not for everybody – but if you’re the type of traveller who enjoys the social aspect of shared spaces, yet still craves their own privacy at the end of the day, Pangea is definitely for you.

Pods are now available for booking at pangeapod.com/bookings. Use code PangeaPromo for a 5% discount!