Vancouver 2010 Olympics: Tips for an Affordable Family Vacation

The Olympics can be a magical experience for kids and a great lesson in world culture. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to take a family vacation to the 2010 Vancouver Games without breaking the bank.

Free cultural events for all ages during the Games will ensure that even families with limited event tickets (or even no tickets at all) can experience the cultural atmosphere of the Olympics. The Cultural Olympiad in downtown Vancouver and Whistler Live! events in Whistler Blackcomb will bring international performers to both cities with live music, art, theatre, digital media and street productions for public enjoyment.

Meanwhile, though Vancouver hotel rooms continue to fill up at increasingly higher prices, one unique lodging option offers a fun and affordable alternative for families looking to get the most out of their vacation experience.

New West Special Projects will dock the Norwegian Star, a five-star luxury cruise ship, in North Vancouver for the duration of the games. The ship will remain for 20 nights as an all-inclusive "floating hotel," offering all the amenities of a ship at sea. Accommodations include three meals a day at a selection of 13 restaurants, gym and spa access, kids' activities, live entertainment and an Internet cafe.

New West can even help secure Olympic event tickets and ground transfers to public transportation, allowing passengers to experience all the excitement of the Vancouver Games without the hassle. The Norwegian Star will remain berthed just 10 minutes from downtown Vancouver and less than an hour and a half from Whistler.

The ship is especially convenient for families who want to experience the excitement of the Olympics but have a place to retreat warmer entertainment. When kids grow weary of long days in the cold bustle, parents can enjoy one of the ship's many clubs or lounges while kids can meet new friends while supervised by certified youth instructors. A late night kids' and teens' center even allows parents to enjoy the Norwegian Star's nightlife, remaining open from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

By taking advantage of family-friendly accommodations and free access to cultural events, families can experience the 2010 Olympic Games without going to unnecessary expense.