So how did Whistler fare during the Olympics?

WHISTLER (NEWS1130) - Whistler Chamber of Commerce president Fiona Famulak says how well Whistler businesses did during the Games depended on many factors.  "The business impact depended on on the location of the business, the sector and the niche within that sector and the business' ability to adapt to the needs of the Olympic guests."  For example auto service centers did well before the games started, as people and businesses were getting their vehicles ready for the games.

The survey also showed that businesses further away from the main area took longer to show results than businesses in the middle of everything.  "The food and beverage, the retailers and the folks situated on the main thoroughfare felt the business impact of the Games right away on day one.  Whereas one or two streets over, the ripple effect didn't happen until day 4 or 5 of the games."

Whistler has had a chance to catch its breath after the 2010 Olympic Games and now it's time for the Paralympics. Famulak says the key is to make sure businesses are prepared for Paralympic guests.  "A Paralympic guest is very different from an Olympic guest, obviously they have some quite different needs and we have been working with our businesses to make sure that they are aware of those needs and that they are accessible."