Whistler, B.C. - After being closed for most of 2003 during an extensive $8.5 million renovation to the interior and exterior, The Westbrook Hotel will be re-opening in time for Christmas, 2003. The boutique hotel, one of Whistler's best kept secrets in the heart of Whistler Village, is located just steps away from the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas, restaurants and shopping.

The Westbrook Hotel's upgraded facilities and suites will offer the finest in Whistler accommodation. All rooms have been gutted to the concrete flooring, with everything new - from soundproof windows, fireplaces, and bathrooms to luxurious new bed and bath linens. A grand new entranceway and expanded lobby will offer a sense of arrival for guests.

"For a hotel with such a prominent and prime location in the village, the Westbook Hotel has remained one of the best kept secrets of Whistler," says David Demers, general manager, The Westbrook Hotel. "The secret is out - we have some very exciting changes underway."

This month will see the completion of the exterior finishes on the north, south and east sides of the building with new finish stucco outside the retail stores and restaurants on the south side. The west exterior wall will be rebuilt, and work on the concrete terrace and stonework will continue. All interior framing and soundproof windows have been installed and work continues on installation of new fireplaces, bathroom tiling and drywalling.

The Westbrook Hotel is an all-suite boutique hotel located in the heart of Whistler Village. All 49 spacious suites have full kitchens, gas fireplaces and unparalleled mountain scenery - some with spacious patios and private hot tubs overlooking Skier's Plaza. The Westbrook Hotel is also home to the popular Sushi Village restaurant, Amami Chinese Restaurant, Black's Original Ristorante and Black's Pub - a favourite local haunt.

For ongoing updates and renovation news is available at: www.westbrookhotel.com/renos/index.asp