Whistler winter 2026–2027: complete guide for Australian travellers on early booking and ski-in/ski-out tips.
Planning a ski holiday from Australia is a different kind of undertaking. The distances are real, the planning window is long, and the decisions you make six to twelve months out have a direct impact on the quality of the trip. For Australians eyeing Whistler for winter 2026–2027, the resort rewards early planners generously, and getting the foundations right makes everything that follows considerably easier.
This guide covers when to book, where to stay, how to get there, and what a ski-in/ski-out hotel like Sundial Hotel can mean in practice for a long-haul ski trip.
What Australian travellers should book first.
Getting the sequence right matters as much as the timing. The table below maps each booking category to an ideal window, with the specific pressures that Australian travellers face in mind.
| Booking item | When to book | Why it matters for Australian travellers |
|---|---|---|
| Whistler accommodation | 6–10+ months ahead | Peak winter lodging can sell early |
| Flights to Vancouver | 5–9 months ahead | Better route and price flexibility |
| Lift passes | Before major pass deadlines | Multi-day skiing can be expensive later |
| Airport transfer | 2–4 months ahead | Winter transfer times fill up |
| Ski rentals or lessons | 1–2 months ahead | Avoid arrival-day delays |
| Travel insurance | Before final payments | Must include snow-sport coverage |
Who this Whistler guide is for.
This guide is written for Australian travellers planning their first or second Whistler ski trip, anyone comparing hotel zones, or those who want to understand what early booking actually unlocks at a resort of this scale.
Why Whistler is worth the long-haul from Australia
Whistler Blackcomb is North America's largest ski resort, with over 8,100 acres of terrain across two connected mountains, more than 200 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, and an average annual snowfall of around 11.8 metres at mid-mountain. The season typically runs from late November through April, giving Australian travellers a winter window that aligns closely with Australian summer holidays and New Year travel periods.
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola, connecting Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains at altitude with the longest unsupported span of any gondola in the world, is a highlight in its own right. Add a walkable village, a strong après-ski scene, and a high concentration of accommodation and services within steps of the lifts, and Whistler justifies the long-haul flight.
Whistler winter 2026–2027 at a glance.
Season dates, snow patterns and busy periods
The 2026–2027 opening date has not yet been announced by Whistler Blackcomb. Based on historical patterns, the season typically opens in late November, with the target opening date in recent seasons falling around 21 November. For the confirmed date as soon as it is published, check Whistler Blackcomb's hours of operation page directly.
What is already confirmed for 2026–2027: peak restricted dates. Based on published Whistler Blackcomb lift pass information, the busiest periods will include 26–31 December 2026, 16 January 2027, and 13–14 February 2027. These dates carry the highest demand and restrict access for certain pass types. Planning around them, or building them deliberately into a trip, shapes both cost and the on-mountain experience.
Snow patterns at Whistler favour December through February for depth and consistency. January tends to deliver reliable alpine conditions with colder temperatures preserving snowpack quality. March and April shift toward spring skiing, with longer days and softer snow.
What's new in Whistler for winter 2026–2027
Two confirmed changes are worth noting for the 2026–2027 season. First, Vail Resorts has announced a new fixed-grip quad chairlift to replace the Showcase T-Bar on Blackcomb Mountain, pending government approval. The new lift improves access to the Horstman Glacier area, which covers 215 acres of high-alpine terrain. The existing T-Bar, installed in 1988, had become increasingly unreliable due to glacial recession; the replacement shifts the alignment off the ice for more consistent season-long operation. Second, the Roundhouse Lodge at the top of Whistler Mountain is set to receive a remodel, with upgrades to dining spaces, seating capacity, and mountain-top food and beverage offerings. For the latest confirmed details on both projects, check whistlerblackcomb.com as the season approaches
Best time to visit Whistler in winter 2026–2027.
Each month suits a different traveller profile. Australian visitors need to weigh snow quality against cost, jet lag recovery time, and how long they can travel.
| Month | Best for | Watch-outs | Australian traveller fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| December | Holiday atmosphere | High demand and higher rates | Best for festive trips |
| January | Core winter skiing | Cold weather and jet lag adjustment | Strong all-round choice |
| February | Snow-focused ski trips | Busy peak periods | Great for serious skiers |
| March | Families and longer days | Spring break demand | Good for mixed groups |
| April | Spring skiing and possible value | Snow conditions can vary | Best for flexible travellers |
Why Australians should plan Whistler earlier than a local ski trip.
A domestic Australian ski booking can often come together in six to eight weeks. Whistler at peak winter is a different proposition entirely. The resort draws visitors from across North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific, and the best central accommodation fills many months ahead of key travel periods.
Add the complexity of long-haul flights, limited direct routing, multi-leg itineraries, airport transfer planning, and gear logistics, and each component requires a decision. Leaving any one too late compresses options and increases cost. Buying lift access early is particularly valuable: the Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass and multi-day pass products offer savings compared to in-season window rates, and those savings grow with early purchase. For Australians, the Epic Australia Pass (AU$1,045 adults, AU$599 children for the 2026 season) includes 10 days of combined access at Whistler Blackcomb and Vail Mountain, and is available at its lowest price before the Australian ski season begins.
When Aussies should book for the best value.
Early-bird booking windows for peak and shoulder dates
For December and January travel, particularly around the Christmas and New Year period, accommodation in Whistler Village should be secured well in advance. This is one of the most competitive booking periods globally. For shoulder dates in early December or mid-to-late January, there is more flexibility, but central hotel inventory still moves quickly.
Lift pass products purchased before the season opens are significantly cheaper than in-season lift ticket pricing at the window.
Pros and cons of booking early vs last minute
Booking early locks in preferred accommodation zones, flight routing, and lift access pricing. It also protects against sold-out situations during the busiest periods. The trade-off is reduced flexibility if plans change, though most reputable accommodation and pass products carry cancellation terms worth reviewing before committing.
Last-minute Whistler bookings in peak winter are high-risk from Australia. Changing flights is expensive and complicated, and central accommodation at short notice in December or January will be difficult to find and at a premium.
Example timeline for a January 2027 trip
Twelve months out: research accommodation zones and shortlist hotels. Ten months out: book flights. Nine months out: secure accommodation. Six months out: purchase lift passes. Three months out: book airport transfers. One to two months out: reserve ski rentals or lessons if needed.
Recommended booking timeline for Australian travellers.
10–12 months before travel
Research accommodation zones, shortlist hotels, and confirm preferred dates. Begin monitoring flights for routing and price trends.
6–9 months before travel
Book accommodation. Secure flights. Research lift pass options and assess whether an Epic Australia Pass, Epic Pass, Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass, or other product suits your ski days and budget.
3–6 months before travel
Purchase lift passes. Book Vancouver to Whistler transfers. Confirm travel insurance includes snow-sport coverage.
1–2 months before travel
Reserve ski or snowboard rentals if not bringing your own equipment. Book ski lessons if required, particularly for children or beginners, as popular instructors and lesson times fill ahead of the season.
Final 2 weeks
Confirm all bookings, download the My Epic app for lift access and real-time mountain updates, pack appropriately for alpine conditions, and review the Whistler Blackcomb lift status page for current mountain information.
How to get from Australia to Whistler.
Main route
The standard route is a direct or one-stop flight from a major Australian city to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), followed by a road transfer on Highway 99 to Whistler Village, approximately 120 km north of the airport. The drive takes around two hours in good conditions and longer in winter with weather or traffic.
Key planning tips
Allow adequate buffer time between landing and your transfer. For international arrivals, customs and baggage collection add time, and winter road conditions occasionally affect transfer schedules. Booking transfers in advance is strongly recommended for peak periods.
If arriving late after a very long flight, an overnight stay in Vancouver before making the drive north is worth considering, particularly for families with children or for anyone sensitive to jet lag.
Transfer comparison table
| Transfer option | Best for | Pros | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared shuttle | Solo travellers and couples | Usually cost-effective | Less flexible |
| Private transfer | Families and groups | Direct and easier with luggage | Higher cost |
| Rental car | Travellers exploring BC | Flexible | Winter driving and parking |
| Vancouver overnight | Jet-lagged travellers | Easier recovery | Adds one hotel night |
YVR Skylynx operates shared shuttle services from the international arrivals area at Vancouver Airport directly to Whistler Village. Pre-booking is strongly recommended for winter travel.
Where to stay in Whistler: village, creekside, or ski-in/ski-out.
Accommodation location in Whistler has a more significant impact on the trip experience than in many resorts. The table below is designed to give an honest comparison.
| Area | Best for | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whistler Village | First-time visitors | Central, walkable, close to dining | Busy and often premium-priced |
| Upper Village | Quieter premium stays | Close to Blackcomb side | Less central for nightlife |
| Creekside | Repeat visitors | Quieter and has mountain access | Farther from main village |
| Lift-adjacent or ski-in/ski-out hotels | Families and short-stay travellers | Save time and reduce gear hassle | Usually costs more |
| Off-village rentals | Budget-conscious groups | More space or lower nightly cost | More transport planning |
Why ski-in/ski-out matters for Aussies.
For Australian travellers on a shorter ski window of seven to ten days, minimising time spent on boots-on logistics translates directly into more time on the mountain. Walking in ski boots is uncomfortable over distance, and the transition from hotel to gondola sets the tone for the morning.
Whistler Village is compact and largely pedestrian, but proximity to the gondola base still varies meaningfully between hotels. A hotel 75 metres from the lifts versus 500 metres changes the morning routine, the time it takes to return for lunch or a rest, and how willing guests are to head back out for afternoon runs.
Whistler Blackcomb has two main base areas. Whistler Village is the primary hub, with the Whistler Village Gondola and Excalibur Gondola both accessible on foot. Upper Village, a short walk away, is closer to the Blackcomb Gondola. Creekside is a separate base area at the southern end, quieter and less central. A genuine ski-in/ski-out designation means skiing down to or from the hotel directly. Lift-adjacent means a short walk, typically measured in metres rather than minutes.
Aussie-friendly Whistler trip blueprint.
7–10 day itinerary structure
Days one and two are best treated as recovery days, with easy runs and gentle acclimatisation to snow conditions. Days three through seven are core ski days, where fitness and confidence build and harder terrain can be explored. One rest or non-ski day mid-trip is worth building in, whether that is a village day, a spa afternoon, or a scenic gondola ride without equipment. Days eight through ten can push into more varied or technical terrain with full mountain familiarity.
Planning around jet lag and travel fatigue
The flight from Australia to Vancouver is typically 16–18 hours or more with connections. Arriving one day before any planned ski day gives the body time to adjust. A hotel suite with a full kitchen helps here: the ability to eat at irregular hours without relying on restaurants suits the disrupted rhythm of long-haul recovery.
Balancing ski days, rest days and non-ski activities
Whistler Village is well-suited to a mixed trip. Non-skiers in a group can fill days with snowshoeing, the Scandinave Spa, the Audain Art Museum, or simply the village atmosphere. A day on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola without ski equipment, taking in the alpine views across both mountains, is a highlight that needs no mountain confidence to enjoy.
Is ski-in/ski-out worth it for Australians?
Ski-in/ski-out is worth it if:
You are visiting for seven days or fewer and every ski day matters. You are travelling with children, who tire more quickly in boots and benefit from easy returns to the hotel. You are a high-frequency skier who wants to be on the first gondola and back for the last. You want to return to the hotel between sessions without the walk becoming a deterrent.
Ski-in/ski-out may not be worth it if:
You are staying for two weeks or more with the flexibility to take a more relaxed pace. You are a confident driver comfortable with winter roads and happy to base slightly outside the village for a lower nightly rate. You are a first-time skier for whom the learning experience matters more than gondola proximity.
Is Sundial Hotel the right fit for every Aussie traveller.
Not every hotel in Whistler Village is the same, and the Sundial Hotel is not the right choice for every travel style. This section is intended to give an honest picture.
The Sundial Hotel location in Whistler Village
The Sundial Hotel sits at 4340 Sundial Crescent in the heart of Whistler Village, 75 metres from both the Whistler Village Gondola and the Excalibur Gondola, making it the closest hotel to both lift entrances. For Australian travellers arriving after a long journey and wanting to minimise morning logistics, the walk from door to gondola takes around 30 seconds.
Room types and setups for couples, groups and families
All suites at the Sundial Hotel include a fully equipped kitchen, a gas fireplace, and a 50-inch Smart TV. One-bedroom suites accommodate up to four guests. Two-bedroom suites accommodate up to six guests and are particularly practical for Australian family groups or friends travelling together. Private hot tub suites are available in both one-bedroom and two-bedroom configurations. The Sundial Hotel is the only accommodation in Whistler Village with private hot tub suites, alongside a rooftop hot tub available to all guests.
Ski storage, morning flow and "bed to gondola" walk-through
The Sundial Hotel has a dedicated ski lounge with complimentary ski valet, so equipment is ready each morning. Ski and snowboard rentals through Black Tie Ski Rentals, located inside the hotel, are available at a guest discount. For Australian travellers who choose not to bring their own equipment, the in-hotel rental option removes one logistical step on arrival day.
Morning flow: wake up, use the kitchen for a quick breakfast, collect equipment from the ski lounge, reach the gondola in under two minutes from the front door.
Sundial vs other village and upper village stays
The Sundial Hotel is Whistler Village's only owner-operated boutique hotel. With 49 suites, the hotel offers a more personal service model than larger properties. Reviews consistently note the attentiveness of the front desk team, which matters when Australian guests have transfer questions, equipment queries, or need help with last-minute bookings.
Larger village hotels offer more rooms and sometimes more amenity depth, including full-service restaurants and conference facilities, but the trade-off is often a less personalised experience. Upper Village options bring guests closer to the Blackcomb side but put the wider village dining and après scene at a slightly greater walking distance.
Honest pros and limitations of staying at Sundial
Pros: unrivalled proximity to both gondola bases, private hot tub suites exclusive to Whistler Village, full kitchens in every suite, complimentary ski valet and in-hotel rentals, owner-operated personal service, rooftop hot tub with mountain views.
Limitations: no full-service on-site restaurant (the village dining scene is the dining room), 49 suites means it books quickly at peak periods, and the central village location, while its greatest strength, also means that the energy of the village is present outside, which suits most guests but may not appeal to those seeking complete seclusion.
Book the trip of a lifetime
Your family deserves a stress-free Whistler trip! Stay at the Sundial Hotel and enjoy ski-in, ski-out access, cozy suites, and thoughtful family-friendly perks.
BOOK NOWSundial Hotel winter deals and booking tactics.
Types of deals to watch for in 2026–2027
The Sundial Hotel publishes current special offers and seasonal promotions directly on the website. The best rates are consistently available through direct booking. Midweek dates across January and February carry more availability than weekends and can represent better value without trade-offs in snow quality or mountain access. For early access to new offers and seasonal packages as they are released, joining the Sundial Hotel Whistler Community newsletter is the most direct route.
How to combine flights, lodging and lift passes
Bundling lift passes with accommodation is possible through some travel agents and Whistler-specific booking platforms. For Australians, comparing the Epic Australia Pass (which includes 10 days at Whistler Blackcomb) against Whistler Blackcomb Day Passes bought separately is worth doing based on total planned ski days. Booking flights and accommodation as separate components generally preserves better control over cancellation terms, which matters for long-haul travellers.
Budgeting Whistler from Australia.
Typical trip costs in AUD by season
Trip costs from Australia to Whistler benefit from being planned in categories rather than as a single estimate. Flights are the largest variable, with the range between departure city, airline, booking lead time, and routing significant. Accommodation is the second largest variable. December and January carry the highest nightly rates; March and April offer more flexibility.
Where to splurge and where to save
Lift access is worth paying for in advance: the savings between early purchase and in-season window rates are consistent and predictable. Accommodation proximity to the gondolas is also worth investing in for shorter trips. Conversely, dining costs can be managed effectively with a full kitchen in the suite, and equipment categories like helmets and goggles are worth bringing from home rather than renting.
Sample budgets for different traveller types
The table below provides a structured planning framework across three common Australian traveller profiles for a seven to ten night Whistler ski trip. Figures are indicative planning ranges in AUD, not guarantees, and should be confirmed at the time of booking. Exchange rates, airfare, and accommodation rates shift regularly.
| Cost category | What to plan for | Budget-conscious couple | Family of four | Premium ski-in/ski-out travellers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flights | Australia to Vancouver return (per person) | Economy, flexible routing: AU$1,800–AU$2,400 pp | Economy, flexible routing: AU$1,800–AU$2,400 pp | Business or premium economy: AU$5,000–AU$9,000 pp |
| Accommodation | Village, Creekside, or ski-in/ski-out (7–10 nights) | Off-village or Creekside: AU$200–AU$350/night | Two-bedroom village suite: AU$450–AU$700/night | Ski-in/ski-out village suite: AU$600–AU$1,000+/night |
| Lift access | Multi-day tickets or pass products | Epic Australia Pass or 5–7 day pass: AU$700–AU$900 pp | Epic Australia Pass or family multi-day passes: AU$600–AU$900 pp | Epic Pass or unrestricted multi-day pass: AU$900–AU$1,200+ pp |
| Transfers | Vancouver to Whistler return | Shared shuttle both ways: AU$150–AU$200 pp | Private transfer return: AU$500–AU$800 total | Private transfer return: AU$500–AU$800 total |
| Rentals | Skis, snowboard, boots, helmet | Full rental package: AU$60–AU$100/day pp | Full rental package for all four: AU$50–AU$90/day pp | High-performance demo gear: AU$100–AU$150/day pp |
| Food and dining | Groceries, restaurants, après | Self-catering + selective dining: AU$80–AU$120/day pp | Self-catering + family dining: AU$100–AU$150/day for family | Full village dining and après: AU$200–AU$350/day pp |
| Insurance | Snow sport travel coverage | AU$200–AU$350 pp for the trip | AU$600–AU$900 total for family | AU$300–AU$500 pp for the trip |
Figures above are indicative planning ranges in AUD based on typical Whistler pricing patterns and should be used as a starting framework only. Confirm current rates directly with each provider before booking. Lift pass pricing: epicaustraliapass.com.au and whistlerblackcomb.com. Airport transfers: yvrskylynx.com. Ski rentals: confirm with Black Tie Ski Rentals at the Sundial Hotel. Accommodation: sundialhotel.com. Flights: confirm with your preferred airline or travel agent.
Planning checklist for Aussie first-timers.
Booking checklist for flights, stays and passes
Book flights and accommodation as early as possible, ideally ten months or more before December or January travel. Purchase lift passes well before the season opens. Reserve ski rentals and lessons in advance. Book airport transfers. Confirm cancellation terms on all bookings given the long-haul investment.
Documents, insurance and safety
Australian travellers do not require a visa to enter Canada for stays under six months, but an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is required before boarding the flight. Ensure travel insurance explicitly covers snow sport activities including skiing and snowboarding; standard travel policies often exclude this. Carry a copy of relevant provincial health information for British Columbia.
Packing for Whistler's winter conditions
Whistler winters are cold and wet by Australian standards, with temperatures at the base typically ranging from -5°C to 5°C and considerably colder at altitude. Layering is the foundation: a moisture-wicking base layer, a mid-layer for insulation, and a waterproof outer shell. Ski-specific gloves, a helmet, goggles, and neck protection are essential. Ski boots are heavy in luggage; if renting equipment in Whistler, consider whether bringing personal boots makes sense for comfort, or whether renting the full package reduces travel complexity.
Common mistakes Australian travellers make when booking Whistler.
Booking accommodation without checking gondola proximity. A hotel described as "in Whistler Village" may still require a ten to fifteen minute walk in ski boots to reach the lift. This matters far more on a short trip from Australia than it does for local visitors.
Leaving flights too late for December and January travel. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to Vancouver on preferred routing fill months ahead for the Christmas to New Year period.
Not buying lift passes before the season. In-season lift ticket prices are substantially higher than advance multi-day pass products. The savings are predictable and entirely avoidable.
Underestimating the jet lag and transfer combination. Arriving at YVR after 20+ hours of travel and immediately boarding a two-hour shuttle to Whistler is manageable, but planning for it, including a buffer night in Vancouver if the flight arrives late, makes the first days on the mountain considerably better.
Not confirming that travel insurance covers snow sports. This is a common oversight and the consequences if something goes wrong on the mountain are significant.
What Australian travellers usually ask before booking Whistler.
For Australian travellers, booking a Whistler ski holiday often comes with more questions than a typical domestic winter trip. The distance, long-haul flights, Vancouver airport transfer, ski gear planning, and Canadian winter conditions all make early research especially important. Based on Sundial Hotel guest inquiries and booking conversations, Australian travellers commonly ask about lift proximity, airport transfers, room layouts, ski storage, hot tubs, restaurant access, and whether to rent ski gear in Whistler or bring their own.
These questions show why accommodation choice matters for Australian travellers. A lower nightly rate may look appealing at first, but lift access, room layout, ski storage, transfer planning, and village walkability can have a major impact on the overall trip experience. For travellers who want to keep daily logistics simple, a central Whistler Village hotel close to the gondolas can be especially valuable. This is where a ski-in/ski-out or lift-adjacent stay like Sundial Hotel may make sense, particularly for families, first-time Whistler visitors, and travellers planning a shorter ski-focused trip.
| Common planning question | Why it matters for Australian travellers |
|---|---|
| How close is the hotel to the gondolas? | Travellers want to reduce walking time in ski boots and make the most of a shorter ski holiday |
| How do guests get from Vancouver airport to Whistler? | Most Australian visitors arrive through Vancouver and need to plan a winter transfer after a long flight |
| Which room type is best for families or groups? | Many Australian travellers visit as families, couples, or friend groups and need practical suite layouts |
| Is ski storage available? | Ski and snowboard gear can be difficult to manage after international travel, especially for families |
| Are hot tubs or kitchens available? | These features can make longer ski stays more comfortable and help guests balance dining out with relaxed nights in |
| Should travellers rent gear in Whistler or bring their own? | Renting can reduce luggage, while experienced skiers may still prefer bringing their own boots or equipment |
For Australian travellers combining a first visit to Canada with a winter ski holiday, having a Whistler base that handles the daily logistics quietly is one of the most valuable things a hotel can offer. Sundial Hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens, private hot tubs, ski valet, and in-hotel rentals, 75 metres from both gondola bases in the heart of Whistler Village. View suites and availability.
Unwind in a private hot tub with breathtaking Whistler views.
Escape to the Sundial Hotel and experience the ultimate mountain retreat in a private hot tub suite. Whether you're soaking under the stars or relaxing after a day of adventure, our spacious accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort and stunning Whistler scenery.
Book Your Hot Tub SuiteAnswers to common questions on planning a trip from Australia to Whistler, BC.
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For December and January travel, book accommodation ten or more months in advance and flights as soon as routing and pricing align. Lift passes are worth securing before the season opens. For March and April travel, the timeline can compress slightly, but central accommodation still benefits from early action.
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For skiers and snowboarders who want the benchmark of North American skiing, Whistler Blackcomb justifies the long-haul travel. The combination of scale, snow reliability, mountain infrastructure, and village quality is difficult to replicate elsewhere. For families, the mix of ability levels across two mountains, a walkable village, and non-ski options for non-skiers makes it an unusually complete destination.
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A minimum of seven nights is recommended to justify the travel and allow adequate time for jet lag recovery alongside meaningful ski days. Ten nights or more allows for a more relaxed rhythm, with rest days built in without compromising the ski experience.
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For Australian travellers on a seven to ten day trip, a lift-adjacent or ski-in/ski-out hotel removes one of the daily friction points that accumulates over a short holiday. The value of proximity is proportional to ski days available. The fewer the days, the more each morning transition matters.
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The Sundial Hotel consistently draws positive feedback from Australian guests for its location, suite size, kitchen facilities, ski storage, and staff responsiveness. Its position 75 metres from both the Whistler Village Gondola and the Excalibur Gondola, combined with complimentary ski valet and in-hotel rentals through Black Tie Ski Rentals, addresses most of the practical questions Australian travellers raise before booking.
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