Heidi VanLith
Special to The Chief
2010 Olympic officials require approximately 3,000 high-quality rooms throughout the Sea to Sky corridor to house the International Olympic Committee, the National Olympic Committees from participating nations, and athletes' families.Without adequate accommodations for these groups the success of the Olympic Games could be in jeopardy, Sr. VP of service operations and ceremonies Terry Wright said.
"VANOC is not speculating on thenumber of roomsrequired, the numbers that VANOC works with are historic numbers therefore there is less chance of rooms being released," said Wright.
As of July 1, 2005 VANOC secured 1,300 rooms in the Whistler area concentrating on but not limited to hotels and hotel-type properties that offer front desk and housekeeping services, but more rooms are needed.
"Properties will have exposure to client groups that have the means to return for vacations or bring their companies for meetings long after the games are over," said Wright, adding that the average length of stay in Salt Lake City was 29 days. "Participation in the Olympic Lodging Program leads to higher overall financial returns and fewer vacancies."
The list of clientele also includes International Federations for each sport represented, international and domestic corporate sponsors, news media, team coaches, and support personnel.
"VANOCpays for 50 per cent of the room block six months out and the remainder fifty per cent three months out, so the entire room block ispaid for three months before the start of the games," explained Wright. "VANOC's sponsors and hospitality clients will bring multiple guests over the Games period, increasing the exposure of the resort and potential for repeat and word of mouth business."
In addition to cash-up-front and exposure, hotel and property owners will be paid, per room, an average February nightly rate increased by a premium of 15.8 per cent and further adjusted for Consumer Price Index increases from the reference period to February 2010. All payments will be made by cash to avoid credit card fees.
Owners will also receive two complimentary tickets to one of the Medal Ceremonies at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver.However, the Lodging Agreement states that "if VANOC determines that it cannot use any bookings confirmed with a property, it may release the booking without penalty provided it does so by February 1, 2009". This would leave one year for the rental property to find alternate bookings.
If VANOC releases the rooms after February 1, 2009 it is bound to pay for the unit even if unoccupied. If the rental manager is able to secure a booking for the room VANOC would be entitled to recover 90 per cent of the amount paid.
Owners interested in participating must notify the property manager, if applicable, and email VANOC at [email protected].
