Loosely inspired by Tokyo’s capsule hotels, Pangea Pod Hotel is now open in the heart of Whistler Village, bringing chic but affordable solo “pod” accommodations — the first of its kind in Canada — to a notoriously expensive vacation hotspot.
Pangea is the result of three years of planning and prototype development; the hotel is opened by husband-and-wife team Russell and Jelena Kling, world travellers who have first-hand experience about what makes for a comfortable and satisfying stay. The new hotel aims to combine the affordability of a hostel with the perks of a boutique hotel.
Within Pangea, there are eight separate suites, one dedicated to female-only guests, housing a total of 88 independent sleeping pods. Each cleverly-designed, wood-lined pod contains artwork and mirrors, as well as a comfortable double memory-foam mattress, individually controlled LED lights, a built-in fan that provides both air circulation and white noise, a lockable cabinet for valuables like iPads and phones, hanging space for clothes, and a storage area for luggage.
Bathroom facilities are divided into individual components — more than 60 in total — to offer privacy and limit line-ups. These individual components include washrooms with vanities, showers with changing space, stand-alone vanities, and changing rooms.
“Pangea combines the affordability of a hostel with the perks of a boutique hotel. wWe wanted to cater to the type of traveller who enjoys the conviviality of shared spaces but prefers their own personal space at the end of the day.” – Russell King, Co-Founder, Pangea Pod Hostel
Beyond the pods, Pangea also offers thoughtfully designed shared social spaces:
- THE LIVING ROOM is a stylish combo of lounge, bar, café, and espresso bar and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the bustle of Whistler’s Village Stroll, giving the space the feeling of an outdoor patio.
- THE ROOFTOP PATIO is Whistler’s only true rooftop bar, providing a bird’s eye view of Mountain Square.
- THE TOY BOX is an open-plan secure storage area for skis, snowboards, mountain bikes, and other gear; the space was custom created to address the needs of equipment-laden outdoor enthusiasts.
Pangea’s rooms will, at most, cost half the price of a conventional hotel room, and usually far less. In November, for example, rates begin at $84/night when booking directly with Pangea Pod online with the promo code PANGEAPROMO. This new style of accommodation will make the resort more accessible to solo and budget travellers wishing to experience all that Whistler has to offer.
Modern Mix Vancouver will be staying at Pangea Pod in person this November — stay tuned for our review! For more information, or to check rates and availability, visit: pangeapod.com/bookings.
