Another drawback is the price. Try and get yourself a friendly local who can get you on the slopes for free. Preferably when they're drunk. The central reservations desk can book you into any of the hotels. One of the most fun places to stay and my personal fave is The Shoestring Lodge, at 7124 Nancy Greene Drive.
All rooms have televisions and there is a bar next door.
These are averagely priced. The HI Whistler Hostel is in a gorgeous setting at the foot of Alta Lake. There are only 35 places so prepared to book way in advance. Unless you're able to afford the restaurants in the Chateau Whistler, then you're like me. There are a number of inexpensive options.