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Forget Exotic Ski Resorts, France is Still Favourite With Brits

admin — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 18:36:46 +0000

The world of skiing is becoming increasingly more interesting as new ski frontiers open up, offering snow sport fans the chance to ski in more exotic locations than ever before. Japan, Chile, Lebanon, Slovakia, Bulgaria and many more countries not renowned for their mountains are attracting British skiers who are looking for a ski experience that’s a little out of the ordinary.

However, despite the availability of these new destinations, which are gaining a bigger slice of the ski market, France still remains the most popular location to ski for the Brits and it’s not hard to see why.

France offers arguably the best skiing in Europe, with dozens of huge resorts in the Alps, not to mention the lesser known range of the Pyrenees. It also has one of the best cuisines in the world and due to having the highest mountains in Europe, (with resorts like Val Thorens), you can be fairly certain that you’ll actually have real snow to ski on, even in this age of global warming which is threatening the survival of ski areas situated at lower altitudes. And on top of all this, France’s close proximity to the UK and the huge number of cheap flights now available means that skiers can be on the slopes in just a few hours.

Resorts like Brides Les Bains, Tignes Val Claret, Morzine, La Clusaz, Chamonix, Thollon and Les Arcs are all close to major airports, and with ever more airlines offering low prices on flights to Lyon and Geneva, getting to these resorts is quick and easy and won’t break the bank.

France also offers skiing in the lesser known ranges of the Massif Central and the Pyrenees, mountains that are completely separate from the Alps. Although not as famous or fashionable as the better known French resorts, these areas can offer cheaper and often quieter alternatives to the old favourites.

So, although some skiing and snowboarding adventurists are seeking snow further a field, France’s close proximity to the UK, its ease of access and the low cost of travelling there, are likely to keep it at the number one spot as the Brit’s favourite ski playground.

Three Fabulous Winter Skiing Cities

admin — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 18:36:42 +0000

If you’re looking for a vacation where you can both enjoy yourself with sightseeing and get some exercise, skiing is the perfect sport. You’ll get a chance to travel and meet many kindred souls from all walks of life. Here are three of my favorite winter skiing spots in the country.

- Aspen, Colorado.

Aspen is where I learned to ski and I have had a fondness for it ever since. Like everywhere else, the cost of living in Aspen has skyrocketed so much that it’s now known, in large parts, as a destination spot for only the rich and famous. But, if you take the time to find deals, there are many reasonably priced lodging options available from rental homes to condominium to lodge resorts.

Aspen, Colorado is famous for its skiing, so much so that it’s a magnet for people from all over the world. Don’t be surprised if you wind up meeting people from as far away as Spain, France, England, Saudi Arabia, and other parts of the world. The small town atmosphere of the city gives it an intimate feel, there’s no feeling of being rushed, and the people and visitors are friendly as can be.

The scenery is Aspen is fantastic. After a big snowfall, the ski slopes form a virtual winter wonderland. And if you’re looking for powder, there’s few places where you’ll find better. Downtown Aspen is a combination of homey pubs and chic restaurants and within a ten minute shuttle ride to four magnificent mountains. It’s a great winter spot to spend a week or two on your vacation.

- Madison, Wisconsin.

Over the years, the city of Madison, Wisconsin has wound up on many people’s list of the best places to live in the U.S. Madison is a large college town, located in the heart of the midwest, and like most college towns, is full of vibrant energy.

The Midwest is mainly known for it’s flatlands, not its mountains, so it is probably not on many people’s best list of best ski places. Wisconsin hosts some nice sized mountains, but not great. However, it is a magnificent location for cross-country skiing. Known as the “City of Lakes”, Madison has four area lakes and in the winter when the snow covers the grounds, you can enjoy cross country skiing near the lakes whilst taking in the beautifully stunning and tranquil lake scenery.

Madison is a cosmopolitan city and you’ll find much to do there. However, if you feel like a road trip, Madison is within a two hour trip to one of the greatest cities in the U.s., Chicago, Illinois.

- Park City, Utah

Park City Utah, home of the 2002 Winter Olympics and famous for it’s Sundance Film Festival, is a fabulous ski town and true resort town. It is home to three fantastic ski mountains – Deer Valley, The Canyons, and Park City Mountain Resort. Collectively these mountains have nearly 300 ski runs – so you’ll have no trouble avoiding long lift lines.

Utah has a reputation as a staid place to live, but you’ll never be bored at night in Park City as it has many and varied night clubs where you can find live music, restaurants where you can enjoy the best meals, and “private clubs.” And as far as skiing, truly one of the best of the best.

An Overview Of The Best Ski Resorts In The West

admin — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 18:32:48 +0000

With winter on the way, lovers of snow and winter sports are excited about the upcoming new season. Every mountain getaway and the area surrounding the lodge or resort is busy with various winter activities you can enjoy. While there are many different places you can go to enjoy your winter wonderland, here are a few that are considered to be the best ski resorts in the West.

When people think of California, they often picture the sand and surf of the coastline, the vineyards of the Napa Valley, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood or the excitement of the famous amusement parks. However, there are some excellent California ski resorts and numerous places to pursue your favorite winter sports and activities.

Located on the Eastern slopes of Central California’s Nevada Mountain range, the Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is considered by many to be one of the best ski resorts you can find in California. Mammoth almost always enjoys at least 150 inches of snowfall each season, but some years the actual snowfall reaches an amazing 250 inches, which is enough to keep the most enthusiastic skiers happy.

One of the reasons that Mammoth is among the best of them is that it boasts of the Hangman’s Hollow. This is known as the siren-of-the-steeps for experts skiers from around the world. In addition, Mammoth also has a full terrain that offers cross-country skiing and also, an Olympic-size half pipe.

The Mt. Shasta Resort is in the heart of another California area that is both well-known and very popular, making it another on the list of best ones in the West. The Mt. Shasta resort is located in the Siskiyou mountain range, which is near the northern border or California. Within the Mt.

Shasta national recreational area there are many activities available such as hiking, snowmobiling and a skiing area that even includes a bunny flat. After a long day on the slopes, the Black Bear Restaurant is well-known and highly recommended for delicious meal and in addition, they also offer delightful homemade pies for a well-earned dessert.

A bit farther north from Mt. Shasta is Oregon, which is filled with numerous slopes and top ones as well. Timberline Lodge is an historic chalet that sits right at the timber line of the majestic Mt.

Hood in the Cascade Range and which has long been hailed as one of the best resorts. Because Timberline Lodge sits higher than many mountain ski resorts, you will often find that you can ski all year round on the nearby Palmer Snowfield, which is near this great snowy retreat.

Continuing on the northward track, the mountain ones of British Columbia are easy to add to the list of best ski resorts in the West. Whistler is another famed area where you are also able to ski any time of the year with few rare exceptions.

In addition to the Whistler-Blackcomb area, the fabulous skiing and other winter sports, there is also incredible scenery. After dark, there is a lively night life in the area which you can enjoy after a long day of shredding the slopes.

These are just a few of the best ski resorts that you can find throughout Western United States and Western Canada. Ski vacations in the West are a popular way to get away from the daily grind of the work week. If you also happen to live in a western state, then most of these top ones are close enough to enjoy a weekend ski package, simply to feel rejuvenated for the coming week.

The Top Ski Resorts for the Advanced Skier

admin — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 18:32:44 +0000

Apen Ski Resort

Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, in Colorado, offers more than 5,200 acres across four mountains, two of them dedicated to advanced skiers. Snowmass is 32-percent Double Black Diamond (steep and/or dangerous terrain icons, to the uninformed). Aspen Mountain offers even more thrills, with 26-percent Black Diamond runs and another 26-percent Double Diamond runs. The mountain, nicknamed Ajax, is renowned for its precipitous slopes and moguls (read “big bumps”, for the uninitiated) that can send the unwary or reckless ski aficionado flying into white space.

Aspen has 76 trails and 8 lifts, with no beginner slopes and half the terrain given to intermediate runs. The remainder is about equally divided between advanced skiers and experts. Experts will love the challenge of double-black slopes and woodland terrain. For a real rush, try the Go-Go-Gully or the Highland Bowl, pitched at roughly 48 degrees (90 degrees is a right angle, for expert skiers who don’t do math).

Killington Ski Resort

Killington Ski Resort, located in Vermont, is a superb resort for the advanced skier. Almost half the terrain is devoted to difficult trails, including a Double-Black-Diamond rated area known as “The Outer Limits” with enough moguls to make even expert skiers achieve flight. Other terrain includes woodland, or glade, skiing and steep terrain. In all Killington has 12 Double Black Diamond trails and half again as many Black Diamond runs. In all, 200 trails connect seven mountains via 33 chairlifts. Killington has the longest skiing season in the Northeast U.S. (typically November through April), an average annual snowfall of 250 inches, and 70-percent snowmaking capacity. Lessons are available without advance reservation at the Perfect Turn Ski School.

Mad River Glen Ski Resort

Mad River Glen, also located in Vermont, features a mountain open only to skiers; no snowboarding or tubing allowed. The Glen is not well known, but its motto, “Ski It If You Can” indicates the level of difficulty. Most of its snow is Nature-made, providing natural moguls. Narrow, wooded trails and 45 advanced trails offer the ultimate in skiing challenge. Five lifts provide adequate coverage to the 800 acres of skiing. For Easterners, the Glen is 3 hours from Boston and slightly more than four hours from New York.

Winter Park Ski Resort

Winter Park Ski Resort in Colorado has a variety of skill-level trails, but the most difficult ones comprise more than half the terrain. One peak, the Mary Jane, starts at 12,000 feet and runs four miles down the mountain with a 2,600-foot descent. More than half the trails on Mary Jane are listed as difficult. The Pansenne Bowl starts at a similar elevation and drops 1,700 feet in five miles. The truly expert trails are located on the Vasquez Cirque, with three-quarters of these listed as advanced and the balance for expert skiers only.

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge Ski Resort is also located in Colorado. Half its trails are rated advanced/expert, with approximately 23 trails in the Double Black Diamond class, featuring snow bowls, woodland terrain and backcountry wilderness. Breckenridge also has a terrain park for advanced extreme skiers – the kind who have learned to fly on a pair of skis. With 152 trails and 29 lifts, including the highest chairlift in N. America, Breckenridge will delight skiers who have mastered more than a parallel stop. Breckenridge also has a ski school, and its historic downtown offers the non-skier and skier alike endless shopping, dining and nightlife opportunities.

Other Resorts

Other mature-rated ski resorts include Mammoth Mountain in California, with 150 trails and one of the best back-country ski routes in N. America. Whiteface Ski Resort, in Lake Placid, New York, offers the highest vertical drop in the East (3,340 feet), and an area known as “The Slides”, which are Double Black Diamond runs without snowmaking or grooming that form steep chutes, or gullies. If you are less than expert, think twice before attempting The Slides.

Popularity Of The Whistler Ski Resort

admin — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 18:32:51 +0000

It’s always something of a shock to emerge from the damp woods of British Columbia onto the bright hard candy of Whistler. Whistler Village is still basically a small sporting town with a gigantic ski area in its backyard (more gigantic than ever if you count the nearly half-million acres of backcountry that makes up the Heli Skiing area). Come dusk, when the yellow lights come on and the snowy peaks turn pink, the Village Stroll becomes a parade of apres-skiers. The 2010 Olympics may crank the party and prestige quota up another level, but the folks piling into all those cozy bars and restaurants are concerned only with tomorrow’s powder.

Considered to be one of the top ski resorts in the World, Whistler’s growth in the last 10 years has been astonishing. Whistler has a philosophy that there is ‘something for everyone’ from skiing and snowboarding in the Winter to mountain biking and golfing in the summer, as well as other recreational activities such as shopping, dining, culture and arts. With regards to accommodation Whistler not only offers ski-in / ski-out condos and chalets, it provides many other options suitable for all price ranges.

Luxury property rentals in Whistler have become increasingly popular as people seek convenience, service and all their needs to be catered for, in their need to escape for their hectic lifestyles. Accommodation in Whistler caters for all needs, from intimate 1 bedroom cabins to decadent 6 bedroom mansion style houses catering for up to 20 people. All amenities are provided and careful thought has been given to ensure the guests stay in Whistler is as enjoyable as they had hoped. Property rental in Whistler is well advanced and therefore guests have high expectations when choosing their luxury getaway in this corner of Canada.

Its reputation precedes it – for the fifth time, one of America’s most prominent ski magazines, Skiing magazine, has named Whistler the Number One Ski Resort in North America. The Daily Telegraph (UK) ranked Whistler ‘Best Ski Resort in the World’ in 2003. Ski magazine voted Whistler the 2nd best resort and TransWorld SNOWboarding rated Whistler the best resort.

With a mile-high vertical rise, Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains are nothing short of the most remarkable skiing experience. It is the largest ski able area in North America served by one of the most advanced high speed lift system featuring 15 Express lifts in a total system of 33 lifts. It has the greatest vertical rise of any ski resort in the continent. Twelve incredible bowls, three glaciers, and more than 200 marked trails offer skiers of every level and age endless enjoyment.

Whistler Blackcomb is regarded by many as the top ski resort in the world, but why is this? On the slopes, every level of skier and snowboarder is catered for — every type of terrain imaginable can be accessed by a fast and efficient lift system yet the slopes remain relatively un-crowded. Off the slopes there are about 100 restaurants and about 200 shops to try, and dozens of other sports and leisure activities.

Today, people come from all over the world to experience world class skiing and snowboarding in the Winter, and golf, hiking and mountain biking in the Summer. Whistler is unique in offering such a diverse range of activities, of such a world class standard. Luckily for the millions of visitors Whistler receives each year there is plenty to choose from when it comes to accommodation In Whistler. Luxury whistler chalets are prevalent for those who desire more comfort after a days skiing. Many of these Whistler properties are ski in / ski out offering the best in convenience and luxury in Whistler.

Ski Travel Packages Readily Available To You

admin — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:36:25 +0000

If you are reading this, chances are you are confused about ski travel, or you may need a little guidance in the area of booking a skiing trip. Generally, ski vacation packages cover all of your travel, housin, and resort costs. Visiting online travel websites can reveal some of the best kept secrets in ski vacation packages, and it will ultimately aid you in discovering the right deal ?most of them better than going through an actual travel agent.

Without ski travel packages, you are left to book your flights, your hotels, rental equipment, lift fares, etc. yourself. That means you would have to deal with 5 or more different companies when booking your trip, and with all of the costs involved, you would be spending a hefty sum of money. On the other hand, a ski travel package bundles all of these aspects of your skiing trip under one umbrella — you just choose the package that is best for you, and enjoy the savings and convenience that ski vacation packages have to offer.

When you search for ski vacation packages, you will be introduced to all of the major worldwide ski resorts ?some famous, some lesser known. Some of the most popular in the USA are the Big Boulder/Jack Frost ski resort and the Tanglewood Ski Area in Pennsylvania. In Canada, there is Whistler Resort, Big White Resort, and the Red Mountain Resort. Because there is a lot of competition in the field of ski travel, you can find a great bargain on any of these resorts with relative ease.

Many websites online offer ski travel bargains. By getting ski travel packages, you can track all aspects of your trip through one website. For example, all information about your flights, weather, tourist guides, hotels, and destinations are detailed when you access your online travel package.

You are the judge when it comes to choosing a ski vacation package. Always take into consideration your budget needs, and be aware of what is necessary and what is not. If possible, ask any of your skiing friends for recommendations, and ask them what you should look for in ski travel packages.

Top Ski Resorts For Beginner Skiers

admin — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 18:36:41 +0000

Skiing for the first time is both an exciting and challenging event, the thought of getting your adrenaline flowing by sliding down large mountains makes you feel like you are about to experience something that will give you lasting memories. One thing that people do need to be mindful of is where the best beginner ski holidays are, as not all ski resorts accommodate for inexperienced or beginner skiers.

Places like Meribel, Val d’Isere, Chamonix and Engelberg are extremely popular amongst professional and expert skiers, however, it would make for an unsuitable destination for beginners. Ski holidays in certain destinations will cater for those with very little or no knowledge of skiing, as they usually have smoother slopes that are not all filled with experienced skiers. One thing that will put off any first time skier is watching the number of pro skiers slide down the slopes at full speed.

Ski holidays in places like Chamonix attract many people and contain a lot of challenging mountainous slopes and jumps. The first place that would be top on the beginners ski resorts is Villars in Switzerland. During peak seasons, this can be extremely busy and difficult to begin skiing lessons at; therefore, it is better to go during a quiet period and avoiding weekends. Learner terrains are ideal with great mountainous views and virtually no distractions from the hustle and bustle of pro skiers.

The next resort to consider is Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy, whereby the ski slopes are free from other skiers and have clear and smooth runways. All of the mountainous areas have a reasonable and comfortable altitude, all of which are good for making progress on. This is a popular destination so it is worth going at its quietest period if you are keen on going just to learn. The summer period sees Cortina turn into a relaxing and breathtaking spot for hiking and impressive sightseeing activity.

The final place to consider is Beaver Creek of the USA. This is ideal for first-time snowboarders and beginner skiers as it offers a separate beginners centre where learners can gain an insight into their upcoming skiing experience. Their previews include a video instruction and lesson about skiing, loading and uploading on lifts, and then a final question and answer session before venturing out onto the snow. This allows the student to understand the basic procedures before joining in on the practical sessions.

You will also get a chance to ski down slopes and trails such as Red Buffalo and Booth Gardens, all designed for beginner trails. One ideal place for honing your skills is the Buckaroo Bowl that allows instructors to help learners use the edges of their skis and speeding up the learning process of various skiing techniques. Ski holidays here do tend to be on the expensive side and is a very classy place to spend your winter period.

When choosing a beginners ski holiday destination, you should always look into the facilities that they offer as well as looking into when is the best season to start learning. Find out how much the extra tuition is and always get a clear idea on the lesson itinerary. Most importantly always purchase travel insurance, just to be on the safe side.

Going Skiing? Take Out Travel Insurance – you Know it Makes Sense

admin — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 18:36:35 +0000

The net result is that an increasing number of skiers and snowboarders are injured each year and, while falls, tumbles and the occasional wipe out are part of the holiday experience, you could be hit hard when it goes wrong. Being rescued from the ski slopes will now cost you well over £75, while medical expenses could set you back a further £250. The more serious injury cases could be even more painful both physically and financially. Repatriation to London from the Alps will cost around £2,500, rising to a hefty £6,000 from the USA.

And if you think that a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will provide you with full medical cover while skiing in Europe, then think again. The EHIC, which replaced the E111, entitles you to low cost, sometimes free, basic medical treatment on the same terms as all nationals in EU states, but it should not be viewed as a substitute for proper travel insurance as the EHIC will not cover costly extras such as an air ambulance, personal liability, trip cancellation, or loss of baggage.

That said, do not assume a standard travel insurance policy is enough, as most winter sports travel insurance cover has to be bought as an extra option and, even then, check the small print on your policy. It would be wise to check that the heli-sking or freestyle skiing that you intend to do is covered, not to mention those ‘off piste’ activities you have planned as your ski travel insurance policy could very well exclude these and that could mean being saddled with an unexpected bill if you get injured.

The golden rule is ‘Get the best cover for the activities you are planning to do’. This is one area of travel insurance where buying cheap travel insurance could definitely end up being a false economy.

How To Plan For Your Ski Vacation

admin — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 18:36:34 +0000

Winter doldrums don’t have to get you down – plan a ski getaway this winter. Skiing is a fantastic way to remain active throughout the winter months, and it’s a great way to spend time with friends and family. If you aren’t a skilled skier, most resorts have what is known as the ‘bunny slope’ to teach the basics of skiing. Many resorts have slopes that are perfect for all levels of skiers. If by chance you feel like trying another snow sport, there are also options of snowboarding or even ‘tubing’ available. So planning for a ski vacation or weekend getaway really is an adventure to consider.

There are many popular destinations for ski travel, with Colorado being one of the most recognized states. Such names as Vail, Aspen and Breckenridge come to mind when ski travel is mentioned. A few other well known areas are: Deep Creek, Maryland, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, and Deer Valley, Utah. There are many ski resorts nationwide; one is surely close to you.

Planning your ski getaway shouldn’t be a difficult process. The first aspect is to consider the budget of what you & those traveling with you can comfortably spend. Once that decision is agreed upon, you need to search for a resort that offers enough options to meet the needs of all who plan to attend. It will be necessary to book rooms as soon as possible to hold reservations for the dates you have in mind. Book flights and rental cars early to assure they will be available as well. For those with limited time available to plan their ski travels, purchasing a pre-arranged ski vacation package can be a great way to hit the slopes without the hassle of the detailed planning, and can often lead to great cost savings. Last, make sure you have the proper equipment and attire you will need. Most resorts will rent skis, snowboards, and boots should you not own your own. These items may also be reserved when booking your lodging.

Unique Ski Travel Advice

admin — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 18:36:23 +0000

Ski travel sounds wonderful but it can be frightening for those who are not in good shape or for those who are not aware of the risks they take when they ski down a slope without having taken ski advice. Ski travel advice is also necessary from the financial point of view as you must consider the price of your equipment, which includes skis, ski boots, ski poles, bindings, goggles and a weatherproof outfit.

Duplicate the changes here:Content: Ski travel sounds wonderful. However, it may sound dangerous for those who do not have a proper physical training or for those who are not aware of the risks taken when they go down the ski slope without previous ski advice. Ski travel advice is also necessary from the financial point of view as well. You must consider the price of your equipment, which includes ski boots, ski sticks, straps, glasses, and costume.

Ski equipment can be very expensive. Thus, if you are a beginner our ski advice would be to rent equipment or purchase good second hand skis and ski boots. They are of course cheaper and can be good enough for learning to ski. If you decide to purchase second hand equipment, you should go with an expert in the field to make sure the equipment is in good condition and suitable for a beginnerl. After you have made progress, you can purchase better quality skis adapted to your favourite skiing style.

It is important to pay attention to ski travel advice related to your knees, which are one of the most exposed and vulnerable parts of your body when skiing. Ski advice is necessary because a beginner skier should have the physical fitness necessary to help with balance, reaction time, the ability to learn, attention span, the capacity to judge distances correctly, and self confidence..

Before going on holiday in the winter, our ski travel advice would be to take as much physical training as possible in order to help avoid injuries on the ski slopes, especially if you are not used to exercising for the rest of the year. At the beginning of the ski season, it is recommended to take up exercises that tone the muscles of the legs to avoid stiffness because they are given a real workout while skiing.

Cycling (in a gym or in the open) is the ideal training for a ski holiday. It is also good to learn some warm-up exercises like arm rotations, stretching and twisting the body, lunges, etc. Ski advice can help you to avoid common injuries. When skiing, a skier has their knees slightly bent and joints can be vulnerable in this position, especially when rotation movements exert considerable stress onto ligaments.

Having toned muscles can help you to stay in control when skiing.ligament and that is why it is important for a skier to have highly developed muscles around the knee. Otherwise, the risk of accidents can be high. The most frequent skiing traumas are associated with the knees: contusions, sprains, dislocations, ruptured ligaments, and ruptured meniscus. Other ski related accidents are fractures, and traumas to the face or head. Arms can be exposed to accidents also if the skier happens to fall.

An important factor related to ski travel advice is correct use of the equipment. For example, binding must be correctly adjusted. The ski boots and the bindings must release when needed, so that the knee is not damaged. Many knee sprains can be avoided if bindings are correctly adjusted so that they release properly.