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A Guide to Your Ideal Ski Resort and Vacation

by: Larry Denton

Few things in life are better than an adventurous and exciting vacation. Especially a ski vacation. Whether it's a family outing, a romantic get-away with your special someone, or you are going solo in search of snow and fun in the sun, this site can assist you in determining which destination is right for you. First decision--a ski resort in the United States or a trip to a more exotic foreign destination--perhaps the majestic and scenic Alps? If you decide on an North American ski vacation, your next decision might be choosing which geographic region of the United States most beckons you.

Thanks to the presence of the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevadas, and the Cascades, the western portions of the United States feature breathtaking scenery in addition to fantastic skiing conditions. With 12,000 foot peaks, azure blue skies and hundreds of inches of snow it doesn't get much better. Do you want to blast down the ruggedly beautiful mountains of Montana through waist-deep, dry powder the natives call "white smoke"?

Maybe skiing with the rich and famous is more your style--if so try Aspen, Colorado, known for its majestic four mountains. Mammoth Mountain, Vail, Jackson Hole, Steamboat Springs, Taos, Snowbird, the hundreds of runs and resorts of Utah, Washington, California, and Idaho. Simply too many to list!

Just north of the 49th parallel (the Canadian border) lie some of the world's best skiing options featuring the top ski resort destinations. Banff/Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, located in the heart of Canada's Banff National Park, ranks as one of the most scenic mountain resorts in North America, if not the entire world.

And Whistler/Blackcomb in British Columbia with 8,000 skiable acres and its 100+ bars and restaurants in the village is definitely a "must do" destination. These magnificent mountain peaks provide gorgeous scenery, abundant snowfall, pristine wildlife areas, and the steepest vertical drop in North America. The Japanese have repeatedly ranked it as their favorite international destination.

One valuable tip for planning a ski vacation--get all of your necessary items in a single package or as some travel agents refer to it--"bundling." In simple terms it means to get your airline tickets, hotel accommodations, car rental, lift tickets all from a single source at the same time. Some agencies will even make arrangements for off-slope activities that you are interested in. These inclusive packages make vacationing easy, affordable, convenient and fun. Use online searches to find the best resorts, the most affordable prices and the best travel companies.

A ski vacation can provide you and your family the perfect break during the long, dark winter months, and allow you to experience some quality bonding time. Picture your family conquering the slopes, making snow angels, riding snowmobiles or soaking in the heavenly heated pool as the brilliant stars twinkle brightly overhead. You can choose from a wide array of destinations, accommodations and flight plans. No matter where you want to ski or snowboard, you will find the best deals on the Internet.

Whether you are an experienced downhill racer, a beginning snowboarder, or someone in between, you can get a mountain of free skiing information by doing some research on the Internet. Comparison shop and gain the knowledge you need to become a smart ski shopper!

About the Author

Larry Denton is a retired history teacher having taught 33 years at Hobson High in Hobson, Montana. He is currently V.P. of Elfin Enterprises, Inc., an Internet business providing useful and valuable information on a variety of timely topics. For a chalet full of information, resources and tips about ski resorts, visit http://www.SkiResortSpot.com