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options Viewing How to Choose the Ski Resort That is Right for You

 

 How to Choose the Ski Resort That is Right for You  
There is a ski resort somewhere that is just right for you. However, you must consider many important things when it comes to choosing the right one for your vacation. This article presents some great tips to help you decide.

By Chad Rutt

You must consider many important things when it comes to choosing a ski resort for your vacation.

• Is your family or group of mixed ability or do you fall under the same beginner, intermediate, or advanced category? This is an important factor, as you need to select a resort that caters to the skill levels required.

Some resorts will have more nursery slopes designed for beginners and children. Others may be more suitable for experienced skiers, and some will have a variety of extreme runs for the really proficient. You may be interested in skiing off-piste. It is a good idea to study the piste maps, sometimes posted on the resort website. If snowboarding is your thing, check that the resort is snowboard-friendly.

• Location is another basic concern. If you choose what is known as a "ski-in, ski-out" resort, it means that the proximity of the slopes saves on time and transportation costs. If the slopes are a distance away from your accommodation, check to see if there is a shuttle service and whether there is a charge. Determine where you can park if you intend to use your own vehicle. How far is the airport or train station to the resort? The greater the distance, the more the cost goes up.

• Snow conditions are central to an enjoyable experience on the slopes. Find out what the recent snow record is for the resort and what weather can be expected at the time of your trip. Some tour companies give snow guarantees and will bus you in to where there is snow.

n the worst-case scenario of the ski lifts being closed, some lift operators have a money-back policy. The later you go in the season, the higher you need to be to continue to have sufficient snow. However, many resorts use artificial snow to get around any problems. Some skiers do not enjoy artificial snow and some are quite happy on it.

• If you are on a tight budget, look out for special deals. Some resorts offer mid-week specials with savings on lift passes, etc. Beginners may not want to splash out on equipment, so they may opt to rent equipment. Some resorts have on-site stores that hire out skis, boards, boots, and so on.

If you want instruction, there are package deals that include lessons and/or equipment. These deals are not confined to beginners. Advanced skiers may find a package that involves attending a ski clinic for advanced ability.

• Avoiding the peak season also saves money and the slopes are quieter. The most expensive time and the busiest time are at Christmas and New Year's. Staying in self-catered apartments or vacation rentals is the cheaper option, so look for a resort that has a variety of affordable accommodation like this.

• Finally, decide whether you want a quieter, family-friendly resort or somewhere with more emphasis on après-ski nightlife. Check out the local restaurants and bars and whether there are dance clubs. There is a ski resort that is just right for you, so good luck!

About the Author:

Chad Rutt is the director of marketing for the online lodging site ABetterStay.com and the managing editor of its accompanying vacation blog. Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com)

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  Article added 02/15/10, last revised 02/15/10.

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