If you’re heading west this winter to hit the slopes, you may be following many other ski bums who will be flying straight over the Rocky Mountains and landing in sunny California.
The Golden State is home to the most popular destinations for a growing number of skiers this season, according to the Orbitz Insider Indez (www.orbitz.com). California boasts the two most popular spots for skiers and snowboarders for the 2007/2008 season, with Lake Tahoe taking over the number one spot, and Mammoth Lakes, Calif. checking in at number two. Online travel agency Orbitz compiles its Index based on future hotel and vacation package bookings.
Worry not Rocky Mountain High! Mountain Time still attracts a huge ski crowd, with six of the top 10 spots on Orbitz’ list: Park City, Utah; Breckenridge, Colo.; Jackson Hole, Wy.: Steamboat Springs, Colo. And Vail, Colo.; Snowmass, Colo.; Keystone, Colo.; and Winter Park, Colo.
For some, mixing passions in a single vacation is the way to go. The Orbitz Insiders say an increasingly popular vacation option combines the best of both worlds -- golf and skiing. For those planning late winter and early spring trips, yes, there are domestic destinations where you can readily do this, including Lake Tahoe, Calif.; Snowbird, Utah and others. For many, to be on the slopes in the morning and the links on the afternoon is as close to paradise as you can get.
Although many travelers have already planned winter getaways, it’s not too late to make reservations. Now is prime time for booking for the spring, industry experts say. Here are some tips for those planning an escape to the mountains:
* Book as early as possible to find the best rates but also check last-minute deals.
* Book a vacation package. Combining air and hotel is a great way to save on trip costs.
* Pack smart. Few can pull off a ski trip without checking bags, so make life easy and only carry on what you need for the flight.
* Consider lodging in neighboring towns. Staying slope side or ski-in/ski-out is often more expensive. Lodging options nearby with shuttle service to the mountain is a cost-saving option
Also, make a checklist of everything you’ll need. Ski trips require a lot of packing and more “take alongs†than the usual vacation. A checklist will help ensure you don’t forget anything, and save you from having to buy any ski essentials last minute. Not to mention, any time spent in the shops is time taken away from the slopes. But if you don’t have skis to take with you on your winter adventure or don’t want to take them with you, most resort towns will have plenty of rentals readily available.
Courtesy of ARA content
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.
Your Comments
iBerkshires.com welcomes critical, respectful dialogue. Name-calling, personal attacks, libel, slander or foul language is not allowed. All comments are reviewed before posting and will be deleted or edited as necessary.
No Comments
Taconic High Names Top Students of the Class of 2026
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Taconic High School Principal Matthew Bishop has announced the valedictorian and salutatorian of the class of 2026.
They will speak during the graduation ceremony on Friday, June 12, at 4 p.m at Tanglewood in Lenox.
Gavin O'Donnell, son of Kevin and Colleen O'Donnell of Pittsfield, has been named valedictorian with a grade average of 103. Hunter Bentz, son of Heidi Bentz of Pittsfield, has been named salutatorian with a grade average of 102.4.
Throughout his high school career, O'Donnell has exemplified the values of leadership, commitment, and excellence that define the Taconic community. He achieved high honors all four years and made significant contributions to both the school and the wider community. He was an active member of the Link Crew, Green and Gold, and Class Council, just to name a few of his activities.
A dedicated athlete, O'Donnell played soccer and baseball all four years and was named captain of the varsity soccer and baseball teams both junior and senior years. His commitment to service extended beyond athletics, as he volunteered with Unified Games and was a math tutor at Taconic. He has also been an active part of Pittsfield Soccer Club, where he has helped
referee youth soccer games and assisted in getting the fields ready for game days.
He has earned several awards, including being a member of the National Honor Society, the John and Abigail Adams Award, and being an AP Scholar and an AP Capstone Graduate.
O'Donnell plans to pursue a degree in finance at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where he will continue to play baseball and hopes to excel as a student.
On Monday, the Ordinances and Rules Subcommittee supported adding the community health program manager position as part of the department's new initiative.
click for more
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and General Electric last week held a public hearing at Herberg Middle School for the Reach 5A Final Design and Restoration Plan, which details remediation efforts for the Pittsfield stretch of the Housatonic River.
click for more
Town meeting on Tuesday approved an almost $14 million fiscal 2027 budget, and approved bylaws for short-term rentals and signage, and for public safety vehicles.
click for more
On Tuesday, the School Building Needs Commission heard an update from the owner's project manager, Skanska, and endorsed a draft schedule that runs from 2026 to 2032.
click for more
