Search results matching tag 'Lodging'

Peril on the Seven Seas! (Or, What NOT to Do When Boating Tahoe)

Jennifer — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:38:00 GMT

The only instance in my life when I thought I was going to die happened on a day in 1971 while boating on Lake Tahoe! My fiance (now husband) and I were young and dumb, boating in our fixer-upper, fourteen-foot, outboard. Only completely insane college kids would do something so stupid. To top it off, the two of us were water skiing alone, without a third person to watch the skier. As I was waiting in the cold, cold, water for the Love of My Life to get the ski rope to me, the gas-line broke. Oops. just a bit of a problem.

Unknown to us, it is typical for the temperament of Lake Tahoe to change in a moment; and change, it did; from smooth as glass to a choppy, frightening, gray expanse of huge swells. We hadn't checked the forecast. The current and wind pulled me farther and farther from the boat. Whitecaps surrounded me. Finally, my partner-in-stupidity repaired the gas line and came to me. He pulled me out of the water, and off we went. That isn't exactly what happened. At that point, the real fun began.

Our boat was much too small for Lake Tahoe; especially in bad weather. The waves had become so big that we couldn't make it in to shore. As they broke over our hull and into the boat, we began to take on water. Not good! While I bailed out the water, lover boy tried to get us to shore. He wisely decided not to fight against the waves and the current, but to go with it along the shore. This was probably the most intelligent decision of the day and, exhausted, cold and wet, we eventually made it to shore.

Live and learn; or as my late Mother-in-Law would have said, "No jackass steps in the same hole twice." So, in 1987, when we bought our condo on Lake Tahoe's North Shore, we decided to buy a lake-worthy boat. What a concept was that! We also had children of our own by that time, and we were responsible adults who had learned a healthy respect for the lake. I've told you what NOT to do while enjoying Lake Tahoe; now I can give you a few tips about how to have a safe, fun experience on one of the world's most beautiful lakes:

* Buy, or rent a boat no smaller than 20 feet. Lake Tahoe is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide. Respect the size!

* Check the weather forecast.

* Bring a radio and/or cell phone.

* Know the Coast Guard rules: When the Coast Guard boards your boat, and they will, your captain had better be sober. Keep up to date with current regulations.

* Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world with a challenging, 72 miles of rocky shoreline. Be aware and pay attention to the buoys that mark areas within which you may encounter a shallow, rocky bottom. The buoys aren't there to look pretty.

Have fun! I could tell you 20 more stories recounting fabulous summers of boating on Lake Tahoe. Even if you can't buy or rent your own boat, take a party cruise or hire a ski boat with operator. Whatever you do, you shouldn't miss cruising on Lake Tahoe.

This first-hand account of Lake Tahoe Do's and Don'ts was brought to you by Taylor Shay.

Experience Incline Village in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:09:00 GMT

The recent closing of North Lake Tahoe's Ponderosa Ranch may have left some tourists feeling left in the lurch, but Incline Village isn't just a one trick pony when it comes to attractions. How much sarsaparilla can a person really drink anyway? Here's a novel way to spend the day in Incline Village: see what it's like to be a rich guy as well as a regular Joe.

Start your day at the top of the heap. A man known to his friends as "Captain" George Whittell built the Thunderbird Lodge in 1936, but don't let the name of the place fool you. It's not another knotty pine hotel. The house is an architectural beauty, sitting on part of the 40,000 acres the Cap'n acquired with visions of building a million-dollar casino and hotel. Before you start thinking of the man as the Mr. Burns of Tahoe, look around you: he obviously changed his mind. A developing interest in nature and conservation refreshingly outweighed his desire for big bucks, and he held on to the huge estate for the rest of his life. Present-day tourists can now essentially step through a time tunnel into the Tahoe of the past, when only the ultra-elite had property here and built opulent homes worthy of envy.

Guided tours include the stunning main house (plus behind-the-scenes areas such as the cooks' quarters) as well as its unusual additions, such as a lighthouse and a glass-enclosed bridge. Take a gander at the fancily embellished elephant garage, which housed - you guessed it - an Indian elephant that once lived on the estate. The card house is supposedly one of the few remaining examples of its type of building: a spot where men and their best pals supposedly played cards, but just as readily smoked, drank and otherwise caroused. Something about the atmosphere will make you suddenly crave a single malt Scotch.

If you make plans to coincide with one of Thunderbird Lodge's ritzy wine and dinner events, you can have that drink after all. Don't despair if you miss a special event, as there is plenty yet to do, including the simple marvel of trying to imagine this place if Whittell's original vision had panned out. Play the "I'm a developer" game while viewing the pristine landscape and see if you can pick out the best spots for neon signs and diners.(5000 Hwy. 28, 775-832-8750 Tour costs vary from $25 for a bus tour to $110 for boat tours. Tours dates and times are seasonal, so check ahead.)

After seeing how the rich half live, contemplate the pleasures of being an ordinary working class stiff with the best that lowbrow Americana has to offer: bowling. Bowl Incline is a comfortable place to get away from the chi chi tourist restaurants and the ski snobs, with 16 lanes for laid back bowling bliss. Practice your best Fred Flintstone imitation while having a cold beer and mingling with the locals. Try out the golf simulator and redeem yourself for all of your real-life golfing gaffs on the greens. Test the theory that each beer improves your score.(920 Southwood Blvd., 775-831-1900 $3.75 per game with $2.25 shoe rental.)

Afterward, further celebrate the simple life with a big fat burger at Rookies, a popular neighborhood sports bar nearby. Now this is the good life! Savor each bite with thankfulness that you don't live on a mansion on a hill where you have to eat tiny arugula salads and sip wine from a dainty flute. It's good to be Joe.

This guide to the best of both worlds in North Lake Tahoe's Incline Village was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.

With its Gourmet Dining, Keystone Takes the Cake!

Jennifer — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:15:00 GMT

It's 5Pm in Keystone, Colorado. Your family has returned to the condo, after a hard day on the slopes. As you sit by the fire sipping cocoa, you hear a grumbling sound. It starts on one side of the room, and continues around the circle. What's that sound? Then, you understand. Like the plant in the Little Shop of Horrors, everyone's stomach is saying, Feed me! I'm hungry!

So where should you eat? Fortunately, you will have many tempting choices. Keystone is home to Colorado Mountain College's Culinary Institute. For three years, the top students apprentice under the strict tutelage of the world's best chefs. This demanding program produces some of the best chefs in Summit County, so you can be assured a good meal wherever you go. Let's start with the place where Keystone history began.

The Ski Tip Lodge

Back in 1941, Max Dercum, for whom Dercum Mountain is named, purchased a place called the Black Ranch, which was once a stagecoach stop. In 1949, the name was changed to the Ski Tip Lodge, and by 1967, Dercum's dream of a full service ski resort were realized. The name "Ski Tip Lodge" is based on the once popular practice of using the tips of vintage skis for door handles. Today, the rotating menu at the Ski Tip Lodge receives the highest accolades form its guests. Written up by Denver's 5280 as Colorado's Most Romantic Getaway, the Ski Tip Lodge tends to attract couples. That said, it's probably not the best place to pick up girls.

The Keystone Ranch

Back in the 1930s, a romantic man by the name of Howard Reynolds built a ranch house for his fiance, Bernadine Smith. Today, this restored log home is called Keystone Ranch Restaurant. It was originally built as a cattle ranch and lettuce farm. Until 1977, it was a working ranch, which delighted locals with its succulent veal, crisp lettuce and fresh dairy products. The Keystone Ranch has been the proud recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. The elaborate sis-course meal continually scores high on the Zagat Survey. Since the Keystone Ranch is located near the Keystone Golf Course, its elk with wild mushrooms and other Rocky Mountain specialties tend to attract the golfing crowd. Interpret this as you will.

Alpenglow Stube

Are you one of those people who get high on good food? If so, you will surely enjoy Alpenglow Stube. At an altitude of 11,444 feet, this keystone North Peak restaurant is the highest in the country. If you thought that the lunches at Aspen of Deer Valley were elegant, you have never been to Alpenglow Stube. Unlike any ski resort restaurant, when you enter Alpenglow Stube, you get to trade in your ski boots for a pair of comfortable slippers. After all, how can you enjoy a great meal if your feet are killing you?

Your feast begins with a choice of two different soups. Then, head to the gourmet buffet, where you'll find a tempting array of salads, homemade breads and gourmet cheeses. Don't eat too much. You'll want to leave room for the main dish and desert. On Sundays, Alpenglow Stube features a delicious brunch. A mimosa is included with your brunch. However, please drink and ski responsibly. Since Alpenglow Stube's prices are as steep as its surrounding slopes, it is not popular with the local duct tape crowd. That said, it is definitely worth a one-time splurge.

Der Fondue Chessel
The elegance of Alpenglow Stube means that it might not be the best place for kids. Fortunately, that does not mean that they have to be deprived of the "take-the-gondola-to-dinner" experience. The Bavarian party atmosphere of Der Fondue Chessel makes it an appropriate dining venue for kids and adults. However, it is not ideal for kids with behavioral problems. It takes two gondolas to get to the restaurant. If you are going for dinner, you will be cold, but no worries. Keystone generously supplies you with some blankets. They might have the same texture as a Brillo pad, but they are blankets just the same. After enduring endless whines of when are we gonna' be there?" or endless choruses of 100 bottles of beer on the wall, you will reach Der Fondue Chessel, where the Bavarian musicians will serenade with choruses of Roll Out the Barrel." Sit by the fire and drink your booze-spiked hot chocolate.

Then, proceed to the banquet hall, where the real fun begins. Each table has what the Denver Post describes as your personal Fon-Dude or Fod-Dudette. With the chirpiness of a ski instructor teaching a wedge turn, these delightful guys and dolls teach you how to grill your choice of two meats and vegetables. Yes, for $50 a person, you get to grill your own food! Once it's done, you can dip it into a scrumptious variety of sauces. It's quite a messy experience, but it's a whole lot of fun!

Keystone Food Festival
In early September, you can sample the best selections of Keystone's restaurants, as well as some sinfully delicious chocolate, at the Taste of Keystone Festival. Call 970-468-1898 for details. Keystone is living proof that resort food need not be awful- As long as you are willing to pay the price!

This guide to the luxurious tastes of Keystone was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Getting to Keystone: Prepare to Drive, Ride, and Wait.

Jennifer — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:44:00 GMT

If you're planning to visit Keystone, you need to know how to get around. As a Summit County local, I feel obliged to tell you that you that you shouldn't trust everything you read online! I discovered a page that said that the KAB Express provides free shuttle service from Keystone to Breckenridge. Well, it used to. About five years ago. However, at present, it only provides local service throughout Keystone.

Transportation routes throughout Summit County have a tendency to change as frequently as our weather, and that's pretty darn frequently. Here's another boo-boo: One website claims that you can take a Greyhound Bus to Silverthorne, and then transfer to our free Summit Stage Bus (970-668-0999). Uh, no. Silverthorne has not been a Greyhound stop for years. If you've ever been to the Silverthorne Transfer Center, you'd know that it's far too small to squeeze in my greyhound dog, let alone a Greyhound Bus. Greyhound (the bus, not my dog) now stops at Frisco.

That said; let's talk about Keystone travel tips. Keystone is served by two main airports: Eagle and Denver. Eagle Airport is significantly closer to Keystone, which leads one to ask, "Why do most people fly into Denver?" The answer is simple. Flights to Eagle, which is close to the upscale Vail and Beaver Creek Resorts, often cost up $400 more than a flight to Denver. However, there is one distinct benefit to flying into Eagle. If you fly in from Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas/ Ft. Worth, and book a night of lodging in the Vail Valley, your boarding pass and lodging confirmation will serve as a free, same- day lift ticket at Vail. While your Vail Valley lodging might be a splurge, there is a distinct benefit. The Vail area is at a lower altitude than Keystone, so you will have a day to acclimate.

There's an enigmatic shuttle bus that runs from Vail to Keystone. It's "enigmatic,' because its schedule changes each year. For 2008, it only runs on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The bus departs the Vail Transportation Center at 3:30, and arrives in Keystone at 5:30. The bus from Keystone to Vail leaves at 7:30 AM. The cost is $20 round trip. Please call (970) 496-4FUN to make a reservation and to determine whether or not the shuttle still exists.

Denver International Airport is about one to two hours from Keystone. During high season, the drive can be longer. However, Keystone is closer to DIA than the other resorts. In what Floridian weather people call "inclement weather", either the Eisenhower Tunnel or the Loveland Pass might be closed. Then again, if you fly into Eagle, you might find that the Vail Pass is closed. Although this might be annoying, there is good news: Road closures mean lots of snow at Keystone. You might get there a day late, but the getting will be good!

Some websites suggest flying into Colorado Springs. This option is not so strange when you consider the fact some fares to Colorado Springs Municipal Airport might be up to $100 less than fares to Denver. However, expect a drive of at least two hours. On the other hand, if you are traveling to Keystone in the spring or summer, flying into Colorado Springs gives you a chance to check out this the areas' great sites and attractions, such as Pikes Peak, the Olympic Training Center and, uh, Focus on Family.

Once your flight has landed, you'll need to decide how you will get to Keystone. Rental cars should have snow ties and ski racks. If you would rather not drive in winter conditions, consider Colorado Mountain Express. You can book online and go point to point to the Frisco Transfer Center, or go door to door to your Keystone lodging destination. If you choose option one, you'll need to switch to the free Summit Stage. You will want the bus that goes to Silverthorne. If you're reading this in the winter of 2008, when you reach Silverthorne, stay on the bus. It will turn into the Keystone bus. Booking point to point on the Internet is your least expensive option. However, it has its problems. Skiers and riders going or returning from Keystone will be carrying their gear. If you board the bus with four roller bags, as well as your ski or snowboard gear, there's not going to be much room. Furthermore, the Keystone bus will give you an entire tour of the Town of Dillon before it reaches Keystone. In high season, you might be standing up for a long time. You can still save money by booking point to point and having your skis shipped to your Keystone lodging venue. The other option is to go door to door to your rented condo. It costs more, but it's hassle-free.

Once in Keystone, you won't really need a vehicle. If you turn on Krystal 93, our local radio station, you'll hear the following jingle at least four times a day. "Free transportation to your Summit destination." They're singing about the free Summit Stage Bus, which takes you to all destinations throughout Summit County. Locals pay a higher tax and visitors pay a "vacation tax" so that we can have this bus system, but it keeps drivers from New Jersey and Boston off our roads, so it's worth every penny!

Speaking of driving, if you've had even one drink, don't even think about driving around here. Our police force is pretty strict, and if they smell the slightest bit of alcohol on your breath, they are going to make you recite the alphabet. If you can't do it without using the rhythm of the Alphabet Song, they will give you a citation. Since the Stage usually runs until about 1AM, why ruin your Keystone vacation with a traffic accident or a run in with the police? Besides, the Summit Stage is a great place to listen to local gossip. Have fun at Keystone!

This comprehensive Keystone transportation guide was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Ski the Powder of Your Dreams: Hit Keystone's Back Country

Jennifer — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:02:00 GMT

In a sense, back country skiing in Keystone, Colorado can be compared to art. As your skis make contact with the fresh, virgin snow, your tracks create a drawing that is uniquely your own. Your signature stays intact. Here, you can dance down the mountain without anxiety. No need to worry about families of eight suddenly appearing before you. No wedge turners, no frightened females whose boyfriends brought them to terrain they can't handle. Ah, this is bliss. But bliss can be dangerous.

If you long to boldly ski where no gaper has skied before, you need to be prepared for the risks. While the fantasy of being rescued by a Saint Bernard with a barrel of brandy around his neck might sound romantic, believe me, it is not. Some back country skiers subscribe to a "no guts, no glory philosophy." Others sign up for the Keystone Adventure Tour.

Some people describe the Keystone Adventure Tour, also known as KAT, as "Back Country Lite." KAT is a feisty ski resort debutante. She is daring, but likes her comforts. Her "coming out" party took place in Keystone's Independence Bowl in January of 2008. The party is still happening.

The $199 Keystone Adventure Tour offers skiers and riders a guided snowcat tour through 300 gnarly acres of Independence Bowl terrain. It eliminates the need for schlepping up the hill, and you can leave your lunchbox at home. Lunch is served at the new Independence Yurt, where you can feast on homemade breads, soups and desserts as well as a delicious selection of cheeses, meats and salads. This meal is catered by the upscale Alpenglow Stube, where a dinner can often set you back about 100 buckaroos!
Please don't over-indulge! There are no public restrooms in the back country, and we take our "leave no trace" rules seriously.

The Keystone Adventure Tour is guided by a team of ski patrollers. While this can be reassuring if you find yourself in the unfortunate need of rescue, it behooves you to keep in mind that they are not ski or ride instructors. Although this should be a no-brainer, a back country tour is not the place to learn powder skiing. Lest you end up as this year's recipient of the Ski Area Darwin Awards, please take a powder-oriented lesson with one of Keystone's esteemed skis and ride instructors. If you have even the slightest doubt about your abilities, you can eyeball the terrain by taking one Keystone's Scenic Snowcat Tours. For information, call 970-496-4FUN.

However, if you're convinced that you have the right stuff for the back country, the Keystone Adventure Tour is probably one of the best all-inclusive back country packages you can find. The $199 fee includes Salomon powder skis, the use of an avalanche beacon and a safety talk at the start of the day. Keep in mind that you must have your own boots and poles, as well as your own pair of skis to use after the tour. The Salomon skis can only be used during the tour. Groups of 12 can rent the entire cat for $2,189. For the math-challenged, this means that the twelfth person is free. Please, no drunken frat parties in the back country. One drink at altitude equals three at sea level.

Back Country Safety

Speaking of altitude, if you are one of those unfortunate people that live in sea-level states such as Georgia and Texas, please spend a few days in Colorado before taking the Keystone Adventure Tour. Do not take the tour if you are feeling even a touch of altitude sickness.

Keep in mind that back country skiing often involves trees. Only the brainless ski or ride without a brain bucket, so be sure to wear a helmet. The sun shows its muscles on the mountaintops, so be sure to wear lots of sunscreen. That said; make sure you have a pair of goggles and/or sunglasses. Since you are already an experienced skier or rider, you understand the importance of warm thermal underwear, hand warmers and possibly glove liners. Those that insist on exploring Keystone's back country without the assistance of a guide will need to take extra safety precautions.

To avoid dehydration, use one of those bladder backpacks. That way, you can drink and still keep your hands free. Make sure that you have an avalanche beacon, a probe and a shovel, but avoid getting a false sense of security if you have them. Your shovel will only help you rescue others, not yourself, and correct use of a beacon involves practice. Speaking of other people, as much as you might enjoy the solitude of the backcountry, safety demands that you never go out by yourself.

While proper ski boot foot is important for in-piste skiing, it is crucial for the back country. Poorly fitted boots impede technique, which will in turn have serious safety consequences. See a professional boot-fitter before embarking on a back country ski journey. A first aid kit for yourself and for your skis is also important.

A Keystone back country ski trip can be a great opportunity for self-exploration. Stay safe and enjoy!

This guide to Keystone's back Country skiing was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Ready for a New Adventure? Go Nordic at Keystone!

Jennifer — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 22:33:00 GMT

Once upon a time, your best friend, spouse, lover or all of the above invited you on a downhill ski trip. Eager to please, you went along. Upon arrival, you proceeded to the equipment rental shop, where you were "fitted" for a pair of ski boots. As you squeezed into the equivalent of two iron foot girdles, you knew that if you ever auditioned for the role of one of Cinderella's stepsisters, you have something you can use.

Next you waited, in sub-zero temperatures, on the lift-line. Once you got on the lift, you discovered that you have this fear of heights. Then the lift stopped because of "mechanical difficulties." As it swayed back and forth, you wondered if you were having fun yet. Yet you love going on vacation with your friend\spouse \lover. Can this relationship be saved? Yes it can! It's called cross-country skiing in Keystone.

Picture this: No lift lines, no awkward and heavy skis and no uncomfortable boots. Imagine gliding through the glistening snow, surrounded by the quiet and pristine splendor of the Keystone Nordic Ski Resort. Cross-country skiing has a shorter learning curve than downhill. Not only is it safer than downhill, it burns more calories. Nordic skiers hike uphill, which explains their gorgeous butts and slim thighs.

Now let's plan for your Keystone cross-country ski trip. You'll be traveling to a high altitude environment. Since walking around with an oxygen tank can make you look like a dork, altitude sickness prevention should start prior to your trip. While Keystone's Nordic ski area is at a somewhat lower elevation than the alpine, cross-country skiing will require significantly more exertion, so get involved in an aerobic fitness program prior to your trip.

Starting one week prior to your trip, begin increasing your water consumption. Although the research is a bit sketchy, some people believe that avoiding beer and red meat will make you less susceptible to altitude sickness. Others swear by taking ginkgo. There is an altitude sickness drug called Diamox, but it can be dangerous for anyone who is allergic to sulfa drugs. Diamox has also been known to make your beer taste "skunky," so you might want to consider other options. Some experts claim that sleeping at a lower altitude can be helpful. If you know that you are susceptible to altitude sickness, you can stay in nearby Dillon or Summit Cove. Another option is to spend a day in Denver or Boulder before heading to Keystone, or simply take it easy on your first day. Now let's talk about Keystone cross-country skiing.

If you plan to stay at one of Keystone's lodging venues, you'll receive a free Adventure Passport, which gives you great discounts on Nordic trail fees, equipment rentals and lessons. If you're bringing the kids, you might want to start with an old fashioned family tubing session. This is a particularly good idea for families from snow starved areas such as Texas or Florida. The sensation of gliding on the snow is unique. It can be frightening to some children, and, while they won't admit it, testosterone-heavy adults. A snow tube session allows you to "become one" with the sensual sensation of snow-gliding.
Keystone offers the Polar Bear program for kids 6-12. For $35, they receive an equipment rental as well as a 45 minute lesson. Although this sounds short, be advised that kids sometimes have a shorter attention span and energy level, so 45 minutes is sufficient.

The Keystone Nordic Center also offers Friday Ladies Days. These women-only clinics feature cross-country skiing in the morning and snowshoeing or ice skating in the afternoon. The cost is $55 for lessons, equipment and lunch. Regular group cross-country ski lessons cost $38 for the trail fee and equipment rental. However, if you would prefer a bit of privacy, $49 buys a private lesson. Both of theses lesson plans are eligible for a $5 discount with the Adventure Passport. Call 970-496-42t5 for details.

Keystone has over 16 kilometers of groomed trails. The adventurous can take advantage of its 57 kilometers of backcountry trails, which explore the ghost mining towns of the Montezuma area. The well-plowed Keystone Gulch Trail receives over 200 inches of snow, and thus retains its cover in late season. It ascends the Keystone Gulch Road and ends at one of the Keystone downhill ski lifts in a back bowl. However, it avoids contact with the main Keystone downhill area. This is an excellent trail for families with children or novice Nordic skiers, since the grade is less steep than other trails.

Unlike the crazed cafeterias of downhill ski resorts, the Keystone Nordic Soup Bistro is a comfy and mellow cafe, where you can enjoy a soup buffet lunch. Here, a warm cup of cocoa takes the chill out of a cold day. In general, Nordic skiers tend to be a bit "crunchier' than their alpine brothers and sisters. If the idea of going downhill fast does not appeal to you, consider a cross country ski vacation at Keystone.

This guide to Nordic adventures in Keystone was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Bring the Whole Family to Keystone and Make Some Memories

Jennifer — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:48:00 GMT

It's time to plan your annual family vacation. In the past, you've made sacrifices. You hugged Mickey at Disney, and lost money at Vegas. This year, the tribe has spoken. You're going to Keystone.

Getting There Is Half The Fun

Keystone is the perfect choice for a family ski vacation. If you're traveling by plane, your flight arrives in Denver International Airport. Kids get a kick out of the inter-terminal train, which plays cowboy music upon its arrival. Then, there's the special ski baggage carousel, which features separate, upright compartments for your skis and snowboards. As you await the arrival of your beloved quiver, you and your family can watch the possible Darwin Award recipients that try to sit in the compartments.

Renting a car? Make sure that it has snow tires. While this might sound like a no-brainer, in heavy snow, you won't be allowed on certain sections of I70 without snow tires or chains. Fortunately, Keystone is closer to Denver Airport than other resorts, so you won't have to spend too much time listening to choruses of "are we there yet?" If weather permits, take the Loveland Pass. This steep mountain road is the highest pass in Colorado. At certain points, you can get out of the car and take in the spectacular view. Now, onward to Keystone!

Sea level visitors might find that they feel a bit light headed upon arrival. Resist the temptation to go directly to the slopes. Keystone has night skiing and night tubing. Once you've acclimated, you can make up for lost time by extending your ski day. Older folks are often more susceptible to altitude sickness, so advise grandma and grandpa to lay off the booze. One drink at altitude equals three at sea level, so if you don't want grandma singing off-key Sinatra songs at Dos Locos Karaoke Bar, restraint is advised!

Hopefully, you decided to rent a multi-bedroom condo, as opposed to a number of separate hotel rooms. What you might sacrifice in privacy, you can make up for in convenience. Extended family members can help take care of the kids, and cooking becomes a family event. If you book a condo in any one of Keystone's villages, you will receive the valuable Adventure Passport, which offers perks such as:

*15% Discount at a variety of Keystone Restaurants
*Free Salad Bar at the Edgewater Cafe with the purchase of an entree
*Free Salsa and Chips at Parrot Eyes, with the purchase of an entre

Keystone Family Adventures

The Adventure Passport also offers free NASTAR family racing. It starts at 10:30 at the Flying Dutchman Race Arena. Advice for parents with teenagers: They will most likely beat you. Get over it! There's more to skiing than speed. Keystone offers 3,148 acres of varied terrain, as well as 3,128 spectacular vertical. Its 121 trails are serviced by 20 lifts including two gondolas, 1 express six-pack and 5 high-speed quads. Mom and dad can take the guided backcountry Keystone Adventure Tour, while Aunt Alice and Uncle Horace can cruise the long green and blue runs such as Schoolmarm. Let your teenage knuckle draggers jib in the new A51 Terrain Park. The key to a successful family ski trip is balancing family time with individual freedom. Stay connected either by cell phone, or one of those portable radios. However, keep in mind that other people can hear your radio conversations, so watch what you say.

Group Hug

Never try to force family members to ski terrain that is inappropriate for their abilities. Sure, ski lessons are expensive, but so are divorce attorneys. If you take your wife on terrain that freaks her out, forget about "getting lucky,' even with the romantic in-room Jacuzzi! Worried that she might fall for the handsome ski instructor? Either find a coach whose "pole swings in a different direction," or enroll your wife in one of Keystone's famous Betty Fests, designed for female skiers and riders. You can have some family time by enrolling in one of Keystone's Mom, Dad and Me sessions. For $95, three family members can get a one-hour lesson with one of Keystone's fantastic coaches. This type of lesson helps family members learn how to accommodate each other's skill and terrain preferences on the slopes.

Family ski lessons are just one way for families and extended families to enjoy their time at Keystone. In addition to downhill skiing, there's cross-country skiing, snowshoe hikes, tubing, skating and sleigh rides. Even new moms can enjoy a family vacation at Keystone. She can purchase a sturdy baby carrier, and head for the Keystone Nordic Center. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing while carrying the baby adds weight to the activity, and can therefore burn off extra calories. Furthermore, the $9 dollar trail fee at the Nordic Center is considerable less expensive than lift tickets at any downhill resort. Athletic grandma and grandpas can join the family on the downhill or cross-country slopes, or enjoy the various shopping opportunities in the Keystone Village. Reward them for their babysitting services by treating them to a day at the upscale Keystone Lodge and Spa. Let them hold the video camera to film the family members as they come down from the slopes. Memories are made of this.

This guide to your Keystone family vacaton was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Take the Family to Park City for Some Holiday Cheer

Jennifer — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:08:00 GMT

Has it been too long since you've had a white Christmas? Are you tired of spending an entire holiday season without so much as a small nose nibble from Jack Frost? If so, this might be a great year to spend the holidays in Park City, Utah. Park City has much to offer visiting families during the holidays. The world-class ski and snowboarding slopes of Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and The Canyons Resort draw snow bunnies to Park City throughout the winter months. Why not start a new holiday tradition of belting out Christmas carols while dashing through the snow on skis?

If sliding down a mountain at breathtaking speed is not your cup of holiday cheer, a variety of other outdoor adventures await. Try walking in a winter wonderland on snowshoes; it's great exercise, and it's easy to enjoy the landscape when it plods past at a reasonable pace. A similarly peaceful experience can be had on cross-country skis. Gear for either of these activities can be rented from a number of shops in Park City, and some companies provide guided tours.

If you want a bit more speed and less chance of the outrageously sore quadriceps that plague most beginning snowshoers, try a dog sledding tour. There is nothing quite like feeling the wind in your face as a yelping pack of dogs gleefully hauls you and a sled through the snowy landscape. Attach some sleigh bells and bring a bag of toys and you might just pass for Santa Claus as the dogs fly across the frozen ground!

Park City can also keep the less-athletically inclined members of your family entertained over the holidays. A stroll up Main Street provides a chance to view the town's quaint Victorian architecture all dolled up for the holidays. Boutiques and fine restaurants cater to winter visitors, allowing for some unique last-minute gift buying opportunities and the chance to put on those extra holiday pounds in style.

Park City features some holiday traditions that can whip the young or the young at heart into a true frenzy of holiday excitement. In mid-December, Santa Claus descends into town via ski lift, complete with sleigh, reindeer, and presents. Visitors are invited to come see the jolly old elf and enjoy some hot cocoa and snacks.

Come Christmas Eve, Santa hits the slopes once again as he leads the torchlight parade down the PayDay ski run. The flowing, sparkling lights of this parade are sure to set visions of sugar plums dancing into the most humbuggy hearts.

However you plan to spend your Park City holiday, be sure to be prepared for sub-freezing temperatures and snowy conditions. Pack plenty of warm clothing, and make sure to wear layers that you can peal off as you work up a sweat on the slopes or in the shops. With its great variety of activities and its glorious natural scenery, Park City can offer holiday cheer to everyone in your family.

This guide to a Park City winter holiday was brought to you by Geraldine Bivens.

Spend the Holidays in Park City--Make it a Tradition

Jennifer — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:04:00 GMT

I'll be the first to admit that spending the winter holiday season in Park City, Utah sounded a little nutty to me the first time it was brought up. My first thought was "Brrr that's cold," it averages somewhere in the mid twenties! That's Fahrenheit folks, it is chilly! But when I saw the ski resorts and the list of events the city has to offer over the holidays I was intrigued enough that I actually agreed to go. That's saying something because for me vacations, especially in the winter, usually means the beach.

While I thought the trip itself was my gift the real gift was that as much of the family as could manage came for the holiday as well! To make things really special and still maintain some space a string of four condos were rented out so we had the freedom to do as we pleased, within reason of course. We all look forward to "feast day" in which we spend the day cooking for each other and doing some serious eating.

As it isn't easy to get over twenty people together every year, in 1994 we agreed this would be something we did every three years and we've stuck to it! We stay close to the skiing and due to some fresh ideas we created a great set of family traditions. We have the "Family Ski Challenge" in which we have trophies that are rotated to the winning family and individuals along with braggiing rights! Of course we don't really compete (At least we say we don't), but we love having our names engraved on the "Victory Cup" and manage to laugh when it winds up on the "Golden Toilet" award. Sure it's silly but we love it and it has become a great tradition.

When we're lucky and it times out correctly in January (And we always try to be sure it does) the gals take a spa day for some pampering while the guys go bobsledding. Then we meet up after lunch and get decked out like movie stars (Or at least movie stars on a budget), and head to the Sundance Film Festival! We practice our best "No pictures please" just in case we get mistaken for stars. We never have, but if we do we're ready! This is the highlight for us and usually marks the last few days of our holiday together so we do it to the nines and have a photgrapher come take a professional portrait for us!

What makes our Park City holiday so special is we all find things there we love and can do together that no place else offers over the holidays, or at any time for that fact. We laugh, love, and argue but we always come back because Park City doesn't just feel like our "holiday home" it is our holiday home! Well, it is every three years at least. This is a place where you can build your family traditions, enjoy an intimate holiday meal or hit a five-star restaurant, whatever you choose you can do here. Go once and you'll again. Just to be safe though if you see a really big lady in a toxic green ski suit heading towards you at the bottom of the slope move fast, it's me and I don't know how to stop! Me plowing into you is not a tradition either of us wants.

This Park City family memory was brought to you by Amanda Fox.

A Galveston Getaway is Perfect for Any Age!

Jennifer — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:08:00 GMT

Why pack a suitcase--just stuff a few pairs of shorts, couple of t-shirts, sandals, tennis shoes and some towels and sunscreen in an overnight bag, and head off for sun, sand and surf! I live about 4 1/2 hours from Galveston, which is great when I want to take an impulsive getaway weekend. We try to squeeze a few "let's do it now" weekends in every year. And we are never disappointed with our mini vacations to the Texas Island.

Because we go to Galveston several times a year many people ask us what we like best? Everyone wants to know what are the best attractions the "Texas Tourist Mecca" offers to folks coming to rest, relax and spend hard earned money? I always answer that it depends on what you want to do in Galveston.

BEACHES, BEACHES,& MORE BEACHES

EAST BEACH, is the party beach where alcohol is allowed and concerts can be found. It has an outside patio beach bar, public pavilion and plenty of bikinis to watch! This beach also is the site of the annual AIA (architects and designers) Sandcastle Design Contest, which I highly recommend you go and see(so plan your trip in June when it is held). You will really not believe the sand castles these people build!

WEST GALVESTON ISLAND BEACHES are more picturesque and secluded. They are where you find the lovely expensive designer seaside homes of the island. Two beaches are open to the public Pocket Beach #1 and Pocket Beach #2. World class fishing abounds off this coastal seascape and Audubon says that this part of Galveston Island is one of the top Birding locations in America. Grab your beach chair, sunscreen and a stocked ice chest then relax without being overwhelmed by thousands of tourists on these mellow beaches.

STEWART BEACH, the popular tourist venue, is perhaps Galveston's most famous beach. It is 10 miles long and runs parallel to the historic Galveston seawall. The Galveston seawall was built years ago(after the devastating Hurricane of 1900) to protect the thriving gulf town from ocean flooding and hurricanes. Many hotels and vacation condos sit back off the edge of the beach seawall and allow easy access to the sand and sea. Restaurants and boutiques line the streets which run up and down the length of the beach seawall and you can rent sun shade umbrellas and chairs at many beach stations making this the #1 family and tourist beach. It is also famous for the rows of sand volleyball nets and endless games that go on until darkness covers the view of the ball.

PALM BEACH at MOODY GARDENS, is the white, white, white sand and fresh water swimming playland of Galveston. Here you will find all the attractions the kids want to see and do. Moody Gardens is well worth a look-see. Have you ever been in a pyramid? There are 3 main pyramids to visit: the Aquarium...the Rain-forest in a pyramid...and the Discovery Pyramid of hands on science. I love this place and it is not just for kids!

NATURE LOVERS' PARADISE

If you are a back-to-the-earth kind of person you must go and ramble around Galveston Island State park. The 2,000 acre park is found on the west side of the island and offers you a chance to get off the beaten path and spend your vacation time with an affordable "back to nature" sojourn. The park offers camping, birdwatching, nature study, hiking, bike riding, fishing, and beach swimming (unsupervised beaches).It is also a dog friendly park, so take the dogs with you, don't leave them in a kennel! This state park is a must do for anyone who is bird watcher, as it is a migratory site for many unusual birds you will not find in your backyard.(Our personal non-touristy place on the island!)

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO FOR YOUNG or 'OLDER' FOLKS

If you get tired of the sand and sun, or are just not a true sun-worshiper, Galveston has many things to do and see away from the sea and sand. If you want to do the "touristy things", I always recommend the Lone Star Flight Museum because it has about 40 airplanes you only see in movies and it is FREE! Plus it is next to Moody Gardens and the Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark. Everybody in the family will love the planes and the waterpark.

The small island has a wealth of art galleries and museums. Check out the Mardi Gras Museum of costumes and memorabilia, then take the family to the Texas Seaport Museum and visit a sailing legend the "Tall Ship" Elissa. If you are a art lover stroll the "Strand", a 5 block downtown of refurbished historical Victorian buildings and spend a leisurely afternoon visiting boutiques, bistros and galleries. You will also find an unusual game at Saengerfest Park nestled alongside the "Strand": a life size chess board and pieces stand waiting for human players to move them to their next squares.

If you love visiting interesting buildings and learning about historical architecture go see St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica. This historic church is one of the few buildings to make through the famous and devastating Galveston Hurricane or 1900. It was built in 1847 and mass is still held there 6 days a week. History buffs will enjoy other buildings with unusual architecture and interesting histories like Ashton Villa, Bishop's Palace and Moody Mansion.

Two of the nightlife attractions we enjoy each time we go to Galveston are the Strand Street Theater and the Grand 1894 Opera House. Something is usually playing at one of them that catches our interest. And you might take a romantic carriage ride after the show around the "the Strand" boulevard ending at a late night cafe for dessert!

I must mention one other "to do" attraction Galveston offers. Deep sea fishing boat excursions, which are something you must try once in a lifetime. You can reserve 4 hr, 8 hr or 12 hr trips and be sure to take an ice chest packed with your favorite refreshments!

Galveston with its semi-tropical weather is a joy to visit anytime of the year and there is much to do and experience on the gulf island no matter if you are going for a romantic weekend, or an impulsive getaway, or a family vacation. Casual restaurants or fancy resorts..party beaches or secluded beaches...art galleries or waterparks--there is something for all ages and all types of people to enjoy!

This guide to a Galveston getaway was brought to you by Pam Uher.