Tours de Sport's Blog

Top Ten Things Only Skiers Know...

2010-02-24T11:54:00.013-05:00

Chapstick IS a necessity.

The pure beauty of laying first tracks on an unskied trail.

The perfect place to meet someone is stuck on a chair lift.

It doesn’t matter how fancy your equipment is, it’s how you use it!

What a Misty, Frontside Rodeo & Hot Garbage is.

Après Ski rocks!

The importance of sun block.

Burning calories can be fun.

The reason mom always said put a hat on!

That Winter is the Best Season ever!

-Sam Norberg

Cell Phone Service & Wi-fi Connections in the Mountains are Improving!

2010-02-22T11:23:00.005-05:00

The following are some updates on cell phones that work the best and Wi-fi connection locations.

Hunter:
Has decent cellular service with Verizon & US Cellular being the best providers. Snowstorms do have an affect on connection believe it or not.

Wi-fi is available for a charge at the Ski Area Base Lodge.

Killington:
Verizon & AT&T have the best coverage. Others will have problems. Bear Mountain does not have good coverage all.

Wi-fi is available at the Killington Grand Hotel.

Loon:
Verizon & US Cellular are the best providers.

Wi-fi is available at all base lodges.

Smugglers Notch:
Verizon has the best coverage and AT&T is ok.

Wi-fI is available in the Village Condos for a fee.

Snowshoe:

AT&T is the best and make sure you are facing West. The Top of the World near the “Ticket Depot” is a great area.

Wi-fi is available at Shaver Center, Expo Big Top, Starbucks and Mistys

Silver Creek is good for Wi-fi and the Village has Ethernet/cable connect.

Stowe:
Verizon has the best coverage for cellphones.

Sugarbush:
Unicel and AT&T are ok while Sprint works in the Valley. Verizon does not seem to be able to connect in this area.

Wi-fi is located at Claybrook, Gatehouse Lodge and the Sugarbush Inn.

Sugarloaf:
Very good cellular coverage with most providers.

Wi-fi is available at the Sugarloaf Inn and Sugarloaf Mountain Lodge and Base Lodges.

Whiteface:
Verizon has the best coverage, other providers have issues making a solid connection.

Wi-fi is available at base lodge, cafeteria, bar and coffee shop.

We hope this information helps you while on your ski vacation to any of these resorts!

- Goody Dwyer

America's best hope for skiing gold in Vancouver

2010-01-29T12:38:00.002-05:00

The Winter Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia start in just two weeks, and Alpine skiing will once again take center stage. A total of ten Alpine Skiing events will take place at the Whistler resort, just a short drive north from Vancouver. Athletes will compete in five disciplines as medals will be awarded on both the men's and women's side in downhill, slalom, giant slalom, super-G, and super combined.

America's best hope for a gold medal is 25-year old Lindsey Vonn, who has won more World Cup titles than other female in U.S. skiing history. She has also claimed the title of overall champion in each of the last two World Cup seasons. Despite her current status as the top female skier in the world, Vonn has yet to win an Olympic medal. Vonn was just 17 years old at the Salt Lake City Games and finished an impressive sixth in the combined event. Four years ago, she crashed in training and bruised her hip just one day before finishing eighth in the downhill event. She was given the U.S. Olympic Spirit Award for continuing to compete in Torino despite the injury. Vonn is expected to ski in all five events at Whistler, but her best shots at gold will be in the speed races (downhill and super-G). She won gold at both of those events at the 2009 World Championships in Val d'Isere, France.

Spring Skiing

2010-01-25T15:41:00.002-05:00

It’s been a pretty good ski season in the east so far this year. Typically cold weather, good snow and the sun low in the sky.

Most outings include dressing in layers, hand and foot warmers and neck gaiters. For many people the season starts to wind down after the February vacation. Once the snow disappears from the back yard thoughts start to turn more to spring. For most major resorts in the east, the season regularly goes to mid to late April!

Spring skiing is a different experience. With all of the snow making efforts and the natural snow (February is the snowiest month with March being the second) there is good trail cover right to closing day. The temperatures are milder and with daylight saving time starting March 14th the sun is high in the sky the entire day. Think about skiing wearing a vest, ball cap and sunglasses and don’t forget the sun block. With resorts getting into the swing of things with outdoor barbeques, live bands on the deck and on mountain activities like pond skimming and fun races. If all this isn’t enough, the price go down late season so there are some good deals to be had.

Give one of Tours de Sport’s vacation specialists a call and let them put some packages together for you. It’s a great way to top off the ski season.

Don't Give Whistler a "Miss" in this Olympic Year!

2010-01-22T17:15:00.005-05:00

Unless you have been living under a rock, you are probably well aware that the Winter Olympics will set up shop in Vancouver and Whistler for two weeks starting on February 12^th. Yes, the games are returning to North American soil for the first time since the Salt Lake City games in 2002. Contrary to what you might think, this event makes it the perfect year to make Whistler Blackcomb your ski vacation destination.

The simple fact is that a visit this winter will let you experience Whistler at its “spit & polish” finest. Millions and millions of dollars have been spent to upgrade facilities, renovate lodging properties, and dramatically improve access to the resort, vis-à-vis the Sea to Sky Highway (Hwy 99) from Vancouver to Whistler.

Sure there are lodging blackouts during the games themselves, but if you can travel in March and April, you will find no roadblocks in planning your visit. In fact, if you want to get a taste of the Olympic experience without the madness, plan your visit during the Paralympic games which take place from March 12-21. Talk about some inspiring athletes that you should see in person, well, enough said!

Best of all the snow this year is amazing. After a record setting 18 feet, yes that's feet in November, it has not let up. The folks at VANOC, the Olympic organizing committee must have made a deal with old Scratch himself to provide such picture perfect conditions.

Both the ski resort and the lodging community want everyone to know that it is business as usual this winter, so come on up and make your own Olympic memories.

Taking Flight to Vermont for Skiing?

2010-01-22T17:05:00.005-05:00

If you are considering flying to Vermont, here at a glance are some quick points that will give you an idea on distance and transfer options to your ski area.

Stowe and Smugglers Notch are approximately 30 minutes from Burlington, VT.
Transfers are by car rental in Burlington. Taxi transfer is available.

Sugarbush is about one hour from Burlington. Transfers are by car rental in Burlington, VT.

Killington has 3 options for airports and all are about 2 hours travel.
Burlington, VT
Albany, NY
Manchester, NH

Transfers are by car rental to Killington.

Rutland Airport is a small airport approximately ½ an hour from Killington with limited service
A taxi transfer is available

Amtrak is an option via train also to Killington, VT. The station is in Rutland,VT and a
bus transfer to the ski area can be arranged for your convenience.

Mount Snow is approximately 1 hour from Albany, NY
Transfers are by car rental in Albany.

Enjoy your travel to these Vermont Ski Areas and remember that if you are renting a car, snow tires or all-weather radials are desirable, and a ski rack also is a great option.

Goody Dwyer

Goody is our resident Vermonter and if any of us know the ins and outs of getting around Vermont, she's the one.

Snow Recap So Far...

2010-01-22T15:26:00.002-05:00

The season started off with Whistler setting the standard for all other Western resorts. With over 18 feet of snow falling in November, the resort officially broke its record for most snowfall for the month. To date, they have received nearly 400 inches, and still have half a season to go.

Other resorts throughout the Western US got a bit more of a slow start to the season. Storms in Colorado and Utah would sporadically dump snow on occasion, giving locals and visitors hope for a season like last year. The snow so far hasn’t quite been what was dreamed about, but with the snowiest months on record coming up, there is plenty of potential.

Jackson Hole is having another great year. Over 16 feet of snow have fallen on the summit to date providing skiers and riders with the face shots they expect to receive from the Tetons.

In this past week, storms have moving through Utah, Wyoming, California, leaving behind plenty of white gold. It remains to be seen how the rest of the season will turn out, but hopes are high that Mother Nature will make February, March, and April months to remember.

The “Truth” About Last Minute Deals...

2010-01-15T10:15:00.006-05:00

We have all heard the people on TV saying, the country’s in a recession, travel deals are hot, book last minute to get best rate. Sure, these are all good tips if you are travelling to a major city with hundreds of hotels and lodging options.

However, this is NOT necessarily the case when it comes to Northeast Ski resorts!

Fact #1 – There are only a limited number of slope-side accommodations at the actual mountain. Not as many rooms to fill, not a need to basement bargain the rates!

Fact #2 - 80% of families and groups looking to travel during any Peak Holiday time period make their reservations as early as November. Book early to reserve a large unit as you will not find these last minute!

Fact#3 – Supply creates it’s own demand! Skiing in the Northeast typically lasts from late November through March. This means the whole season is over and done with in close to 4 months. Skiers who want to ski will travel and will pay top dollar. They know it as do the resorts.

So can you find a last minute deal? Absolutely! If you are open to proximity to the base lodge, room size and general amenities any ski travel specialist can find you a “Hot Deal”. Midweek packages will ALWAYS be your best find and the least crowded on the slopes. And many places offer great Sunday arrival discounts as well.

So shop around and find the best bang for your buck! Just don’t wait to long!

-Samantha Norberg

Sam is one our best bargain hunters, so she knows of what she speaks. -Cecil

The Evolution of Planks

2009-11-16T15:48:00.002-05:00

It all began with a pair of sticks used as a means of transportation, hunting, and other day-to-day activities in prehistoric Norway. After thousands of years of evolution, skis made the transition from practical necessity to a flamboyant sporting good, bearing fluorescent patterns and lengths that towered well over the owners of the equipment.

Skis have continued to change with the times, defying the societal norms of stick thin models, and moving on to the more curvaceous breeds. As enthusiasts began to embrace shaped skis over their taller, thinner counterparts, beginners and experts alike noticed how the curves help hug the slopes like an Italian sports car on a winding cliffside road. Colors and patterns have matured as well, as companies started to turn their sponsored skiers into artists in order to allow the average skier to exhibit his personality while careening down the side of a mountain.

In the meantime, skiing has spawned in some way, shape, or form a number of different downhill sports. While skiing’s distant cousin snowboarding is loathe to acknowledge this particular member of the family tree, there is an inarguable family resemblance. The popularity of both is a big commonality, and neither of these sports is going anywhere in the near future. While alpine Darwinism may weed out some of the more eccentric pastimes (the future of snowbikes remains to be seen), skis and boards will most likely continue to evolve with ever-changing technology, and keep people intrigued by where they’ll venture to next...

Here Comes Winter!

2009-11-02T07:00:00.002-05:00

Well, it’s that time of year again. The summer-that-never- was (at least in the northeast) is over. The days getting shorter, the kids are back in school, and you may have seen notices of ski shop sales. It’s time to start thinking about your ski trips for the coming winter. There has already been snow in parts of New England any many of the major resorts in New England & Eastern Canada plan to open in mid November. That’s less than one month away.

There have been quite a few changes at various areas. Mont Tremblant, in Quebec, aside from being one of our most visited resorts, has added a wonderful après ski option. The Casino de Mont Tremblant opened this year. It is located on Versant Soleil and connected to the pedestrian village on the South Side by a new gondola. Also, in Canada we have added another condominium property to our offerings at Mont Ste Anne. Condos au Pied Du Mont are less than a mile from the lifts and offer a moderately priced option. Down in the States, Loon Mountain in New Hampshire is continuing their South Ridge expansion with more trails coming on line this year.

Tours de Sport has been offering ski & snowboard vacations throughout the Eastern United States and Eastern Canada for 28 years so we have a bit of experience in trip planning. Also new this year, we are offering vacation packages to Western US & Western Canada. There is still plenty of availability for the Christmas holiday, some great deals for early season getaways, and don’t forget about Presidents’ Week. We can help with your family vacation, a couples’ weekend or group trip and it’s never too early to start the planning.

And, by the way, the Old Farmer’s Almanac is forecasting a colder and snowier than normal winter which is always good news. So go on line and design your vacation or give us a call and speak with one of our vacation specialists and get going on that ski vacation today.

Safety First at the Slopes!

2009-10-15T12:26:00.000-04:00

Ok, you’ve arrived on your vacation and the kids are ready to hit the slopes! Too bad mom’s staring at the pretty red first aid station and not letting go of the lift tickets….Fear not!

By following a few simple tips everyone can have a fun and “accident free” winter vacation!

1. Know your surroundings. Nobody should venture onto the mountain without a trail map. Both adults and children alike should know where that lift is going to take you and that there is a trail based on your ski level to get back down!

2. 2-Way radios are an excellent way to stay in touch while cruising the slopes. If your party will be separated by Black to Green trails, these inexpensive walkie talkies can keep you all in communication. Plus everyone will know where to meet for the Après Ski party!

3. Purchase or rent ski helmets. Even the most die hard skiers have embraced the safety of the ski helmet! Know your limits; even the hardest head can take a good knock!

4. Wear your protective goggles and gloves. There is a reason they were made! First tumble you take and poke your eye with the top of your pole, you’ll wished you had them on! Trust me on this one!

5. Take a break! Yes, you want to get in every moment of skiing you can in a day but this is a serious aerobic exercise and will burn energy. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and pack a few energy bars in your ski coat to munch on throughout the day.

6. And lastly, make sure everyone in your party knows where the first aid station is and what the ski patrol look like. Nobody wants to think worst-case scenario but everyone should know what to do just in case!

Now, take a deep breathe, feel the wind in your face and enjoy the day!
Just watch out for the people in front of you!

Welcome the new Casino de Mont-Tremblant!

2009-09-29T17:11:00.003-04:00

Looking for yet another diversion while enjoying the East's best ski resort? Look no further than the new casino at Mont-Tremblant. The centerpiece in a mountain crown, this welcoming, upscale establishment is a sparkling gem in a stunning natural setting. The Casino de Mont-Tremblant opened in June 2009 as the fourth casino in the Province of Québec. Guests will enjoy full gaming, from slots and video poker, to live craps, blackjack, and roulette. The casino is located in the Versant Soleil section of Mont-Tremblant and is connected to the pedestrian village on the South Side by a new gondola. The gondola will run on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but every day, from 7am to 4am, a shuttle bus will run between the Casino and the pedestrian village, stopping at the P2, P3 and P6 parking lots.

Even Snow Bunnies Feel the Pinch of the Economy!

2009-09-28T10:25:00.007-04:00

Alright, so having the complete matching head to toe in the latest/greatest ski fashion is your thing. No way would you get caught on the slopes in the same outfit you wore last year. Sound familiar?

Ok my little fashionista’s, we are in a recession, so time to become, yes a Recessionista! Simply put, a recessionista is someone who seeks out fashionable items which are also low-cost. Ski gear and snow pants are no exception!

So, how do you afford the annual ski trip with the gang and keep your style? Here are a few tricks that myself and my friends use:

Ski Swaps! If you or your children have outgrown your skis yet again, stop buying new. Hit your local ski swaps offered at just about every local ski shop I know. Get barely used skis for ½ the cost or, if you have skis of your own, barter, barter, barter!
Pre-Ski Party! Gather your friends, family and neighbors and clean out those closets! If you are like me, you have a box of scarf’s and hats and gloves to match each years outfit! Used to You – New to Them! Trade out your gear and have fun doing it! Not to mention a perfect excuse to start planning your winter ski trip!
Hit the local ski shops! Any avid Snow Bunny knows end of the season sales are the best time get new gear. But hey, it’s a recession! Take advantage. Many shops are already offering discounts from anywhere up to 50% off to help with pre-winter sales. Check your papers, keep your eye on the web and hit the stores!

So suit up, gloss up and hit the slopes! And always remember that your happy smile while cruising the slopes is ALWAYS the best accessory!

-Sam Norberg

(Sam has been our staff fashionista for over 10 years. None of us head out to the slopes with her approval of our ski apparel du jour. It's a tough job, but someone has to do it. She is especially tough when it comes to duct tape!)

Tours de Sport is a proud member of SkiTops

2009-09-28T08:50:00.004-04:00

Tours de Sport is pleased to announce it's membership in SkiTops, the official ski tour operators association. SkiTops companies subscribe to common standards of professionalism, courtesy and business ethics. Most SkiTops member companies have been in business for 20 years or longer, and most, including Tours de Sport specialize in certain destinations and use their buying power to get the best rates available for the consumer.

Each SkiTops company has been packaging and selling ski vacations for a minimum of five years, annually generates 10,000 skier days or lodging nights, and maintains comprehensive general liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 or more. Further, each member must be recognized by four ski resorts or eight lodging companies as a wholesaler, and they must be ARC or IATA approved.

SkiTops established this demanding criteria for membership to encourage professionalism and excellence. The organizations overriding goal is to foster communication among suppliers, the media and consumers for the purpose of enhancing the quality of services provided by SkiTops members to the ski travel industry.

You can be assured that while working with a SkiTops company, you are working with the best!

Après Entertainment in Utah: The Fall of the Zion Curtain

2009-09-02T18:48:00.003-04:00

When people think about visiting Utah for the first time, often they will have a little apprehension about the local drinking laws. Rumors and reality get intertwined when it comes to a subject that can even mystify locals at times. While the world famous Utah powder is what generally draws people to the area, the possibility of not being able to partake in an après beverage or two can be a bit off-putting.

Many have heard about the infamous “private clubs” of Utah, although few understand this alien concept. To gain entry into a private club is not exactly a feat of social status, but rather an inconvenience involving sponsorship or an entry fee. There is also the matter of the “Zion Curtain,” a barrier that prevents bartenders from passing drinks directly to patrons.

On July 1, a bill was passed changing these archaic laws. The need for sponsorship and paid entry into drinking establishments has been eliminated, as well as the Zion Curtain. While these changes make obtaining a drink in Utah comparable to mountain towns throughout the country, “The Greatest Snow on Earth” is still an element of Utah that cannot be found anywhere else.

- Jen Connelly

Mont Sainte-Anne - Hidden Beauty of the East.

2009-09-01T13:44:00.004-04:00

Most of our customer base is probably unaware of the hidden beauty that is Mont Sainte-Anne ski resort in the eastern portion of the province of Quebec. This is most likely due to the fact that the resort can be difficult to reach by car (six hours from Boston, eight hours from NYC), but guests who choose to fly will find that the resort is barely a half-hour drive from Jean Lesage International Airport in Quebec City.

Even a short trip to Mont Sainte-Anne will give skiers a very rewarding vacation, and its relative seclusion can be a great way to avoid the crowds that plague most of the American resorts during busy holiday periods. The premier lodging property at the resort is the Chateau Mont Sainte-Anne, a four-star property just a few hundred feet from the lifts. This property has everything one could want in a deluxe ski lodge, and the customer service is second to none. Furthermore, the hotel has undergone recent renovations that have updated about half of the existing rooms into a more modern and luxurious style. These ‘nordic rooms’ are a bit extra, but worth every penny. Another option for larger families and groups are the Chalets Mont Sainte-Anne, located right next door to the Chateau. This property offers units about 50 units, most ranging from three to five bedrooms, all within walking distance of the lifts.

Some of the best features of Mont Sainte-Anne are those attractions that have nothing to do with skiing. The Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica is one of the most well-known cathedrals in all of Quebec. This imposing medieval-style church presents 240 stained-glass windows, an outstanding rose window as well as many enchanting works of art. The church is divided in five aisles separated by imposing pillars. Lastly, take a day off from the slopes to enjoy the splendor and beauty of the old city of Quebec. Last year marked the 400th anniversary of the city’s founding, and pieces of history can be found everywhere. The Quebec Winter Carnival is the city’s most famous annual celebration. The festival typically starts on the first Friday of January and runs for 17 days, and is reminiscent of Mardi Gras celebrations in other regions of the world. With close to one million participants, it has grown to become the largest winter celebration in the world.

- Matt Frost

Northeast Ski Resorts - There is More Going On Then Just Skiing!

2009-09-01T10:23:00.005-04:00

The kids want to go skiing and you hate the cold? Fear not! Ski resorts all over the Northeast offer great events to keep even the sun lovers happy!

At Seven Springs Resort, PA you can book your vacation during their annual Winterfest celebration. The mountain is alive with yes skiing and snowboard racing as well as arts, crafts and evening kid’s events.

For the “Foodie” in you, enjoy the January Gourmet Getaway. A weekend of culinary demonstrations, wine sampling, cooking courses and more! Just sit back, enjoy the view and keep your toes warm by the fire while dining on fabulous cuisine!

Head south to Snowshoe Mountain, WV for their Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ! Or expand your pallet of local breweries at the Smuggler’s Notch, VT 16th Annual Brewfest! Sample the finest in local & regional beers and wines, with music, munchies, and prizes

Love music? Head on up to Sugarloaf, ME for their annual Reggae festival! Soak in the sun Après ski style while jamming to “Da beat” and enjoying cold beer and fresh BBQ.

Consider yourself a Deadhead? Take a ride up to Killington, VT for their Sunshine Daydream festival. The event will feature live music from Grateful Dead tribute bands as well as drum circles, dead-inspired crafts and tie-die shirts. Get your Garcia on!

With so many events happening all winter long you are sure to find the perfect getaway to suit your style! So let the kids skim the pond or ride the rails while you indulge your other senses! Hey, it’s your vacation too!

Ski the "Best of the West" with Tours de Sport!

2009-08-19T14:20:00.017-04:00

Folks have been asking me how I feel about Tours de Sport adding Western destinations to our resort line-up for the 2009-2010 ski season, and I think "excited" is the word that really comes to mind.

My background in the ski industry goes back about 20 years, and a good deal of my time has been spent working with Western resorts. Now, as a born and bred Easterner, I cannot tell you that I have found anything that beats skiing a narrow twisting trail during a major dump in Vermont, but lots of Western experiences do come close. And I do mean experiences, not just the skiing. Ask me about my trip to British Columbia in January of 1999 sometime!!!

Western ski travel can introduce you to some of the most fascinating people, different and interesting cultures, and awe-inspiring scenery you can imagine. Walk the streets of Steamboat Springs, explore Vancouver after bombing a mile of vertical at Whistler Blackcomb, or stand at the top of the Lone Peak tram at Big Sky on a clear February morning, and you will know exactly what I mean.

We look forward to helping you plan your own ski adventures no matter which point of the compass works best for you. If you've never skied or boarded west of the Mississippi, We look forward to being your resource as you explore your options. We have identified the Western resorts that we feel offer the best price, value, and you guessed it, overall resort experience, and added those to our great lineup of resorts here in the East. If you are a Western ski veteran, and know the resorts inside and out, I feel you will still find us to truly be your "one stop shop" for your ski travel needs. Give us a call soon, and let's plan this winter's adventure!

Top Three Hidden Gems for Late Season

2009-02-17T14:16:00.006-05:00

Now that President’s Week has passed us by, we will soon be turning another page on the calendar and heading into March. There are many people (including myself) who believe that March is the best time to plan your vacation, as most resorts we work with will still have nearly every trail open well into the second half of the month. Also, some ski resorts are offering late season rates as early as March 1st, so it is certainly the best time to take advantage of a more upscale property with paying a more upscale price.

Here are the top three upscale properties offering the best value for the late season:

1) Killington Grand Hotel:
Killington's only full-service mountainside hotel is admittedly quite expensive during the weekends and holidays, but if you can manage to escape during the midweek, it is an amazing value. It is just a short ski over to the Snowshed base area and lifts, and the Grand offers all of the amenities one would expect from a 4-star property: valet, room service, convenience store, ski check, game room, and the fabulous 75-foot heated outdoor pool with two hot tubs. Late season rates at Killington kick in on March 22nd, which means you will have at least six weeks of skiing at the resort’s cheapest prices. The best deal at the Killington Grand is to book a studio unit. The room has a queen Murphy bed, queen sleeper sofa and kitchenette, and is as low as $105 per night! If you need more space, the 1-bedroom suite can sleep six for as low as $195 per night!

2) Ermitage du Lac (Mont Tremblant):
Tucked away in the southwest corner of the Pedestrian Village, this boutique-hotel offers deluxe accommodations at an amazing price. This is a perfect spot for families: the Ermitage du Lac is located just a few hundred feet from the Cabriolet, yet far enough away from the bustle of the Tremblant nightlife. It is one of the few properties offering a full hot breakfast all season. Most units have a full kitchen, fireplace, and balcony. Families can take advantage of the 2-bedroom suites, which can sleep six people and are a steal at about $260 US per night (including taxes) after March 15th.

3) Highland House / Rimfire (Snowshoe):
If you don’t have time to travel midweek and need to book your trip over a long weekend, then Snowshoe has some of the best value. Plus, the late-season rates at Snowshoe start March 1st! Highland House and Rimfire are both in the heart of the Snowshoe village, and are both just a few feet from the slopes. Step right out the front door to visit numerous shops, restaurants, and bars. The late-season weekend rates here are unbeatable, with junior studios going for about $180 per night, and 1-bedroom condos for about $260 per night.

Ski Area Dining Options

2009-02-02T10:32:00.012-05:00

Wondering where to eat and have a nice dining experience while at a ski area? The following suggestions may help with your selections:

Stowe - Matterhorn, recommended by my son, ”Where else can you have a choice of pizza, burgers, or sushi?” Offering midweek specials.
Killington - Pizza Jerks, my other son’s favorite restaurant serving NY style pizza.
Killington - Choices Restaurant and Rotisserie, my favorite restaurant, featuring seafood, veal and much more.
Okemo - DJ’s Restaurant, featuring a fantastic and wide variety to choose from on their salad bar. Great seafood and prime rib.
Sugarbush - Flatbread Pizza, featuring their own awesome unique pizza dough.
Loon - Common Man, located in Lincoln and features great American Cuisine.
Sunday River - Foggy Goggle, located at the ski area and had some great food.
Sunday River - Matterhorn, located about 1 mile from the ski area and has a wide variety of food for all ages to enjoy. Burgers to Steaks.

If you have a favorite restaurant, just let me know and I will forward the information on to others. Enjoy!

--Goody Dwyer

Fitting In By Standing Out: Finding the Perfect Crazy Ski Hat

2009-01-23T11:05:00.004-05:00

You get up before the sun, eat a quick breakfast of cereal and fruit, and check the latest snow reports before beginning to get dressed. You put on your Under Armor, your powder pants, your jacket, your boots, your gloves, and then after all your preparation is complete, you don the piece de resistance: your hat. As you take your first run of the day you see other hats whiz by; menageries of animals, court jesters on their way to entertain a king, and more than a few people with fleece dreads who look like they got lost on their way to the Bahamas.

Sure, trends exist when it comes to all types of clothing. Boots and gloves, jackets and pants, all are designed to cater to the customer’s interest in colors and designs, but only a hat can be made into the shape of your favorite animal and still function as it was intended to. Larry Shaw, ski expert and former reservations manager at Mount Snow, VT says that “like all clothing, there is some personality carry-over into what to get.” Clothes directly represent your personality—what makes hats so distinct from other fashions is that in order to fit in, you need to stick out. “It has been a big craze in the past few years,” Larry states, to wear something crazy and unique. It hasn’t always been this way, however. Hats have over the past 20 years literally gone from “practical and knit” to “new age material and wild looks” according to Larry, who’s seen it all out on the slopes.

So what are the most common crazy hats out there? According to Mike Jacknan, owner of the Breckenridge Hat Company based in Breckenridge, Colorado, hats made to look like animals, headphone beanies, and those with spikes are the most popular with his customers. Breckenridge offers a new and especially interesting line of hats called Knitwits, which are made to look like sock monkeys and other types of animals. The headphone beanies are a big success with those looking to play music while out on the slopes or while simply sitting in the lodge enjoying a hot chocolate. Mike explains that, “the younger ones want to blend in because it’s important at that age. Others want to match their jackets, and the much younger kids just wanna be wild and crazy. They try the hats on and see what works best for them.” Most of Jacknan’s customers range from ages 15 to 30 and they are sure to be out there on the slopes expressing themselves with their spikes and sock monkeys.

Hat experts and retailers aren’t the only ones noticing this trend—those working at various resorts and ski agencies have noticed different hats becoming more and more popular. Abigail Nelson of Wintergreen Resort sees a lot of jester hats and some interesting knit hats that look like they’re trying to be “old school.” There are also those few unique hats that one only comes across every so often. “My brother has a dragon hat,” Abigail says with a smile, “it’s really cool, it’s green and has multi-colored spikes going down the length of it.” Chad Orton of Tours de Sport, understands the rising trends concerning headgear and personality. “In some cases, sometimes a hat is just a hat—functional—and other times you want other people to see what your likes/dislikes are and how fun you are with an attention-grabbing style,” he explains.

When it comes to deciding what type of hat you want to buy, it all comes down to your own personality and interests. Chances are, if you can think of it, somebody else already has and has turned it into a hat. David Ainsley, a Virginia native, says that his ideal hat would be in the shape of a penguin. Sarah Gunther, a skier from Baltimore, believes that her hat “would be something cool and crazy. Maybe a moose.” One avid skier, Ben Wolfram, has 4 different hats, each reflecting his personal style. His helmet shows he is a risk taker, but one who is still concerned with his well being, while an Alpaca fur hat trimmed with diamond-like studs and his Fargo hat are both concerned with warmth while maintaining the throwback style. His last hat, one from his Alma Mater, Towson University, shows his tiger pride as he makes his way down the mountain.

There are so many options out there now that it can be a daunting task to try to pick out the perfect hat that will make you fit in by making you stand out. The best thing for you to do is to browse and see what is out there before making a final decision. Skihats.com and Breckenridgehatcompany.com have hundreds of hats to choose from, and perhaps most importantly considering today’s economy, they are all modestly priced and extremely affordable to any veteran ski bum or beginner determined to make a statement their first day on skis. “Most of the new lines are pretty costly,” Shaw warns, but there are several places willing to sell you something with personality for a low price. It all comes down to how much you want to stand out against the stark white snow and finding a hat that is both comfortable, functional, and that screams what kind of person you are as you ski on by or make a particularly entertaining face plant into the snow—at least you’ll be face planting in style.

So next time you are preparing to hit the slopes, what will you be wearing? A simple, 20 year old monochromatic piece of fleece that can barely pass as a hat anymore, or something vibrant, exciting, and fitted to match your distinct personality. A hat is a blank template, waiting to be filled, waiting to show everyone exactly what lies beneath. Are you up to the challenge?

-Jocelyn Carver

Jocelyn is a full time student at Randolph-Macon college and an avid skier, when studies permit. Her crazy hat collection includes a crazy penguin and a Canadian maple leaf.

Loon Mountain Happenings

2009-01-22T15:42:00.001-05:00

Big changes are under way at Loon Mountain this year. The South Peak area is in year two of their planned 3 – 5 years expansion project that will include new trails, a new base lodge and direct lift access from down town Lincoln. The Tote Road Quad is in place to take skiers & riders in both directions between the South Ridge area and the main resort. Three trails, about 50 acres of skiing terrain were accessible last winter. Among the new trails this year is Rip Saw, their first double black diamond trail and Escape Route, an intermediate trail. This expansion will make Loon Mountain, already a popular destination, one of the largest ski resorts in New Hampshire.

Also new this year, Tours de Sport has added the Woodward’s Resort to our lodging offerings serving Loon Mountain. Woodward’s is located on Route 3, 5 minutes from the ski area. It offers 85 guest rooms as well as a full service restaurant, bar & lounge, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, racquetball court, and lighted skating pond. Loon is 100% open and in the middle of another spectacular snow year so call your Tours de Sport vacation specialist today or log on to our web site and design your own trip.

Rainy Day? No Problem!

2009-01-22T13:30:00.001-05:00

Vacation is vacation no matter what Mother Nature sends your way. While any avid skier will tell you a little rain won't stop a day on the slopes sometimes you just want to stay dry. Don't feel trapped in your hotel room sadly staring at the sky - go out and have some fun!

Ski Resorts like Smugglers' Notch, VT caters to families; replacing kids' daylong ski lessons with other activities when skiing is not an option. Families can also frolic in an indoor play area with an inflatable obstacle course, a miniature golf course and table tennis. It also offers baby-sitting, and puts on family entertainment every night.

At Okemo Mountain, there's no shortage of options for days without skiing. Visitors can swim, skate or play racquetball, or tune up their summer games at a nine-hole putting green or virtual golf.

When there's rain or little snow in Stowe, VT, many skiers and snowboarders head to the shops and restaurants. What trip to Vermont isn't complete with a souvenir bottle of fresh Maple syrup!

In Maine's Sugarloaf USA , visitors can head to the Antigravity Complex owned by the Carrabassett Valley Academy and the town of Carrabassett Valley, which has a climbing wall, skate park and bowl, Olympic-quality trampolines, weight room and aerobics room.

And, of course, there's always the bar. Killington, VT, known for not only being the "Beast of the East", is also a popular spot for the ski hard - play hard crowds!

Happy hours at bars and restaurants up and down the Killington Access Road take place rain, snow or shine!

So book a spa day, chill with friends or hit the gym. Enjoy your vacation - you've earned it! And remember, the lifts will run tomorrow!

-Sam Norberg

Kite Skiing Takes Flight at Killington

2008-12-22T09:27:00.000-05:00

Winter kite skiing appears to be a new sport and it’s happening in my own backyard at Killington. While harnessed into a 6 foot wing-spanned kite and wearing skis, I cannot wait to watch individuals catch the wind and sail across Kent Pond. This pristine area, especially in the summer, is fantastic for hiking and kayaking which are my favorite hobbies.

Mike Miller, area resident and storeowner, offers a great website for you to view his kite school, backcountry store and Telemark equipment. www.basecampvt.com. Sounds like he will be available during the winter weekends to take you out on the pond via snowmobile to his designated instructing area and start you off on the right track. Base Camp Outfitters is conveniently located on Route 4 in Killington, just at the bottom of the Killington Road and near Kent Pond.

So be sure to stop by Kent Pond and watch this exciting sport and maybe one day you’ll give it a try. Seems like another fun option for things to do in Killington during the winter season. Let’s go fly a kite!

Goody Dwyer / Tours de Sport Vermont Sales Office

Don’t Let Family Burdens Burn Out Your Family Fun!

2008-12-10T12:40:00.004-05:00

As Old Man Winter approaches, the endless parade of gray days and frigid temperatures can be mind-numbing. If your family is in need of a vacation to cure the winter blues, why not load up the car and head for a fun-filled weekend on the slopes!

Weekend ski trips with your family can be fun and inexpensive if you choose the right destination and resort property. Here at Tours de Sport we know that everyone feeling the pinch of a tight economy. Big fun doesn’t have to mean Big Bucks!

The Northeast is scattered with great ski resorts that offer enough terrain for a weekend trip and most of these resorts are all within 3 hours of most major cities like DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia & NY. You can find great deals for a Ski & Stay packages at places like Seven Springs, PA , Sno Mountain, PA and Hunter Mountain , NY .

As any snow lover would tell you any day on the slopes is better then none!