Planning a Ski Vacation

by S. Tanna
Skiing is a very popular type of family vacation:

- It can be a lot less expensive than you might think. Since lots of companies and resorts are competing for your business, there's plenty of great deals to be found if you spend some time looking around.

- Numerous resorts cater for families.

The tough part? Choosing your destination. However, thanks to the Internet, nowadays, it's easy to research exactly what various ski resorts have to offer, find the one that is most suitable for your family, and thus ensure that you have a wondeful vacation.

So what sort of things should you be looking for?

- Ski Schools - The first thing to consider is whether any members of you family will need instruction. If one does, then you will want to be absolutely sure to choose a resort which offers a ski school - because some resorts don't have one! You wouldn't want that one or more of your family members didn't have fun, simply because they don't know how to ski, and there's nobody to teach them.

- Suitables Slopes, Trails & Lifts - When researching resorts, you should also look at the ski slopes, trails and lifts that each offers. The idea is to make sure that there are options available that are suitable for all members of your family, especially if some family members are beginning skiers (who need easy slopes), while others are experts (who will be bored if there are not enough challenges). Additionally, if any member of your family is either already a budding snowboarder, or wants to get in, be sure to choose a resort which has a snowboarding park or terrain.

- Lodging - Whether you go for a hotel or a vacation rental, suitable lodging is very important. At many resorts, there may be a hotel at the base of the slopes, but don't blindly pick this option without at least considering the alternatives, because such hotels do not always offer the best value for money. Additionally, you'll want to ensure that whatever lodging you choose is comfortable, has whatever facilities your family needs, and if the lodging is some distance from the slopes, that transport to and from the slopes is available.

- Other Activities - Skiing can be a lot of fun, but you and your family may also want to try other activities too. For example, some resorts offer facilities for horse riding, dog sledding, sleight rides, snowmobiling or other Winter activities, some resorts hold special planned events at various times of the year, etc. So, when reviewing possible destinations, be sure to bear this in mind.

- Budget - Of course you'll need to choose a vacation that you can actually afford. However, if you're inventive, it's usually possible to save money on your ski vacation, and stretch your money further.

In summary, careful research and planning will ensure that you choose the most suitable resort and lodging for your family, and that in turn will result in a wonderful vacation for all!
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