Royal Caribbean Cruises

Taking the step of booking your holiday with Royal Caribbean Cruises is a sure way of making your holiday one to remember for years to come. For one you will have a choice of over 200 destinations around the world. Secondly, you will have a fleet of new, or almost new vessels to choose from.

The depth of this firm’s fleet allows for plenty of different itineraries with ships setting sail from UK ports as well as many other departure points. Itineraries cater for all groups of travellers; whether you have kids, or fall in the senior category, you will find an itinerary suited to your unique needs. Should you have a special occasion you want to celebrate while cruising, you will be pleased to know something can be arranged to help you celebrate. The vessels themselves are powered by state-of-the-art technology and are fully equipped to keep voyagers entertained for the duration of the trip.

Which features are these, you ask? Travelling aboard these cruise ships is like travelling on a floating city; designer fashion outlets, 3D movie theatres, Starbucks, fitness centres, casinos and a host of other establishments are available on board. You can even take a leisurely stroll alongside the sea on a promenade. These ships are built for different durations of cruises. Ships under the Sovereign Class, for instance, are designed for shorter trips, the Vision Class vessels will comfortably ferry holidaymakers from Alaska to Hawaii to Mexico and on to Asia. All ships are replete with balconies from which passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean. WiFi is available for those who have their laptops and must connect with the rest of the world. You will also have access to roaming cellular services to help you keep in touch.

Specifically for lovers of sport, this liners fleet are equipped with facilities such as miniature golf and 40-foot rock walls for climbing. And no, you don’t have to go overboard literally to find waves to ride. The onboard surf simulator fitted on some of the Royal Caribbean fleet projects waves of up to 40 metres in length. Not into hanging ten? Grab a pair of skates and hit the ice rink.

You needn’t burden yourself with lugging your skates from home; you can get a pair on board. Or shoot some hoops, or play volleyball, or spar in the boxing gym. And for those who fear losing their newfound figure as they gorge themselves on the exquisite onboard cuisine, there is a jogging track and a well-equipped gym. There’ll even be a trained fitness instructor to take you through an aerobics or yoga class. If all this still does not quench your thirst for adventure, you can wait until you make a stopover and see what awaits you on dry land.

There are plenty of events on board aimed at occupying the time of passengers and giving them an opportunity to have fun while interacting.

As mentioned earlier, Royal Caribbean Cruises travel to hundreds of destinations on 6 continents. These are all exotic locations with interesting sights.

Mediterranean Cruises

Discover a side of Europe you’ve not experienced before by taking on one of the many Mediterranean cruises available. Visit some of the most beautiful cities in Greece, Turkey, Italy and Spain as you indulge yourself in the pinnacle of luxury. Among the features prepared to ensure you feel properly pampered on board are wonderfully furnished and decorated rooms from which you can still enjoy spectacular views of the sea.

One of the joys of these cruises is the excursions you make inland during stopovers at various ports. Truly Mediterranean cruises offer an all in one package to tourists; apart from the relaxation and comfort of travelling on a floating 5-star hotel, you get to visit acclaimed sites and take exhilarating hikes through the greenery of natural landscapes. To take you through these excursions will be highly experienced guides who can comfortably communicate in a number of languages. You will also get to traipse about in exotic cities such as Istanbul, Rome, Florence and Venice sightseeing and shopping to your heart’s delight. Perhaps one of the most anticipated stopovers is the one at the legendary Cannes, where the annual international film festival is held. This town’s historic centre is full of centuries-old monuments that will intrigue history buffs and curious travellers alike. Of course there’s also the irreplaceable French Riviera. The place is also a venerable shoppers’ paradise. History freaks will also be keen on the Dubrovnik layoff on the Croatian coast. Landmarks dating back to the 14^th century are still there. One of the things you absolutely have to do is walk along the walls of the walled city; a challenging but highly rewarding experience.

The beauty of these packages is that they can be tailor-made to suit your exact needs. You can decide whether or not to include the towering minarets and domes of Istanbul in your trip. While booking with Costa Cruises you can choose to include the wellness package; therapeutic full-body massages and treatments, workouts in a well-equipped fitness centre topped off with a variety of low-calorie foods. If you’re celebrating a special occasion; a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, etc, you can ask for special arrangements to be made to make it a day to remember. Should you be taking your kids along for the cruise, liners such as Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas will fully cater to them with a raft of games to keep them occupied besides the on-board swimming pools. Can’t do without a throbbing night scene? No need to fear boredom; apart from a selection of bars, each serving a selection of wicked cocktails, you will be treated to live music and live DJs on most Mediterranean cruises.

While most people dream of a cruise lounging in the lovely summer sunshine, booking your Mediterranean sail in spring is not a bad idea as there are less crowds both on board and when you make stopovers. Also, the weather is still not hostile then. If you’re on a budget you might want to try a winter cruise.

Fjords Cruises

Whenever the word ‘cruise’ is mentioned, most minds usually fly to massive ships drifting on foamy ocean waters. But if you didn’t know, a cruise on the tranquil fjords of Europe or Northern America can be just as enjoyable and probably even more relaxing. Imagine sailing along quiet waters while admiring the unique architecture of hidden towns you will never find on your regular sea or ocean itinerary. You will also be treated to excursions inland where you will get to immerse yourself in cultures you probably never knew existed. If you were looking for a clever way to pop the question, you simply have to book one of these fjord cruises; you are virtually guaranteed a ‘yes’. Looking for a wedding venue that is far from the cliché locations? Here is an option you should consider.

Not convinced? Take the Kenai Fjords for example, tucked away in Alaska. This cruise offers you not only the usual pampering you expect on a cruise, you will get such extras as stunning views of the Alaska glaciers as well as the chance to watch Gray Whales and other forms of marine life such as sea lions and otters. Seeing these magnificent mammals blow up jets of water up to 13 feet high is quite an experience on its own. You will also get to see seagulls, puffins and other rare birds. As you watch nature put on a show you’ll be digging into some tasty Alaska salmon or Alaska king crab.

In a Norwegian fjord cruise you will be able to go on excursions inland including a visit to the Botanical Gardens of Akureyi where you will encounter several different plant species you probably won’t have seen before. A visit to the folklore museum of Laufás will reveal life as it was in a typical farmhouse there in the late 19^th century. Voyagers can expect to see many unique geological features along the way including fascinating lava formations and numerous pseudo-craters. There is a geothermal field littered with attractions such as steam vents, hot springs and sulphur deposits. The glaciers here are also something to behold and tourists who take Norwegian fjord cruises can expect to stop at the Boyabre and Supphelle glaciers. The views here are simply breathtaking. An essential part of the Norwegian experience is spending time in the peaceful little villages. But perhaps the part travellers who book summer cruises look forward to most is the abnormally long summer days in which the sun shines even at midnight. While it is flabbergasting to see a bright sky at 11pm, falling asleep under such circumstance can prove to be a bit of a challenge. And though there are nightclubs complete with DJs on a number of these cruises, trying to party in what seems to be the afternoon can feel a little weird.

To make the most of your fjord trip, try and get up early to savour the amazingly tranquil views of the quiet green mountains and the pure white waterfalls tumbling on their sides. As part of the excursion most fjord cruises allow visitors to explore the landscape and even kayak in the waters of the fjord.

Other than all the above, you will get the usual on-board pampering; air-conditioned rooms, casinos, bars, spas etc.

European Cruises

While you can savour the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea from the beaches of exotic French, Italian, Spanish and Greek locations, a trip aboard a luxury cruise line is arguably a better way to do it. Think about it, how else will you get away from it all and have the endless seas to yourself while savouring the tastiest dishes and sipping cocktails (and probably also relax in a bubble bath). All this while giving the explorer in you a field day, touring the sights and sounds of some of Europe’s most celebrated resorts. There really are few, if any, better ways of spending a holiday.

The Western Mediterranean Cruise offered by the Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas is one of the most highly rated European cruises. It offers the willing traveller a sweep through some of Italy, France and Spain’s most beautiful cities aboard a beautiful, clean vessel equipped with virtually all the bells and whistles expected of cruise ships. Of your seven-day long cruise, you will spend at least four days wandering through the streets of Barcelona, Naples, Rome and other attraction-laden cities. Among the key marvels of this cruise is the sheer opulence of the rooms guests spend their nights in. A king size bed, a sofa that folds into a double bed and a glass coffee table are some of the elegant furniture items that voyagers will find there. To ensure you’re completely at ease in your room, there is an air conditioner that you can adjust to your liking. To kill those hours before you fall asleep is a TV with a couple of movie channels. But perhaps the best part of these rooms is the balcony that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

The ship even has ATM services on board should you want to buy anything or tip the staff. If you have to keep an eye on your email while on holiday you can take advantage of the computers hooked up to the Internet.

Fancy a swim or a poolside lounge as you sail? Feel free to splash about in the on board swimming pools or lie in the lounging chairs that dot the pool deck. If you have your youngsters with you, the shallow pools will be perfect for them to play in.

The bars serve voyagers a large variety of drinks and some smashing cocktails. And with activities such as karaoke and comedy nights, you’re bound to live out some unforgettable moments. There are also numerous other activities organised to help voyagers interact and create some magical moments of their own. Repasts to suit diverse palates are available on robust menus that offer everything from pizza and burgers to seafood.

Further steps have been taken to ensure the total relaxation of visitors with on board spas in which guests can get the kinks rubbed out of their backs by professional masseurs. There is also hydrotherapy available in the spas on some European cruises. Still on health matters, should anything go awry as regards your (or your kids’) health during your dream voyage, you can relax in the thought that fully qualified doctors and nurses form part of the ship’s staff.

Caribbean Cruises

The word ‘Caribbean’ is usually enough to evoke images of crystal clear waters bordered by spotless white sands; the setting sun glowing orange behind silhouetted palm trees. Now, instead of rushing things and jetting into the islands within a couple of hours, why not take a leisurely cruise to the islands aboard a luxury cruise ship? With cruisers it’s not just about arriving, it’s about travelling in comfort and arriving in style. In fact you could say that the unparalleled sense of peace that invades you as you lounge on the deck facing the vast blue sea is the destination for most voyagers. There’s also the added extra of exploring the unspoilt areas off the regular Caribbean tourist beat. Old San Juan, the second-oldest of the European settlements in the ‘New World’, Dominica, the ‘Nature Isle of the Caribbean’ and Barbados’ tropical rain forests are just a few of the discoveries you’ll make as you venture inland with Cruise1st.

An important first step towards enjoying your cruise is booking a cruise suited to your specific needs. Usually there are cruises that are geared towards a specific group; a family cruise, for instance, or one that is targeted at singles.

While you won’t be thrown out if you don’t fall within that particular demographic, you will probably feel awkward and end up not enjoying the cruise you worked so hard for. Some liners will have rules regarding dress code while some will prohibit smoking on board.

Most cruise ships come equipped with ample indoor entertainment to ensure voyagers remain occupied throughout the trip. For those with the cash to spare there is the full complement of slot machines, roulette tables, etc, on which they can chance their luck. There are plenty of games you can try your hand at such as bowling, mini golf, even kickboxing! You are well advised to pack your swimming trunks or bikini right after your travel documents as most cruises will have on-board swimming.

Equally important are your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses so that you can savour the marvellous Caribbean weather without the fear of suffering sunburn. And when the sun disappears behind the ocean, the party gets underway with a variety of on board bars providing a selection of drinks and entertainment, including live music and DJs. When it comes to matters gastronomy, Caribbean cruises like NCL give travellers the option of choosing their own meal times instead of waiting for official diner times. And they have 12 restaurants to choose from; each offering a diverse menu.

On shore activities are rife but you need to plan carefully for you not to miss out. Spas are usually one of the most in-demand cruise activities and if you fail to book well in advance, you might just miss out on this mode of relaxation. Thankfully there is the Internet and online booking.

The reason many holidaymakers opt for Caribbean cruises is total relaxation; the idea of getting away from it all, drifting on calm waters with the only disturbance being a soft breeze brushing the eyelashes. And this you will find in plenty as you will have the entire deck to lounge on as well as the private balconies some cruisers provide.

Canary Island Cruises

Whenever these islands are mentioned, a dreamy film comes over the eyes of most people as they contemplate expanses of gold sand bordering calm azure waters and the gentle whisper of the Atlantic Ocean.

This Spanish archipelago effortlessly fulfils the holidaymaker’s desires, offering wonderful volcanic sights inland as well as some of the finest seafood on the planet.

This alongside a highly conducive environment for water sports and a host of other outdoor activities. While it is easy to simply board a plane and fly into this slice of heaven, wouldn’t it be so much more exciting to sail in the way Christopher Columbus and his comrades did? Not that you’ll be doing so aboard the bare vessels in which these early explorers discovered the world. You’ll be bobbing about the waters in a vessel built with the luxury of its passengers as its chief priority.

There are a wide range of liners offering highly seductive packages of 11 and 14 day cruises taking passengers from Barcelona through the waters of the Mediterranean touching the coasts of Italy, Morocco and such Canary Island cities as Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife before returning to dock in Spain.  Some cruises start all the way in Southampton in the UK such as the Celebrity Eclipse Cruise. During cast-off you and fellow voyagers will be treated to a lavish send-off party on the deck of your cruise ship. More often than not even as you board the vessel, a member of the crew will hand you a smile and a complimentary glass of champagne. The stopovers are some of the most enjoyable part of the cruise experience as is the part where you get to stretch yourself underneath a parasol and laze in the abundant sun. There are also places from which to enjoy amazing views of the distant islands. Many of those who’ve been on Canary Island Cruises never stop talking about the food they were served on board, and rightly so. There is a great variety of meals; from steak to burgers to seafood, done by top-notch chefs and served by amiable staff. You can either go to the designated dining room or have your meal delivered to your cabin. Of course there are fully-stocked bars with every genre of poison; from freshly squeezed fruit juice cocktails to your regular 500ml Heineken.

On board entertainment comes in many flavours and you are sure to have plenty to occupy you for the duration of the excursion. Most ships will be equipped with swimming pools and various forms of indoor entertainment including TVs in rooms, basketball, ping-pong, karaoke and comedy shows. And when the ship docks at the destination, holidaymakers have the option of venturing on shore excursions.

A tip: on many occasions you will meet waiters walking around with attractive, multicoloured cocktails and be tempted to ask for one. Be sure, before you place your order, to confirm if it’s complimentary or you’ll have to sign for it. Having said that, most cruises will serve guests such beverages as milk, coffee and juice on the house. Carbonated drinks and alcoholic beverages will have to be paid for.

So the next time you’re thinking of a way to get away from the hustle and bustle or are thinking of a way to ‘pop the question’, let one of those week-long Canary Island Cruises be at the top of your wish list.

Australasia Cruises

Australia is one of the most desired holiday destinations in the world. Known for its gorgeous weather, high standard of living and fantastic hospitality, Australia keeps tourists coming back year after year. With so many destinations to choose from in the country, it can be difficult to choose where to go first. That’s when Australasia cruises holidays can help.

With holidays to Australasia cruises, you’ll get to visit a few different locations in Australia. You’ll sail on a luxury ship and you can choose which excursions you’d prefer to take part in on your trip. You could even choose Australasia cruise holidays which also head to New Zealand.

Destinations to Choose from

When you start looking for holidays to Australasia cruises, you’ll find many different ones on offer. In order to choose the right one for you, it’s important to do a little research into the different destinations. Look at the activities on offer and think about the experiences you want to enjoy. A cruise is something most people only experience once in their lifetime. Therefore it makes sense to ensure that you choose a cruise that fits your preferences as closely as possible.

Sydney is one of the most popular destinations to head to. You could enjoy sipping on drinks on the historic rocks region. You could also enjoy a little culture and entertainment by seeing a show at the Sydney Opera house. Or if you’d prefer to take in the natural beauty of the city then you should head to the Royal Botanical Gardens. Then to complete your Sydney Australasia cruise holidays, you can soak up the sun on the famous Bondi Beach.

If you’re looking to experience a taste of paradise then holidays to Australasia cruises that head to Whitsunday Islands is definitely for you. You’ll be presented with pure white sand beaches. As you walk along the beaches you’ll be entertained by the squeaking sound of the sand.

Another popular destination which many Australias cruises holidays head to is Brisbane. This is a lively part of the country with plenty to see and do. The State Art Museum and Queensland Museum are just two of the cultured activities on offer. Or if you want to spend a relaxing afternoon with nature, the Butterfly House is definitely the place to go.

If you’d prefer to check out the famous underwater sights that Australia has to offer then Cairns would be the perfect destination. Situated on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, this town has a really relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy a trip on the Kuranda Skyrail Cable Car which enables you to see the entire region with beautiful, breathtaking views. This is one of the most beautiful destinations in Australia which is why many Australasia cruises holidays stop here.

Overall holidays to Australasia cruises provide you with a once in a lifetime experience. Remember to take your time to look at the different destinations and excursions on offer before you choose the best cruise to suit your needs.

Alaska Cruise

Alaska cruises holidays are considered to be one of the ‘must see’ experiences before you die. Once you’ve been on one of these amazing cruises you’ll never forget it. This truly is a trip of a lifetime and it will bring out your inner adventurer. With beautiful, majestic mountains and plenty of wildlife to see, you’ll be blown away by the glorious sights that Alaska has to offer.

The Different Cruises on Offer

There are many different Alaska cruises holidays to choose from and each offers something truly unique. The Inside Passage is just one of the fantastic cruises on offer.

If you’re looking for holidays to Alaska cruises are a great way to explore the country. In the southeast of the country, the Inner Passage is also known as Panhandle. It’s famous for its huge amount of wildlife, excellent hospitality and native culture. You’ll find that most cruises along the Inside Passage are around 7 nights, though occasionally there are shorter and longer trips available.

If you head to Juneau, Alaska, you’ll get to enjoy some unique experiences. You can enjoy a little bear spotting or you could even enjoy a helicopter ride over the area. With gorgeous sights to see and plenty of activities to keep you occupied, you’ll never forget your Alaska cruise to Juneau.

Other fantastic holidays to Alaska cruises include the Hubbard Glacier. This spectacular glacier is over 6 miles long and it’s also around 400 years old. What better way to take in the beauty of this impressive sight than on a luxury cruise ship?

If you’re looking for Alaska cruises holidays with a difference then you may want to head to Skagway. It is packed full of Western style saloons. There’s also plenty of women dressed up in western costumes. You can enjoy the region on a steam train and take in the rich history of the area.

Why Opt for an Alaska Cruise?

One of the main reasons why people opt for holidays to Alaska cruises is because you get to experience several different destinations in the same trip. You’ll typically get to spend a day in each destination. This gives you chance to enjoy the local culture and main tourist attractions. You can choose to dine on the ship or enjoy local delicacies. Alaska is known for its fresh and tasty food.

One thing to keep in mind is that when you book Alaska cruises holidays, you need to book as early as possible. If you don’t book the excursions you want until the last minute, they may be fully booked. You also need to select your dining options as quickly as possible. As they are a once in a lifetime opportunity, it makes sense to ensure that you have the best possible experience.

Overall Alaska cruise holidays will provide you with an experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to check out all of your options before you choose which cruise you want to go on. There’s many different ones to choose from and you can tailor them to suit your preferences.

River Cruises

If you’re looking for a holiday with a difference then river cruises holidays could be just what you need. No matter where you fancy travelling to, there will be a local river cruise you can enjoy. Here you’ll find out more about some of the most popular holidays to river cruises that thousands of people enjoy each year.

The Benefits of River Cruises

There are many reasons why you may want to consider river cruises holidays over any other type. The main benefits include:

1. You’ll only have to pack and unpack your belongings once, no matter how many places you’re visiting

2. You can experience many different countries and cities in the same holiday

3. Fantastic views with constantly changing scenery

4. A relaxing environment

If you were to visit several different countries/cities on a standard holiday, you’d have to pack and unpack your suitcase several times. This can take up quite a lot of time. With a cruise you simply have to unpack once and you’re then free to explore as many different places as you want to without worrying about your luggage.

The only problem you’ll have when choosing holidays to river cruises is knowing where to go.

The Most Popular River Cruises

Some river cruises holidays are more popular than others. If you’re heading to Europe then Danube, Rhine, Seine and Douro are four of the most popular destinations. Danube is particularly popular. Located in central Europe, Danube is ideal for couples and you’ll find many romantic packages on offer. It also has many cultural sights and it stretches for 1,800 miles. Europe has some of the most romantic and affordable cruises on offer.

If you’re looking to go a bit further then the Nile is a fantastic choice. Holidays to river cruises in the Nile takes you in between Aswan and Luxor. You’ll get to take in the gorgeous sights of temples and tombs. Experience the impressive Tutankhamen’s Tomb and the colourful sights of Aswan. The best Nile river cruises holidays will combine a short stay in Cairo.

If you’re looking for holidays to river cruises which feature plenty to see and do then the Yangtze in China could be perfect. You’ll find many companies which offer Yangtze cruises combine them with a few nights in top cities such as Shanghai and Wuhan. The most memorable part of a cruise to the Yangtze is the Three Gorges Dam. This is a cruise you’ll never forget!

Another once in a lifetime river cruise is the Amazon in Brazil. This is the largest river in the world and you’ll witness many picturesque sights. The beautiful city of Santarum is just one of the sights you’ll see.

No matter how much money you have available for your river cruises holidays, there’ll be at least one fantastic destination to match it. Why not take a look at the many different river cruises on offer around the world online today? Take into account your budget, what you’d like to see and do on the cruise and where you’d ideally like to go.

Whistler

You will find the Whistler ski resort at the foot of two mountains, named Whistler and Blackcomb, eighty or so miles from Vancouver on the west coast of Canada.  The resort area started as a skiing area for locals in the middle of the 1960s, and has expanded to include three distinct areas, Creekside, Whistler Village and the Upper Village at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.

Whistler has grown to become North America’s largest skiing area and attracts thousands of ski-seekers each year due to its unique combination of high, open bowls, woodland trails and Alpine-like scenery.

It’s an attractive village full of modern amenities that is purpose-built for skiers with a large and central car-free area.  It has an excellent range of restaurants and spirited après-ski opportunities.  The Creekside area of Whistler was one of the venues for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Due to its attractiveness, Whistler can become packed and over-burdened with skiers during peak periods with over-crowding leading to packed pistes and excessive queues at the lifts.  The closeness of the resort to the Pacific Ocean means some cloudy weather and the odd spell of rain.  Be wary too that the mountain-based restaurants can become equally crowded and that they don’t match the excellence of the ones you find at the bottom of the slopes.

Whistler’s main attribute is its charm, with each of the centres designed to remain traffic-free.  There is a mix of accommodation styles, from chalet-style apartments on the sides of the hills to a more multi-storey hotel feel in the village centres.  Please be aware, the Village Square is the place where people like to party, so you’ve no room to complain if you book your accommodation there and you’re kept awake until the early hours by the noise.

If you’ve a head for heights, you can take the Peak 2 Peak gondola that links Whistler Village, Upper Village and Creekside, making each peak easily accessible.  Each mountain-top is reachable by a maximum of three lifts.  For your refreshment needs, Whistler Village by far the most bars, restaurants and shops, whilst the newer and car-free Whistler Village North is linked by a pedestrian bridge to the main centre.  Both Upper Village and Creekside are smaller and quieter.

The alpine-like views from each peak will take your icy breath away, especially of the deep Fitzsimmons Creek valley from the Peak 2 Peak gondola.  You can even see the coast from the upper slopes.  The pistes are largely well-maintained, although some of the lower slopes can become slushy.

If you’re new to skiing, you can sign up for either a three-day or five-day course to suit most standards from complete beginner to intermediate.  You will be placed in a small group with the same instructor each day, meaning your own personal needs will not be overlooked.  Two day courses are available for those who wish to really up their experience and expertise.

If you are on a family vacation, you will find children have been thought about and are well-catered for.  The Blackcomb base area and the gondola mid-station both have excellent children-only areas, with the Children’s Adventure Park on Blackcomb, with its Magic Castle and Great Wall climbing centre, particularly appealing.

For snowboarders, skiers or just those who like snow, Whistler’s two peaks and three centres gives you everything you need for an Alpine-like experience in North America.  Book your skiing holiday now to see why Whistler has grown to become Canada’s most successful ski resort.

Vail

Vail is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States.  It stretches along the I-70 freeway that runs westwards from Denver, Colorado.  If Vail is not big enough for you, a lift-pass for the resort will also gain you access to nearby Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone.  The noted Colorado ski resort of Copper Mountain is also within travelling distance.

With such a large resort, the range of options is immense, especially for intermediate skiers.  There are huge areas known as Back Bowls which are terrains free of trees, something of a rarity when it comes to ski resorts in the United States.  The Blue Sky Basin is another worthy area, being wooden slopes that are largely kept ungroomed.  Take note though, both the Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin may not be open in the early parts of the season, and can even be closed if the weather is warm.

Being so large, Vail can be tiring when travelling from one part to another, and there always seems to be some re-development going on.  Whilst the main resort centres are mainly traffic-free and have excellent amenities the mountain facilities are not that exceptional.  Also, Vail’s popularity can see the resort become over-crowded at peak times to the point where waiting for the lifts can be like queuing for rides at Disneyland.

Vail Village was purposely designed in the 1950s to replicate the feel of the Tirol, the ski-centre of the Alps, being created from chalets and German-style bierkellers.

However, the march of time and development means the village is just one small part of the sprawling resort, albeit in a smart and contemporary style.

The area covered by the resort is shrunk by the free and well-run bus service which links each centre.  Most of the more convenient accommodation is found in Vail Village.  Here too you have easy access to the Vista Bahn fast chair (which is soon to be reduced by a gondola) to get you up the mountain.  There are further options for accommodation all along the I-70,  The rule seems to be that the further away you get from Vail Village, the cheaper accommodation becomes.

The main mountain is like most snow-covered mountains in the United States – heavily wooden.  If you don’t like weaving through the trees, travel over the ridge to the bowls which are both wide and open.  This lack of cover does mean the conditions deteriorate during long spells of sunny weather, so it’s usually best to head to Vail at the chilliest times.

If you’re on holiday to improve your skills, you’ll hear nothing but glowing reports about the ski schools that are available.

You’ll be guaranteed a small group, meaning individual attention is a given.  The transition from intermediate to expert is especially catered for.

Children are also well-catered for.  The chief centre for children is at Golden Peak and is for children between the ages of four and fourteen.  You also fine kid-themed areas all about the resort with themed zones and trails.  Pay special attention to the Magic Forest and Chaos Canyon, plus the snowmobiles and trampolines at Adventure Ridge.

Vail has grown from a tiny, Alpine-like village purposely-built in the 1950s to a huge, sprawling and fun-packed resort.  Book a ski-holiday to Vail today to experience a full ski-centre experience with many unique features not found at other US resorts.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a majestic freshwater lake in Sierra Nevada in the United States.  It is the largest alpine lake, a lake located at a high altitude, in North America due to the elevation of 1 897 metres above sea level.

Lake Tahoe is accessible from California and from Nevada.  The lake lies on the border between these two states and provides for seven ski resorts catering for memorable skiing holidays next to the lake.

Snow activities

Visiting Lake Tahoe for a winter vacation is not for the faint hearted.  Not only does the frozen lake attract millions of visitors, the surrounding mountains, valleys and glaciers makes perfectly formed slopes for the ski enthusiast.

Natural formed runs that are groomed daily to provide perfect runs and turns for Nordic skiing, sledding and snowboarding.  If you are not a snow lover yet, spark a new love by booking training at a ski school.  Here experienced trainers will provide adults and children alike with the necessary knowledge and equip them with the skills to become the world champions of the future.

The large surface of the lake creates and ideal environment for ice skating.  Utilise the thick ice for recreational skating, figure skating or ice hockey.

Snowshoe tours are the perfect opportunity to explore the scenery and terrain of the mountains.  It is affordable and easy and no skill or training is needed to take part.  Explore the more rugged terrain with a snowmobile and learn about the wildlife that roams freely around the area.

Other attractions

Lake Tahoe in winter time is all about snow, skiing and other snow activities.  Though it may happen that you wake up one morning and decide to do something different and view the areas around the lake.

Lake Tahoe creates an interesting location for sightseeing as you will have both Nevada and California to indulge in for this purpose.

Enjoy performances and theatre productions at theatres and opera houses.  Visit the movies and learn about the towns in the museums. Daytime is a good time to explore the villages around the lake and learn more about the culture and traditions of the inhabitants.

Nightlife and dining

Surrounded by modern and established towns, any visitor are certain to find a night activity that suits their personality and taste.  Visit the nightclubs and dance to vibrant music until the break of dawn.

The towns offer entertainment in the form of casinos and live events.  Pubs come to life at night and are the ideal place to meet with friends and make new acquaintances.

Restaurants offer dishes for every taste and occasion.  Menus include traditional dishes and favourites such as pizza, burgers and fries.  Or opt for more exotic tastes such as Chinese food, Mexican or Greek cuisine.

Accommodation

With seven ski resorts surrounding Lake Tahoe, and two major cities bordering the lake, options for accommodation are endless.  Stay in a luxurious hotel or be pampered at a guesthouse that includes bed and breakfast.

A favourite lodging at Lake Tahoe is cabins and bungalows where you can be part of nature at your own leisure and pace.  Overlooking the lake and nestled in the woods, cabins are cosy and private and yet still part of the holiday community.

Conclusion

Lake Tahoe is a vibrant and modern retreat for a winter vacation and still offers all the beauty and tranquillity of nature.  The holiday community makes for a homely atmosphere and memorable experiences.  It is a place where you are guaranteed to add to your list of Facebook friends.

Kimberley

Kimberley is a small town located in the Purcell Mountain range of the Canadian Rocky Mountains in Canada.  It was named in 1896 after the diamond mining town in South Africa.  For a period of nearly a century it was the largest lead-zinc mine in the world, the Sullivan Mine.

It is also home to the Kimberley Alpine Resort and it is the town and resort closest to the Canadian Rockies International Airport.

Skiing in Kimberley

The Kimberley Alpine Resort is one of the resorts that every skier should visit at least once in their lifetimes.  The ski terrain covers more than 1 800 acres and has 80 named runs and also glades.

What really attracts the skiers is the combination of sun and powder from the Purcell Mountains.

The resort offers trails for all skill levels and terrains for sledding and snowboarding.   If you are new to the ski experience or need to enhance your current skills, you can sign up at a ski school where qualified instructors will teach you all you need to know.  This will allow you to enjoy your vacation to its full potential.

Other snow activities include dog sledding and snowshoeing hikes to explore the area and enjoy the scenery.  Explore the more rugged terrain with a snowmobile tour.  Kimberley Resort also offers a night trail that is the longest in North America, providing hours of fun for skiing and sledding.

Other activities in Kimberley

The Platzl is a German inspired pedestrian walkway in downtown Kimberley.  Here you will find shops to browse and restaurant in German style to visit.  It is also the location of Canada’s largest freestanding Cuckoo Clock.

The underground mining railway of Kimberley gives the tourist an insight of the mining era on which the town was developed.  It is located in the beautiful Mark Creek Valley.

The Wallinger Day Spa is the ideal place where you can relax and indulge in the wonderful treatments on offer there.  You will leave the spa refreshed and revived and ready to enjoy the rest of the outdoor activities you have planned.

At the Art Rush Gallery you will find artwork of international artists.  You may even be lucky to meet some of the artist on days they hold exhibitions.

Accommodation and dining

Kimberley has much accommodation on offer, both in the resort and in the town.  The Trickle Creek Lodge is located on the mountain for convenient accommodation.  The lodge is a ski in ski out lodge and has a pool and hot tub area.

The Stemwinder Bar and Grill is located in the resort and very convenient when you enjoy an evening outdoors with skiing, a bonfire and live music.

The town of Kimberley offers the widest variety of accommodation.  It includes guest houses, lodges, chalets and private rental property.  Restaurants in the town cater for all tastes and flavours.  You will be find top quality cuisine that offers Canadian, German, Mexican, Chinese and International dishes.

These dishes are offered at pubs, grills, saloons and tapas.   You will be sure to find the food of your choice whether it is burgers and chips, pastas, lunch, breakfast or just desert you are in the mood for.

Conclusion

Visit Kimberley and the Alpine Ski Resort for a family orientated vacation.  You can indulge in your love for skiing and snow activities, or just enjoy all the other activities that the town and resort offers.   You will find the homely and hospitable atmosphere perfect for a wonderful winter vacation.

Jasper

Jasper is located in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta in Canada.  It is also in the Jasper National Park and serves as the commercial centre.  Jasper is connected to Lake Louise and Banff National Park via the Icefields Parkway.

Jasper has spectacular nature scenery with many lakes and streams. The town is situated 1 062 metres above sea level.  This altitude brings about a high snowfall in the winter turns the National Park into the perfect ski resort.

Snow activities in Jasper

Cross country skiing in Jasper is one of the main attractions.   The location and geography of Jasper provides for many natural skiing areas and terrains.  Valleys and peaks make the perfect natural runs.  Use these natural slopes for sledding or sign up for a ski tour through the park.

The Marmot Basin Ski area is a very popular ski area, not just for skiing, but also for snowboarding and sledding.  The natural slopes of the basin, combined with sunlight and powder, makes for an unforgettable ski experience.

Snowshoeing tours is a great way to explore the natural surroundings and wildlife of the quiet winter land.  Learn more about the plants, trees and animals that makes this town so intriguing.

The many lakes around the area are ideal for ice skating and Lake Beauvert are lit at night to allow for night skiing.  The Maligne canyon is a popular attraction for ice walking.  Strap in with safety harnesses or climb the sheets of ice freely to view the spectacular naturally formed ice sculptures.  Join a night tour of the canyon to view the magical rainbows formed by headlamps, the moon and stars.

Other attractions

The Den is the wildlife museum in Jasper.  It provides the tourist with information on the weird and wonderful creatures found here.  Jasper is known for fur covered animals which made the town a trading point for fur in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

The pride of Jasper lies within its history, the historic hotels and architecture and the preserved railways and natural formed caves, valleys, glaciers and ice fields.  The best way to experience this history is with a guided tour through Jasper and the Rockies acting as home to this nature inspired town.

Nightlife and dining

Jasper is still very crude with an undeveloped feeling in certain aspects, yet it caters for the more modern visitor as well.    The town offers nightclubs and pubs and restaurants to suit the tastes of its patrons.

There are many shops to visit and as time passes, malls and commercialised entertainment are becoming more prevalent in Jasper.

Accommodation

Jasper offers many resorts and lodges for the visitor to stay in.  There are many hotels from which to choose, as well as chalets, guesthouse, private rental homes and ski in ski out condos. If vacation rentals are what you’re looking for, there’s more on Saida Towers South Padre website.

For a true nature experience, rent a cabin or bungalow. Most of these homes overlooks the lakes and are nestled in the woods.

Conclusion

Jasper is a magical town of nature and spectacular scenery created by the surroundings.  Fortunately Jasper is located in a Nature Park, as it would be a true shame if this beauty goes lost in the name of development and progress.

The beauty of this Park will be preserved for ages to come and continue to be a delight to both its visitors and local inhabitants.

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is a valley in Wyoming in the United State and is located near the border of Idaho.  Surrounded by mountains, rivers and streams, this valley is a feast for nature lovers.  The average altitude of the valleys in Jacksons Hole is 6 500 metre above sea level.  Take into consideration the altitude of the mountains; you will be able to picture these peaks and valleys covered in snow in the winter season.

It is no wonder that this breathtaking valley and mountains have become a very popular tourist attraction for the three ski resorts and two national parks located here.  Jackson Hole International Airport is duly also the largest and busiest airport in Wyoming.

Grand Tenton and Yellow Stone Parks

Grand Tenton and Yellow Stone are two national Parks in Jackson Hole.  The Parks offer wonderful scenery and wildlife in summer and has a popular hunting season controlled by the park officials.

The Parks have an abundance of rivers, lakes, streams and glaciers that in winter time are transformed into a snow and ice feast.  Here the Elk, beavers and other fur-bearing animals still walk freely and enjoy their natural habitat.

The snow and ice obviously also provides for hours of fun for skiing, ice skating, sledding and snowshoe hiking through this winter wonderland.

Jackson Hole Mountain resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is located in Tenton Village in Wyoming.  It lies between the town of Jackson and Grand Tenton National Park.

The resort offers steep terrain and a vertical drop at an altitude of 1 262 metres above sea level and is one of the highest peaks in North America.

The ski terrain is located over two mountains, the Après Vous Mountain and Rendezvous Mountain and the terrain is very challenging.  The slopes and runs are best suited for advanced skiers and offers bowls, glades and chutes.

Out of bound ski terrain are available to expert skiers.  These areas are marked off and people who ski here needs to carry avalanche safety gear with them.

The slopes are serviced by multiple chairlifts and gondolas and now have a newly upgraded tram that can carry 100 passengers.

Other activities for holiday goers are Nordic skiing, dog sledding, fishing and exploring the area on snowshoes and snowmobiles.  For a different view of the landscape, book rides on a hot air balloon, or paraglide down the slopes for a breathtaking experience.

Grand Targhee Resort

The resort of Grand Targhee lies in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in the Wyoming town of Alta and 68 kilometres northwest of Jackson.

The resort offers a full holiday retreat for ski enthusiasts and families. It is more a ski village than a resort as such.  It offers top international lodging and conference facilities.  For retail therapy, browse through the retail shops in the resort, or retreat to a relaxing day at the spa.  The spa offers great packages to replenish tired and aching bodies and gives strength to face the day ahead.

There is one terrain park in the resort and snow activities offered at the resort include snowcat skiing through the bowls, Nordic skiing and the terrain is more suited for advanced skiers.  Dogsled tours are also available and you can include a romantic sleigh ride dinner.

The slopes are serviced by three quad-chairs and one double chair.  There is also a conveyor to transport passengers up the slopes.

Snow King

The Snow King Resort is the last of the three in the Jackson Hole area.  This ski resort was the first ski area in Wyoming State and opened in 1936.  It is smaller than the other two resorts and more affordable. The resort has three hour skiing sessions and night skiing.  It only offers a ski area and has a hotel in the resort.