Chicago Vacation Rental Date

Chicago Vacation Rental - Condominium/Loft Chicago Vacation Rental Property Owners Join us VRBO ® is Vacation Rentals by Owner ® Home USA Illinois Chicago Edit Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #55316 Gorgeous Downtown Chicago Printers Row Loft Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA (Minutes to McCormick Place/Grant Park/Lake/Shopping) Accommodations: Condominium/Loft - 1 Bedroom + Other (See Description) - 1 Bath - (Sleeps 2-4) Living Area - Chicago, Illinois Vacation Rental Enjoy this unmatched location with all of the conveniences of downtown yet with the serenity of historic Printers Row. This brand new designer furnished large one bedroom/one bath loft is located within this century old historic building that has recently been converted to lofts. It was designed by legendary Chicago architect Henry Wheeler which once housed Printing Firms that gave Printers Row it's name. This beautiful loft offers luxuries of a First Class hotel yet with all the comforts and conveniences of home. It features a southern sunny location with endless views of Chicago, the Chicago River and unobstructed views of the evening fireworks at US Cellular Field/Comisky Park from the oversized windows in the living room and master retreat. It is ideally located just steps from Five-Star restaurants, McCormick Place, Soldier Field, Museums, World Class Shopping on State Street, Michigan Avenue, Theater District, Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain, Millenium Park, Harold Washington Library, the "L", the Financial District, Sears Tower, Burnham Harbor and the Lake just to name a few. The home itself boasts 12 foot huge timbered ceilings, aged brick walls, glistening wood floors, gas fireplace, gorgeous bathroom with custom credenza with granite counters plus a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances for the gourmet. The interior has been finely finished in Ralph Lauren textured paint, furnishings and linens. There is an abundance of oversized closets both in the entry and master retreat, plus a large linen closet full of extra linens, towels, pillows and two queen size air mattresses if there will be more than two guests. High Speed Interntet Access is available as a courtesy to our guests. The washer and dryer are also located within the home. Located in the South Loop just two blocks south of the Stock Exchange. Also available on a long term lease, please inquire about long term reduced rental rates. Upcoming Events: Navy Pier Fireworks Wednesdays at 9:30pm; Saturdays at 10:15pm thru Sept. 5, 2005 Tuesdays on the Terrace at the Metropolitan Museum of Contemporary Art, 5:30pm to 8pm through Sept. 25, 2005. Listen to Chicago's finest Jazz while enjoying cocktails & Lite Fare on the MCA Terrace overlooking Lake Michigan Printers Row Farmers Market, Saturdays at Polk & Dearborn, June 18 thru Oct. 22, 2005 Chicago Outdoor Film Festival Tuesdays July 12-Aug.23 Sunset at Butler Field in Grant Park LOLLAPALOOZA, July 23rd & 24th, 2005, Grant Park Venentian Night on the Lake, LSD and Congress, July 30, 2005 Chicago Antique Market, July 31, 2005, on Randolph between Ada & Ogden Chicago Jazz Fest, Aug. 1 through Aug. 4, 2005, Grant Park Gold Coast Art Fair, LaSalle/Erie/Wells, Aug. 5 through Aug. 7 Bash on Wabash, Aug. 14 & 15, 2005, Wabash & 14th Chicago Air & Water Show, Aug. 20 & Aug. 21, 2005 Chicago Antique Market, Aug. 28, 2005, on Randolph between Ada & Ogden Celtic Fest Chicago, Sept. 17 & 18, 2005, Grant Park Haunted Village at Pumpkin Plaza, Daley Plaza, Oct. 14 until Oct. 31 Magnificent Mile Lights Festival & Parade, Nov. 19, 2005 State Street Thanksgiving Day Parade, November 24, 2005 Holiday Tree Lighting, November 25, 2005 Master Retreat with Queen Size Bed - Chicago, Illinois Vacation Rental Amenities: Fireplace, Air Conditioning, Cable Plasma TV, VCR/DVD/Stereo, High Speed Internet Access, CD Player, Full Kitchen with Stainless Appliances, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Ice Maker, Cooking Utensils provided, Linens provided, Washer & Dryer, Hair Dryer, Several Parking Options available. Pet Friendly Activities (on site or nearby): Biking, Grant Park, Millenium Park, Art Museum, Navy Pier, McCormick Place, Soldier Field, Shopping, Restaurants, Live Theater, Museums, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, Sightseeing, Sailing, Boating Rates (in US Dollars): Personal Currency Assistant ™ Sunday-Thursday .. $175/night, Friday& Saturday .. $225/night, Two night minimum.$1150/week .. $3300/month. Three night minimum on Holidays$250 Security Deposit Required/$100 nonrefundable departure cleaning feeReservation will be confirmed with a signed Guest Registration & DepositPet's ok upon approval, $35 per pet/per stay.Pay safely & securely with your credit card via PayPalAvailable as a Long Term Rental, please inquire on our Special RatesNote: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice. Entrrance - Chicago, Illinois Vacation Rental Links to more information: Click Here to see All My Rental Listings http://www.palmstopinesrentals.com/chicago/printers_row/index.php Note: Each property is individually owned or managed. Dates available:  Year Round Phone: (787) 863-1000, Ext. 5401 (Puerto Rico, Caribbean) or (847) 867-6974 (Illinois, USA) Please say: "I saw your listing #55316 on VRBO" Dining Room and Fireplace Bath with Custom Credenza and Granite Counters Home USA Illinois Chicago Edit Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #55316 There have been 10830 visitors to this page since the counter was last reset on February 12, 2005 This listing was first published here on February 12, 2005. Chicago Vacation Rental Date last modified - December 16, 2005 VRBO® is Vacation Rentals by Owner® - The largest and most popular vacation rental site. Specializing in BY OWNER vacation rentals, homes, condos, cabins, villas and apartments ALSO privately owned properties offered thru rental agencies and management companies. To report any problems with this site contact webmaster@vrbo.com URL: http://www.vrbo.com/55316 ©1995-2005 by VRBO International LLC - all rights reserved

Mexico Travel

Peak Travel Group, Hawaii vacation packages, Mexico travel packages .................................. ................... Welcome Peak Travel Group's mission is to provide you, the traveler with: In-depth EXPERIENCE to enrich your travel decisions A feeling of TRUST that we are your advocate 24/7 Solid VALUE for your travel dollar SERVICE that will keep you coming back Once you've traveled with us, you'll never settle for less than PEAK Performance ! Peak Travel Group 1221 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, California USA 95125 Phone: +1- 408.286.2633 / Toll-Free + 1.800.737.9776 CST #2029626-40 / All Rights Reserved. All site contents © 2005 Peak Travel Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved Legal Statements - Please Read ................................................................................... . Sitemap Mexico Vacations Acapulco Hotels Acapulco Princess Hyatt Regency Acapulco Fairmont Pierre Marques Las Brisas Acapulco Fiesta Condesa Acapulco Cancun Vacations Sun Palace Cancun Palace Hotel Fiesta Americana Condesa Resort Hotel Melia Cancun Resort Hotel Presidente Inter-Continental Gran Caribe Resort & Spa Hyatt Regency Cancun Hotel Hyatt Caribe Cancun Hotel Omni Cancun Hotel Royal Solaris Caribe Hotel Oasis Playa Cancun Hotel Beach Palace Cancun Resort Hotel Royal Sunset Cancun Park Royal Piramides Cancun Resort Avalon Grand Cancun Resort Hotel Blue Bay Getaway Hotel Blue Bay Club Cancun Hotel Oasis Cancun Grand Hotel Oasis Cancun Hotel Costa Real Hotel & Suites Tucancun Hotel Solymar Cancun Hotel Kin Ha Barcelo Club Las Perlas Sunset Lagoon Imperial Las Perlas Playa Del Carmen Resorts Riu Palace Mexico All Inclusive Resort Riu Tequila Golf & Beach Resort Riu Yucatan Beach All Inclusive Resort Riu Playacar All Inclusive Resort Xpu Ha Palace All Inclusive Resort Moon Palace All Inclusive Resort Aventura Palace All Inclusive Resort Barcelo Maya Beach All Inclusive Resort Copacabana Riviera Maya Royal Hideaway All Inclusive Resort Paradisus Riviera Cancun All Inclusive Occidental Flamenco Xcaret All Inclusive Allegro Resort Playacar Gran Porto Real Resort Reef Club Playacar Puerto Vallarta Hotels Westin Regina Resort Hotel Sheraton Buganvilias Resort Hotel Riu Jalisco Hotel Puerto Vallarta Paradise Village Beach Resort & Spa Krystal Vallarta Hotel Fiesta Americana Hotel La Jolla De Mismaloya Resort Hotel Sierra Nuevo Vallarta Resort Hotel Melia Puerto Vallarta Beach Resort Velas Vallarta Resort Viva Vallarta Resort Hotel Occidental Grand Hotel Holiday Inn Puerto Vallarta Hotel Sun Resort Hotel Continental Plaza Vallarta Hotel Villa del Palmar Puerto Vallarta Hotel Plaza Las Glorias Pelicanos Costa Club Punta Arena Villas Buenaventura Hotel & Beach Club Playa Los Arcos Hotel Hotel Rosita Cabo Hotel Packages Pueblo Bonito Rose Cabo Hotel Fiesta Americana Grand Hotel Villa Del Palmar Cabo Beach Resort Hilton Los Cabos Hotel Melia San Lucas Cabo Hotel Melia Cabo Real Resort Melia Los Cabos All Suite & Golf Hotel Royal Solaris Los Cabos Hotel Marina Fiesta Cabo Resort & Spa Misiones Hotel & Beach Resort Plaza Las Glorias Cabo Hotel Posada Real Calinda Cabo San Lucas Hotel Bahia Condos Las Bungambillas Condo Villa La Paloma Fiesta Inn Hawaii Vacations Maui Condos Hyatt Maui Hotel Grand Wailea Maui Hotel Kaanapali Alii Condo Renaissance Wailea Resort Hotel Sheraton Maui Resort Hotel Kea Lani Resort Hotel Maui Prince Resort Hotel Westin Maui Resort Hotel Embassy Vacation Resort Hotel Aston Kaanapali Shores - Maui Condo Napili Kai Beach Club Marriott Wailea - South Maui Resort Kamaole Sands - Maui Condo Mana Kai South Maui Condo Aston Maui Banyan South Maui Condo Sugar Beach Resort Papakea Kaanapali Condo Royal Kahana Maui Condo Kaanapali Beach Hotel Aston Mahana Maui Condo Kihei Akahi South Condo Ohana Maui Islander Hotel Maui Vista Condo Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas Waikiki Hotels Kahala Mandarin Orienta l Marriott Ihilani Beach Resort Turtle Bay Resort Sheraton Princess Kaiulan i O utrigger Reef on the Beach Hote l Outrigger Waikik Hotel Sheraton Waikiki Hotel Marriott Waikiki Hotel Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort Hotel Ohana Waikiki West Hotel Ohana Waikiki Village Hotel Ohana Reef Towers Hotel Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel Outrigger Islander Waikiki Hotel Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel Aston Waikiki Sunset Condo Hawaiian Monarch Hotel Ohana Maile Sky Court Hotel Waikiki Resort Hotel Ocean Resort Hotel Aston Aloha Surf Hote l Aston Coral Reef Hotel Hawaii Vacations Four Seasons Hualalai Marriott Waikoloa Beach Resort H otel Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort Hilton Waikoloa Villag e Resort Mauna Lani Bay Hotel Fairmont Orchid at Mauna Lani Hote l Aston Royal Seacliff Kona Condo Vista Waikoloa Kona Condo Shores at Waikoloa Kona Condo Aston Keauhou Beach Resort Hotel Outrigger Kanaloa at Kona Condo Kona Seaside King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel Kona Reef Condo Kauai Condos Kauai Hotels Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa Hotel Sheraton Kauai Resort Hotel Radisson Kauai Beach Resort Hotel Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation Condo Kauai Marriott Hotel Hanalei Bay Resort Hotel Aston at Poipu Kai Aloha Beach Kauai Resort Aston Kaha Lani Aston Islander on the Beach Plantation Hale Kauai Sands Meeting Planning Group Travel Company Meetings Events / Large Groups Incentive Travel Web Registration Data Management Cruise Vacations Oceania Cruises Princess Cruise Line Cruise Vacations Carnival Cruise Line Cruise Vacations Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Vacations Celebrity Cruise Line Vacations Radisson Seven Seas Cruises Vacations Club Med Vacations All Inclusive Resort Vacations Club Med Sandpiper Village Florida Club Med Cancun Club Med Ixtapa Mexico Family Resort Club Med Punta Cana Domincan Republic Caribbean Club Med Columbus Isle Bahamas Islands Club Med Turkoise Turks & Caicos Caribbean Club Med Caravelle Guadeloupe West Indies Europe Tours - 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Europe Travel 101 -

Taking the Train in Europe - Rail Travel Info from Europe for Visitors  You are here: About > Travel > Europe for Visitors Travel Go Europe Essentials European Vacation Planning Map Europe Travel 101 - Before you Go European Distances The Best of Europe European Photo Gallery Articles & Resources Europe Travel Planning What to do In Europe Lodging - Hotels and More European Travel Maps Sex and Nudism Travel Photography Transportation Benelux Countries France Germany Austria Switzerland Greece Italy and Malta Travel Info Scandinavian Travel Spain and Portugal United Kingdom and Ireland Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Italy Travel Guidebooks Europe Travel Guidebooks German Travel Guidebooks Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Europe for Visitors Taking the Train in Europe What you need to know about rail travel in Europe. Is taking the train better than taking a car? Well, it depends on what you want to see. Here are a few considerations: Train Travel Plusses Car Travel Plusses Trains allow you to move easily between cities and European capitals. Most train stations are located near the tourist centers and have hotels nearby. No parking worries. With an unrestricted Eurail Pass, you can get on and off when you wish, often without the hassle of dealing with ticketing agents. You can take the train on a rainy day just to see the scenery, without having to worry about the unscheduled expense. You can sleep on the train, saving travel time and some of the cost of a hotel. You can pay full attention to the scenery at hand--or read a book. You can meet with and talk to the locals--or get travel info from other travelers, while you're moving on to your next destination. It's easy to get to small, out-of-the-way towns and hidden romantic getaways. Go where you want, when you want. You don't have to go by someone else's timetable. Visit sites out in the countryside without having to sign up for an expensive tour. When in transit, you can leave your luggage in the car (albeit at some risk!) Many people can travel at the same cost. Train Travel Minuses Car Travel Minuses If you want to experience an event in the countryside, you'll most likely have to sign on to an expensive tour. Usually, two people travel for double what one person can travel for. A large family traveling on a train is usually quite a bit more expensive than renting a car, especially in northern Europe, where train fares tend to be higher. On the other hand, keeping young children entertained may be easier on the train. In a major city, you'll have to deal with parking and related fees, if you can figure out how to get to your destination in the first place. You'll have to deal with the worries involved with driving in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar rules. Young children may not like long journeys in the car. If you're traveling with a large group of people, want to visit small towns, and like to drive in Europe, then it's a no-brainer--you'll want to rent or lease a car . But if you're a single traveler or couple who wishes to visit the great capitals of Europe, then train travel might just be the best bet for you. There are options for people who want both experiences as well. A Rail 'n Drive Pass allows you to use both modes of transport. The EurailDrive ( buy direct or get information ) Pass, for example, allows you four days first class train travel and two full days of car rental over a two month period. Rail Passes If you're intent on seeing many large cities in a limited amount of time it might save you considerable money to purchase a rail pass. Most passes for European tourists require you to buy them ahead of time in your own country. In the '70s the issue was simple. You bought a Eurail Pass or you didn't. The pass was valid for a solid period. In other words, you bought a month's pass and it was good for unlimited first-class rail travel during that month--all you needed to do once you had your pass was to flash it at the conductor and go. Only if you wanted a sleeping compartment did you need to purchase a supplement. Lately the options have multiplied enormously. So have the complications in using and understanding them. See Rail Passes - Which Rail Pass is Right for Your Vacation . Rick Steves' How Railpasses Work is an excellent primer on getting to understand railpasses. Another good resource is The Backpackers Ultimate Guide to Rail Travel in Europe . You can purchase just about any pass you can think of from Rail Europe . And What if I want to see the countryside as well as the major cities? European trains go to many small cities and towns, but for the smaller towns not serviced by trains you'll often find a local bus making a round trip between your city and the town you wish to visit--busses scheduled so the locals can shop in the big city and get back before dark. Your best bet is to check out the bus stations in the city in which you're staying. Local bus lines with an Internet presence can be found at Budget Travel's excellent Europe Bus Transportation page. The other alternative is a tour. Huge, lumbering busses can be seen on all roads in the most remote areas of Europe during the season. Check at the local tourist office or at your hotel check-in desk. For other transportation ideas, see our Transportation links. For scenic train routes, see Scenic Rail Journeys in Europe. For tips on buying tickets and riding the train, see 10 top train tips . From James Martin , Your Guide to Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Advertisement Most Popular Europe Map - Distances Between Cities in Western Europe Europe's Best Nudist Beaches Europe Picture Galleries Italy Pictures Europe Travel 101 - Before You Travel to Europe for the Firs... What's Hot Power Adapters Noord-Holland - Delights of North Holland Travel Visiting Pompeii Italy Guidebooks Naples - Getting There Related Topics France for Visitors Greece for Visitors United Kingdom / Ireland for Visitors Eastern Europe for Visitors Italy for Visitors        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Power Adapters Noord-Holland - Delights of North Holland Travel Visiting Pompeii Italy Guidebooks Naples - Getting There Headlines Antwerp Pictures Antwerp is a fashion and diamond center for Belgium and... Like to Travel Well? Follow the CIA! I really should have paid attention when the CIA came... Tapas from Cans? Ok, so you wander into one of Barcelona's most celebrated... North Holland: Noah's Ark Redux A pious north Holland businessman took out a 300 000...

Russia Travel Resources >

Russia Travel Guide - Money Matters  You are here: About > Travel > Eastern Europe for Visitors > Russia-Belarus-Ukraine > Russia Travel Resources > Travel Essentials - Russia > Russia Travel Guide - Money Matters Travel Go Eastern Europe Essentials Best of Eastern Europe Map of Central/Eastern Europe Photo Gallery Country Profiles Discount Travel Websites Articles & Resources Planning Your Trip Ways to Travel What to Do in East Europe Maps for Eastern Europe Czech-SlovakTravel Hungary Travel Poland Travel Russia-Belarus-Ukraine Romania-Moldova Travel Baltic Travel Balkan Travel Culture and Holidays Photo Galleries East Europe Travel and Language Books Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Eastern Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Eastern Europe for Visitors Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Most Popular First Christmas Tree Europe map Best of Eastern Europe Croatia Naturism and Nudism Discount Travel Websites What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings Related Topics Hotels / Resorts / Inns European History Architecture Air Travel Europe for Visitors Money Matters From Apply Now , Your Guide to Eastern Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Russia Travel Guide Like everywhere else you travel, you'll need money when you visit Russia. Below you'll find handy information about money in Russia, including cash, credit cards, travelers checks, exchange rates, ATMs, and banks. Currency The currency in Russia is the ruble (RUR). One ruble equals 100 kopeks. Banknotes have a value of 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rubles. Coins are found in 1, 5, 10 and 50 kopek pieces and 1, 2 and 5 ruble coins. Only notes and coins dated 1997 or after are valid. Taking Money with You If your travel plans are just to the larger cities of European Russia, it's best to bring a mixture of cash, travelers checks, and credit cards. You should bring just $100-200 per person. Travelers checks, which are safe because if lost or stolen can be replaced, can't normally be used to pay for goods or services but can be used to get cash when you need it. If you travel outside of larger cities in European Russia, expect to use cash only. Exchanging Money Check the latest conversion rates before you go. Don't change money on the street as there is no need and the risks are too great. Change money in a bank or currency exchange office, or use an ATM machine. The problem with ATMs is that there are now scams where account and PIN numbers are electronically stolen. Therefore, it might be safer to use an ATM machine inside a bank. Currency exchange offices are "obmyen balooti," and they usually advertise their rates in their windows. There are plenty of them in the big cities and their rates tend to be better than in banks. Credit Cards MasterCard and Visa credit cards are generally accepted at hotels, restaurants and many shops in larger cities. In the hinterlands, you'll have to rely more on cash. Travelers Checks American Express and Thomas Cook travelers checks are the most widely accepted, and there are offices in major cities where you can exchange them for cash. Banks Banking hours are generally Mon–Sat 10:00 am to 6:00 or 8:00 pm. Many banks offer Western Union money transfer services. Costs Moscow can be expensive for tourists, especially for hotels and upscale restaurnats, and costs can be twice that of St. Petersburg. Outside these two cities, costs are considerably lower. Depending on the level of luxury you require, however, budget travelers can still find reasonable costs in Russia's larger cities, whether for accommodations or meals. Other costs, such as certain groceries and public transportation, are very cheap. Russia Travel Guide Index Profile of Russia City Profile: Moscow City Profile: St. Petersburg Before You Go Need to Know Money Matters Intercity Travel City Transit Driving Health and Safety Lodging Dining and Drinking Communications Shopping        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings

Ski Vacation Almanac Adventure

Ski Vacations - National Geographic Adventure Magazine Ski Preview 2006 Select Past Sports 20 Sports Trips Swap Slogging the Fakahatchee Preseason Ski Trips Yoga Vs. Pilates Rafting Baja Trekking New Zealand Performance Candy Rock Climbing the Gunks Paddling Big Sur U.S. Climbing Spots Biking Across Alaska Latin American Surf Spots Paddling the Altiplano Skiing Tahoe's Backcountry The Grail Trails Climbing the Black Hills Biking the Inside Passage /0512/resources/sports_resources.html Gear of the Year: Gift Ideas Here are all the gotta-get-it items for savvy outdoor fanatics this holiday season. Gear gift ideas Audio Exclusive: Listen to Ed Viesturs Download an interview with our Adventurer of the Year, Ed Viesturs. Then read about ten other incredible athletes. Hear Ed Viesturs World-Class Outfitters Adventure -approved excursions for right now. Find a base camp, eco trip, or guided tour Video Exclusive : Climbing Icebergs Watch Will Gadd climb a crumbling iceberg off the coast of Labrador. See the ice climbing video King Kong in Rwanda To get into character, actor Andy Serkis, a.k.a. King Kong, sought out some ideal coaches: the mountain gorillas of Rwanda. Read the King Kong interview This Month's Stories Big-Cat Biologist Alan Rabinowitz Photo Gallery: Mongolia Road Trip: Puerto Rico Winter Weekend Getaways Ski Vacation Almanac Adventure Videos Paddling Croatia Climbing Icebergs Jaguars in Belize Ski Vacation Almanac: How to Ski All Year Long Text by Porter Fox Photograph by Aaron Black/Outdoor Collection/Aurora BOARD GAMES: Cutting through perfect powder on British Columbia's Blackcomb Mountain "Ski season" may be one of the great misnomers in winter sports, followed closely by "winter sports." If you have a yen for locking into your bindings and owning the slopes whenever the mood strikes (and vacation days permit), there's no time like the present, no matter the time of year. So tear out these pages and tuck them in your boot bag. Because somewhere, right now, the slopes are calling, and our perennial ski guide is the only answer you need. DECEMBER-FEBRUARY JANUARY-FEBRUARY MARCH-MAY JUNE-SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER-DECEMBER DECEMBER-FEBRUARY 1. Sestriere, Italy There's nothing like 100,000 cheering, gesticulating Italians on skis, but that's what you'll see when the 2006 Winter Olympics hit the slopes where Alberto Tomba won his first World Cup race in 1987. Sestriere, one of the highest and snowiest resorts in the Italian Alps, topping out at 9,262 feet (2,823 meters), will host the alpine skiing events from February 12 through February 25. Visit before, after, or during, and ski 248 miles (399 kilometers) of trails across six interconnected resorts. Test your limits on the renowned Kandahar downhill run, where Jean-Claude Killy and Ingemar Stenmark raced, or get a natural high watching the Olympic ski-jumping competition ( www.torino2006.com ). The Bargain : The Milky Way Ski Pass ($35 a day) offers entrée to six resorts, 66 lifts, and 5,000 vertical feet (1,524 vertical meters). The Digs : Most hotels are already full or raising rates, so pre-rent an apartment through Interhome ($330 a week; www.interhome.us ). The Eats : Agnolotti (meat dumplings) at nearby Tre Rubinetti , which serves up genuine northern Italian fare that isn't watered down (or priced up) for tourists. Start Here : www.comune.sestriere.to.it/e_index.htm 2. Silverton Mountain Ski Area, Colorado The canvas-tent base lodge is your first indication that Silverton Mountain is unlike any resort you've ever skied. Surely the grittiest and only completely backcountry-style ski mountain in the United States, Silverton requires guides for every skier ($99 a day) on its 1,600 acres (648 hectares) of prime San Juan Mountain wilds. With 400 inches (1,016 centimeters) of annual snowfall and a cap of 80 skiers a day, first tracks, even during holidays, are virtually guaranteed. A lone double chair, opened by resort visionary Aaron Brill in 2002, provides access to runs like the largely treeless Riff and the chute-to-bowl Ropedee-Dope. The Package : The three-day New Year's Party and Big Mountain Ski Camp ($750) puts you on the hill with the top freeskiers in the world. The Digs : Inn of the Rockies at the Historic Alma House ($79; www.innoftherockies.com ) is a peaceful Victorian hideaway with a hearty breakfast spread. The Hang : You will find Angus steaks, a Laundromat, and showers at the Explorer's Club Pub and Grille ( www.explorersclubsw.com ). Start Here : www.silvertonmountain.com JANUARY-FEBRUARY 3. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming The annual last-tram shivaree will be frantic this season: Jackson is decommissioning its iconic Rocky Mountain conveyance. For nearly 40 years the tram has transported skiers up one of the greatest continuous rises (4,139 feet) (1,262 meters) of any ski resort in the U.S. The granite-lined Corbet's Couloir and Rendezvous Bowl, plus thousands of acres of backcountry, will still be accessible next season, just check back for alternative transport info. The Thunder and Sublette quads will continue to access famous Jackson stashes like Paintbrush and Tower Three. Visit in January or February for "The Big One's" deepest snowfall. The Final Tram Run : Corbet's to Paintbrush to Lower Sublette Ridge gets you the most turns for your vertical. The Digs : Stay with former Olympians and local Jackson Holers Hans and Nancy Johnstone in one of the Alpine House's 22 pastel and Scandinavian-pine rooms ($120; www.alpinehouse.com ). The Freebie : You could almost eat for a week off the copious samples at Albertson's supermarket at the intersection of Route 191 and Highway 22. Start Here : www.jacksonhole.com 4. Jay Peak Resort, Vermont Where can you get 2,153 vertical feet (656 meters) of skiing, Powder 8 competitions, 355 inches (901 centimeters) of annual snowfall, open backcountry gates, a tram, and hair-raising terrain? Three and a half hours northwest of Boston, the unlikely powder Canaan of Jay Peak, Vermont, is the greatest anomaly in lower 48 skiing. Midwinter storms converge from the Champlain Valley, Great Lakes region, and St. Lawrence Valley to bestow seasons like 2001, when Jay Peak received 581 inches (1,476 centimeters). Eight lifts, including a 60-person tram and one detachable quad, rarely have lines and access 76 trails over 385 acres (156 hectares) of northern Vermont steeps. The Backcountry: Take Northway gate over to Big Jay for the steepest powder lines around. (Bring a guide.) The Powder Stash : Andre's Paradise Glade holds fresh tracks for days after a dump. The Digs : Get free lift tickets and ski to your private balcony at the no-frills Hotel Jay ($99; www.jaypeakresort.com ). Start Here : www.jaypeakresort.com MARCH-MAY 5. Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort, California There are two distinct advantages to spring skiing in a casino town. One: You can pay for your trip with a face card and an ace. Two: The early a.m. slopes are empty while the high rollers sleep it off. Overshadowed by its neighbors, Kirkwood and Squaw Valley, Heavenly's 3,500 vertical feet (1,067 vertical meters) of corned-up glades, bowls, and granite-slotted backcountry make it one of the best and least crowded spring destinations in the Golden State. After a night of blackjack at Harrah's, hit the Mott and Killebrew Canyon backcountry gates at their 9 a.m. opening for some of the steepest skiing in the Sierras. And you can experience the area's legendary melt-freeze cycle when the expansive Milky Way bowl softens up—just about the time the card sharks are rolling out of bed. The Spring-Break Moment: Slush Pond Mania during the first week of May is like a Warren Miller blooper clip gone hideously awry. The Digs : Harrah's Lake Tahoe ($89; www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/tah ) lures potential gamers with fair deals and big, clean rooms. The Skier's Fuel-Up : The eggs benedict at the Driftwood Café (+1 530 544 6545) are an edifying start to your day. Start Here : www.skiheavenly.com 6. Alyeska Resort, Alaska You know you've reached the big time when your chief dilemma is choosing between a heli, a snowcat, or a high-speed quad to reap the spoils of an Alaska blizzard. Or, you've simply arrived at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, Alaska, without a doubt the greatest spring skiing triple threat in the U.S. Plan A : Take the tram up 2,300 feet (701 meters) and shred the North Face, which receives up to 742 inches (1,885 centimeters) of snow a year. Plan B : Fly with Chugach Powder Guides ($775 a day; www.chugachpowderguides.com ) to access 750 square miles (1,207 square kilometers) of 50-degree couloirs, bowls, and Chugach fins. Plan C : Ride CPG's Bombardier snowcat ($225) during whiteout days for tree skiing in the upper Girdwood Valley. The Local Secret : The Sitzmark Bar and Grill at the base of Chair 3 is one of the few places where native Alaskans can be found at the resort. The Digs : Make your final run a quadruple-diamond with a night at the lavish, slopeside Alyeska Prince Hotel ($175; www.princehotels.co.jp/alyeska-e ). Start Here : www.alyeskaresort.com JUNE-SEPTEMBER 7. Portillo, Chile Don't expect nightlife, a base village, heated sidewalks, or ski caddies at South America's oldest ski resort, just 1,235 skiable acres (500 hectares) and 2,743 vertical feet (836 vertical meters) of treeless Andes smoke. The incarnation of skiers' summer dreams, runs like Roca Jack's wide-open apron are carved into the granite face of the mountain. Nearly limitless backcountry (powder-filled Primavera, for example) sits a boot pack away from the Roca Jack and Condor lifts and funnels back to the iconic Hotel Portillo ($1,100 a week). While the resort averages a mediocre 240 inches (610 centimeters) a year, big storms in August and September almost always dump powder. The Backcountry Must : 7,000-vertical-foot (2,134-vertical-meter) Super C couloir is the preeminent Portillo backcountry run. The Package : Sparse but convenient Inca Lodge ($450 a week; www.skiportillo.com ), where food and lift tickets are included. Start Here : www.skiportillo.com 8. Blackcomb, British Columbia The Ice Age is alive and well on Whistler Blackcomb's Horstman Glacier. The largest summer ski slope in North America stretches over 112 acres (45 hectares) and 685 vertical feet (209 vertical meters) of mogul lanes and groomers. From June 5 through July 30, skiers leapfrog Whistler's lower lifts then ride the Horstman and Showcase T-bars ($47 a day). The coaches, pros, and aficionados at Camp of Champions ($968 for five days; www.campofchampions.com ) preside over the new age of skiing and snowboarding in this halfpipe and terrain park. The Freebie : A 160-foot (49-meter) bungee jump is included with Camp of Champions entry. The Ski Break : The Mountain Bike Park boasts 124 miles (200 kilometers) of lift- serviced downhill trails, three skill centers, and a BikerCross course ($35 a day). The Digs : While the Hearthstone Lodge's studio rooms ($129; 800 663 7711) in the heart of Whistler Village are simply appointed, it's all about location. Start Here : www.whistlerblackcomb.com NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 9. Wolf Creek Ski Area, Colorado An odd phenomenon takes place each November at Wolf Creek Ski Area: It snows like mad. Powder-starved skiers from New Mexico to Texas converge on the 1,600-vertical-foot (488-vertical-meter) ma-and-pa hill—85 miles (137 kilometers) east of Durango and 10,300 feet (3,139 meters) above sea level—to partake in the largest annual snowfall in Colorado. When CEO Davey Pitcher opened the hill on October 29, 2004, there was a 30-inch (76-centimeter) base at the summit, and he charged $38 a day for a lift ticket, versus the standard $43. Early birds should point their boards to the right side of the trail map for 500 acres (202 hectares) of open bowls, gullies, and glades served by six lifts. The First Run of the Season : Alberta Face, off the Treasure Chair, is the steepest shot with consistently ample coverage. The Digs : The western-style rooms at High Country Lodge ($75; www.highcountrylodge.com ); they're close to the hill, and breakfast is included. The Local Brew : Lizard Head Red Ale at the Bear Creek Saloon and Grill (+1 970 264 5611). Start Here : www.wolfcreekski.com 10. Mammoth Mountain, California Despite its stature as the big-draw slope for tens of thousands of California skiers, Mammoth still holds first tracks for half the day after an early season storm. Thanks to 477 acres (193 hectares) of snowmaking and a benevolent Mother Nature, the fourth largest resort in the U.S. is a sure bet for November turns. Follow the high traverse off the Face Lift Express chair to access some of the best early season runs on the lower half of Drop Out and Wipe Out. As the chutes fill in with snow, branch out to wide-open Scotty's and supersteep Huevos Grande. The Digs : You can't do better than one night and two free lift tickets at the Mammoth Mountain Inn ($92; www.mammothmountain.com/plan/lodging/mmi ), one of the cheapest, plushest ski packages in the eastern Sierra. The Après Soak : Plastic cups overfloweth at the gently burbling Hot Creek hot springs (+1 760 924 5500), off Highway 203, south of town. Start Here : www.mammothmountain.com Pick up the December 2005/January 2006 issue for our annual coverage of the best of adventure, your guide to everything cool with 15 sports trends, 14 astonishing adventurers, and 45 gear picks that rock. Subscribe to Adventure today and save 70 percent off the cover price! Sorry, your browser does not support iframes. 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