Resorts Offer Specials to Ward off Economy Blues

The winter vacation market is not likely to escape the current downturn in the economy, which is permeating every level of society and every business sector. With this in mind, ski resorts throughout the United States and Canada are offering amazing specials to lure skiers to their slopes in what can be seen as a true win-win deal. Snow sport enthusiasts will be getting more value-for-money than ever before, while resorts will ensure that their facilities are fully utilized and they snap up some consumer vacation dollars.

At many resorts, pre-season bookings are far lower than experienced in recent years, with many regulars waiting to see where the economy is headed before committing to vacation plans. To counteract this, holiday-makers who book early will benefit the most from early booking discounts and specials at many resorts. Specials include offers for reduced or free lodging, reduced ski lift costs, ski rental packages, stay two nights and get one free, and a whole host of innovative marketing packages. For those with reservations about hurtling down a slope on skis or a snowboard at high speed, most resorts have a host of other activities to enjoy, such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, snow-tubing and ice-skating, while many resorts include spa services for luxurious pampering.

The following will give you some idea of specials on offer, but check with resorts for updates on specials before heading for the slopes.

The 320 Guest Ranch in Montana is offering an all inclusive package of accommodation, shuttle service, continental breakfast and lift tickets at either Moonlight Basin or Big Sky from $77 per person, plus children 10 years old and under not only stay free, but get to ski free. Other activities include snowshoeing, sleigh rides, cross-country skiing and winter outings to Yellowstone National Park. In South Shore Lake Tahoe, California, specials where guests pay for two nights and get the third free are running at seventeen locations through 19 December. Locations include Americana Vacation Club, Best Western Station House Inn, Big Pines Mountain House, Inn By The Lake, Lake Tahoe Vacation Resort, Tahoe Beach and Ski, Forest Suites Resort, Tahoe Valley Lodge and Spruce Grove Cabins. Sunriver Resort in Central Oregon is offering a package adding up to $280 for three nights, including three days of lift tickets at Mount Bachelor, ten percent off shopping, dining, spa and shuttle services and a free ski movie.

Skiers should also be on the lookout for airfare deals, because although airlines have cut some flights in a cost saving exercise, they are battling to fill seats and are offering short term deals to remedy this. So, if you thought a ski trip was out of your reach this winter, why not check with your favorite snow sport destination to see what’s on offer – you may be pleasantly surprised.