Best Ski Resorts in the World

Usually your winter travel plans may include long lines at the airport heading to someone's parents maybe deciding to brave the elements and drive to your holiday destination. This year is different, though, and you've decided to recharge your batteries with your first ski resort vacation.

The crisp air, rustic settings, salt-of-the-earth town residents, and the newness of the whole experience are something to look forward to, but this is the first time you will be heading in this direction, so the question is --- how do I prepare for it all?

There is no need to fret. As with any vacation, taking a little time to plan makes all the difference in the world. The key, though, is actually taking the time to do a little research regarding where you're going, where you'll spend the most time, and ultimately, what do you plan to get out of your trip.

First, think in terms of the most vital items you need to pack. Medications that you or your family will need should be high on your list. It also wouldn't be a bad idea to have a copy of prescriptions from your doctor in case you misplace your medicine & need to have it filled again. This all may seem a little too specific, but travel experts the world over have many stories to tell of family vacations and romantic getaways getting cut short due to a lack of necessary medication.

Next, think of necessary toiletries. These are the 'little things' we tend to forget about when planning a trip, so take the time to find out what you absolutely need, and, depending on your mode of travel, what you need to reassess based on travel restrictions. Travel experts to point out that if you feel that the extra hassle of packing these items is something to avoid, call the ski resort you'll be staying at and find out if they provide toiletries to their guests.

Of course, if you are traveling to a ski resort, you are undoubtedly traveling to a colder environment that involves snow and mountainous terrain. As you plan your attire, you need to think of dressing in layers. Certainly, protecting yourself from the winter cold is key, especially if you decide to get some skiing, snowboarding, and sledding done, but what happens when you're off the slopes and hanging out in town? Not only does the change in elevation mean a shift in temperature, but the indoors will usually be nice & toasty. Also, planning your clothing means thinking about what other plans you have for your trip. For example, if you decided to plan an evening of dinner & dancing while the kids stay back & watch a movie, you'll need to think about how to best pack your nice clothing with your thermals.

Finally, when it comes to the equipment regarding your ski resort vacation, you need to plan how it will affect your overall travel experience. Travel blogs and resource sites are littered with stories of travelers that loved the actual vacation but would never travel there again due to the amount of gear carried both ways. Here is where the personal touch comes in. Call the resort and ask if they rent gear to guests. Sometimes they do, and if they don't, they can guide you to the nearest, and most dependable, place to get what you need.

Your first ski resort vacation is one that should be epic and life-changing in nature. A decision to branch out and try something new will no doubt bring you joy & excitement and a desire to get back there as soon as possible. With the right planning, your first ski resort getaway will not be your last.

Skiing has a lot of health benefits. It strengthens your joints and bones and it also boosts your mood. Skiing also improves your endurance and heart health. It strengthens the muscles in your lower body. Skiing also improves your flexibility and the quality of your sleep.

Best Ski Resorts in the World

1. Park City Mountain Resort

Park City Mountain Resort is located in Utah and it is considered as one of the best ski resorts in the world. The resort hosted the 2002 Whistler Blackcomb. This resort was established in 1963 and it has around 314 trails. This area is mostly for intermediate skier. But, it has trails for beginners and expert skiers, too.

2. Whiteface Mountain Resort

This resort is located in Lake Placid, New York. It was established in 1958 and it is the host of the 1980 Winter Olympics. This resort is known for its beautiful panoramic scenery and excellent amenities. The Whiteface mountain resort has over two hundred eighty acres of skiable terrain. It has 11 lifts and over eight trails. This resort is great for skiers of varying skills. It is also kid-friendly. It's a great destination for a winter family get-away.

3. Val Thorens

Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, about two thousand three hundred meters above sea level. Whether you're an expert skier or a beginner, this area is perfect for you. It has a beautiful scenery and it is relatively easy to get to.

4. Zermatt

Zermatt is one of the most popular ski resorts in Switzerland. It has great panoramic view. The area is filled with chalets, hotels, and charming restaurants.

5. Lake Louise Ski Resort

The Lake Louise Ski Resort is located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. It is one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world. It has 139 marked ski runs that are mostly for intermediate skiers. It also has a sightseeing gondola that's open all year round, offering a panoramic view of the natural springs, glaciers, and wildflowers. You can also do a lot of other things in the resort such as ice skating and dog sledding.

6. Aspen Highlands

Aspen Highlands is definitely the most popular skiing mountain in the world. It is located in Colorado and it was developed in 1958 by Whip Jones, the father of the ski industry. The mountain is steep, so this is perfect for skiers who are looking for a little challenge. This place is filled with amazing restaurants, ski and ice skating schools, and hotels.

7. Alyeska

Alyeska is located in Girwood, Alaska. It was founded in 1954 and it has around 1,400 acres. This place is low key and relatively affordable. You can also do a lot of other activities in the resort including tubing, scenic flights, dog-sledding, cross country skiing, and boat cruising.

8. Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb is located in Vancouver, British Columbia. It has the largest ski area in North America and it is accessible via 2 high speed squads and 3 gondolas. The Microsoft XP was codenamed "Whistler" as many of its developers and coders skied at this resort during its development period.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles