Most people consider one of two types of winter vacation destinations. They either want to enjoy the winter weather or escape from it. For those treasuring winter weather, the word vacation conjures up thoughts of snow, chilly weather and winter wonderlands. There are four main types of winter weather vacations that travelers can spend with family, friends or significant others. Which type to take depends on budget, interest, physical ability, hotel accommodations and how long vacationers have for travel and relaxation.
Skiing and Snowboarding
While skiing and snowboarding are two different sports, they can often be done at the same resort. The trails and equipment used are different, but skis, snowboards, boots and poles are all conveniently available for rental at resorts. Those who ski frequently may find it worthwhile to purchase their own equipment. Some physical balance and ability is required. Lessons are available at nearly every resort. New skiers are wise to take advantage of ski school, if only to learn how to climb up a hill to the ski lift, how to stop and how to turn. Vacationers who wish to spend time together on the slopes should travel with companions of like abilities; otherwise, they should simply plan to meet at a certain place and time midday for lunch and later on for cocoa by the ski lodge fireplace.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling vacations are well-known in areas receiving frequent significant snowfall. Rentals are easy to come by in areas with trails, and those who love the snow will find many paths and adventures. Rather than spending the trip inside, much of a snowmobiling vacation is spent out on flat terrain, rolling hills and mountainous trails. It's suitable for pairs and groups. Vacationers should take care to plan ahead for winter weather, and make contingency arrangements if there is not enough snow for the machines.
Scenery
Some of the most popular winter vacation destinations simply revolve around beautiful scenery, the potential for snow, cozy lodging and a multitude of different activities. Winter vacation activities might include tubing, cross-country skiing, bird watching, snowshoeing, sleigh rides and visiting scenic overlooks. Some towns offer hot springs and hot tubbing as enjoyable activities for visitors. While at a scenic vacation destination, travelers may plan to spend a day or two on the slopes or perhaps an afternoon snowmobiling, rather than spending the entire vacation doing one thing. Another option is to see the area from the air, with helicopter or airplane tours and cable car rides.
Accommodations
Finding the right place to stay is part of what makes the trip special and something to remember. Be sure that bed and breakfasts or hotels are located near the main attraction, such as a ski resort, or in the heart of the scenic area. When access is easy, more time can be spent doing the most fun activities. Choose whether accommodations should be newer, state-of-the-art hotels, such as 1900- and 2000-era structures, or whether older, comfortable and historical is preferred. There are many 1700 and 1800 hotels that have been renovated and carry a charm and coziness not found in newer buildings. Many homes from Colonial times have been converted into bed and breakfasts, which creates a completely different atmosphere than a new resort with ski-in-ski-out-access and a fitness center. Choosing the right atmosphere for the travelers is often a matter of personal preference and should be discussed when the destination is chosen.
Regardless of the type of winter wonderland vacation planned, travelers should dress warmly, always let someone know where they are going and plan for inclement weather. Finding things to do and companions to share it with are often the easiest part of planning a winter vacation.
Skiing and Snowboarding
While skiing and snowboarding are two different sports, they can often be done at the same resort. The trails and equipment used are different, but skis, snowboards, boots and poles are all conveniently available for rental at resorts. Those who ski frequently may find it worthwhile to purchase their own equipment. Some physical balance and ability is required. Lessons are available at nearly every resort. New skiers are wise to take advantage of ski school, if only to learn how to climb up a hill to the ski lift, how to stop and how to turn. Vacationers who wish to spend time together on the slopes should travel with companions of like abilities; otherwise, they should simply plan to meet at a certain place and time midday for lunch and later on for cocoa by the ski lodge fireplace.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling vacations are well-known in areas receiving frequent significant snowfall. Rentals are easy to come by in areas with trails, and those who love the snow will find many paths and adventures. Rather than spending the trip inside, much of a snowmobiling vacation is spent out on flat terrain, rolling hills and mountainous trails. It's suitable for pairs and groups. Vacationers should take care to plan ahead for winter weather, and make contingency arrangements if there is not enough snow for the machines.
Scenery
Some of the most popular winter vacation destinations simply revolve around beautiful scenery, the potential for snow, cozy lodging and a multitude of different activities. Winter vacation activities might include tubing, cross-country skiing, bird watching, snowshoeing, sleigh rides and visiting scenic overlooks. Some towns offer hot springs and hot tubbing as enjoyable activities for visitors. While at a scenic vacation destination, travelers may plan to spend a day or two on the slopes or perhaps an afternoon snowmobiling, rather than spending the entire vacation doing one thing. Another option is to see the area from the air, with helicopter or airplane tours and cable car rides.
Accommodations
Finding the right place to stay is part of what makes the trip special and something to remember. Be sure that bed and breakfasts or hotels are located near the main attraction, such as a ski resort, or in the heart of the scenic area. When access is easy, more time can be spent doing the most fun activities. Choose whether accommodations should be newer, state-of-the-art hotels, such as 1900- and 2000-era structures, or whether older, comfortable and historical is preferred. There are many 1700 and 1800 hotels that have been renovated and carry a charm and coziness not found in newer buildings. Many homes from Colonial times have been converted into bed and breakfasts, which creates a completely different atmosphere than a new resort with ski-in-ski-out-access and a fitness center. Choosing the right atmosphere for the travelers is often a matter of personal preference and should be discussed when the destination is chosen.
Regardless of the type of winter wonderland vacation planned, travelers should dress warmly, always let someone know where they are going and plan for inclement weather. Finding things to do and companions to share it with are often the easiest part of planning a winter vacation.
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