Jetsettersblog

Matakauri Lodge + Minaret Station announce ALPINE & HIGH COUNTRY ADVENTURE PACKAGE

Exploration, adventure & authenticity “two ways” in South Island, New Zealand

A pair of New Zealand’s most spectacular and unique luxury lodges, Matakauri Lodge and Minaret Station have joined together to offer the ultimate year-round South Island adventure- four amazing days and nights filled with inspired and contrasting experiences across two stunning settings, each offering their own richly rewarding exploration and sense of place.

First stop on the Alpine & High Country Adventure is Minaret Station – a luxury “tented” lodge in the remote New Zealand wilderness, set in a spectacularly picturesque glacial valley beneath the jagged peaks of New Zealand’s Southern Alps and accessible only by helicopter!

Set in classic “Lord of the Rings” territory at an elevation of some 915 metres, the vistas experienced at Minaret Station are simply breathtaking and make for a quintessential New Zealand High Country experience.

Undoubtedly one of the world’s unique opportunities, a stay on this private 20,000 hectare working sheep, cattle and deer property offers a level of comfort and style not usually associated with a remote country landscape. Think “ tented luxury “ as plush and spacious tented suites come exquisitely furnished with comfy king beds with fine linens, soft sheepskin flooring, full en-suites with double vanity, endless hot showers in fresh mountain water and private decks with hot tubs. Suffice to say no creature comforts are scarificed.

The active options at both lodges operate on a “choose your own adventure” style, with a range of options suited to each location and season.

In winter, Minaret Station guests might choose to enjoy exhilarating heli-skiing in this pristine and breathtaking “high country” setting, while in warmer months, fabulous hikes in spectacular country might be the order of the day, stopping for gourmet picnics and taking in the mesmerising views, or “heli-biking” with guests being flown into a valley for an adventurous trail ride into lush farmland below.

On day three a mid-morning helicopter transfer sees the setting shift to fabulous South Island playground of Queenstown and the ultimate “alpine” hideaway – Matakauri Lodge – home base for yet two more richly rewarding days.

Nestled in one of the world’s most serenely beautiful landscape settings, the multi award-winning Matakauri Lodge is located just seven minutes from the heart of Queenstown and all its attractions, yet its private setting renders it seemingly a world away, positioned as it is on the edge of Lake Wakatipu with gob-smacking views of the Remarkables.

Since opening in late 2010 Matakauri Lodge has garnered a string of international awards including being named on the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine 2011 HOT LIST, and one of the “101 Best Hotels in the World” by Tatler Magazine. Travel + Leisure Magazine listed it on its prestigious GOLD LIST 2011.

With luxury accommodation in gorgeous suites with private terraces gazing at the lake and mountain vistas, Matakauri Lodge offers guests complete relaxation paired with days spent enjoying New Zealand’s adventure capital.

From tasting wine at Mount Edward Winery in the Gibbston Valley, enjoying the vast range of outdoor offerings, or simply enjoying the shopping and dining options in Queenstown, Alpine & High Country guests will experience adventure, exploration, food, wine, and fun alongside luxurious suite accommodation and the exclusivity of staying at one of the world’s top hideaways.

Just eleven luxurious suites all designed by the acclaimed interior designer Virginia Fisher, plus a super stylish and spacious main lodge with plenty of dining and living areas for relaxing in make MATAKAURI LODGE an enchanting alpine getaway. Fabulous food from Chef Dale Gartland and a luxury spa are all part of the mix at New Zealand’s newest luxury lodge– MATAKAURI LODGE.

Four special nights at two stunning lodge locations – Minaret Station + Matakauri Lodge – this truly is the best of both worlds, and the ultimate unique South Island experience!

The Alpine & High Country Package is priced according to season and starts from NZ$6,420.00* per person/double occupancy (excluding GST) in winter and from NZ$6,840.00* in summer. Inclusions in the package are listed below. A range of extra activities, varying according to season and priced separately, may be added. See website for full listing and details.

The package includes:

Two nights staying at Minaret Station in a Tented Suite with return scenic helicopter transfers from Queenstown airport, full breakfast, lunch (lodge or picnic), pre dinner drinks with canapés, gourmet dinner, all beverages (excepting items from the reserve cellar list which bear an additional charge), services of a private tour of the high county station and secure storage of surplus personal luggage for duration of your stay at the tented lodge.

Two nights staying at Matakauri Lodge in a Deluxe Suite with return private ground transfers from Queenstown Airport, an exclusive winery tour of Mount Edward Wines including lunch with winemaker Duncan Forsyth and return ground transfers, daily pre dinner drinks and canapés, gourmet dinner, full breakfast and complimentary non alcoholic mini-bar.

*Rates quoted in NZ dollars per person exclusive of the applicable 15% GST

A holiday season surcharge also applies over Christmas period– see website for full details

To book the Alpine & High Country Package contact Matakauri Lodge phone 64 3 441 1008 or contact www.matakaurilodge.com  or www.minaretstation.com.

Chicago, IL, Asia Pacific Travel, Ltd. (APTL), www.northkorea1on1.com, announces its 2012 group tour packages to North Korea (the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea or the DPRK).

Highlights include:

The April 2012 tour coinciding with the 100th Birthday celebrations of North Korea’s Eternal President and founder, Kim Il Sung;

New visits to beautiful Kumgang, the “Diamond Mountains”, open to tourists for the first time since 2008;

New visits to several pristine remote DRPK mountain ranges for intrepid travelers.

New for 2012 will be the following:

*An April tour that will visit the DPRK during celebrations marking the 100th birthday of Kim Il Sung, the eternal President and founder of the DPRK. Not-yet-announced festivities have been in planning for several years and are expected to include an extra spectacular Arirang mass performance. These unique synchronized acrobatic displays are listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest mass performance in the world, featuring over 100,000 performers in the May Day Stadium in Pyongyang, the largest stadium in the world, seating over 150,000 people. The name Arirang refers to a Korean folk song about two separated lovers trying to reunite, a reference to the continued division of North and South Korea. The North Koreans believe that the highly synchronized, mass aspect of the performances reflects their national philosophy of the individual being subordinate to the group.

*An optional 3-4 day post-tours to Mt. Kuwol, Sariwon, Sinchon, Wonsan, and Kumgang. Known as the “Diamond Mountains,” Kumgang has been closed to tourists from the North since 1998 and to all tourists since 2008. APTL is able to take tourists to this area of Kumgang using the historic Kumgangsan Hotel in the resort development complex. Previously groups from the North only visited the fringes of Kumgang and overnighted in Wonsan.

*A new series of tours for intrepid travelers exploring North Koreas famous scenic mountains. Scheduled from June through September, these special tours include the difficult-to-visit dramatic and historic sites of Mt. Paektu, Mt. Chilbo, Hamhung, Wonsan, and Kumgang. Passengers will travel via charter flights from Pyongyang to the less accessible areas of the DPRK. These more adventurous itineraries will be in addition to the APTL’s “standard” offerings of monthly departures from April through November with various pre- and post- tours in China and South Korea.

The North Koreans have reconfirmed that Americans (and nationalities other than South Korean citizens), may tour the DPRK for extended visits. This is unlike past years, when Americans could only visit for 5 days at a time. In addition, North Korea has reconfirmed that these visits may come throughout the year, not just during the annual Arirang mass performance period in the fall. Unfortunately, the ban on Americans taking the train in or out of the DPRK to China is still in effect (other nationalities, however, are allowed to take the train), resulting in slightly higher costs for Americans.

All travelers to North Korea must travel in a group – even if it is a “group of one”. Normally it is best and more economical to have at least two travelers together so that they can share the costs. All APTL DPRK tours from August through September include the Arirang synchronized mass performance.

Regarding Asia Pacific Travel’s 2012 tours, although the tours are very similar to 2011, this year most of the “standard” North Korea portions are scheduled on a Saturday to Saturday basis, i.e., 8 days-7 nights in the DPRK. This format takes advantage of the Air Koryo flights that are less expensive than the Air China flights on other days of the week. The overall tour lengths range from 6 days to 17 days, with prices projected from $2,297 to $4,675. These prices are $100-200 less expensive than 2009 prices, due to careful pruning. This goes for the Single Supplement charges that are $60-70 less than 2009 as well.

Each of the DPRK tour departures from April through November has 5 variations, from the comprehensive 17 day “A” “Korea in Depth” package that includes a pre-tour to Seoul for 3 nights and Beijing for 2 nights, plus a post- tour to Shenyang for 1 night, Dandong for 2 nights, and ending in Beijing for 1 night; to the very economical “F” “North Korea on a Budget” variation that only includes 6 days and 5 nights in the DPRK, with no pre- or post- options.

The “standard” tours all visit Pyongyang, Myohyang, Kaesong and Panmunjom, and Nampo during their actual 6 days in the DPRK. Although these tours are listed as 8 days-7 nights, the “usable” time is really only 6 days plus an evening, as the flight from Beijing arrives in the late afternoon on Day 1 and the departure flight from Pyongyang leaves at 9 a.m. on Day 8. For those with more time and interest, Asia Pacific Travel offers several post-tour options for participants (in addition to the Shenyang-Dandong-Beijing option with tours “A” and “C”). In 2012 it is possible to add 3-4 day post-tours to Mt. Kuwol, Sariwon, Sinchon, Wonsan, and Kumgang on to a “standard” tour.

Asia Pacific Travel’s North Korean tours are based on over 16 years’ experience working with the DPRK. Mr. Keats is a noted North Korea expert and an experienced tour leader who has visited North Korea over 25 times since 1995. He escorts almost all of APTL’s North Korean travel programs with 10 or more participants. In 2010 he was been recognized by “Condé Nast Traveler” magazine as their South and North Korea Travel Specialist. He is a member of the National Committee on North Korea, which is based in Washington, DC, The Korea Society in New York, and the Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch in Seoul.

Asia Pacific Travel specializes in upscale custom individual travel to all parts of East Asia, and offers custom private tours for individuals and small groups throughout the year. Since 1995 Asia Pacific Travel has been the only U.S. travel company dealing directly with the DPRK state-run travel company, the Korea International Travel Company.

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI), Thailand’s National Carrier, has confirmed the launch of Thai Smile Air; a new low-fare airline, with operations set for July 2012.

THAI’s low-fare airline will seek to meet the needs of customers who want frequency of flights and a schedule compatible for connection with THAI flights.

Thai Smile Air will operate out of Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, and from 2012, using a fleet of 11 Airbus 320 aircrafts with 174 seating capacity; ideal for the secondary route markets that have short-haul routes with less than two hours flying time. The low-fare airline will initially fly to domestic Thailand destinations such as Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, Chiang Rai, and Surat Thani, with the view to operating internationally in 2013.

THAI President Mr. Piyasvasti comments: “Thai Smile Air will operate using THAI’s TG airline code, and will be appropriately priced to ensure the product is competitive in the airline market. The name Thai Smile Air was selected from more than 2,000 entries from THAI employees, and I think the confirmed name suits our proposed concept of being ‘trendy, friendly, and worthy travel.’”

“Thai Smile will not affect THAI’s plans to also launch Thai Tiger Airways, a discount carrier in partnership with Singapore’s Tiger Airways, which will materialise ‘as soon as possible.’”

Ticket sales will begin early 2012, and the first flight is set to commence July 2012.

For further information on Thai Airways visit www.thaiairways.co.uk  or call 0844 561 0911

For further media information please contact Amanda Bunn at Paul Gogarty Communications: pressoffice@thaiairways.co.uk  / 01603 706559.

Snow holiday specialist Neilson has launched a second edition of its 2011/12 ski brochure with a fresh new look and design, new resorts, exclusive travel options and fantastic ‘ski inclusive’ package for 11/12.

To celebrate they are offering one of the first 500 customers who request the brochure (via www.neilson.co.uk from Thursday 4th August 2011) the chance to win a ski trip for 2 to Åre, Sweden*!

Exclusive Airport for Andorra

The new brochure announces Neilson as the exclusive UK operator to fly into the brand new, stunningly designed Lleida Airport. Guest holidaying at one of Neilson’s Andorran resorts will enjoy the benefits of shorter transfer times and exclusive use of all check-in desks, security points and arrival/dept hall for Neilson flight times.

Scandinavia Specialist

Neilson are proud to remain experts in Scandinavia. Harnessing their knowledge of this stunning country they’ve hand picked snow-sure resorts in Norway and Sweden that are ideal for families and beginners, all equipped with excellent ski schools and first-class hospitality. Non-skiers and those looking for something a little different have plenty of pre-bookable snow activities to choose from too – from horse drawn sleigh rides and snowmobile safaris to tree top walks and dinner in an igloo.

And that’s not all! Neilson are expanding and are now operating in some incredible new resorts:

Folgarida, Italy – a truly wonderful resort for those who love winter sports and want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday with the stunning scenery of the Dolomites as a backdrop.

Take advantage of the new Lleida airport to access the largely undiscovered Baqueira Beret, the largest skiable area in Spain; beautiful, un-crowded slopes and an extensive and varied selection of après-ski.

Brand new and exclusive to Neilson Lofer, Austria is a hidden wonder just a short 30 minute transfer from Salzburg Airport. Great value accommodation, perfect for families & beginners and a base point for the better known nearby resorts of Maria Alm & Saalbach.

And finally, internationally known Grindelwald, Switzerland set amidst breathtaking scenery and offering something for everyone including non-skiers.

Great Offers

Neilson offers customers guaranteed savings on December departures, 1000s of Kid’s fly, ski & stay free options, 2 for 1 Lift Pass Offers in Norway & Sweden throughout December & January and the best groups deal out there with up to 1 in 4 going free. They have a dedicated groups ski reservation team available on 0845 070 3460 to help with every step of organizing your trip.

To make life even easier there’s a new Ski Inclusive option from just £399 to get you on the slopes in one easy-to-book package which includes flights, accommodation, return transfers to resort, lift pass, ski or board hire or carriage, boot hire and dedicated Neilson rep service!

*The Prize One randomly selected customer from the first 500 who request a copy of the new second edition 11/12 Ski & Snowboard brochure from www.neilson.co.uk will win a January 2012 trip for 2 to Åre, Sweden. The prize is non-transferable. The prize includes flights from the UK, transfers and half-board accommodation for 2 adults travelling on available dates in January 2012. . Neilson Holidays reserves the right to alter details of/ withdraw the prize at any time.

For further information and bookings contact Neilson on 0870 33 33 347

or visit www.neilson.co.uk

The company’s latest tailor-made programme includes two new resorts in the US, two in Switzerland, and one in Japan.

Ski Safari has launched its latest brochure, filled with inspiring ideas for tailor-made skiing holidays this winter. Ski Safari’s sizeable programme encompasses Canada, the United States, Switzerland and Japan; the brochure showcases a selection of the resorts, hotels, multi-resort Ski Safaris and other innovative winter holidays the company offers.

Richard Rice, Managing Director of Ski Safari, says: “After record-breaking snow for many resorts in North America last winter, we have our fingers crossed for another cracking winter across the pond. And, of course, we hope it is a better snow season for the Alps. It is a great year for a Japanese ski experience – the country needs visitors and, as a result, prices are very attractive. The Ski Safari team has been seeking out more resorts and properties across our programme – details below – and we have another 2 resorts which are visited on our new Oregon Ski Safari coming soon. It is this first-hand knowledge that allows us to provide personalised advice to every customer.

Combining this with first-class customer service we feel provides a winning formula for a happy holiday. The brochure launch marks the start of the winter for us – bring on the snow!”

NEW for 2011/12 from Ski Safari:

IN USA…

New Resorts:

Jay Peak, Vermont is the hidden gem of the New England resorts. With 31 ft of snow falling on average each season, it’s the best option on the East Coast for powder seekers and good skiers will enjoy its glade skiing. With ski-in ski-out accommodation and lots of off-slope activities, it works well for families too. Having recently invested $130m in developing the resort, Jay Peak has now established itself as a destination resort and was recently voted #1 Ski Resort on the East Coast by Skier Magazine.

Mount Snow, Vermont is an ideal family destination due to its excellent ski school, extensive beginner and intermediate terrain, convenient access to the slopes and fantastic booking offers including ‘Kids up to 18 Ski Free’. With 80% of its terrain covered by snow-making it is consistently one of the first resorts to open in the east. It also boasts 12 terrain parks with both natural and man-made features, over 125 in total, as well as two half-pipes.

New Hotels:

The Sebastian, Vail (5*) is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the resort. Beautifully furnished with an exclusive, yet informal atmosphere and excellent service, facilities include a mountain-view pool, hot tubs and a roaring fire pit to relax by after a day on the slopes. The Vista Bahn Chair is a 5 minute walk from the hotel (where ski equipment is stored at the slopeside Ski Chalet). If you book early the Sebastian is also great value for money!

Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Vancouver (5*) – first opened in 1927, the Hotel Georgia became known as Vancouver’s most sophisticated hotel. This masterpiece of Georgian revival is located in the centre of downtown and has welcomed a who’s who of the entertainment world, including Elvis Presley, Nat ‘King’ Cole, Katharine Hepburn and British royalty. When it is unveiled this year following an extensive refurbishment, it is sure to stir up a frenzy and is a must-visit on any stopover in Vancouver.

IN USA & CANADA…

Activities on & off the slopes:

The brochure showcases a selection of winter activities which will add a memorable experience to any ski holiday. From the exhilarating (zip-lining) to the magical (ice canyon walks), Ski Safari offers flexible booking arrangements that allow you to pre-book and then decide once in resort when to do your activity.

A 7 night trip to North America this season costs from £850 pp (two sharing) staying in a 4* hotel including flights and transfers.

IN JAPAN…

New Resort:

Myoko on Japan’s main island of Honshu is easily accessed from Tokyo and although it perfectly encapsulates the Japanese ski experience, combining both culture and powder, it remains wonderfully secret. Off-piste skiing is allowed across the whole resort, a rarity in Japan, and skiing through the magnificent birch trees is an exciting variation on tree skiing amongst evergreens in Europe or North America. The ski area comprises 4 individual resorts which are easily accessed from Myoko village, which lies just below them, and there is an English speaking ski school.

New Hotel:

Green Leaf Hotel, Niseko (4*) adds a modern option with a traditional twist to one of Japan’s best known resorts. You can watch skiers at the end of the day from the revamped bar and lounge, and soak aching muscles in the spectacular onsen and outdoor rotenburo. The hotel was re-opened in 2011 after extensive refurbishment and has excellent early booking offers including a free ski pass for children.

A 10 night trip to Japan this season including a 2-night city stay in Tokyo costs from £1,540 pp including scheduled return flights, transfers and accommodation (based on four people travelling).

IN SWITZERLAND…

New resorts:

Verbier – is located at the heart of one of the biggest ski areas in the Alps and is rightly known as freeriding paradise. The rugged terrain rises to 3,300m at the top of Mont Fort and there are a good number of off-piste ‘itineraries’. The pretty alpine village is tucked into a sunny bowl and has famously vibrant nightlife. Easily accessed from Geneva, Verbier is a classic resort for a trip to enjoy the very best of skiing in the Alps.

A 7 night break to Verbier this season costs from £1,295 pp for two sharing a double room, B&B, at the 4* Hotel Nevaï including scheduled flights and rail transfers.

Lenzerheide – relatively unknown in the UK, its extensive off-piste skiing, spectacular vistas and a picturesque village mean that it deserves to attract more attention. Accommodation includes the funky Hotel Kurhaus, with its popular bar and club, and the new spa hotel the Hotel Lenzerheide which has the biggest hammam in the Swiss Alps. Just one and a half hours from Zurich, Lenzerheide is the perfect destination for a weekend ski break.

3 nights in Lenzerheide this season costs from £790 pp based on 2 sharing at the 4* Hotel Schweizerhof, B&B, including flights and rail transfers.

For more information, contact Ski Safari at www.skisafari.com  or tel: 01273 224 060.

With Renovations And Upgrades For 2011/12 Season

Resorts invest millions in everything from terrain parks to parking

Denver, Colo. – Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts show continuing dedication to maintaining the highest standard in ski vacations with preparations and investments for the 2011/12 season. From minor developments that will seamlessly improve guest experiences, to major renovations that will allow resorts to continue to provide the excellent service to which guests have become accustomed, resorts have devoted more than $50 million to new projects for the upcoming season.

According to National Ski Areas Association, the United States had more skier visits in 2010/11 than any previous ski season in history, surpassing the 60 million mark. Colorado resorts accounted for more of these visits than any other state in the nation with more than one in five skiers choosing to ski at a Colorado resort.

“Without question, Colorado Ski Country’s resort facilities allow the state to provide the absolute finest ski vacation experience available,” said Melanie Mills, president and CEO of CSCUSA. “Colorado has always set the standard with advanced improvements from high-tech lifts and ticketing systems, to state-of-the-art terrain parks and on-mountain amenities.”

Below is a roundup of what’s new in Colorado Ski Country for the upcoming season. The energy and capital spent by resorts on infrastructure includes improvements that will impact all ages and abilities, and are either winter specific or year-round.

New Lifts

Aspen/Snowmass’s Buttermilk Mountain will have a new lift and gladed terrain this season. The new Tiehack Express lift, a Leitner Poma high-speed quad, will replace both the Eagle Hill and the Upper Tiehack lifts, cutting the combined ride time from 18 minutes to just under seven minutes. New construction has already begun on the project, and a complete installation is expected for the resort’s December 2011 opening. In addition to the new lift, there will be some additional gladed terrain in the area.

Copper Mountain is replacing the High Point Lift in West Village (formerly Union Creek) with a new lift that will provide improved service for all levels of skiing and riding ability. The Union Creek High Speed Quad, manufactured by Doppelmayr USA, will have a new alignment to help improve skier and rider circulation in and out of West Village. In conjunction with the new lift, the addition of a new trail connection from the east will make the circulation much easier from the Catalyst Terrain Park and the beginner and intermediate terrain in the area.

A new lift will reside at Loveland as that resort replaces Chair 4 with a new fixed grip triple from Leitner Poma, while Monarch’s renovations for next season will also include a new lift. A 450 ft. long conveyor lift on Snowflake is being installed in time for the resort’s opening.

For the upcoming season, Ski Cooper is installing a 770 ft. Magic Carpet to replace the Printer Boy Platter. This sizable improvement will be at the base area of the mountain, in the ski school and beginner skier and rider area.

Terrain Park Improvements

Some of the most creative accelerations of the off-season are taking place in the terrain parks of Colorado Ski Country. SolVista Basin at Granby Ranch is adding a number of new features to its terrain park for the upcoming year, including an underground gas tank, a six-foot tall satellite dish and log jibs. Leading the improvements in SolVista’s terrain parks is Ted’s Secret Stash, an all natural log park off the Jackalope run; and Progression Park, a beginner terrain park at the base area; and the newest feature The Tank, a former underground fuel tank that is eight feet in diameter, 30 feet long, and boasts a quarter-pipe on each end.

Another resort with new terrain park features is Echo Mountain. Echo has continued to improve its trails and park features for the 2011/12 season and is making its trails larger and the park more challenging.

Rounding off terrain park improvements, Winter Park’s Rail Yard Terrain Park’s Super Pipe “Dig-In” will be completed during the early season, which will result in the Half Pipe being opened by Christmas and will see a reduction of water and energy by using less manmade snow. The progressive terrain park system will also see another boost of new features this coming season.

Guest Activities

Guests can now add zip-lining to the menu of activities at CSCUSA resorts. New and open for the season at Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR), is a Zip-Line Canopy Tour. This major addition to CBMR resort amenities will be open year-round, enabling guests to ski to it during the winter months.

In addition to Crested Butte’s zip-line, the Purgatory Plunge Zip-Line at Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort opened in the off-season and will also be open year-round. The Purgatory Plunge gives guests the opportunity to soar from the Purgatory Village Tower over the ski beach at speeds of approximately 35 mph.

Monarch Mountain is expanding their fleet of touring snowcats with the purchase of a new one for the 2011/12 season. This new snowcat has the capacity to comfortably fit 14 skiers and riders in the cabin.

The Vista Ridge Ceremony Site was completed this summer at SolVista Basin at Granby Ranch. A scenic wedding site that overlooks the Continental Divide, Vista Ridge has a 360 degree view of the peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park. The mountaintop venue is accessed by chairlift, located adjacent to an aspen grove, and offers full ski-down capabilities for those looking to participate in winter nuptials.

Wolf Creek is building a new race hut to replace the one under the Raven Lift. Participants in the resort’s popular Fun Race Series will enjoy the benefits of an upgraded facility to house the race equipment, announce times, and serve as the official finish line for the races.

Dining Facilities

At Aspen/Snowmass, Aspen Skiing Company (ASC) is beginning construction on a new Elk Camp Restaurant. The new restaurant, expected to be open in 2012/13, will replace Café Suzanne and will be located adjacent to the top of the Elk Camp Gondola at Snowmass. The Elk Camp Restaurant will provide seating for up to 300 guests and include summer and evening event space. The project is scheduled to be LEED Certified and to implement advanced heating systems with other green materials to beat local energy codes by an estimated 30 percent. Elk Camp will be ASC’s fifth LEED certified building, following closely on the heels of Sam’s Restaurant (Gold) and Holiday House (Platinum).

Also at Aspen/Snowmass, The Merry-Go-Round restaurant, situated mid-mountain at Aspen Highlands, is undergoing a major remodel to make the building more energy efficient as well as enhance guest comfort and food quality. The reopening is scheduled for opening day of Aspen Highlands on December 10, 2011.

At Crested Butte, renovations to the Paradise Warming House, the mid-mountain cafeteria style culinary facility, are underway. The resort is redesigning the food line, creating new signage and giving the facility an overall updated look that will further enhance the guest experience.

Restroom improvements have been underway at Ski Cooper, as the resort is installing a vaulted toilet at the bottom of the Piney Basin Triple Chair. Wolf Creek on the other hand, has renovations underway for Treasure Lift’s water free, composting restrooms in preparation for next season. This structure also houses a coffee café, offering homemade pastries, coffee and teas throughout the day.

In Steamboat, the resort is creating a new bar, located in the Cabin Restaurant at the Steamboat Grand. The newest après ski hot spot just across from the Gondola Square base area, it has a unique menu featuring Kennebec Chips with Sriracha Aioli, the Deconstructed BLT (pork belly, tomato jam and arugula, charred on a cedar plank), and Buffalo Carpaccio.

Snowmaking/Grooming

Copper Mountain will enter 2011/12 in partnership with the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (U.S.S.A.) to develop an on-snow training center at the resort. To support and develop the U.S. Ski Team Speed Center at Copper, the resort is implementing a new automated snowmaking system, as well as safety, communications and timing equipment necessary to develop a unique training venue. The on-snow training center will operate from November 1 – December 10 each winter season, and will bolster the U.S. Teams’ ability to train for speed events before the competitive season begins.

On-mountain improvements continue at Crested Butte as the resort is enhancing its kids’ trails. These are trails that ski instructors bring their students through that add excitement to the lesson, whether it’s winding through trees, over humps and other terrain, or going around obstacles. The trails have become extremely popular with younger guests and also correlate to Crested Butte’s Kids Trail Map.

Winter Park is also enhancing its beginner trails. Beginners will now have an easier trail to the Village at Winter Park with the opening of the new Sorensen Trail Bypass.

Loveland is adding snowmaking capabilities to Twist at Loveland Valley and Firecut at Loveland Basin, which will expand the resort’s early and late season race training opportunities.

Eldora Mountain Resort has invested heavily in upgrading its snowmaking system which will enrich the on- snow experience in the upcoming season.

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is upgrading its expert terrain via a winch-cat that will provide high-angle grooming. Some expert trails will be groomed or partially groomed using this technique, which will provide a great experience for expert skill level skiers and riders.

Wolf Creek’s grooming fleet of snowcats has a new addition this season, bringing one of the first Finnish snowcats to the US, the Formatic. This heavy equipment is used to smooth terrain and help pack down the powder during storm cycles.

Continuing to improve the versatility to its slopes, Steamboat Resort will be upgraded its snowmaking, while also adding a new snowcat to its slope grooming fleet.

Winter Park is also adding a new snowcat for superior groomed runs. Other capital at the resort has been re-invested into improving existing infrastructure and services.

Rental Fleet

Crested Butte significantly enhanced their demo and learning rental inventory for the upcoming season. The resort bought all new demo gear for its higher end fleet, as well as a brand new Learn to Ride fleet, including women’s and children’s gear.

Along with Crested Butte, Monarch is planning to expand their demo and rental gear offerings. The resort has set aside funds to devote to new rental and demo equipment in hopes of encouraging participants to try out these new items.

Wolf Creek Ski Area’s rental department continues to upgrade its offerings by adding gear to its already extensive collection of boots, skis and snowboard equipment. Along with newly purchased alpine skis, snowboards, boots and poles, Wolf Creek is bringing in a line of Nordic skate skis and classic touring skis to its fleet.

Mountain Facilities

Thanks to the Red Bull Cold Rush, Silverton has brand new carpeting in the base tent for the 2011/12 season, while Monarch has invested in renovating its parking lot to allow for further ease of access and create a more user-friendly parking area.

Loveland’s Ptarmigan Roost Cabin, which sits at the top of Chair 2, is getting a facelift for 2011/12. The resort will be adding restrooms – the first on-hill facilities at Loveland – and restoring the original fireplace. Additionally, the E-Tow Cabin, between Chair 2 and Chair 6, is receiving a massive overhaul including a new interior and an expanded deck. Further cosmetic upgrades at Loveland taking place throughout the off-season will be noticeable to guests at the base areas of both Loveland Basin and Loveland Valley.

Steamboat Resort is installing heated pavers throughout Gondola Square base area so that guests will no longer need to trudge through snow and ice as they walk to the slopes and the Gondola. In addition, the multi-year Promenade project continues to make headway, connecting the base area with Ski Time Square, and includes a new permanent stage facility in Gondola Square which plays host to the resort’s free spring concerts.

Technologies

In 2011/12, resorts continue to use technology in unique ways that streamline and enhance the way they interact with skiers and riders. Arapahoe Basin is upgrading its e-commerce store with a new RTP E-Store. This new site will better serve guests’ needs and allow Arapahoe Basin to offer more of its products online.

Aspen Skiing Company’s ongoing energy efficiency project, whereby the resort has been replacing incandescent bulbs with efficient and aesthetically acceptable fluorescent or LED bulbs, will reach completion on December 31, 2011. On this date, all incandescent bulbs will have been completely banned and replaced, including in every building, from on-mountain restaurants to hotels, and from executive offices to parking lots.

Media Note: Photos Attached

Aspen_Tiehack Express Lift

Steamboat_New Cabin Bar

SolVista Basin_Satellite Dish Terrain Park

Crested Butte Zip Line_Fenlonphoto.com

Aria Spa and Club, home of one of the nation’s first ski-specific conditioning programs, is guaranteeing that if participants don’t feel the conditioning series prepared them for the season, trainers will be available to map an individual program.

Aria Spa and Club, located at the Vail Cascade Resort, will begin its six-week comprehensive ski conditioning classes on Oct. 13, providing circuit training that includes aerobic, anaerobic, yoga and core building exercise.

A live DJ will provide music and ski movies will be shown on a large screen to add to the energetic atmosphere.

A total of eight classes per week are offered at different times Monday through Thursday to offer options that fit varied schedules.

Existing club members can attend at no cost, and the public is invited to purchase a ski conditioning package that includes use of the club’s amenities and the ski conditioning classes for $125.

Prizes, giveaway product samples from sponsors, and after-class parties are all part of the fun and challenging program, led by a dedicated team of seven trainers, four yoga teachers, and Warren Miller films professional skiing star Chris Anthony.

For more information, visit call 970-479-5954 or visit www.vailcascade.com

Marriot Hotels are opening a new Edinburgh hotel in the Quartermile area of the city. Scheduled to open in November, the hotel is a Residence Inn housing 107 self catering rooms. The rooms will come complete with a microwave, dishwasher, kettle and toaster.

http://www.marriott.com/residence-inn/travel.mi

Fairmont St Andrews Shows its Pedigree

Fairmont St Andrews has taken the lead with new Pet Perk packages and is offering a five-star experience for visiting dogs. The luxurious resort has long been a pet-friendly venue but its doggy credentials have been strengthened following the recent appointment of Fairmont St Andrews’ canine ambassador, golden Labrador Smudge.

Pooches will be truly pampered when they arrive in their room with a luxurious bed and fluffy blanket to nestle into as well as water and food bowls. The five-star Fairmont St Andrews resort is located in 520 acres of Scotland’s picturesque countryside and is next to the popular Fife Coastal Path, meaning guests can soak up the stunning St Andrews scenery while walking their companions.

But walking isn’t the only activity dogs and owners can enjoy together – golfers playing either of the resort’s championship courses are welcome to be accompanied by their dogs. Smudge is also available to join guests and their dogs on walks and those walking with her have often featured on her personal Facebook page.

www.fairmont.com/standrews

Looking for the ‘ultimate’ getaway this fall? Check out The Oregon Bounty Ultimate Escape 2011 – a culinary adventure taking place October 13-16. Participants will go from 7,500 feet up on Mt. Hood to battling Chinook salmon on the rugged Oregon Coast and everything epicurean in between.

The four-day, three-night package is offered by EverGreen Escapes, combining unique and exclusive activities with indulgent accommodations, great meals and luxury transportation.

For more information and to book the Oregon Bounty Ultimate Escape, see www.evergreenescapes.com

Central Oregon Gains AAA Four Diamond Destination

FivePine Lodge & Spa Resort of Sisters, OR has just been recognized as a AAA Approved, Four Diamond lodging establishment. Only 4-percent of over 31,000 properties approved by AAA achieve this prestigious distinction. Oregon has 14 other lodging establishments AAA Approved as Four Diamond in 2011:

The Oxford Hotel – Bend

Stephanie Inn – Cannon Beach

Tu Tu’Tun Lodge – Gold Beach

Salishan Spa & Golf Resort – Lincoln City


The Allison Inn & Spa – Newberg


Hotel Monaco – Portland


Hotel Vintage Plaza – Portland


RiverPlace, A Larkspur Collection Hotel – Portland


The Benson Hotel, A Coast Hotel – Portland


The Governor Hotel – Portland


The Heathman Hotel – Portland


The Nines – Portland


The Westin – Portland

Sunriver Resort – Sunriver

Here is a refresher for all waterfowl hunters based on Montana Fish, Wildlife & Park’s waterfowl hunting safety course.

Weather
Waterfowl hunters are a high-risk group for hypothermia and cold-water immersion because of their proximity to water, wind and changing weather conditions.

To stay warm and avoid hypothermia:
• Control wind and wetness by using waterproof shells, jackets, and boots. Wear a wader belt with waders to prevent water from entering them.
• Wear a hat. Most warmth escapes through your head.
• If you fall in – go home! Or, take a break and change into warm, dry clothes.

Boating Safety
While planning a waterfowl hunt, don’t forget to check to be sure the boat is in good working condition, with enough gas for the trip and equipped with the proper personal flotation devices, and other safety gear.
• Make sure everyone on board has a properly fitted, Coast Guard approved, life vest or float coat. Camouflage styles are available and some allow the wearer to shoot without removing the life vest.

• Never stand in an unsecured boat to shoot.
• Be aware of dogs, and other partners while in a boat – be extra careful with your gun. Similar to a blind, a boat is close quarters.
• Put your unloaded shotgun in a secured case. This keeps the shotgun cleaner and will remind you to unload the shotgun before moving.

Check the 2011 Montana migratory bird hunting regulations for details on season dates and other waterfowl hunting information. The FWP website at fwp.mt.gov on the Recreation page under “rules and regulations” has information on the rules for operating a boat in Montana, the equipment that Montana and federal laws require be aboard, and other rules of the road.