New Mountain Lodging Options for 2009-10

Even with the dismal ski season of 2008/09 (based on revenues, snow was in ample supply), new projects are scheduled to open for the 09/10 season. It will be interesting to see if the glut of luxury loding opportunities can be absorbed or if price-cutting and deals with wholesalers will happen to fill rooms.

Six upscale ski resort hotels plus at least four new major lifts are expected to be operational for the 2009-10 ski season.

Dakota Mountain Lodge, part of the Waldorf-Astoria Collection, will be the first of two luxury flagship hotels to debut in Park City later this year. Dakota’s five-story building with 201 guest rooms will open this summer at the Canyons Resort. Phase I encompasses a Golden Door Spa and Spruce Restaurant. Later, guests will have access to the ski slopes by boarding Dakota’s new Frostwood transportation gondola, which will take them to the ski area’s Flight of the Canyons gondola. Phase II will break ground this year.

Another plush Park City slopeside resort nearing completion is the 11-story St. Regis Deer Crest with 181 guest rooms, 67 condo-hotel suites and 26 private residences. Situated on Deer Valley’s slopes, the resort will offer 24-hour butler service, ski valets, a Remède Spa, restaurant and the only funicular ski lift in North America.

Four Seasons Resort Vail, at Vail Village‘s main entry, will be an intimate 120-room resort with 16 private and 19 fractional residences. Planned amenities at Colorado’s first Four Seasons are a full-service spa, fitness club, restaurant, conference facilities, après ski lounge and children’s activity center. Ski and snowboard valet service will be available to guests at the base of the Vista Bahn Express chairlift.

Gearing to open Thanksgiving Day at Snowmass-at-Aspen is the 152-room Viceroy Resort Residences. Among amenities at the condo-hotel lodging will be a spa, fitness center, restaurant and ballroom. The Viceroy, slated to be the signature property in Snowmass’ new Base Village development, will offer skiers and riders access to three nearby lifts.

Opening in the fall, the 170-guest-room, five-story Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe, sits at midmountain at the Northstar-at-Tahoe ski area. It will feature ski-in and ski-out access, ski valet services and an intermountain gondola connecting guests with Northstar Village. The high-tech Ritz will have a spa, fitness center, kids program, club level, 24-hour room and concierge service, 23 private residences and 25 fractional-ownership units.

Downtown Park City soon will have the world’s only ski-in distillery. High West, Utah’s first legal whiskey distillery since Prohibition, is near completion in the renovated 100-year-old National Garage. The structure is across from the Town Lift.

Traveling With Pets on Airplanes

Trust me, I know the horror stories as I have flown a pet across the country. Besides the guilt of knowing your pet is in the cargo hold, the separation and anxiety can make the situation worse.Thus, I was pleasantly surprised to see the following press release:
Pet Airways will launch the first pet-only airline specifically designed for the safe and comfortable transportation of pets, with the first pet flights scheduled for July 14, 2009. On Pet Airways, all pets travel in the main cabin, not in the cargo hold. A proprietary web-enabled reservation system will allow customers to book pet travel on the web. Owners will be able to track their pet’s travel progress online.

A study by the San Francisco SPCA found that of the 2 million animals transported in the cargo holds of commercial airliners per year, approximately 5,000 are injured in transit. Pet Airways ensures pets are in the good hands of people who love and know how to take care of pets. From the moment a pet is dropped off at a Pet Lounge, the pet is always under the care of trained Pet Attendants. Monitored by Pet Attendants, pets will fly in planes that are fully-lit, climate-controlled and have the proper level of fresh air circulation that pets require. For more information, visit www.petairways.com.

Affordable Aspen

I read on Forbes.com via the AP about the debate in Aspen concerning a potential marketing message that Aspen is indeed affordable. As a travel consultant and marketing professional, let me let all of you in on a secret, Aspen is indeed affordable and this fact should be publicized.

While I understand the desire of some to continue to assume Aspen is a playground of the rich and famous, the reality is, there is a lot of competition out there. Concerning winter sports, within 800 miles you have Deer Valley, Vail/Beaver Creek, Jackson Hole, Telluride and Incline Village, all catering to the deluxe client. Not to mention competition from the Alps i.e. St. Moritz, Zermatt, Klosters, Cortina and so forth.

As mentioned, I consider Aspen affordable. I have advised clients, with the diversity of lodging options in the Town of Aspen, there are hotels and flats from economical to luxury, all within walking distance of the slopes. I cannot say the same for Vail, Beaver Creek or Deer Valley (again, within walking distance of the slopes).

Many may forget The Gems of Aspen Marketing Program when small hoteliers and lodges banded together to market each other as the Aspen of “yesteryear” including affordable accommodations, ski resort charm and in many respects the opposite of the St Regis (formally Ritz-Carlton) and The Little Nell. It was a successful program until a few of the properties were razed for redevelopment. BTW: many of us enjoy Aspen for the charm of the town, the challenging trails on Ajax and a burger and a beer with locals. Not all of us are residing at The Little Nell and dining at Montanga.

Concerning affordability and the possibility of attracting the “incorrect client”, tourism leaders I beg you, take a walk around Aspen. Do you see the many retail vacancies? May I suggest, this is tax revenue disappearing. Do you see the high-end restaurants with empty tables? Again, tax revenue and local employment evaporating. It is a nasty cycle.

Officials, please note Aspen is a destination resort. Day- trippers from the Denver Metro area will not inundate you; it’s just to far a drive. They are heading to Vail with their Epic Pass anyway.

Those vacationers who will be coming to Aspen will be booking multi-night visits and generating revenue i.e. dinners out, grocery shopping, breakfast at The Log Cabin and maybe, just maybe dropping a few dollars at the remaining retail stores.

During flush economic times, we all desire to be “in the luxury market” based on revenue generation. Times have changed and the worldwide zeitgeist concerning wealth has been revised. While I am not suggesting Loro Piana become an outlet store, I am suggesting consider the “middle market”, some of us have money, we enjoy vacationing and someday we may be wealthy enough to buy property in the enchanted Town of Aspen.

Aspen Extends Season

Aspen Highlands will open for two weekends through April 26. Highlands will open on Saturday and Sunday, April 18-19 and April 25-26.

A series of spring storms has pushed the base depth in Highland Bowl to over 100 inches – the deepest it’s been all season. The mountain will be open to the 12,382-foot summit of Highland Bowl. The Exhibition, Loge and Deep Temerity lifts will tentatively run from 9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. (temperature dependent) providing access to most of the mountain. Adult lift tickets are $39 a day for the Aspen Highland’s extended weekends. Lift tickets must be purchased in conjuction with lodging.

Concerning lodging, consider Wildwood Lodge, $89/night dbl.

Epic Pass for 2009-2010

The Epic Pass, the ultimate accessory for those contemplating a getaway to the resorts of Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone/Arapahoe Basin and Heavenly. Introduced during the 2008-09 ski season, the Epic Pass was an instant success. For $579, the pass allows unlimited and unrestricted skiing and boarding at the 5 of the finest resorts in the Rocky Mountain West. No blackout dates and most cost-effective, by using 5 or more days, the pass pays for itself. Consider the pass whether you are planning one or multiple visits to the Rocky Mountain West. What a great excuse to ski/board the five resorts and have The Society book your lodging. For the Vail Resorts Epic Pass, prices are guaranteed until April 9, 2009 just a deposit now, balance later.

Vail: The “granddaddy” of them all. With the legendary back bowls, charming Tyrolean town, gourmet food and lodging options other resorts envy, Vail has it all in one package. Fly into Eagle or Denver, stay in one of Colorado Concierge Services hand-picked flats of chalets, from mountainside opulence to hidden gems throughout the Vail Valley.

Beaver Creek: Not exactly roughing it is the motto for those visiting The Beav. Once past the security gates, the resort of Beaver Creek is an enchanted wonderland. A base area literally carved mountainside dominated by a village square with charming shops, restaurants and a year-round ice-skating rink. Consider a village condominium or a luxury ski-in/out home in Bachelor Gulch. For the ultimate Beaver Creek retreat, the former home of President and Mrs. Gerald R. Ford should be considered.

Breckenridge: From rough and tumble mining town to a multi-mountain ski resort, Breckenridge is one of Colorado’s most popular resorts. Main Street charms and delights with quaint shops, restaurants and clubs. The skiing and Boarding, some of the best in Colorado spans multiple peaks ensuring a diverse experience daily. Lodging options from the economical to luxury is available, all within steps to the slopes.

Keystone/A-Basin: The “family” resort of Colorado, Keystone has been a getaway for families for generations. With its “resort-style” design, families appreciate the diversity of lodging, shops and restaurants all focused on the family-oriented client. Be sure to check out the gondola at River Run, dining at The Keystone Ranch and for the adrenaline oriented, the above timberline sk

iing/boarding at neighboring Arapahoe Basin. Kids have energy at the end of the day, hit the slopes at night, Colorado’s only night skiing.

Heavenly: The jewel of the Lake Tahoe area. As you are skiing down the slopes of Heavenly, the majestic blue of Lake Tahoe cannot be missed. With a wide choice of terrain, a week in Heavenly will seem like an introduction. For nightlife, consider the fine dining in California or the excitement of the casinos in Nevada, its all at your disposal.

Traveling to Mexico?

With all the negative publicity and the U.S. travel advisory, youmay be hesitant to venture south of the border, but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t go—provided you take along some common sense with their sunscreen, cameras and sandals.

All vacationers should know of the United State’s “Know Before You Go” web page :

Acapulco: Not a violence-targeted destination, but drug-related incidents have been increasing in Acapulco.

Cabo San Lucas: Travelers should beware of rough waves in Los Cabos. Beaches on the Pacific side are dangerous due to rip tides and rough waves. Vacationers should take extra caution when swimming or surfing in this area.

Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel: Cancun is one of Mexico’s largest cities, and a popular destination for Spring Break parties. It’s also an increasingly common destination for crime. Students should be cautious at night and during the early morning hours, and always stay in groups.

South Padre Island: The little Texas town of South Padre Island is a favorite among Spring Breakers, but it’s also one of the closest Mexico-U.S. border cities. It’s highly advised that students vacationing in South Padre Island stay put and don’t wander to nearby Mexico border cities including Matamoros and Nuevo Progresso.

Mazatlan: This sleepy little beach resort isn’t high on the state department’s watch list because of violence, but Mazatlan travelers should practice common sense when vacationing here. Avoid walking alone at night and always obey warning signs at beaches and docks.

Oaxaca/Oaxaca City: Protests and demonstrations are common in Oaxaca City and travelers should take caution if they find themselves in the middle of a political rally. Demonstrations have been known to get violent, so it’s wise to stay away from the city center if there’s a planned protest happening.

In addition, the currents along the southern coast of Oaxaca are rough, and swimmers are advised to be cautious and listen to the professional lifeguards that stand watch over the area.

Tijuana: Tijuana is one of the busiest land border crossings in the world. Its close proximity to California makes entry in and out of the U.S. easy from Mexico, but in recent years Tijuana as become a target among drug cartels for easy access to controlled medication. Travelers crossing the border into Mexico via Tijuana should be mindful of Mexico’s laws: All prescription medicine must be accompanied with a doctor’s note and the prescription must have a seal and serial number. Under no circumstances should a traveler attempt to purchase prescription medications in Tijuana from anyone other than a certified physician.

Bonus travel tip: Mind your manners in Mexico! American citizens traveling in Mexico are subject to Mexican law. If you find yourself in trouble, immediately contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. The U.S. Department of State also encourages all U.S. citizens traveling in Mexico to phone home periodically to assure family members of your safety and inform them of your  whereabouts.

Agents can visit the U.S. Department of State’s Web site for more information on Mexico travel advisories and a list of U.S. Consulate and Embassy phone numbers throughout Mexico.

April In Breckenridge

With the major snowfall we have been receiving here in the mountains of Colorado, April skiing/boarding should be phenomenal. While Vail is closing on Easter Sunday, Breckenridge is staying open one extra week. Us locals know, April is a “party-month” in the mountains, the following are some events in Breckenridge not to be missed:

• 1st – 19th: Bite of Breckenridge
• 4th: Breck150 Kickoff Party at Main Street Station
• 11th: Breckenridge Beer Festival at Main Street Station
• 11th – 12th: Kids Easter Party Weekend
• 18th: 13th Annual Imperial Challenge and FREE music with Keller Williams
• 19th: 30th Annual Bump Buffet

Romance Concierge at Half-Moon Jamaica

Half Moon in Rose Hall, Jamaica, is launching the Romance Concierge program, a group of specialists who bestow guidance whether guests are planning a destination wedding, proposing to their sweetheart or celebrating an anniversary. The Romance Concierge is prepared to coordinate the appropriate staff (including florists, chefs and spa therapists), give creative suggestions and arrange for an exotic, intimate stay. The detail-oriented Half Moon resort stretches over two miles of beaches, with manicured gardens, a semi-enclosed chapel, luxury accommodations, a spa and gourmet restaurants.
The Romance Concierge suggests the Moonlight Gourmet Picnic for couples spending their anniversary at the luxurious resort. A gourmet picnic basket including a selection of specialty cheeses, meats, baguettes and seasonal fruits, a bottle of Cakebread Cellars chardonnay and LED (flameless) votive candles are pre-arranged for a total of $350. A Champagne Beach Ride on horseback with a private breakfast on the beach just after dawn is priced at $290.

For more information, contact Concierge Services at www.MtnTravel.com or (303) 377-2275 for assistance with booking.

Swissotel Discount

Even as a travel agent with Colorado Concierge Services, I have my personal preferences concerning hotel operators. I am a big fan of Swissotel, having visited many of their properties worldwide. While not widely known in the United States, travelers should consider this hotel chain if they desire a mid-size well located property in the destination of travel.

From March 1 through May 31, 2009, guests staying at Swissotel properties save 20 percent on the best available rate for bookings of at least two nights. This Spring Saver can be booked at any of the 28 deluxe hotels in the international chain in 15 countries worldwide via www.swissotel.com  or any travel agency. Depending on the destination, taxes may already be included. For more information, visit www.swissotel.com.

Park City Insights – Arrival and Where to Stay

OK, many of you know I am an expert on Colorado and my company is Colorado Concierge Services, however, I do travel planning worldwide. Park City is one of the more popular destinations for my clients, especially for winter travel. Thus, if I may share some insights with you.

 

Location: Park City is located approx. 30 miles east of the Salt Lake City Airport (SLC). Access to the town and neighboring resorts is under 45 minutes in good weather. Road access is excellent. Consider a “shared shuttle” or “private shuttle” if you are traveling with 4 or more persons. There is no need for a private car and parking can be a hassle.

 

Day of Arrival Tip: Consider an early morning flight into SLC. If you register on the Park City Mountain Resort site prior to travel, you can convert your same-day boarding pass into a lift ticket for that day. I have many clients who travel from New York City and they are on the slopes and having late lunch on the mountain. (They are just exhausted by the end of the day due to the time change and altitude).

 

Lodging Location: If staying in Park City proper, you have two location choices. You have the base area of the mountain. This area offers a mix of larger hotels, condominiums, smaller boutique-style B&B’s all within walking distance of the main base area. You have access to multiple lifts and at the end of the day; most properties are ski-in/out or just a short walk. Note, the base area is busy from morning until the close of the ski day, in the evenings the base area is very quiet and for nightlife, most guest’s head into Olde Town Park City (see next paragraph). Please feel free to contact me concerning lodging options.

 

Olde Town Park City: This is my usual preference of lodging location. Olde Town Park City is charming with a Main Street and many options for lodging from deluxe/luxury hotel/condominium units to moderate condos to private homes ranging from economical or extravagant. With the Town Lift, access to the mountain is very easy. The Town Lift takes skiers/boarders from Main Street OVER the Park City base area and transports them mid-mountain; you literally avoid the crowded base area. At the end of the day, you can ski down to the Town Lift or to one of the access points between Olde Town and the Base Area known as The Steps (some houses are within walking distance of the slopes). Please note, to ski down, I would suggest “Intermediate” ability and be cautious of early and late season conditions when access may be limited. ). Please feel free to contact me concerning lodging options.

 

More to come…..