If you're new to skiing, here's some advice for making sure you enjoy yourself.

Winter skiing vacations have become a way to live for hundreds who are willing to invest their own personal resources into the experience. You've made your choice and you're ready to hit the slopes. But, where do you begin? How do you get started? What should you pack? What can you do before you leave?

Surveying consumers reveals that it takes at least 3 positive skiing days to turn someone into a skiers or snowboarders. Here are some basic things that should help you get started and keep you and your loved ones happy during the long winters ahead.

Where To Go

If you're new to skiing, you don't need any fancy equipment or resorts with lots of glitzy amenities. All you really need is a decent slope with some intermediate and advanced trails, an excellent ski school, and good massage therapy. I recommend you ski at your local hill to get a taste for what skiing is all about. You should definitely go if you have someone in your life who loves skiing to show you the ropes. However, if you want to go destination skiing, Colorado and Lake Tahoe as a starting point. Read more about the best ski resorts in Colorado and Lake Tahoe ski resorts.

What To Plan in Advance

Book skiing lessons as soon as you can, especially if you're going to be traveling during peak season. Even kids' groups can get booked up quickly.

You definitely do not want to end up at the ski resort and discover that you'll have to learn how to ski on your own. First off, it's not safe, and second, you'll improve much quicker if you take lessons from a professional. When booking your lessons, make sure you request an experienced teacher who holds a PSIA Level II certification or the European equivalent. Lesson one should cost about $100-$150 per hour, depending on where you go.

Renting a car - You'll probably want to rent a four wheel drive vehicle if you're going to be driving out of town.

Equipment - Don't buy new skis and bindings for the family. You'll never know who's going to be hooked on skiing until after the third day. And you don't really know how much weight they're going to carry around until after the second day. So book your equipment through a local rental store so you won't get caught with skis that are too long or too short, or bindings that pinch. Renting also gives you the option of switching out equipment after the first day if you find yourself struggling. But if you're committed to skiing, then go ahead and invest in your own pair of skis and bindings. They'll last longer and give you better service.

Dinner reservations - It is not fun waiting 45 minutess to eat after a long days on the hill. If You want a nice evening out at a popular place, make reservations. Make Sure you ask your teacher and other local residents for recommendations first. Dinning in a ski towns can costs you almost as much as one nights lodging. Plan wisely.

What To Bring

A ski vacation requires a lot of ski gear. You can also pack a swimsuit if you're planning on taking advantage of the hot tubs. But skiing requires lots of equipment. You'll want warm clothing, including a jacket, hat, gloves, pants, and a shirt. You'll also want a sleeping bag, because you won't want to spend any nights outside. And you'll definitely want a towel, because you'll probably sweat through everything else.

What To Do When You Arrive

You've arrived at the base of a mountain. You may be feeling tired after your flight, but you'll soon feel better once you start climbing. Before you head out, make sure you eat something light. Try to stay hydrated too. And remember to take plenty of breaks. When you reach the top, you'll probably be exhausted, but you should be fine. Just try to relax and enjoy yourself.

Ready to buy a lift ticket!

Go online the evening before or in the morning, and only buy lift tickets you'll need during the first two days. You will save some cash over the prices at the counter and you won't end up with tickets you won't utilize. It's difficult to know prior to you arrive whether everybody will feel like skiing each and every working week. There are no refunds, so you could possibly be trapped skiing (or shedding income) if you think about skipping out on one particular workweek. BTW, you'll still require to visit the counter to obtain your passes so it's not about conserving time.

Now that you've gotten started, make sure you stop every once in awhile and take it all in. The fresh, cool breeze, the smiles of your loved ones, the thrill of a new activity you'll enjoy for the remainder of your days. Skiing is addicting. It offers something for everyone because it's full of fun, energy, playfulness and elegance. And, the kids are tired by sunset.

A winter holiday takes you to different parts of the world and introduces you into new people who would not have been part of your life otherwise. It covers generations and creates unforgettable moments. It’s about time you pack your bags for the white room!

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