Last Weekend for Tamarack; Brundage open until 5/1/11!

The record snows have created a perfect storm for the last week of skiing at Tamarack - the powder in the trees is fabulous and crowds are limited. Brundage announced since they are having record levels of snow they have extended the skiing until May 1st!

A friend recently posted her first tracks on Facebook at Brundage - it is a fun thing to do and great memories. Recently I was listening to a gentleman who has written a book about happiness levels and he says it is not about the money you make, the clothes you wear (and a few others), but about the experiences we have with people in our lives. Instead of scheduling another meeting, why not ask the kids what they would like to do? I remember as a kid taking plastic bags with handles and sliding down the hill - no tube needed!

Go play, hug lots and smile!

Approaching a slower time......great rates!

As the ski season winds down in April, this presents a great time to plan a girls weekend or getaway with friends. The rates on the cabins are lower, the shops and restaurants love the extra clients and the weather is .... questionable. We can have some additional snow or we can have some spring rains to really bring the water levels up.

I say make the best of it and RELAX. Build a fire, bring some movies and chill. During the day you can still cross country ski at Ponderosa State Park or maybe rent some snowshoes and hike someplace new. In the evening take turns at who gets to cook dinner for everyone - maybe if you are bringing the kids - let them plan a meal! Make it a theme night and decorate. Play games and share memories.

Share what you want on the vacation with the property manager

I had the opportunity to share some ideas over a wonderful lunch today and it got my creative side going. My lunch guest asked some excellent questions on what is expected by a property owner when we manage their property, but also what is important for guests?

I think my biggest piece of advice is to share who is the "group" going so you ask the questions of what activities are close by, what is in the vacation rental property and who will sleep where. This may seem simple, but as I was noting on our newest cabin the Wii, Guitar Hero, air hockey table and various other games in the upstairs game room, I could envision the kids having a great time away from adults. I think other benefits of the indoor pool at the nearby clubhouse is also great because anyone can walk there. The tennis courts provide the outdoor attraction during the summer, along with biking trails, the golf course and close proximity to town. The whole build up for the vacation will be a let down if you find yourself renting a place that is too small or does not have the amenities you want.

Do not be afraid to ask very specific questions - one cabin has a loft which works well for families who are all related; but sharing too small of a place will make everyone not sleep as well. Open living areas are also important so guests feel part of the activity, make sure late sleepers can shut a door to their rooms.

Frequently the difference in cost for a larger place is not a huge amount, shop around and make a few phone calls to get comfortable with your final selection!

What makes a great vacation rental?

Peace, relaxation and a sense of home are key features of a vacation rental. I know when I travel I want to feel comfortable to cook, relax and watch a movie but still have the opportunity to engage in other activities.

We furnished our condo in Hawaii with plush beach towels, coolers, beach toys and things we use on vacation. Our guests comment on how nice it is to work in the kitchen with more than basic utensils, spices and cooking equipment. Sure some of those "things" may get broken or lost, but we want guests to feel completely at home.

If you are looking at potential places to rent, ask the owners how often they stay, what do they like to do and if they can share "insider secrets" about the area. You want to gain from their knowledge a way to see all the sights, save time finding places that are special to the locals!