(BPT) - Perhaps there's no better place to experience the majesty of winter than on a mountain surrounded by the stunning beauty of Mother Nature. Whether you're seeking some fresh powder to ski or snowboard, prefer to snowshoe or go cross-country amid the evergreens, or simply like cozying up by a fire overlooking the incredible atmosphere, the season is showcased in stunning ways during a snow getaway.
Throughout the summer and fall, most travelers opted for outdoorsy escapes and getaways to nearby beaches where they could comfortably socially distance while enjoying some R&R. As the seasons change and people continue to look for safe ways to vacation, a ski trip might be the perfect solution, as outdoor activities make it easier to stay 6 feet away, making health and safety a priority on the slopes.
Here are a few reasons your winter vacation plans should include a trip to the mountains:
Easy to socially distance
Ski vacations are always popular, but the fact that you can be outdoors and easily social distance from anyone not in your travel party makes it an even better choice for a getaway during COVID-19 times. What's more, when everyone wears masks and safety is being taken very seriously by resort owners, you can feel even better about health precautions during travel.
Health and safety for guests
Hotels and resorts are making their health and safety measures more robust and transparent than ever. Since May, more than 300,000 properties have added health and cleanliness information to Expedia.com, including measures like contactless check-in, mask requirements, enhanced sanitization and more. You can even see how guests have rated the property’s cleanliness right on the property’s info page, so you can quickly compare how your top choices stack up.
Fewer crowds in open spaces
Ski resorts are altering the way they sell tickets so there will be fewer people on the hills. This year, there will be fewer crowds on the mountain because of the limited capacity. This provides peace of mind from a health perspective, but it also means you should book your accommodation early and make sure to reserve your pass now, because once a day's sales are at max, you won't be able to get a ticket.
Refundable fares are cheaper than ever
Flexibility is incredibly important during these uncertain times with rapidly changing travel restrictions. Luckily, booking a refundable rate doesn't come at a premium; Expedia’s 2021 Trends Report revealed that refundable rates were 20% cheaper this year than in 2019. Use the site's “free cancellation” or “book now, pay later” search filters to find flexible stays that will let you change your plans should anything come up.
A stay for every taste
Most ski destinations have an array of different accommodation options, from luxury, 5-star hotels with award-winning spas, to quiet, cozy cabins underneath the snow-laden trees, and everything in between. Depending on your budget, what type of amenities you want, and the space you need, you can usually find something that fits the bill and isn't far from the slopes. This makes ski and snow getaways appealing whether you're traveling with kids for an extended stay or making it a romantic weekend.
Your safety is the priority
Mountain resorts are eager to welcome back tourists, but in order to stay open and keep people safe, you can expect to see health efforts enforced both on and off the mountain. Be courteous and follow all safety requirements such as wearing a mask, staying home if you feel unwell, staying 6 feet apart from other guests, only riding with the people you’re traveling with/staying with and sanitizing often. Plus, many resorts and businesses will be going cashless as an extra precaution, so be sure to bring credit cards and digital payment options.
Now that you're feeling properly inspired, the only thing left to do is start planning. Check out this list of top ski packages and trip ideas here.
