How to Plan a Ski Honeymoon in Canada

The friendly U.S. neighbor to the north is begging you to come and ski some of the best big and little resorts North America has to offer. If you've got the courage and the cash, you can try your shot at helicopter skiing in the remote mountains of British Columbia, where you'll find miles of untracked powder to explore together.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski Clothing
• Snowboards
• Skis
• Luggage Sets

1. Fly into Calgary or Vancouver via Air Canada or Canadian Air, or try a US carrier such as United, American or Delta. Driving is also an option from the Northwest states, such as Washington and Idaho.

2. Skiers and snowboarders will be pleased by the wild terrain, vast mountains and dry snow (with the exception of some resorts near the British Columbia coast).

3. Swoosh down the slopes of Whistler-Blackcomb, North America's largest resort, with hundreds of bars and restaurants to choose from. Book a great vacation including airfare, shuttle service, lodging and lift tickets through IntraWest (888-IMAGINE), with packages starting at $617 for five nights.

4. Seek out fine powder and avoid the crowds at interior British Columbia resorts like Fernie ($46 Canadian a day!) or Red Mountain in Canada's best ski town, Rossland ($42 Canadian) - true bargains you won't regret.

5. Go big and heli-ski through Canadian Mountain Holidays in one of its 11 remote lodges, with access to thousands of square miles of terrain.

6. Nestle into your lodge or cabin beside a crackling fire in the evenings after a hard day of skiing.

7. Pop into the folksy bars of Canada with your newly betrothed and savor a Kootenay or Grasshopper Ale, two locally brewed beers.

Tips & Warnings

• Go while the US dollar is strong and you'll save a bundle.
• Bigger isn't necessarily better in Canada. Some of the smaller, more out-of-the-way mountains have extreme skiing and tons of snow, and are a real bargain.
• As of January, 2007, passports are required for US citizens traveling between the US and Canada by air. In January, 2008, the requirement will extend to include those traveling by land or sea.
• Avalanches are a real danger anywhere there are mountains and lots of snow. Ski within the boundaries, or if in the backcountry, with a guide and proper safety gear.