How to Find Gay Ski Weeks in North America and Europe

Gay-themed ski weeks are rapidly gaining in popularity as gay men and women across America head for the hills for snow, shopping and socializing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet Access
• Alternative Lifestyle Travel Services
• Athletic Equipment
• Athletic Gear

1. Plan your trip well in advance. Make a list of the types of transportation, accommodations and activities you desire or need.
2. Research the handful of gay ski weeks and tours (Aspen Gay Ski Week, Whistler's Altitude 2001, Swiss Gay Ski Tours) via the Internet. Look for hot travel deals offered on Web travel and auction sites. Consult a gay travel agency or contact Ski Connections at (800) SKI-1888 or Out West Adventures at [phone].
3. Determine your budget carefully. Consider heading to Canada for a more affordable trip; Aspen or Switzerland if you've got cash to burn.
4. Make your travel plans in accordance with the dates of your scheduled week: Aspen Gay Ski Week (January 20 to 27, 2001), Whistler's Altitude 2001 (February 4 to 11, 2001), Swiss Gay Ski Tours (March 2 to 18, 2001).
5. Partake in some of the many extracurricular social events offered (Aspen: dancing, après-ski mixers, costume parties, gallery openings, film festivals, ski competitions; Whistler: mountaintop tea dance, barbecues, fashion shows; Switzerland: mountainside sunbathing).
6. Master the majestic mountains while torchlight skiing in Whistler, snowmobiling in Aspen or pounding the powder in the Swiss Alps. Soothe your soul on a scenic sleigh ride.

Tips & Warnings

• Some Web sites and books offer information for travelers with HIV or AIDS (necessary vaccines, which foods to eat or avoid, where it's safe to drink the water and so on).
• Tickets are generally cheaper if you buy them well in advance.
• Confirm your reservations prior to departure.
• Carry a photo ID, extra cash, traveler's checks and several credit cards at all times.
• If you've never skied, take at least a half-day lesson. This could make the difference between a fabulous week and a wrecked femur.