For those in BC or Alberta

[yorkshirepud]

Due to too busy a summer, DH and I didn't get away. So, we've decided to do a snow trip in the winter.

We'd like to go snowboarding and our obvious choices are either BC or Alberta. We'd like to schedule something for November as we're going to England in December and DH needs to use his vacation time before year end so Jan/Feb 04 is out.

Any ideas? Recommendations? Websites? I'd like to book some sort of package deal for 1 week that includes lessons (I haven't skied since I was a kid) and maybe tours.

TIA!
YP

[Kayaksoup]

I suppose I should recommend Whistler, it being the big local resort, but I think it is totally overpriced! Just my opinion. i have heard really good things about Sun peaks resorts, or even Big White or Apex Alpine.

[yorkshirepud]

Kayaksoup,

I'm just doing research now.

I think I may go for a chalet style accomodation. That way, we'll have a kitchen, and can cook some meals there, and go out for others.

I'm thinking Banff/Lake Louise right now. Although, Whistler is definately an option. I've wanted to go to Banff every since I arrived in Canada though.

Any Albertans out there?

YP

[sueandwill]

Hi YP,

I recently moved out west (Edmonton AB) and have been to Banff/Lake Louise a few years ago for a ski trip.
It was beautiful and one of the best ski vacations we had.
I'm not sure if it would be open in November though.

Sue

[yorkshirepud]

Sue,

Where did you stay?

I've called around and some places don't book until Nov 27 as they can't guarantee snow until then. We're looking to go early November as we'll be leaving for England around Dec 23rd.

Adele

[sueandwill]

Adele,
This is embarrasing but I can't remember!
We were 10 people and booked 2 chalets.
My sister actually did the booking so I will email her for
the specifics.

Wherever you stay, you MUST visit the Fairmont hotel with the great views of the lake!

Sue

[MKSquared]

My family took a trip out to Banff and skied Lake Louise for a week a few years ago. :) It was gorgeous! We rented a cabin and stayed there, cooking our meals for the most part. A free shuttle was available to take us skiing, although we tended to drive. There's so much do to out there - I remember hiking around in the HooDoos, going to a golf course (I believe we drove a few balls illegally!).

IIRC, we booked the vacation through SkiCan - I think that's the name.

[yorkshirepud]

I think we're going to have to postpone the idea. We can't be guaranteed snow. :(

So, we considering heading out east instead and doing a tour of Nova Scotia. :)