The Powder has arrived and we have been waiting for it. Most of us having been waiting for it to happen. Last year was Epic with our snow conditions over 450 inches of snow (about 38 feet) That's an incredible amount of snow. Since I have been living here I can never remember that much snow. 2 days before the mountain closed we had a powder day! In April that is unheard of since I have been there. April is when the locals take a couple of runs and them pick their favorite deck and hang out and get a tan. But a powder day, crazy!
As we waited for the powder the economy was thick in our thoughts. Why? Because we are thinking that true powder hounds we find the money to come on vacation to Vail. Most of our visitors do have a lot of money so the down turn in the mortgage industry did not have a major effect on them. The other side to this is 15% of our visitors do come from NYC? Do we really know what the season will bring, not really except that the snow can only help.
So it has come, one big storm after another and that will help for the holidays.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Thursday, October 23, 2008
The Epic Pass
To those who are not familiar with this pass, it's a new pass offered by Vail Resorts. When it came out no one was quite sure why. It allows the user to ski anytime without any restrictions. By restrictions I mean blackout dates on all the holidays. People can ski unlimited days throughout the season. The pass is about $300 less than the normal merchant rate.
I was not taking any chances and purchased mine a couple of days after the announcement. This season will be Epic to say the least. We are now waiting for the snow to kick in so we can have as many powder days we had last year. At the end of the season we had over 450 inches of snow and three days before the mountain closed we had a Powder Day. In 15 winters here in Vail I have never had that experience.
Powder Day for a local is the reason we continue to cling to our life in Vail!
For more info about ski tickets and passes go to www.snow.com
I was not taking any chances and purchased mine a couple of days after the announcement. This season will be Epic to say the least. We are now waiting for the snow to kick in so we can have as many powder days we had last year. At the end of the season we had over 450 inches of snow and three days before the mountain closed we had a Powder Day. In 15 winters here in Vail I have never had that experience.
Powder Day for a local is the reason we continue to cling to our life in Vail!
For more info about ski tickets and passes go to www.snow.com
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Powder Days are right around the corner!
Today feels like the first day of coming winter. It's cool out and the peaks are blanketed with the precious white stuff. Since the summer was so short it will take most of us locals a bit more time to get into the winter swing of things. But we will get there.
I am happy to report to all potential visitors to Vail this winter that the Town of Vail and Vail Resorts are bending over backwards to create a winter season better than you might expect in these interesting economic times.
Today our community took a step toward being proactive in keeping our local economy strong. Business owners in Vail and surrounding communities, community leaders, Vail Resorts Executive Officers and concerned citizens all came together to talk about the upcoming season. The purpose was to receive a synopsis of the Economic Climate here in our unique resort town, to hear ideas to help maintain what we have built and thoughts to help us weather the storm with our roofs intact. It was clear that Vail Resorts was able to feel the tough times coming and worked hard to be creative in their marketing. They accomplished this without compromising their reputation of a high class, high quality ski resort. A difficult task and I commend them for their efforts. They also stated they will continue to be flexible in their plans for the future so they can keep up the business as usual approach. I like it! For more detailed info and a snow report go to www.snow.com
To learn more about the Town of Vail go to www.vailgov.com
Business owners in Vail and the surrounding areas are also concerned about how to attract people without losing their price integrity. There is a very fine line strategy with this type of marketing maneuvering. Solid marketing strategies will help these businesses maintain their status, tout their sensitivity and offer something special. The something special has to be and idea that is fresh, offered only under these special circumstances and not likely to be offered again. If you need details on some of my thoughts and ideas you can email me at kukartravel@yahoo.com
In what seems to be a very greedy culture, showing sensitivity to people financial situations may give people that needed push to take a second look at their vacation and Vail and say yes to the experience. Marketing has been and will always be one of the most effective ways to compel people to come, stay and spend. With these thoughts and a passion filled purpose we can get people here and have them enjoy the experience that is worth the investment they made. These are general observations but this is a blog not a business proposal.
This is the time when creative marketing ideas will shine and truly talented marketing professionals will make a difference and show their worth.
For those potential clients who are considering Vail. This is the time to come! There may be so many offerings never seen before, you may not want to miss the opportunity to see Vail at it's best!
If you have more questions about this meeting or anything I have said today please email me at kukartravel@yahoo.com
If you want to come to Vail, check out my travel website at http://www.kukartravel.com/
Thanks
I am happy to report to all potential visitors to Vail this winter that the Town of Vail and Vail Resorts are bending over backwards to create a winter season better than you might expect in these interesting economic times.
Today our community took a step toward being proactive in keeping our local economy strong. Business owners in Vail and surrounding communities, community leaders, Vail Resorts Executive Officers and concerned citizens all came together to talk about the upcoming season. The purpose was to receive a synopsis of the Economic Climate here in our unique resort town, to hear ideas to help maintain what we have built and thoughts to help us weather the storm with our roofs intact. It was clear that Vail Resorts was able to feel the tough times coming and worked hard to be creative in their marketing. They accomplished this without compromising their reputation of a high class, high quality ski resort. A difficult task and I commend them for their efforts. They also stated they will continue to be flexible in their plans for the future so they can keep up the business as usual approach. I like it! For more detailed info and a snow report go to www.snow.com
To learn more about the Town of Vail go to www.vailgov.com
Business owners in Vail and the surrounding areas are also concerned about how to attract people without losing their price integrity. There is a very fine line strategy with this type of marketing maneuvering. Solid marketing strategies will help these businesses maintain their status, tout their sensitivity and offer something special. The something special has to be and idea that is fresh, offered only under these special circumstances and not likely to be offered again. If you need details on some of my thoughts and ideas you can email me at kukartravel@yahoo.com
In what seems to be a very greedy culture, showing sensitivity to people financial situations may give people that needed push to take a second look at their vacation and Vail and say yes to the experience. Marketing has been and will always be one of the most effective ways to compel people to come, stay and spend. With these thoughts and a passion filled purpose we can get people here and have them enjoy the experience that is worth the investment they made. These are general observations but this is a blog not a business proposal.
This is the time when creative marketing ideas will shine and truly talented marketing professionals will make a difference and show their worth.
For those potential clients who are considering Vail. This is the time to come! There may be so many offerings never seen before, you may not want to miss the opportunity to see Vail at it's best!
If you have more questions about this meeting or anything I have said today please email me at kukartravel@yahoo.com
If you want to come to Vail, check out my travel website at http://www.kukartravel.com/
Thanks
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Carbonation- It's hard to Find
Seriously,
This is a major ingredient in cocktails so why do some many Establishments choose to live without it? I wish I was being sarcastic but most places serve me a cocktail with flat soda. Do you know what that tastes like? Especially if you are drinking soda water- yup you guessed water! I drink water all the time and if I order a drink that means I am tired of drinking water. I also have a tough time drinking straight booze which is what I sometimes taste without the carbonation because the water has not penetrated the heavier liquor on the bottom. Yikes.
Check the carbonation once in a while would you.
Bartenders, if I say there is no carbonation in the drink I really mean it. I am not trying to be a pain, I am telling the truth. So you have 2 options, run the gun for a bit and get the skank from the line out before the fresh soda comes out. Don't believe me about the skank, pour yourself a soda right away out of the gun and tell me it tastes yummy! SO please run the gun for a bit.
Secondly, Do not take a fresh glass and squirt from the gun and tell me there is carbonation. Wait for a moment and you will see the bubbles disappear like my retirement investments. If it stays flat run the gun again and if no happiness appears go change the tank for the love of god!
Waitresses and Waiters if I don't like it, I don't like it. Suggest something else to me like something more expensive that may have bubbles, like for instance Veuve. I might just go for it!
This is a major ingredient in cocktails so why do some many Establishments choose to live without it? I wish I was being sarcastic but most places serve me a cocktail with flat soda. Do you know what that tastes like? Especially if you are drinking soda water- yup you guessed water! I drink water all the time and if I order a drink that means I am tired of drinking water. I also have a tough time drinking straight booze which is what I sometimes taste without the carbonation because the water has not penetrated the heavier liquor on the bottom. Yikes.
Check the carbonation once in a while would you.
Bartenders, if I say there is no carbonation in the drink I really mean it. I am not trying to be a pain, I am telling the truth. So you have 2 options, run the gun for a bit and get the skank from the line out before the fresh soda comes out. Don't believe me about the skank, pour yourself a soda right away out of the gun and tell me it tastes yummy! SO please run the gun for a bit.
Secondly, Do not take a fresh glass and squirt from the gun and tell me there is carbonation. Wait for a moment and you will see the bubbles disappear like my retirement investments. If it stays flat run the gun again and if no happiness appears go change the tank for the love of god!
Waitresses and Waiters if I don't like it, I don't like it. Suggest something else to me like something more expensive that may have bubbles, like for instance Veuve. I might just go for it!
Customer Service- Does it Exist?
Customer service is a big deal to me as well as important for any business. I will pay more for great service. I am a shopper so I know which stores carry the items I am looking to purchase. I also know what the costs are for each of them before I hand over my money. Whichever store has the best customer service is the one that gets my money.
If I am working with an individual to make a decision on let's say a video camera and they are knowledgeable and are providing me with attentive service I will buy. If they are knowledgeable about the product but are snotty or act like I am taking up their time. I will not buy from them, I will go somewhere else. This has happened on many occasions where I have simply walked out. There are stores here in the Valley that I like but the customer service is so awful I will never set a foot in them, nor will they be recommended to anyone I know.
The same is true with service at restaurants. Many times I cannot believe how terrible the service is at some of the local restaurants. It's so bad I feel like I should get my own drinks and food and then help out the other people stuck in this bozos section! I am confused about the attitude and behavior of some waiters that they are annoyed by the fact that they have to wait on me. Unless things have changed in the service industry, I thought that was the sole purpose of a wait job, to wait on me! No attitude please because that just equals no tip and I am a big tipper. To all you diners. If you ordered a steak cooked a certain temperature and you did not get it that way, send it back, you paid for it so get what you want! That is true for cocktails (SEE my entry under Carbonation- it's hard to find!)
In recent years Vail has been plagued with poor customer service. Some speculate it is the sense of entitlement the new kids coming into Vail have when they arrive. When you graduate from college you should just be given the world, they don't need to start at the bottom and work their way up, they should start at the top. Newsflash, go wash the dishes, sweep the floor and show up and you are on your way to getting the world. Some think it's the "trust funders" who have be given everything and just don't care and are working the job as parameters to get the real money. Job training has also been mentioned, some of those who do have management positions just don't have the training for it, they just happen to stick around long enough to get the job.
My point about Customer Service is that, and this comes from someone who works with small businesses all the time. Customer Service is key building a successful business. It's not a crazy secret good business owners are hiding, it's the simple truth. Not all people were born with the Customer Service talent, most need to be taught exactly what it is. It is a very valuable skill that can give you more than you would think in return.
Check my next blog entry for 2 Vail businesses where I have experienced awesome customer service on more than one occasion.
If I am working with an individual to make a decision on let's say a video camera and they are knowledgeable and are providing me with attentive service I will buy. If they are knowledgeable about the product but are snotty or act like I am taking up their time. I will not buy from them, I will go somewhere else. This has happened on many occasions where I have simply walked out. There are stores here in the Valley that I like but the customer service is so awful I will never set a foot in them, nor will they be recommended to anyone I know.
The same is true with service at restaurants. Many times I cannot believe how terrible the service is at some of the local restaurants. It's so bad I feel like I should get my own drinks and food and then help out the other people stuck in this bozos section! I am confused about the attitude and behavior of some waiters that they are annoyed by the fact that they have to wait on me. Unless things have changed in the service industry, I thought that was the sole purpose of a wait job, to wait on me! No attitude please because that just equals no tip and I am a big tipper. To all you diners. If you ordered a steak cooked a certain temperature and you did not get it that way, send it back, you paid for it so get what you want! That is true for cocktails (SEE my entry under Carbonation- it's hard to find!)
In recent years Vail has been plagued with poor customer service. Some speculate it is the sense of entitlement the new kids coming into Vail have when they arrive. When you graduate from college you should just be given the world, they don't need to start at the bottom and work their way up, they should start at the top. Newsflash, go wash the dishes, sweep the floor and show up and you are on your way to getting the world. Some think it's the "trust funders" who have be given everything and just don't care and are working the job as parameters to get the real money. Job training has also been mentioned, some of those who do have management positions just don't have the training for it, they just happen to stick around long enough to get the job.
My point about Customer Service is that, and this comes from someone who works with small businesses all the time. Customer Service is key building a successful business. It's not a crazy secret good business owners are hiding, it's the simple truth. Not all people were born with the Customer Service talent, most need to be taught exactly what it is. It is a very valuable skill that can give you more than you would think in return.
Check my next blog entry for 2 Vail businesses where I have experienced awesome customer service on more than one occasion.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Sloshalities
The exotic allure of a $3 PBR in a tall boy can is to much for even the most sophisticated Vail Locals, especially in the off season. White trash Wednesday at the Sandbar in Vail offers the PBR’s as well as a varied social network of locals. Off-season is when the true Vail Sloshalities gather to discuss the social happenings and previous events that occurred at the end of the Ski season. White Trash Wednesday’s attracts a crowd of younger locals who wear their pants low to the older locals who just stepped off the golf course, “golf guys” to bar/restaurant employees to a few Vilar Art Center regulars.
I caught up with the Sloshalities Sassy Sue, Lilly, Pork Chop, El La Gorda, Gmammy and Joyce Schweeblebaum. They are too classy for the PBR’s so it’s pint-sized cocktails for them. The Sloshalites have lived here for 15 years and always know where the party is happening. They are unassuming gossip gatherers usually with first hand knowledge because of their social ties in town. The conversation is always very enlightening and often too much so.
As I look around the Sandbar, some interesting social dynamics have begun to develop. It appears as if the Golf Guys are trying to discreetly observe the Sloshalities. Interested in what they are all about what has captured their attention. To get more information the Golf Guys have deployed a scout to scope out an approach to engage the Sloshatlities. The Scout appears as if he is buying a drink (nice try) and looks for an opening near the Sloshalities. He edges near the group. Sassy Sue turns around, gives him a quick assessment, he smiles and she lets him pass. The Golf Guys sigh with relief, their scout got a smile back. Just as the scout comes back to the group their attack is postponed because of Journey. The Sloshalites have now engaged in the “drunk girl sing-a-long” causing many eyes to turn toward them to see if they are hearing this correctly, Journey? It’s true, for them it’s really hard to resist Journey after a few cocktails.
The Sloshalities let down their guard and come in contact with the Old Guy who had too much to drink and loves to show the contents of his wallet. Otherwise know as a Stage 5 Clinger. They try to be nice but his breath and swaying is overwhelming and the Sloshalites band together to give him the polite shoulder-to-shoulder back block. The Golf Guys now know that they will have to wait until the wall comes down before they can make an attempt to talk with the Sloshalities. After the intoxicated Pole dancing and male stripper tryouts on the stage the DJ finally plays some great dance music and not techno so the Sloshalities move to the dance floor and as you can imagine take up some space acting a bit crazy. At this point the Golf Guys make their move with the Vail Handshake—a shot.
I caught up with the Sloshalities Sassy Sue, Lilly, Pork Chop, El La Gorda, Gmammy and Joyce Schweeblebaum. They are too classy for the PBR’s so it’s pint-sized cocktails for them. The Sloshalites have lived here for 15 years and always know where the party is happening. They are unassuming gossip gatherers usually with first hand knowledge because of their social ties in town. The conversation is always very enlightening and often too much so.
As I look around the Sandbar, some interesting social dynamics have begun to develop. It appears as if the Golf Guys are trying to discreetly observe the Sloshalities. Interested in what they are all about what has captured their attention. To get more information the Golf Guys have deployed a scout to scope out an approach to engage the Sloshatlities. The Scout appears as if he is buying a drink (nice try) and looks for an opening near the Sloshalities. He edges near the group. Sassy Sue turns around, gives him a quick assessment, he smiles and she lets him pass. The Golf Guys sigh with relief, their scout got a smile back. Just as the scout comes back to the group their attack is postponed because of Journey. The Sloshalites have now engaged in the “drunk girl sing-a-long” causing many eyes to turn toward them to see if they are hearing this correctly, Journey? It’s true, for them it’s really hard to resist Journey after a few cocktails.
The Sloshalities let down their guard and come in contact with the Old Guy who had too much to drink and loves to show the contents of his wallet. Otherwise know as a Stage 5 Clinger. They try to be nice but his breath and swaying is overwhelming and the Sloshalites band together to give him the polite shoulder-to-shoulder back block. The Golf Guys now know that they will have to wait until the wall comes down before they can make an attempt to talk with the Sloshalities. After the intoxicated Pole dancing and male stripper tryouts on the stage the DJ finally plays some great dance music and not techno so the Sloshalities move to the dance floor and as you can imagine take up some space acting a bit crazy. At this point the Golf Guys make their move with the Vail Handshake—a shot.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Entertainment in Vail
With this blog I want to create a picture of Vail not seen on those dry television commercials, print ads and websites. So much of the marketing is focused on Real Estate and the upscale nature of the area. "Upscale Vail", this marketing takes all the flavor out of what we locals see, feel and love about this place. The character of Vail is hidden with this formal and packaged marketing. Underneath the glossy veneer and the big empty houses is the personality of Vail.
Since I moved out here to Vail, people from my previous home in Minnesota have asked me when I was coming home and my response has always been a look of confusion. I love Minnesota and I will write about that soon but my home is Colorado. Most people think of Vail as a place where you visit not a place that you live. I have chosen a life that suites me and not other peoples idea of what my life should be like.
Life in Vail is varied with the twist of being a resort town. We have access to what "flatlanders" (anyone not living in the mountains) have with a few limited options but anything we are missing can be found with a gorgeous drive to Denver. A drive to Denver is about 90 min and if you are going only to Golden it's about 75.
Entertainment
We have several venues around Vail where we can see some incredible shows. This last month I have seen several shows at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek. Here is their website you can see upcoming shows. http://www.vilarpac.org/
1. Pat Benetar
2. Little River Band
3. Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band featuring, Lou Gramm, Todd Rungren, Christopher Cross, Bo Bice and Denny Laine.
More detailed blog entries on each of these to follow.
Every summer the Vail Valley Foundation has the Tues night concerts at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater. The last show was Dirty Dozen Brass Band. The crowd was crazy, it's one of those bands that draws a varied crowd. By varied I mean people of all ages and situations. These are the kinds of shows where the long time locals come together and have more than a few drinks. This is where I see people whom I knew many years ago and then disappeared. Apparently they did not go very far but changed their lives. These are the people who now have kids and moved "down valley" but are still up for a good time on occasion. Here is the website for the Vail Valley Foundation where you can see all their scheduled events. http://www.vvf.org/
This is a couple of places around that draw in bands from all over to perform in a more party atmosphere. The Sandbar in West Vail is one such place. Here is their website for more info about bands coming in http://www.sandbarvail.com/ For a more detailed description of the happening at the Sandbar check for my blog posting called "Sloshilites".
In the main Vail Village there is a Dance Bar called Samana. This is a good place for dancing but is filled with the younger set. I can only really go there when I have had more than 3 drinks so I can deal with drunk people. The good news is when you are older than me it's dark enough that the guys really have no idea how old you are so you can fake it for a while! Check out this site for more info http://www.samanalounge.com/
There is varied entertainment for people of all ages and interests here in the Vail Valley. This particular blog entry gives you an overview with more details to follow. I will continue to add details. We have live music happening all over town all year round, even though people think of Vail as a seasonal place.
Since I moved out here to Vail, people from my previous home in Minnesota have asked me when I was coming home and my response has always been a look of confusion. I love Minnesota and I will write about that soon but my home is Colorado. Most people think of Vail as a place where you visit not a place that you live. I have chosen a life that suites me and not other peoples idea of what my life should be like.
Life in Vail is varied with the twist of being a resort town. We have access to what "flatlanders" (anyone not living in the mountains) have with a few limited options but anything we are missing can be found with a gorgeous drive to Denver. A drive to Denver is about 90 min and if you are going only to Golden it's about 75.
Entertainment
We have several venues around Vail where we can see some incredible shows. This last month I have seen several shows at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek. Here is their website you can see upcoming shows. http://www.vilarpac.org/
1. Pat Benetar
2. Little River Band
3. Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band featuring, Lou Gramm, Todd Rungren, Christopher Cross, Bo Bice and Denny Laine.
More detailed blog entries on each of these to follow.
Every summer the Vail Valley Foundation has the Tues night concerts at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater. The last show was Dirty Dozen Brass Band. The crowd was crazy, it's one of those bands that draws a varied crowd. By varied I mean people of all ages and situations. These are the kinds of shows where the long time locals come together and have more than a few drinks. This is where I see people whom I knew many years ago and then disappeared. Apparently they did not go very far but changed their lives. These are the people who now have kids and moved "down valley" but are still up for a good time on occasion. Here is the website for the Vail Valley Foundation where you can see all their scheduled events. http://www.vvf.org/
This is a couple of places around that draw in bands from all over to perform in a more party atmosphere. The Sandbar in West Vail is one such place. Here is their website for more info about bands coming in http://www.sandbarvail.com/ For a more detailed description of the happening at the Sandbar check for my blog posting called "Sloshilites".
In the main Vail Village there is a Dance Bar called Samana. This is a good place for dancing but is filled with the younger set. I can only really go there when I have had more than 3 drinks so I can deal with drunk people. The good news is when you are older than me it's dark enough that the guys really have no idea how old you are so you can fake it for a while! Check out this site for more info http://www.samanalounge.com/
There is varied entertainment for people of all ages and interests here in the Vail Valley. This particular blog entry gives you an overview with more details to follow. I will continue to add details. We have live music happening all over town all year round, even though people think of Vail as a seasonal place.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Pat Benetar
Pat Benatar still is cool as she was when I was a teenager. Her voice can fill a auditorium without the microphone. She came out on stage with ease and moved comfortably with rhythm. She is one of those people who can feel the beat within and with subtle movements shows you here talent and grace.
It must be difficult for someone like her to go through such a famous and crazy beginning and then come sing at a small venue. She and her husband have been married for 29 years, an amazing feat for those in the music business. Nothing seems to last in that world, fame, health and relationships, except the music. Maybe it's a relief to not be as famous as you once were, then you could go back to the real reason you started to sing in the first place. The pressure to kick out records is no longer there and you would have the time to write music that makes you happy.
If you are looking to unleash that "inner rocker" , go see Pat Benatar, she will make it easy for you to let go! Here is her fan club site http://www.benatarfanclub.com/ The official site does not seem to be working. You can always go to www.youtube.com to see her videos. They are pretty funny, remember it was the 80"s
It must be difficult for someone like her to go through such a famous and crazy beginning and then come sing at a small venue. She and her husband have been married for 29 years, an amazing feat for those in the music business. Nothing seems to last in that world, fame, health and relationships, except the music. Maybe it's a relief to not be as famous as you once were, then you could go back to the real reason you started to sing in the first place. The pressure to kick out records is no longer there and you would have the time to write music that makes you happy.
If you are looking to unleash that "inner rocker" , go see Pat Benatar, she will make it easy for you to let go! Here is her fan club site http://www.benatarfanclub.com/ The official site does not seem to be working. You can always go to www.youtube.com to see her videos. They are pretty funny, remember it was the 80"s
Ballroom Dancing in the Vail Valley
Part of the attraction of living here in Vail is the availability of some amazing entertainment. This last week for me has been especially exciting with the finale of the Dance Festival that ends with Ballroom Dancing. They put on an amazing show with a Ballroom couple who is ranked number one in the world in competition. There were 5 couples who danced and each had their own style. There was the traditional style of Ballroom dancing as well as a couple who added acrobatic flair. Amazing athletic ability these couples have in addition to Fabulous costumes which had intense sparkle and movement. Each couple choreographed their moves and chose their own music. They kept the crowd engaged with more modern selections of music. I believe I heard a song from Jessica Simpson! This is a show to put on your calendar for next summer.
Seeing shows at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater is a rare experience. It's outdoor amphitheater that has covered seating as well a tiered lawn to spread out a blanket and have picnic. They serve the most amazing wines at this venue. For White I prefer Rombauer Chardonnay and the Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
If you are interested in getting more information about the Vail International Dance Festival, here is their website. http://www.primavail.com/.
Seeing shows at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater is a rare experience. It's outdoor amphitheater that has covered seating as well a tiered lawn to spread out a blanket and have picnic. They serve the most amazing wines at this venue. For White I prefer Rombauer Chardonnay and the Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
If you are interested in getting more information about the Vail International Dance Festival, here is their website. http://www.primavail.com/.
Housing Crisis in Vail Solved!
A friend of mine recently moved into town and has been on the hunt for a place to live all summer. This is not an easy thing here in the Vail Valley. Housing is limited here and the housing that is available is available for a reason. Either it's in need of some work or it's very expensive.
As my friend settled in at a local watering hole he slid in next to a long time local John, whom we both work with and outlined his search. With a matter of fact tone and a straight face, John suggested the use of his crawl space. "Now this will take some doing but I think we can dig out my crawl space until it's about 7 feet deep. Your not seven feet tall so that should be perfect." My friend being gracious said he would will think about it.
Now we all know that space is a concern here in Vail mostly because of the natural features of our location in the Rocky Mountains. So yes, we like to go up with our structures but not to up as to restrict the View Corridor. I will need a whole separate blog to discuss that topic. Anyways, to suggest going down into the ground is an interesting idea. I have several crawl spaces that could hold a bunch of seasonal workers especially with a sturdy dirt shovel.
As my friend settled in at a local watering hole he slid in next to a long time local John, whom we both work with and outlined his search. With a matter of fact tone and a straight face, John suggested the use of his crawl space. "Now this will take some doing but I think we can dig out my crawl space until it's about 7 feet deep. Your not seven feet tall so that should be perfect." My friend being gracious said he would will think about it.
Now we all know that space is a concern here in Vail mostly because of the natural features of our location in the Rocky Mountains. So yes, we like to go up with our structures but not to up as to restrict the View Corridor. I will need a whole separate blog to discuss that topic. Anyways, to suggest going down into the ground is an interesting idea. I have several crawl spaces that could hold a bunch of seasonal workers especially with a sturdy dirt shovel.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Chasing Lance
5:00 am on a Sat morning is not an ideal time for me to get up to drive to Leadville to see a 100 mile mountain bike race that could last between 6-12 hours. Most of this race cannot be seen because it zig zags through the woods, going up and down the mountain. Some sections of paved road are visible and at the feeding stations you get only a glimpse of the riders. The Leadville 100 happened this last Sat and 1,000 crazy mountain bikers partake in this event. It is literally 100 miles of mountainous terrain.
If you are like me the thought of driving 100 miles seems like a pain so can you imagine what it is like to ride a bike 100 miles? My butt hurts thinking about it. So why did I put this event on my agenda? Well Lance Armstrong was said to be riding in this race. He is the best road biker in the history so far and this would be his first competitive race since winning the Tour de France 2 years ago. Yeah, I think I can get up and check it out.
I asked a few people if they wanted to join me and I received various reactions which surprised me. Everything from I don’t like him because of how he treated his ex-wife to a friend whose ex-boyfriend once idolized him and now idolized drugs so she just couldn’t handle the memories.
So I set the alarm for 5 am to go myself. No much info on the race other than it started in the middle of Leadville and Lance was going to be there. When the alarm went off I asked myself. "Am I really getting up to go to Leadville in hopes of getting a glimpse of Lance"? “Well if I don't then I will hear some amazing story about the race and I will have missed it". That was the moment I rolled over and got up.
So I set the alarm for 5 am to go myself. No much info on the race other than it started in the middle of Leadville and Lance was going to be there. When the alarm went off I asked myself. "Am I really getting up to go to Leadville in hopes of getting a glimpse of Lance"? “Well if I don't then I will hear some amazing story about the race and I will have missed it". That was the moment I rolled over and got up.
My chase to see Lance started out as an excursion but turned into a chase when I encountered a sat scenery gawker at 6am who was also fearful of orange cones and ripped up pavement. So as I tooled along at 20 miles an hour. Lance had begun his race. So that was it, I missed my chance at Lance. I tried to get some info about the race from some caffeine deprived onlookers but all I got was a couple of grunted “I don’t know”. I got into my car and decided to go and take some photos around Turquoise Lake. As I drove around the southern part of the lake I came across the cars parked on the side of the road that had tags on the rear view mirror saying crew on them and I got excited. I had stumbled upon the race. The chase was back on! Camera in hand and ran toward the crowd. None of the riders had come through yet. Could I be that lucky? As I stood by the road with about 25 odd people milling about I started talking with a man who had apparently ridden this race before. He told me a few stories and then gave me valuable info on how to pick up the race at a couple of different spots. My day was on!
Suddenly a car with flashing lights came racing up the road to tell us the first riders were on the way. I was so excited I nearly forgot to pull out my camera. One lone rider was coming up the hill and most of us expected it to be Lance. It was a guy wearing light blue. The spot I stumbled upon was about 12 miles into the race. Shortly after that lead rider, a group of riders came up the hill and there on the back of the group was Lance. My camera was ready for the perfect shot; I aimed but no Lance in my frame. As my digital reset the group was gone and so was the Livestrong jersey. I can't believe that I missed the shot; I was too busy trying to take the shot I didn't get a good look at Lance. Argh! A few more riders passed and I ran back to my car to see if I could get to the next spot before the racers got there.
2 Shots at Lance- No photos or a good look!
The next view spot took me a while to find. If you have never been back in this area you would be amazed at the number dirt roads that head in a number of directions. I take my chances and head out but something tells me that I missed the turn and head back. Sure enough I am right and I see a series of cars heading south and then they take a right, so I follow. Up ahead I see the cars park and I follow the leader. I gather with the other people in the middle of the road and peek down this path to where the riders should be shooting out. The odds of getting a photo of Lance is going to be tough. If I was smart I would run up the road a bit to see him going up the road. As this thought goes through my mind someone yells that riders are coming down the trail. I pull out my camera and I am able to get a blurry shot of Lance coming up the trail.
My digital takes one picture every 10 seconds and I watch Lances butt go up the road.
My digital takes one picture every 10 seconds and I watch Lances butt go up the road.
Guess what, I am off again in hopes to get the perfect photo. I feel my way to Twin Lakes, stopping at a roadside map. This is where the feed station is and it’s about 40 miles into the race. From this location the riders hit some extremely tough terrain for 10 miles out and 10 back to the feed station. Most people are familiar with this spot by the numbers of cars parked there. I am not the only one who wants to see Lance. I hike up the hill and wander around and plop down just outside the feed station.
Lance is the second man through the feed station and I am right there to get the shot. People that were watching were cheering at everyone that went through as well as a major ruckus when the women went through. People were riding tandem bikes and one guy was riding old school with a cruiser bike with no shocks!
On the ride back to the feed station Lance shot out of the woods and I missed the shot. Close behind him is David Weins the man who won the race last year. This is going to be a good race.
So the chase is on again. Back to the woods I go. Now I know what I am doing and I park close and run into the woods to get one last shot. Luckily I was able to get out of Twin Lakes faster than most people and I get one last shot of Lance. My chase is complete.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Hiking in the Vail Area
Gym workouts happen only in times of bad weather! I consider the environment in which I live the gym. My lunch break happens along a creek, in a park, on a bike or in some flotation vehicle.
Inside Vail's town limits you can drive a short distance to be completely alone in the woods. My stress release comes from hearing the sounds of the trees, animals and the rush of the rivers. Just in Vail alone there are some amazing hikes.
Booth Creek Falls is a very popular hike out in East Vail, near Vail Mountain School. This hike is for a person who is in decent shape and it takes about an hour and a half. I am a big fan of taking a hike to a certain marker or goal. This hike takes you to the falls. At the falls you can have a picnic and enjoy the amazing view. The trail will continue for miles and you can see a gorgeous mountain lake. Pick up the book The Vail Hiker for more details about the hike.
I have not discovered if the hike is online yet but if it is I will provide a link at a later date. The hike to the falls is about 2 miles and it starts out getting you breathing so some people get scared that it will continue like that. It's actually steep at the beginning and then levels out a bit and then has sections that will get your heart going. Take your time and enjoy the view but keep going! It is listed as Moderate but that is a matter of opinion.
Hiking on Vail mountain is a fun exploration of what the ski mountain looks like under all the snow. Usually takes about 2 hours to hike to the top of the mountain if you are in decent shape. You can then enjoy the views from the top and ride the Gondola down or hike down trimming your time by 30 min. If you hike up Berry Picker, which is a designated trail it will take you up to the Gondola. On top of the mountain is Adventure Ridge which has bathrooms, a couple of places to eat and drink as well as kids activities. On the weekends they have Friday Afternoon club which will have happy hour specials and a band. The view from the top is unbelievable you can see two mountain ranges and when the sun sets you can see Alpine Glow. You can stop at the bottom of the mountain and pick up a trail map which will show you the hiking and biking trails on the mountain. If you have any questions about these hikes you can always email me.
kukartravel@yahoo.com
Davos trail on the north side of I-70 is also good. I believe that the official name is Trappers Run and it crosses all of Vail on the northern mountains. You don't have to hike the whole way but you can get up there in the woods and the views are incredible. I find this is a bit busier than most of the hiking because it's in Vail and a lot of locals use it for exercise because it's close to where most people live. Pick up the Vail Hiker for more details or email me.
When hiking please remember these tips, you can never have enough water, one small water bottle is not enough! Please use re-usable water bottles, if you are hiking you love the environment do your small part and don't use plastic bottles.
It may seem like a gorgeous day without a cloud to be found. Don't be fooled! My friend Jen and I went out on a day like that, up Booth Creek Falls and as we sat by the falls we watched enormous thunderheads rear their power at high speed over the southern mountains. As we heard the booming thunder we concluded our picnic at high speed. As we ran down a few boulder fields the storm had covered us and pelted us with hail, followed by high winds and pelting rain. This took less than 30min to catch us. We were thankful that we prepared for such and experience and had a jacket and pants. Even as we sat under a tree in the hail and rain we were still cold! As soon as the hail stopped we hoofed down the mountain! The rest of the evening we sat in the hot tub. Bring warm clothes!
Please prepare for the worst, don't think for a minute you are safe because you are hiking in the vicinity of Vail and people, Ignorance will never keep you safe. Have food and fire. Most of the Vail hikes you should be able to get cell reception but you cannot count on that.
Have proper clothing, warm clothes, rain jacket, proper shoes. If there is one thing I see on the trails is people without proper shoes. Sandals just don't cut it. (even if you are wearing socks with them, fashion mistake number one but no good for hiking) Most running shoes don't cut it either, unless they are trail runners. why you ask? Most people have the same running shoes they have had for 5 years if not longer. Have you ever looked at the bottom? Flat as Eastern Colorado, that's flat. They have zero support as well. Spend the money to get your self a good pair of shoes, your feet are very important! Secondly is toe protection. Even the most agile hiker is stubbing tree branches and rocks all the way up the mountain. Ankle support is key if you are prone to Sprains. To all the teenagers out there, Ugs are not for hiking, talk about sweat! Ugs are for city people, usually in California where there is no snow and you are looking to impress someone. Ugs have no traction on the bottom and make great foot sleds on ice but are not for the real mountains. No orthopedic slip-ons either. If you can slip it on, a root or rock can slip it off. Get a grip!
Tell someone where you are going. Bring a first aid kit, which can be purchased anywhere! Sunblock! Usually it's a man you see walking around Vail looking like a cartoon character with a bright red face. Not to mention it hurts. Wear a hat or visor and sunglasses. This seems like logical info but I swear to you when I say I see all this ignorance all the time. If you bring it in it should also be brought out by you. That is common respect.
I will post more info about other hikes that I like in the area and put up photos so you get an idea of what I am talking about.
Inside Vail's town limits you can drive a short distance to be completely alone in the woods. My stress release comes from hearing the sounds of the trees, animals and the rush of the rivers. Just in Vail alone there are some amazing hikes.
Booth Creek Falls is a very popular hike out in East Vail, near Vail Mountain School. This hike is for a person who is in decent shape and it takes about an hour and a half. I am a big fan of taking a hike to a certain marker or goal. This hike takes you to the falls. At the falls you can have a picnic and enjoy the amazing view. The trail will continue for miles and you can see a gorgeous mountain lake. Pick up the book The Vail Hiker for more details about the hike.
I have not discovered if the hike is online yet but if it is I will provide a link at a later date. The hike to the falls is about 2 miles and it starts out getting you breathing so some people get scared that it will continue like that. It's actually steep at the beginning and then levels out a bit and then has sections that will get your heart going. Take your time and enjoy the view but keep going! It is listed as Moderate but that is a matter of opinion.
Hiking on Vail mountain is a fun exploration of what the ski mountain looks like under all the snow. Usually takes about 2 hours to hike to the top of the mountain if you are in decent shape. You can then enjoy the views from the top and ride the Gondola down or hike down trimming your time by 30 min. If you hike up Berry Picker, which is a designated trail it will take you up to the Gondola. On top of the mountain is Adventure Ridge which has bathrooms, a couple of places to eat and drink as well as kids activities. On the weekends they have Friday Afternoon club which will have happy hour specials and a band. The view from the top is unbelievable you can see two mountain ranges and when the sun sets you can see Alpine Glow. You can stop at the bottom of the mountain and pick up a trail map which will show you the hiking and biking trails on the mountain. If you have any questions about these hikes you can always email me.
kukartravel@yahoo.com
Davos trail on the north side of I-70 is also good. I believe that the official name is Trappers Run and it crosses all of Vail on the northern mountains. You don't have to hike the whole way but you can get up there in the woods and the views are incredible. I find this is a bit busier than most of the hiking because it's in Vail and a lot of locals use it for exercise because it's close to where most people live. Pick up the Vail Hiker for more details or email me.
When hiking please remember these tips, you can never have enough water, one small water bottle is not enough! Please use re-usable water bottles, if you are hiking you love the environment do your small part and don't use plastic bottles.
It may seem like a gorgeous day without a cloud to be found. Don't be fooled! My friend Jen and I went out on a day like that, up Booth Creek Falls and as we sat by the falls we watched enormous thunderheads rear their power at high speed over the southern mountains. As we heard the booming thunder we concluded our picnic at high speed. As we ran down a few boulder fields the storm had covered us and pelted us with hail, followed by high winds and pelting rain. This took less than 30min to catch us. We were thankful that we prepared for such and experience and had a jacket and pants. Even as we sat under a tree in the hail and rain we were still cold! As soon as the hail stopped we hoofed down the mountain! The rest of the evening we sat in the hot tub. Bring warm clothes!
Please prepare for the worst, don't think for a minute you are safe because you are hiking in the vicinity of Vail and people, Ignorance will never keep you safe. Have food and fire. Most of the Vail hikes you should be able to get cell reception but you cannot count on that.
Have proper clothing, warm clothes, rain jacket, proper shoes. If there is one thing I see on the trails is people without proper shoes. Sandals just don't cut it. (even if you are wearing socks with them, fashion mistake number one but no good for hiking) Most running shoes don't cut it either, unless they are trail runners. why you ask? Most people have the same running shoes they have had for 5 years if not longer. Have you ever looked at the bottom? Flat as Eastern Colorado, that's flat. They have zero support as well. Spend the money to get your self a good pair of shoes, your feet are very important! Secondly is toe protection. Even the most agile hiker is stubbing tree branches and rocks all the way up the mountain. Ankle support is key if you are prone to Sprains. To all the teenagers out there, Ugs are not for hiking, talk about sweat! Ugs are for city people, usually in California where there is no snow and you are looking to impress someone. Ugs have no traction on the bottom and make great foot sleds on ice but are not for the real mountains. No orthopedic slip-ons either. If you can slip it on, a root or rock can slip it off. Get a grip!
Tell someone where you are going. Bring a first aid kit, which can be purchased anywhere! Sunblock! Usually it's a man you see walking around Vail looking like a cartoon character with a bright red face. Not to mention it hurts. Wear a hat or visor and sunglasses. This seems like logical info but I swear to you when I say I see all this ignorance all the time. If you bring it in it should also be brought out by you. That is common respect.
I will post more info about other hikes that I like in the area and put up photos so you get an idea of what I am talking about.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Your Vail Vacation
I have been a resident of Vail for 15 years. My goal in setting up this blog is to assist anyone who is looking to come to Vail for Vacation or is considering the trip. I frequently watch all the travel websites and browse for information about Vail on the Internet. Some of the information provided does not always answer questions travelers may have or gives the traveler a feel for this place. What is the real story, what is truly amazing, what is overrated, what is it like to live here?
Certain businesses are excellent at marketing themselves and those are the ones you are constantly hearing and reading about. There are a lot of really interesting businesses here who are good at what they do but not so great at the marketing. I hope to help out some of those businesses.
Customer Service in this day has been forgotten and it's a really simple thing that can make a huge difference to the traveler. Anyone who is interested in coming to Vail has the opportunity to email me with any questions that they may have about their trip. My email is
kukartravel@yahoo.com
If on the other hand you want to come to Vail and have not made any arrangements you can go to my travel website to make those plans. My site is www.kukartravel.com
If you are on my site and you have questions please email and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
I will continue to blog with topics that people email me about so everyone can benefit for the information.
I am working on posting photos of the area as well as videos on http://www.youtube.com/ I will put up a blog to let everyone know as soon as that is complete.
Certain businesses are excellent at marketing themselves and those are the ones you are constantly hearing and reading about. There are a lot of really interesting businesses here who are good at what they do but not so great at the marketing. I hope to help out some of those businesses.
Customer Service in this day has been forgotten and it's a really simple thing that can make a huge difference to the traveler. Anyone who is interested in coming to Vail has the opportunity to email me with any questions that they may have about their trip. My email is
kukartravel@yahoo.com
If on the other hand you want to come to Vail and have not made any arrangements you can go to my travel website to make those plans. My site is www.kukartravel.com
If you are on my site and you have questions please email and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
I will continue to blog with topics that people email me about so everyone can benefit for the information.
I am working on posting photos of the area as well as videos on http://www.youtube.com/ I will put up a blog to let everyone know as soon as that is complete.
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