This weekend was an encouraging reminder of the fact that I am proud to call Colorado my home. I’ve lived in a few places – New England, New Orleans, the DC metro area – and I’ve made it possible to travel in and out of the country. Every place that you go to, or community you become a part of, becomes a place that represents the unique meaning to the story of your life.

As I become older, one birthday at a time, the places I live and see become more emotionally involved in the greater picture of my experience. Like falling for that special someone, or craving the comfort of feeling nurtured by my mother, places become an infatuating addiction, and a soothing bowl of soup. When you’ve lived somewhere long enough to know most faces that work in the community, and when those faces know you, you’ve established a belonging.

I always felt a mother-like feature with every return I made to New Orleans. Something was comfortable about the sweet smell of jasmine, warmth of the delta, and the subtle tones of saxophone and brass, lingering from some nearby block around the bend. Like Colorado, the people of New Orleans are friendly, and absolutely invigorated to be alive. When the city was challenged, and feeling pain, it reminded me of the first time I saw my mother cry. Mom sprained her ankle down the stairs, and I ran to the neighbor’s house confused, vulnerable, in tears. In the case of New Orleans, it was not possible to consider a permanent relocation after the storm. I had to be there for her.

I still think about NOLA pretty often, but my time in Colorado has been the start of another blooming relationship. The diversity of landscape, the power of open space, and the community of Coloradans make up for an eclectic ecosystem of belonging to a place. I often compare living in Louisiana to living in Colorado – for the attitude that exists in each part of the country. In New Orleans, the city motto is “Laissez les bon temps rouler,” meaning “let the good times roll.” I believe that this is present in Colorado as well, but the richness in culture from a melting pot like New Orleans transfers to a richness in appreciating all forms of life. There is a rich culture out here too, but in addition to our relationship with local people and art, we feel a connection to the land.

My birthday was Saturday, and I drove back to Boulder to see another network of friends that I care about and my old stomping ground for some familiar service at the bars downtown.  I couldn’t have asked for a better turnout, considering how many people went out of their way to celebrate. On Sunday morning, I had the urge to drive up to the Flagstaff summit, take in the open air, and admire the view facing west. Before moving to Vail, I did this often – counting down the days that I would be out there, up in those mountains.

When comparing the Rocky Mountains to another kind of relationship, I think it would have to be that helpless attraction to being totally immersed, to being close to an individual that you desire.  The drive back up highlighted my complex relationship with Colorado – I have a family in Boulder, a developing family in Vail, and I am helplessly falling for the Rockies.

I am proud to consider this place my home, and strongly encourage traveling out here to see why. Whether it’s for skiing, rafting, or hiking while the Aspens have turned to gold, I’m pretty certain that a vacation to Colorado will inspire emotion, and be careful – you might just fall in love.

This post was brought to you by Nika.

What does skiing for free mean to you? What would you do if you could ski for free?

Whether your response is invite all your friends to ski with you in the Rockies, shred through as many runs as possible, quit your job, kiss a stranger, or have an epic winter, it probably falls under the category of being something INCREDIBLE.

For the month of September only, Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals is offering the killer deal of a free lift ticket for every $2,500 spent on lodging.  Book now for your vacation later, and spend an entire day ripping through any of the fine ski resort destinations that we book for free! Destinations with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals include Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Aspen/Snowmass and Park City.  For every $15,000 spent on lodging, you can have your Epic Pass for free this season, or the equivalent for single tickets, a $600 value.

What would I do if told I could ski for free? First, call my Dad. Second, plan on trying out some sweet demos and killing it on the mountain. Third, I would probably splurge on live music in a ski resort destination, because there isn’t much that could beat free skiing and live music.  In conclusion, I think I would have an incredible winter.

Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals will also be sure to customize your ultimate ski vacation with the support from Friendly.Knowledgeable.Locals., where live sales agents are available to answer questions concerning any and all of your needs. Again, this offer will only be available for the month of September, so book in advance to get your FREE lift tickets! Please visit our website or call 1.877.843.6215, and start planning your best winter yet.

This morning, the Vail Valley Partnership put on a breakfast scrambler at the Vail Chophouse for local businesses to meet and greet. Being a Connecticut native and a new intern onboard with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, I enjoyed having the unique opportunity to interact with fellow business people in the Vail Valley so soon.

A common thread of the conversations I had has stuck with me throughout the day: a lot of the people that migrate to Vail have a past story, a hometown that is probably not close by, and a common interest for adventure and natural beauty. It’s easy for those of us who are new to the area to quickly feel at home; many of us are making new friends, new business contacts, and establishing a comfort level with the unparalleled setting of Vail.

Although I’m new to the Valley, I have been living in Boulder for over a year. No, I wasn’t a CU student like most 20-something-year-old people living in Boulder. I was one of the drifters that packed up my car after college, and… drove. Having a fellow Tulane friend that relocated to Boulder allowed the move to be a smoother transition, but I really had no idea what would come my way. To be honest, I had imagined that I would be moving back to where I thought my heart remained, in New Orleans. However, since the epic road trip out here, I haven’t been able to consider the thought of parting with Colorado. Not yet. It’s difficult to pinpoint why, but I think it has a lot to do with the humility that comes along with the awe-inspiring Rockies.

Relocating to the Vail/Beaver Creek area has already been an exciting last three days (I told you I’m brand new). My first few days on the job couldn’t have been more informative in a comfortable, yet enthusiastic and professional atmosphere. So far with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, it’s become apparent that I will be embarking on a journey with a talented group of young, innovative, and enthusiastic individuals. On my first lunch break, we ventured into the village to enjoy some local, casual dining at the Tap Room. Naturally, I ordered a sandwich called the “hippie wrap” – a fine vegetarian option that other hippies coming up from Boulder might appreciate. The menu also included a wide variety of pub fare for all you meat eaters, and a decent beer selection, hence the name of the establishment. I was also pleased to attend the last Hot Summer Nights concert at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater with co-workers, followed by some quality time on the town in Vail Village.

I look forward to the next few months that await me with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals and being further immersed in the serenity of Colorado. We are a team of friendly, knowledgeable, locals, and are eager to assist those of you with that itch to venture out here too. We provide a variety of lodging and concierge services, such as lift tickets, local advice, and adventure packages. Check out our website for upcoming events and more information, or give us a call at 1-888-866-2305.

When tennis junkies come to the Vail Valley, they flock to the Bill Wright Tennis Center, and for good reason. With eight Har-Tru clay courts and four hard courts in the heart of the Rockies, playing tennis never looked so good. Stunning views of the Gore Range surround the courts and the beautiful Vail weather can usually be counted on to create memorable moments on the court. The Center’s full-service pro shop provides guests with rentals, private lessons and clinics for all ages and levels.

Below is a schedule of the Leagues offered, as posted on vailrec.com:

• Doubles 4.0 or Better, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Mondays for those with a 4.0 or above ($8)
• Men’s 60 and Over, 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays for all skill levels ($8)
• Ladies Day, 9 to noon on Wednesdays for all skill levels ($8)
• Men’s Night, 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays for all skill levels ($8)
• Men’s Single Ladder, 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays for all skill levels ($8)
• Ladies Double Play, 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays
• Men’s Doubles, 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays for all skill levels ($8)
• Sunday AM Play, 9 a.m. to noon on Sundays for all skill levels ($8)
• Mixed Doubles, 3 to 5 p.m. Sundays for all skill levels ($8)
• Cardio Tennis, times and dates to be determined

The rates are $15 for one hour or $20 for 90 minutes. Season passes are $140 for outside guests, $115 for Vail Recreation District residents and $75 for youth ages 17 and under.

The Tennis Center closes for the season on September 30, so if you’re itching for some time out on the courts, better get moving. Summer will be over before you know it. Contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for more information or to book your stay in the Rocky Mountains, 1-888-866-2305.

Summer is halfway through and that means there is only one more month left to take a yoga class in Vail’s beautiful Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.  Classes are offered Mondays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. and are taught by experienced yoga instructor Maria DeSimone.  All abilities are welcome, but be sure to bring a yoga mat or towel, a bottle of water, and loose fitting yoga attire.  Classes are held at the Alpine Plaza at the base of the waterfall, so participants are able to enjoy magnificent views of the Gore Range, unless they’re in Downward Dog, that is.  The last day of class will be Friday, September 3^rd.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is located at 8,250 feet above sea level, making it the highest botanical garden in the United States.  Access to the gardens is free and there are many youth and adult educational programs offered throughout the summer.  So come find your inner sensei and do yoga at altitude—you might find your highest higher power yet!

For more information on the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens or to book your vacation in the Vail Valley, please contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305. Yogis and non-yogis welcome!

Christmas comes early this year. The Beaver Creek Golf Club is giving guests discounts, demos, snacks and a chance to experience one of Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Golf Resorts in North America.”  Discounts include 75 percent off of apparel from the Beaver Creek Golf Shop, among GolfWorld’s “100 Best Golf Shops for 2010,” and 30 percent off of green fees. There will also be free range demo instruction from noon to 4 p.m., and free demos of new golf clubs will be held all day.

The 6,784-yard par-70 golf course has been offering visitors beautiful scenery and great golfing since 1984. This is your chance to come experience the sport the Rocky Mountain way. Merry Christmas in July!

This past weekend I went to the Teva Mountain Games, my first one ever. After being in Vail for two weeks, this was definitely the highlight of my stay. The events, the crowds and the atmosphere were mind blowing. Friday I was able to take a couple hours off work to head down to the Village for a sneak peak of what was going on. I had enough time to catch the freestyle female kayakers and the men’s world cup bouldering qualifiers. I was amazed. The strength and stamina of the athletes blew my mind!

I had never seen live competitions of either of these sports so my eyes were glued. The kayakers did crazy flips and turns and jumps that I didn’t believe were possible in a kayak. There was even a 16-year-old girl competing! These women were amazing at what they did. But what truly blew my mind was the bouldering. The strength of these competitors and the resilience was unlike anything I’d ever seen before. And as a fan of rock climbing, I know all too well how hard it is to go up a wall. But these guys made it look so easy! It was incredible and definitely my favorite event of the weekend.

Friday was a nice introduction to what was to come, but the real festivities happened on Saturday. The streets were teeming with people, white tents were set up everywhere and the smell of BBQ and beer was intoxicating. Everyone was happy and carefree, and the weather was absolutely gorgeous. It was a perfect day to be outside with friends. This time I got to see the dogs jumping events and some more of the bouldering. Most of my time was spent just lying on a field munching on a pulled pork sandwich while enjoying the summer sun and the awesome atmosphere.  After all, that’s what weekends are for.

The three-day visual arts festival in Lionshead is fast approaching and I couldn’t be more excited. This festival attracts 70 artists from all over the country to showcase their work on beautiful Arrabelle Square. A fan of various art mediums, this festival will be like being in a candy store for me. All kinds of arwork will be on display, including watercolor, acrylic, oil, woodworking, glass, sculptures, furniture, mosaics, ceramics, metalworks, photography and jewelry. To make it even more amazing, there will be live entertainment and great food throughout the day. June 26 can’t come soon enough!

If you’re still in the process of planning your stay in Vail and need some help, Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals will take the stress out of your vacation. The high season is fast approaching so book today! Call 1-866-348-5129

The Teva Mountain Games bring more than 2,000 professional and amateur athletes to Vail to compete in kayaking, bouldering, climbing, fly fishing, mountain biking, stand up paddling, road cycling, running and rafting events. But people won’t be the only contenders at the event. Dogs will also have the opportunity to showcase their talents and win notoriety at the Games.

Dogs will have the chance to compete in three events: Speed Retrieve, Extreme Vertical, Big Air Wave and Doggy Dash. The events measure speed, height and length. The Speed Retrieve, the newest of the competitions, is a game of speed. A toy duck is placed at one end of the pool and the dog must jump in from the dock and fetch it. The judges measure the time it takes the dog to reach the duck. The Extreme Vertical measures the height of a dog’s jump. This is accomplished by positioning the dog on a 10-foot-high platform above the water and making him jump to get his toy. The Big Air Wave is all about distance. The dog runs down the dock and jumps into the water after his toy. The distance is measured up to where the dog hit the water. The final event, the Doggy Dash, involves owner and dog running through an obstacle course as fast as they can.

For the first time in the history of the Teva Mountain Games, the Speed Retrieve, Extreme Vertical and Big Air Wave will be Zone Qualifiers for the 2010 DockDogs World Championships. The winners of each event will automatically be invited to the championship for that particular discipline. This goes to prove the intense competition at the Games, for people and dogs.

The dog events will take place throughout the weekend. A complete schedule of events is available. Online registration is $20 to $25, depending on the event. It is open until 5 p.m. Friday, June 4.

If you need help finding pet-friendly lodging or planning other activities to do with your dog while you’re here, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals by calling 1-866-348-5129. They will help you plan your entire Vail weekend.

The Vail Valley has become a popular destination for weddings. Couples come from across the country to say their vows with the stunning Rockies as a backdrop. But Vail weddings are about more than the breathtaking scenery; they’re about the first-class service, unmatched hospitality and unique beauty of a town that prides itself on exclusivity and grandeur. For those seeking a wedding of luxury and splendor, the Vail Valley has plenty of venues to choose from. Here are my top picks.

1. The Sonnenalp Resort of Vail

Voted “Best of Weddings 2010″ by readers of The Knot magazine, The Sonnenalp knows how to make a day memorable. Their attention to detail is immaculate and they have their own personal wedding consultant that will turn your dreams for the big day into reality. You have the option of choosing between over half a dozen venues, ranging from the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens to the Vail Interfaith Chapel to a location atop a mountain. Whatever venue you choose, the professional Sonnenalp staff will be on hand to organize and execute the wedding of your dreams.

2. Beaver Creek Lodge

Located in one of the most exclusive areas of the Vail Valley, the Beaver Creek Lodge has won recognition as one of the top ski resorts in the world. Winner of an AAA Four-Diamond Excellence award, you can be sure that the service and hospitality will be among the best you’ve experienced. There are indoor and outdoor locations for your ceremony and the modern, unique interior design of the resort definitely make it stand out. The 1,344 square-foot Blue Spruce Room can accommodate up to 100 guests and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that will leave your guests with unforgettable views of the Rockies. The resort is also a 3-minute walk from the secluded Beaver Creek Chapel if you’re looking for a more intimate experience.

3. The Lodge & Spa at Cordillera

Imagine standing under the elegant, pristine Cordillera Gazebo with your husband-to-be, the Sawatch Range on one side and your loved ones on another. The crisp white of the gazebo and the row of chairs creates a dramatic contrast to the flourishing greenery surrounding you. The fresh mountain air tickles your face as you exchange vows and are pronounced husband and wife. If this sounds like your dream wedding, then The Lodge & Spa at Cordillera, also a winner of the AAA Four-Diamond award, is the perfect place for you. The elegance, sophistication and natural beauty of The Lodge work perfectly to craft the perfect mountain wedding. You can also choose to have your ceremony at the beautifully landscaped Cordillera lawn and outdoor locations are also available for winter weddings. With such a beautiful location and the help of experienced resort event-planners, you will have a wedding to rival the beauty of the Rockies.

4. Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa

Located at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain and on the banks of Eagle River, The Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa provides the perfect backdrop for a wedding in the mountains. Your wedding will be a combination of the majesty of the Rockies and the serenity of the river. Say your vows in the 2,000 square-foot outdoor Wedding Lawn where you’ll be embraced by the natural beauty of the location. Just a few steps away The Riverside Terrace is the perfect place for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before the real party begins. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the 3,800 square –foot Riverside Ballroom will bring the mountains inside  your reception, making it a night to remember.

5. The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch

This Avon resort stays true to the luxury and high class Ritz-Carlton is renowned for. You can have a small, intimate wedding or an extravagant reception. The choice is yours and Ritz-Carlton makes it possible with their wide range of venues that can hold up to 35 (Smith Terrace) or 350 (Mountainside Terrace) guests. You can also choose to get married at the nearby Beaver Creek Chapel, with transportation to and from the chapel provided for the entire wedding party. If you’re a ski fanatic, the resort has ski-in/ski-out access available for guests.

Many resorts offer special offers or group discounts. Rocky Mountain Group Travel also has special wedding packages available that include activities and transportation options to take the stress out of planning. They can also customize one for you. Call 1-866-348-5129

Why come to Colorado over summer? Why NOT come to Colorado over summer? With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder the local joke is people come for the winter but stay for the summer. From adrenaline junkies to families to those in search of tranquility, there is something for everyone. Kayaking, white-water rafting, zip lining, rock climbing, fishing, paragliding, mountain biking, caving and hiking are just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in the summer. With so many options, you’ll be scrambling to try and do everything!

When the snow melts, the water sports aficionados come out to play. Kayaking and white-water rafting businesses open their doors once again to welcome a new season of people eager to get out on the water. White-water kayaking requires skill and experience, but rafting is available to all ages and skill levels and it’s great to do with a large group of people. Some companies offer the chance to combine rafting with other activities, such as horseback riding or rock climbing. So if you’re pressed for time, this is a great opportunity! With a handful of rivers to choose from, each with a different level of rapids, you have the option to do mild (class I-II) or wild (class IV-V) trips, depending on your skill level. The Arkansas River, the most popular in Colorado, offers some of the best white-water rafting in the nation. The Colorado River offers a more relaxing alternative for those with small children. Whichever river you choose, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful canyon and mountain scenery. Nothing beats a day on the river surrounded by the Rockies!

For those who prefer a less energetic activity, the area offers hot air balloon rides through the glorious Rockies. Imagine being in the air surrounded by snow-capped giants, getting an aerial view of Colorado’s beauty. Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides, located in the middle of Colorado in the South Park Valley, boasts the highest altitude hot air ballooning in the country. Their hour-long flights depart at sunrise and guests get views of the Continental Divide, Mt. Elbert, Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Pikes Peak and South Park Valley while eating a hot breakfast and sipping champagne as classical music softly plays in the background. It’s no wonder NBC Today ranked hot air ballooning number 18 of 50 things to do in your lifetime.

Maybe being on the water or up in the air isn’t for you. Well, how about going underground? You will have the chance to go caving in Glenwood Caverns, the largest show cave open to the public in Colorado. Glenwood Caverns offers three kinds of tours: walking tour, adventure tour and wild tour. Don’t like tight places? That’s OK. Sign up for a walking tour. You’ll still get to see the beauty of an underground cave but without having to squeeze through any tight spaces. Besides the caves, you will also go to a cliffside balcony where panoramic views of Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River will surround you. For the daring and non-claustrophobic, the wild tour is the way to go. You will venture to rarely visited parts of the caves, but be prepared to crawl, squeeze and get down and dirty. You will be on your belly and squeezing through crevices as small as 18 inches during the 3-hour tour. It’s not for the faint of heart.

Many companies do group discounts. Contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for help planning, booking and organizing your next Colorado vacation! 1-866-348-5129

The Mountainfilm Festival can be described in one word: inspiring. As its motto states, the festival is about “celebrating indomitable spirit” in nature, in animals and in people. Through film, art and culture, Mountainfilm Festival aims to raise awareness on what’s going on in the world.
For 32 years, the festival has been screening independent documentaries in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Telluride, CO. What began as a fun event for mountaineers to enjoy the rugged outdoors and watch films about the mountains they loved has evolved into a movement toward activism through art and film. This year, the four-day festival will focus on the extinction crisis. Events start May 28 and run through May 31. There will be socials, picnics, breakfast talks, symposiums, book signings, art exhibits, movie screenings, Q&A’s with filmmakers and presentations by special guests. A full schedule is available on the event Web site.

Guests will have the opportunity to choose between 74 different films to watch, with topics ranging from the pervasive nature of plastic to the poverty and hunger experienced by the people of the Wakhan Corridor of Afghanistan and even to dolphin harvesting in Japan. Some of the films to be shown are:

• Africa’s Lost Eden
• Bearwalker of the Northwoods
• The Edge of Never
• Barefoot in Timbuktu
• The Cove
• Forgotten on the Roof of the World
• Freedom Riders
• Kavi
• Restrepo
• Tattoo Odyssey
• Waste Land
• Waypoint Namibia
• Sluice Box and Rocker
• Last Train Home
• Gasland

The Mountainfilm Festival has grown into America’s leading independent documentary film festival. But Mountainfilm is not just about movies. It’s about the people that come in search of answers and inspiration and leave with a desire to change the world.

Our last Vail Teva Mountain Games update was all about general event information, an overview and the schedule of the first day- June 3 with the Bud Light Lime Steep and Creek Competition and the free concert in the Vail Valley.

Today we will tell you more about the IFSC Bouldering World Cup which is scheduled as of today for Friday June 4^th with the women and men qualifiers, and then with the semifinals and finals scheduled for Saturday June 5^th. The IFSC Bouldering World Cup will be presented by Pyramide and will take place at the Mtn. Plaza at the Vista Bahn Lawn.

Bouldering is a kind of rock climbing. But in contrast to rock climbing, bouldering is usually without a rope, not very high up, rarely higher than 3-5 meters, more vertically along the rock or boulder.  Bouldering is practiced on large natural boulders, rock faces, and artificial boulders, in gyms or even on buildings or public architectures. Unlike traditional climbing that requires a lot of endurance and longer stretches, bouldering focuses on short term power, strength and dynamics. There are three main disciplines in bouldering- lead, boulder and speed.

IFSC stands for “International Federation of Sport Climbing”.  The IFSC World Cup Serious 2010 consists of about 16 competitions all around the world. The world cup started off at the last weekend of April in Trento- Italy. The next bouldering world cup competition will be next weekend, May 14^th in Greifensee- Switzerland. The third IFSC World Cup will take place in Wien- Austria. After three weekends in Europe, the bouldering competitors will come to the US- to Vail where they will compete during the Teve Mountain Games from June 3^rd till June 4^th. After that they will go to Moscow, Eindhoven in the Netherlands, Sheffield- Great Britain, Chaarmonix- France, Daone- Italy, Munich- Germany, and then in August in Xining- China, Chuncheon- Korea, in September back to Europe to Imst- Austria, Puurs- Belgian, at the end of October to Huaiji- China and then for the last bouldering competition one more time to Europe to Kranj in Slovenia.

This is going to be an amazing event. Only the very best boulder competitors from all around the world will give their very best. Come out and watch it. In case you need a place to stay check out Lodging Deals provided by Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals!

See you all !!!!

The Teva Mountain Games are the nation’s largest mountain sport event. Celebrating mountain lifestyle, outdoor competitions and events and music concerts- the 2010 Teva Mountain Games hosted form June 3 to June 6 in the Vail Valley are gone be an incredible event you should not miss.

Top professional and also amateur athletes from all around the world will compete in eight different sports in overall 24 different disciplines for over $ 100,000 in prize money. The eight sports are biking, climbing, dogs competing, running, fishing, kayaking, rafting and stand up paddling.

As of today, the 2010 Teva Mountain Games will start off on Thursday June 3 at 10am with the Bud Light Lime Steep Creek Championship which will be presented by Thule at the Homestake Creek, Red Cliff. Homestake Creek is dropping 480 feet per mile which makes this competition one of the most popular and interesting not only to race but also to watch. If you want to compete in the quarter mile creek race register fast- there is only a limited number of starter places for the first round- so make sure you get in there! The ten fastest female and the ten fastest male will then compete in a second round and the fastest time will determine the winners.

Registration for the race on race day opens at 8am at the Homestake Creek – Red Cliff. At 8.30am there will be the possibility to practice in the Steep Creek. At 9.30am the time trail will start. So if you are only there to watch the challenging race- try to make it there by 9.30am to see all competitors. And then at 10am the Steep Creek Championship will kick off. Check regularly the Teva Mountain Games website to see if there were any changes in the schedule!

The Steep Creek Championship is gone be a popular and promising competition since there will be professional athletes from all around the world to win the $ 2000 Price money for the first man and for the first woman. The second man and woman can each win $ 1000 and the third will get $ 500. The 2009 winners of the Steep Creek championship are Mike Dawson from New Zealand and Nikki Kelly.

To round the first day and the first competition of the 2010 Teva mountain games up- there will be a free concert in the heart of Vail Village. Starting at 7pm at Checkpoint Charlie there is gone be the first half of the Bud Light Mountains of Music show where DJs and Band will rock the village.

Try to make it to Vail to the first great day of the 2010 Teva Mountain Games. If you need some great lodging deal to stay for the whole games check this out!

Tubing has always been one of my favorite past times for summer (along with a cold beer, a foot- long brat, and a Rockies’ team win at Coors Field), but a shiny new gem has caught my eye: kayaking. One of the most popular competitions at the Teva Mountain Games (June 3-6 this year), I know it is harder than it looks but I think I can do it. Having never even sat inside of a kayak, I thought it would be a smart move to learn a few things, and I couldn’t have picked a better place than Vail to do it!

After some web browsing, I’ve made a plan of action that I intend to take over the next few weeks, just in time for the Teva Mountain Games! I’ll let you know how it goes!

Step 1: Learn about kayaks. Did you know that there are over 7 types of kayaks?

Some are made for quiet, fishing trips, while others are made to navigate whitewater rivers! I think I will start out easy on a recreational kayak- until I find my sea legs! While researching, I found that there is a serious lack of safety education when it comes to recreational kayaks. This will be my next step because I value my ability to enjoy the great outdoors, especially in the Vail Valley area! With companies such as

Step 2: Attend a kayak safety course. Knowing what safety gear I need could help me avoid sticky situations! There are many procedures that I need to know and be able to execute such as we exiting, t-rescues, and self-rescues that will all be covered through the right training courses. The internet may be useful, but it doesn’t quite match the feeling of getting water up your nose while you are locked into a floating boat! Use this website for teaching children about boat and kayak safety.

Step 3: Take a class. At first, I wanted to jump in, but after plenty of reading and realization that I can’t tackle white water on my first day, I’ve decided that a class with certified professionals is my best option. They provide the equipment, knowledge, and training I need to be on my way. It may not be tomorrow, but I will start out my kayaking adventure right! In most cases, safety is the main focus of beginner classes, followed by skill and then actual water time. As demonstrated in this video, anything can happen while you kayak! Watch this shocking video of what happened to some ocean kayakers! Kayakers are terrifyingly surprised during their trip…

Step 4: Get on the water! After I become confident in my skills, it’s time to play! I can’t wait to explore the area’s natural playground where river meets adventure! Hopefully, if I love it enough, then someday I, too, will be competing in the Teva Mountain Games!

Step 5: Watch and admire the pros! I appreciate every athletic competition more, whether it’s basketball, softball, or even tennis, after not only learning about how difficult it is, but by trying it out! My admiration grew after realizing that navigating a thin, light weight craft through raging waters doesn’t happen overnight. Hopefully, while attending the Teva Mountain Games I will be able to pull aside some pro’s and learn what their experiences were to get here! Good luck to all of the Kayaking athletes who are competing in the 2010 Teva Mountain Games!

For some people traveling is something that happens year round, while others wait all year for that one special vacation. My personal philosophy is that the key to happiness is always having something to look forward to; for me that being a vacation. I thought I’d share of my personal travel tips- they are easy and will help you plan the perfect escape!

1. When booking airfare domestically I always hop to Kayak.com first. It compares the prices airlines have listed, as well as prices being offered on 3rd party travel provider sites such as orbitz, so you know you’re getting the best deal around. Or, save some hassle and let a complimentary concierge take care of your flights for you!
2. If your travel dates are flexible, use Bing when searching so that you can compare historical prices for the flight you’re looking for to help you know when a good time to buy is.
3. Research special events happening in your destination before booking travel. I’ve found that the best way to save money while on vacation is to take advantage of local free events and activities.
4. Plan ahead, but don’t plan too much. An itinerary can help keep the vacation flowing, but can also take away from the travel experience. Sometimes the best memories of a vacation are those experiences that come to you.
5. Make an educated lodging decision. Are you looking to eat all or your meals out, or trying to save money by cooking at home during your stay? Most travelers automatically assume a hotel is the cheapest way to go, without considering the money they could be saving by booking a vacation rental fully equipped with a kitchen.
6. Ask a local. Locals will always be a better informer than a guide book or review you read on the internet. Ask around when trying to find the best pizza, or most happening nightlife. Locals are in the know with events and specials and are usually happy to help lost tourists have a good time.

Happy travels!

With summer just behind some April clouds, I am excited to be outside as much as possible, including for eating! When I am not backpacking or hiking, I take a work break refuge by eating outside- almost any patio will do, but if you are looking for the best where you can still enjoy the Teva Mountain Games atmosphere, then don’t fret, I did an office poll of where the best places to snag a snack where sunglasses are required, and why. Here’s what we came up with:

Vendetta’s. Not only is this the best place to grab a late night snack, but Vendetta’s back patio catches some great late afternoon sun. Try a “Ray Jay’s Wave” pizza (Canadian bacon, green peppers, and pineapple) for a full summer effect.

Red Lion. Located in the heart of everything that is happening in Vail, get here early because the Red Lion always has a full patio. I recommend trying their dry, smoked ribs with a local Colorado brew… 1554 by New Belgium goes great with a burger, too!
La Bottega. Enjoy the northern Italian casual restaurant, and take a look at their lunch menu. Watch out!  The sandwiches are very large, and make for a great split meal, and I haven’t found a better Meatball sub in all of Colorado! La Bottega’s patio is in Vail Village, and is one of the best spots for people watching.
The Marketplace. Across from La Bottega is the Marketplace that also includes the Tavern. Don’t want to stay for lunch? No problem, the Marketplace has a steady supply of fresh, organic meats, cheeses, and produce for you to create a personalized and healthy meal.

Big Bear Bistro. Located at the top of Bridge Street, Big Bear Bistro is the place to stop for breakfast! Featuring fresh, and locally roasted Vail Mountain Coffee, they make getting your travel group ready for a day of kayak, raft, climbing, and even canine competition viewing easy. My top recommendation: try their breakfast burrito, complete with Mike’s Finest Green Chile. Stop by in the afternoon, or call in- they do pickup as well as delivery in Vail Village.

Looking for a place to stay? Our office offers condos, private homes, and pet-friendly lodging!

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   by RaceFace.com

   Sunscreen! Even you have a darker complexion Vail is over 8,000 feet above sea level and the sun here will fry you crispier than a trout fillet! Also bring a hat and sunglasses for added protection. All the events during the Teva Mountain Games are outside, so come prepared. Spend a few minutes in your vacation rental applying sunblock, especially on your children.

2. Walking shoes. Although I also love girly wedges with glitz and glam, showing off a new pedicure is not my goal during the Teva Mountain Games. Save the pedicure show for the Vail Arts Festival in Lionshead Village June 25-27.
3. Pet leash and doggie bags. Although I doubt my girl, Piggy, will be competing in the Dock Dogs competition (where dogs compete in vertical, distance, and strategy competitions), leashes are required throughout the Town of Vail during the Teva Mountain Games. Don’t forget to make your favorite family friend earn their fun- Pig has a backpack and carries her own supplies such as food, water, and even her doggy bags.
4. Re-usable water bottle. Don’t waste resources while keeping yourself healthy and hydrated during the Teva Mountain Games. In the summer heat in Vail, it’s easy to get distracted and forget to drink the recommended 8 glasses a day. Thirsty? Gear Town, located on Meadow Drive, will have many water stations where you can refill that eco-friendly water bottle.
5. Camera. Whether you are competing in the photo competition recording family memories, keep your camera accessible because you won’t want to miss a great shot! Another idea: in order to stick to your budget, bring your camera along with you throughout Gear Town, take pictures of your favorites, then go through to pick out your favorites. Some of the best and newest gear can be sampled, tested, and bought. A few of the sponsors attending the 2010 Teva Mountain Games are: Nalgene, Osprey Packs, Trek Light Gear, and Badger Mountain Campers.
6. A rockin’ Prom Tux or Dress. Don’t forget to dig out that high school prom dress or tuxedo, because the Teva Mountain Ball is back! Located at Samana Lounge, and at the low price of $5, you will be one glass Teva

   slipper away from missing the 8 am 10k Spring Runoff!

7. Save by staying in an alternative lodging option. Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals offers private homes, condos, and even pet-friendly lodging. Check out your options, utilize fully-stocked kitchens, use the complimentary concierge service, and get advice from a local staff. We live and love here!

It’s actually not that hard- here’s a list of all the FREE things to do during Spring Back to Vail April 12-18, 2010.
1. Free concerts! The Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars are performing on April 16th at Checkpoint Charlie, from 6-10 pm in Vail Village. They will also be showing their documentary which tells the story of the bands’ long journey from the Sierra Leone and their experiences in various refugee camps.
2. Attend Après and “After Dark Parties” where you can snipe some freebies from Bud Light and Captain Morgan at bars throughout Vail Village and Lionshead. My favorites include the Red Lion, the George, and Samana Lounge.
3. Stop by the Men’s Journal Lounge and Reverb Eco Village with sponsors such as Bear Naked Granola and attendance by Stonyfield Farm and Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance. 8:30-3:30 at the base of the Vista Bahn lift near Vail Village.

4. FREE concert! Don’t miss Wyclef Jean on Saturday, April 17 and guest Robert Earl Keen. This concert, located at Ford Park is THE concert not to miss this Spring in Vail! This will be an unforgettable combination and night to remember! Get there early- this will be one packed show! Robert Earl Keen starts at 5 pm, followed by Wyclef at 7 pm. No floor space left at my place- too many friends are coming, but you can find some great lodging deals and catch some spring runs!
5. Free lunch and entertainment continues on Sunday with the Rockstar World Pond Skimming Championships. Located at Golden Peak on Vail Mountain, watch as crazy skiers glide across a somewhat (sarcasm) chilly pool of water. Many wear costumes, some land smoothly, but most crash epically into the water! They should find a hot chocolate and heater sponsor for this one! Or perhaps an arctic dive suit maker….

Free BBQ will be provided, and then to wrap up Spring Back to Vail 2010….

6. Another free concert! Located again at Checkpoint Charlie in the Vail Village, Guster, an “acoustic-pop threesome” that throws humor into their alternative rock show.

One thing is for certain- this is one heck of a way to finish the winter here in Vail- and I won’t forget to take as many late season runs as I can humanely accomplish while also soaking in some spring weather, great music, friends, food, and fun! Hopefully the family will visit and join too- each of these events would be great for my young cousins, aunts, and more!

I didn’t know what to expect for the annual Lamb Cook-off, a part of the Taste of Vail going on now, but I gave myself a pat on the back after attending with some co-workers and friends- every dish we tried were from Vail’s best chefs and was accompanied by some of the best wine I’ve tried. To top it all off, we had warm spring weather and I actually had to take my coat off!

The Vail Lamb cook-off had some tough competitors, but Restaurant Kelly Liken took the first place position with lamb confit created by sous chef Hunter Smith. Unfortunately I arrived late and didn’t make it to their tent in time, which is why next year I will plan to arrive early, which is my number one tip is to get there early! Here are my recommendations for next year:

1. Get there early if you intend to try many samples! Long lines are guaranteed to form at the Kelly Liken, La Tour, Lodge at Vail, and Ocotillo. (the Lodge at Vail took third place this year with their lamb pastrami sandwich, while Ocotillo took second with unforgettable lamb tamales)
2. Grab an office-mate, friend, mother, sister, brother, father or a ski group, then pair up and you can find and split the tastings. You will both get to experience more and spend less on tickets.
3. Be green by bringing your own fork and cloth napkin. Use the recycle containers that can be found every 40 feet along Gore Creek Drive.
4. Spend the $60 for all access! It is more than worth it, by purchasing an all access pass you may taste every restaurant’s submission, as well as sample every attending winery. If you purchased a ticket for every place, it would add up to over $150.
5. Walk to the event! Trust me, after all of this wonderful food, you will be grateful for the walk back to your hotel, condo, villa, or vehicle!