Lito's Tech Tip: To Wax or Not to Wax?
Ski tuning is a little like going on a diet or getting more exercise. A lot of skiers know they should do it but somehow don't get around to it. I'm hoping that this simple explanation will do the trick, push you over the brink, and encourage you to get your skis tuned, then keep them in perfect, or near perfect, shape. Why bother? For the simplest of reasons. You'll ski better, much better, on well-tuned skis. more>

Look Ma, No Hills! Consider a Cross Country Skiing Trip--Good For the Whole Family and Eminently Affordable
Watching skiers much of my life (but flunking out on the slopes, myself), I've always considered the cross-country folks a hardier breed than those just schussing downhill. Now comes along the Cross Country Ski Areas Association to tell us that Nordic vacations are cheaper than alpine sports--and easier. more>

Paint the Town Red(uced): Discounts, Twofers and Freebies in the Big Apple
Every winter, during what is the slow season for almost everyone in the tourist industry, New York City tourism authorities run promotions to lure visitors in. This year is no different with the reintroduction of the "Paint the Town" program. more>

One Night Free for Grams and Gramps this Holiday Weekend--and Others Throughout the Remainder of the Year
Candlewood Suites is continuing with last year's offer giving grandparents free nights at any of their locations. If you pay for either the day before or the day after a holiday, they'll give you one night free. And since rates typically start at $100 or higher depending on your location, this is nothing to shake a stick at. more>

Kyoto: A Trip Report
From TLM: "We recently had a wonderful trip to Kyoto. We arranged an air and hotel package through Japan Airline's travel agency, Jalpak, for a good price: $1300 per person for air from Chicago and 10 nights at the New Miyako Hotel. Our agent, Hiromi, was very accomodating in extending our stay from the standard 5 night package (Kyoto is such an interesting city that I would recommend staying at least a week). The New Miyako Hotel is a four star hotel, clean, elegant, and with an English speaking staff. Its location is ideal, right across the street from Kyoto Station, which in addition to having great shopping and convenient restaurants, is an excellent base for exploring Kyoto and the surrounding area." more>

Curacao: A Trip Report
From xm: "We were in Curacao in January - my aunt lives there and we went to the Sheraton for a drink. It was very nice - the beach was nice - no big waves - definalty kid friendly. Another friendly family beach is Contiki beach which has all the ammedities and shares the beach with the Princess beach resort and casino. Princess is real close is the the Seaquarium - great for small kids. They have different feeding tanks for seals and sharks.I did not go into the Princess but I think its worth investigating." more>

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) Safaris
From George Ramick: "Has anyone taken a safari to Kenya and Tanzania with this group? My wife and I plan to book a tour for July or August 2003. Any experience with a balloon ride over the Serengeti during this time frame? Any general advice?" more>

What Are the Best Walking Tours in England?
From KH: "Anyone have any experience with walking tours in England? Sister and I want to go next spring - want easy walks with time for sightseeing and shopping and good hotels." more>

Looking for Beginner Ski Resort Recommendations
From Susanne: "Please advise on ski resorts in USA or Canada - good for beginner skiers and snowboarders (one experienced skier along). Interested in ski lessons, nice resort, good beginner slopes." more>

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