August 13, 2003 -- The national weather service reports that July was five degrees hotter than normal across the USA on average. That's not as serious as what Europeans are facing right now with their historical -- and horrible -- heatwave, but every little degree makes a difference when it comes to comfort. If you're needing to cool down, we suggest checking out some chill savings on mountain lodgings between now and Labor Day. Of dozens of possibilities, two stand out. One is sexy and trendy Whistler, where the average daily temp in August is a coolish 70°; the other, good old reliable Colorado.
At Whistler, the highly-developed and wildly promoted resort in British Columbia north of Vancouver, summer getaway packages start at just $109 per person for three nights at the Resortquest Whistler, on a championship golf course, where you choose from 600 condos, executive "town homes" and vacation homes. This price is valid through September 7, 2003. Packages include three nights' lodging and one Whistler Mountain sightseeing lift ticket before taxes.
Of course, you can upgrade to ritzier digs for more dough:
- the Coast Whistler Hotel in Whistler Village starts from $119
- $125 at Crystal Lodge with an outdoor pool
- $149 at the Delta Whistler Village Suites with an outdoor pool
- $149 for a suite at the Summit Lodge
- $179 at the Delta Whistler Resort with an outdoor pool that boasts a spectacular view
- $229 at the Westin Resort & Spa
For more information or to book, phone 877/938-2763 or go to www.mywhistler.com/summer. (Note: all prices above are in US dollars.)
For the simple life, consider a cabin in Colorado where the lowest rate is just $38 a night (the most expensive? $600!). Most range between $75 to $113. We are still in the high season, but the costs start to dip as we head into fall, plus discounts are available for multiple night stays. To get the full view of what kind of accommodations are available, ask for the free, 64-page Colorado Directory of Cabins, Mountain Lodges, Country B&B Inns, Campgrounds and Fun Things to Do. It's available by calling 888/222-4641 or visiting www.colorado-cabins.com, where you can peruse the listings or download it onto your pc. You can also request delivery by snail mail. (All options will cost you a reasonable $0.)
The publisher, Jenny Fitt-Peaster, says she and her husband travel around 7,000 miles throughout the state for 18 weeks each year to gather the information in person (she's proud to point out that her guide is the only statewide Colorado guide researched in this manner). They've been transversing the state for 21 years; it's safe to say they're the undisputed experts on the subject.