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Michelle Obama and Kids at Aspen on President’s Day

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Michelle Obama SkiingIt has officially been confirmed that First Lady Michelle Obama and her two daughters are exploring Aspen, Colorado. According to a longtime ski instructor, Michelle, kids, and friends are lodging near Buttermilk Mountain in a large private home. In an effort to accommodate the family, the home’s owners Jim and Paula Crown have relocated to Aspen rentals.

In an effort to fully experience Aspen’s outdoor adventures, the Obamas and their friends have hired five private instructors and are skiing the day away. Their mountain of choice is Buttermilk, which is one of the beautifully groomed Aspen Snowmass properties.

According to sources, the Obamas have been “polite, charming and appreciative” while enjoying the charms of Aspen.

Rather than eating lunch at a lodge or in town, the Obamas and friends are expected to enjoy a moment at the Crown’s house. The privacy is indicative of the many advantages of enjoying a stay at a Aspen Vacation Rental by Owner with private amenities. The secluded site makes security much easier to maintain for the protection of the First Family. After lunch, the Obamas and friends are expected to hit the slopes and enjoy the experience, along with the other American families enjoying a President’s Day away from the office.

The trip was completely kept under wraps until the Obamas landed in Aspen. In order to keep the visit secret, code names were assigned to all members of the family. Prior to landing in Aspen for their vacation, the Secret Service was in town surveying and discovering spots that the Obamas can visit in peace.

In a 2011 Wall Street Journal article, it was revealed that Aspen is the “most expensive town in America” to live in, with the least expensive real estate listing at $559,000. While real estate can be quite pricy, there are definite opportunities for reasonably priced vacation rentals to be enjoyed by the family.

The Obamas’ visit makes them one of the several renowned families to enjoy the charms of Aspen. Famous Aspen home owners currently include the Kennedys, Goldie Hawn, Jimmy Buffet, Jack Nicholson, and Kevin Costner. Also, Oprah Winfrey frequents the resort in an effort to get away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago.

Aspen Hosting Winter X Games 16 January 26-29th 2012

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X Games Aspen COLooking for an inspiring event to share with family and friends in Aspen, Colorado? You definitely shouldn’t miss out on the ESPN WinterX Games 16 taking place between January 26 and 29, 2012. The event will attract 125 of the most talented and adventurous professional trick skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers from around the world to compete for medals and prize money. All of the fun can be enjoyed for FREE!

The games will be held at Aspen/Snowmass’ very own Buttermilk Mountain, a prime spot for winter sports enthusiasts to root for their favorite stars, while enjoying the natural beauty of Aspen. If you are thinking of attending, it is a prime idea to book your Aspen Rentals as soon as possible, as properties tend to sell out quickly in lieu of the event.

The ESPN WinterX Games will kick off on January 27th, featuring the Skiing Slopestyle Men’s Elimination from 10 am – 12 pm, Snowmobile Freestyle Elimination from 11:30 am – 1 pm, Skiing Slopestyle Women’s Final from 1 pm – 2 pm, Snowmobile Freestyle Round One from 7pm – 8 pm, Snowboard SuperPipe Men’s Elimination from 7 pm – 8:30 pm, Snowmobile Freestyle final from 8:30 pm – 9 pm, and Skiing SuperPipe Women’s Final from 9 pm – 9:40 pm.

Saturday and Sunday will see the fun continue, while featuring thrilling events including mono skiing, women’s SuperPipe, snowboarding, Slopstyle skiing, and snowmobiling. Saturday the competitions begin at 9:30 am and end at 9pm, while Sunday they kick off at 10:30 am and end at 8 pm.

You are sure to have a blast no matter which events you decide to take in! You can either watch all day long or split your time between watching and hitting the slopes.

This marks the 11th consecutive year the event will be held at Snowmass, just a short drive from favorite Aspen vacation rentals.  You definitely won’t want to miss out! Looking for the right vacation rental for your family and friends? Search VRBO Aspen to find the perfect spot.

For more information on the ESPN WinterX Games, visit www.xgames.com.

Aspen Colorado Ski Forecast Predictions for 2011-2012

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Aspen Vacation RentalsIt has recently been reported that the National Weather Service is looking into the role that La Niña will play in the Aspen ski season. Thus far, skiers and snowboarders are curious as to their fate as they plan to soon trek to their Aspen home rental.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac La Niña won’t play a role, on the other hand 2011-2012 may be one of the mildest and driest winters on the books for Colorado in recent history. The famed book places Colorado in the south of the intermountain region and further predicts that “winter temperatures will be above normal, especially in the south, with the coldest periods in early and late December and mid- and late February.  Precipitation and snowfall will be above normal in the north and below normal in the south. The snowiest periods will occur in early November, mid-December, mid-January and early and late March.”

Much like last year that saw those who enjoyed Aspen vacation rentals experience a chilly April and May, the almanac expects for the two months to be cooler and snowier than average. Additionally, if you’re planning a ski trip to Aspen, Colorado, you may want to consider the weeks of or after January 13 and March 22, as the almanac predicts heavy snow fall during those periods.

Aspen RentalsJust how valid are the Old Farmer’s Almanac’s predictions? Last year it predicted mild and dry conditions for Colorado last winter, and Aspen visitors experienced mixed results. There ended up being plentiful amounts of snow above 8,000 feet for the majority of the winter, and to skiers’ and snowboarders’ delight the snow continued to fall into April and May. Hooray for spring skiing!

While the almanac predicts a quite dry year in Aspen, the National Weather Service is hedging against it and predicts there to be plenty of snowfall in the fall and throughout the winter. Time will definitely tell.

Just a word of advice…last year was an amazing ski season, so you don’t want to hold off on making a decision on booking Aspen rentals because of conflicting weather reports. Good luck on your ski adventures!!

5 Ways to Enjoy Aspen in the Fall

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Aspen in the FallThinking of heading to Aspen in the fall for some family fun? Or wanting to get away with some friends and adventure your way through its rugged nature? There are many options in the fall when staying at an Aspen vacation rentals. The season is host to many exciting events and activities for people of all ages. Here are five reasons to consider heading to Aspen in the fall:

  1. Fall Colors. You’ll be amazed at all of the amazing colors that grace Aspen, Colorado when the fall sets in during your stay in your Aspen Rentals. Green leaves turn to yellow and orange and the sky takes on a beautiful hue. You can enjoy amazing picnics and hikes with your loved ones while taking in the beauty.
  2. Music, Tributes and Art. October is a great month for music and art. John Denver Week runs from October 6-17. During the week, the city will be host to inspirational exhibit, music events and celebrations to remember the famed musician. Also, local art museums are in full swing.
  3. Aspen Alpine Guides. Take advantage of the opportunity to hike, rock climb or mountaineer with professional guides. You will be taken to some of the most amazing spots in the area and provided gear to make your adventures safe. Call 888-649-5982 for more information.
  4. Hot Air Ballooning. You will be amazed as you soar over Aspen in a hot air balloon! Nothing beats drifting along in the blue skies and taking in the fall colors from above. Most services offer a brunch and snacks after landing. Google Above it All or Unicorn Balloon Company for more information.
  5. Spas and Relaxation. The fall is the perfect time to pamper your body. There are numerous amazing spas at which you can enjoy a massage, facial, or other body treatment. Some spas offer treatments for healthier immune systems to help you through the change in seasons.

The fall offers a multitude of opportunities for those looking for adventure, fun, inspiration and relaxation. All of the excitement is just moments away from Aspen VRBO. If you are looking for Aspen lodging, there are also many exciting options to make your stay most comfortable!

Snowmass Season Passes on Sale Now!

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Aspen Ski Lift TicketsAs you are planning your getaway to your Aspen vacation rentals, you may be happy to find out that season passes and daily rates to local mountains have become more competitive. Pricing changes are a result of the current economy and a push for repeat visitors and locals to have unlimited access to their favorite mountains.

Snowmass is expecting 22 weeks of skiing fun and have a variety of season pass options for you, your family and friends to enjoy. We hope the following helps you make a decision as to the type of pass you’d like to invest in:

  • Premier Pass: This is the top-of-the-line pass that provides access to unlimited skiing on all four mountains, discounts for family & friends on lift tickets, discounts on skiing and snowboarding clinics, discounts on parking, food & beverage offers, and free summer lift access for mountain biking adventures. Prices range from $399-$1,800 depending on your age group.
  • Flex & Double Flex Passes: This option provides you one or two days of skiing each week and an option to add Flex days. More specifically, the Flex pass gives you 1-day a week for the entire season and Double Flex gives you 2-days per week for the season. You also have the option to add Flex days for just $52 per day. This deal is good for all four mountains and ranges from $829-$1,459 per season.
  • Escape Pass: This pass offers cost-effective pay-as-you-go access. If you reserve your tickets at least 7-days in advance, you can enjoy discounted rates on daily tickets. You are responsible for between $199-319 up front for the pass and then eligible to receive passes from $22-$52 per day depending on your age group.
  • Daily Pass: In the case you are planning to visit Aspen for a few days, the single pass option may be your best bet. You can either enjoy the Lower Lift Pass or the 4 Mountain Foot Pass. Prices are range from $21 for children 6 and under, $65 for an Adult Lower Lift Pass and $209 for the 4 Mountain Foot Pass.

For more information on 2011-2012 Season Passes call 877-282-7736. You won’t want to miss out on all the skiing fun just moments from your Aspen Home Rentals. Additionally, if you are looking for a great place to stay near your favorite mountain, you may want to consider Aspen VRBO.

The Thrill of Paragliding in Aspen Colorado

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Paragliding AspenImagine waking at dawn and taking a short drive from your Aspen vacation rentals. Once at your destination, you realize that very soon you will be soaring through the air as you take the breathtaking scenery of Aspen, Colorado. At the top of one of Aspen’s famed mountain slopes, your heart beats double time as you and your paragliding partner prepare to take a step of faith. In the air, you are amazed at how amazingly beautiful and quaint the town of Aspen is from above. You are also amazed by the awe inspiring beauty of the many trees, lakes, rock formation and fluffy clouds.

This experience can be yours without any prior experience! Aspen Paragliding offers tandem flights with USHGA certified tandem pilots.  Depending on the weather, tandem paragliding flights can be scheduled either in the summer or winter and are very close to Aspen rentals. Prior to stepping off the gentle slope of a mountain, you are provided full instruction and then fastened in front of the pilot. You can be sure that he or she has been flying tandem for years!

If you aren’t familiar with the specifics of paragliding, it allows for you to soar through the sky in the simplest of forms. Your pilot will come equipped with a transportable backpack. This art has been around for quite some time and is relatively safe. The well-sized paraglider makes for easy lift off most picturesque mountainsides and a gentle ride to your destination.

Packages through Aspen Paragliding begin at $225 per person. You must allow 2 hours round trip for their offices. For more information, dial 970-925-6975.

You won’t regret the decision to give a paragliding adventure a try. You will wave to your friends on earth with excitement, as you gain a full understanding of how lucky birds of the sky are as they glide through the air freely. When you return to your Aspen vacation rental by owner, you will be able to share your adventure with pride!

The 12 Hour Bike Race Coming to Aspen this Weekend!

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12 Hour Bike Ride Aspen, COMore than 200 mountain bikers will be participating in the much anticipated 12 Hour Bike Race in Aspen, Colorado. You can take a short drive from your vrbo aspen rental to take in the grueling race first hand.

At the crack of dawn, racers will head to the Snowmass Base village to prepare for the 7am to 7pm event. Once the gun is fired at the starting line, riders will be put to the test as the maneuver through one of the most famous single-tracks in the nation.

As a spectator, you can walk around the track and gain inspiration as the world’s top mountain bikers put on an unforgettable show that will include plenty of high flying jumps, sprints and agility intensive moves. The event is perfect for people of all ages, and a portion of the proceeds will go toward the Aspen Youth Center.

12 Hour Bike Ride Aspen, COIf you are a mountain biker yourself, you may want to think of signing up for the 12 Hour Mountain Bike Race!  There are opportunities for all ability levels, and you can even inspire your friends to race as a team. Racers can register as Solos, Duo Teams, Trio Teams and Open Teams (This is a team of up to eight riders).

For more information, check out the 12 Hour Bike Ride event Website at www.12hoursofsnowmass.com or call Nat Ross at 970-390-9730. There are also opportunities for sponsors, so if you would like to gain exposure for your company (while helping the Aspen Youth Center thrive) there are plenty of amazing opportunities!

The 12 Hour Bike Ride is one of the many events going on in September! You can enjoy everything from jazz concerts, art exhibits, the Golden Lear Marathon and more all within driving distance from your Aspen vacation rentals.