Water skiing is a popular summer activity throughout Texas, with people flocking to lakes and beaches with skis and boat in tow. For a beginner, the thought of being towed behind a boat on a pair of skis can seem extremely intimidating, if not downright frightening. Once the boat gets started up, how will the individual even know how to stand up?

Luckily for most adventurous individuals, water skiing isn’t nearly as hard as it appears. For the most part, all that it requires is a little knowledge of skiing procedures, a strong grip, and common sense enough to know when to hold on and when to let go.

The first thing you want to do is make sure that your skis fit properly. This means that they’re tight enough so they’re not loose on your feet, and that you have to undo them in order to get them off. But not so tight that they’re painful to wear.

Once your skis are properly adjusted, it’s time to grab the tow rope and… “assume the position.” First, practice on shore or on the dock by leaning backwards slightly, keeping your head forward, your knees bent, and your legs should be under your body. Once you get in the water, assume the position again, this time with the tips of the skis protruding above the surface of the water. If you have trouble getting into this position, take your time, the boat won’t go anywhere until you’re ready to go.

Once the boat begins to move, the slack will disappear from the towrope and begin working its way to your standing position. Hold your arms straight and rigid, resisting the pull of the boat with your legs. Press into the water, and use the resistance to stand in a more upright position. As the boat picks up speed, press harder against the increased resistance and you should be able to reach a full standing position.

If you have trouble getting on your feet, don’t worry about it. Standing up on your skis is one of the hardest parts of water skiing. It may take a bit of practice before you get the hang of it. You’ll likely fall several times before you get up all the way, and even after you’re an old pro at it, you’ll still take the occasional tumble. Falling is part of skiing, and, for some individuals, is a big part of the fun.

When you do fall, though, it’s helpful to know the best way to fall, to prevent most injuries. As soon as you feel yourself starting to lose your balance, let go of the towrope immediately. In some cases, if you are seasoned enough, you might be able to regain your balance if you stick it out. But, for most individuals, it’s better to go ahead and take a dive than be dragged face-first through the water behind a speeding boat. So, as you fall, tuck your head in and bring your knees up, curling yourself into a ball. Try to fall backwards, if you can. Curling yourself up like this reduces the amount of free limbs and extremities that will hit the water, reducing the chance of injury.

Once you’ve recovered from the fall, wait for the boat to circle back around to pick you up. You might find it difficult to maneuver in the water while wearing skis, so feel free to take them off and use them as floatation devices. Now that you know how water ski, as well as take a fall, don’t be afraid to get back on those skis and go again.

The following are basic do’s-and-dont’s you should follow for waterskiing safety and courtesy:
o Do wear a life jacket while operating the boat and while skiing. The skier should wear a U.S.
Coast Guard approved life jacket that has a high impact rating and is designed for water skiing.
o Do have an observer on board whose only job is to watch the skier, receive signals and alert the boat operator if the skier falls.
o Do be familiar with the water skiing area, so you can avoid areas of shallow water, submerged obstructions and other dangerous situations. Also, stay clear of beaches and swimming areas, and do not purposely spray other boats or swimmers.
o Do go over hand signals with the skier before he or she is in the water.
o Do use a towrope that is at least 75 feet long.
o Do give a wide berth to fishermen and slower-moving crafts like canoes, kayaks and sailboats.
o Don’t ski when it is getting dark or is night. It is hard for the boat operator, skiers and other boats to see your boat and the skiers.
o Don’t use drugs or alcohol while operating the boat or water skiing. The substances impair good judgment and coordination.
o Don’t ski within 300 feet of another vessel, or 100 feet of the shore, a dock, or swim area.

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It is no secret that skiing is one of the world’s most popular winter sports, and it is one of the most expensive as well. However, with some smart planning a ski vacation does not have to break the bank. In fact, there is an abundance of ski vacation deals available if you simply know where to look and follow some simple strategies.

Get a jump on the season and save. Last minute planning makes it difficult to book the most desirable accommodations and venues, and it can make it even more difficult to find the best possible ski vacation deals. Instead of looking for ski vacation deals when the snow has already fallen and the slopes are already crowded, start your search for ski vacation deals in the summer months. It is during the summer months that resorts are most anxious to attract customers for the upcoming season, so it is not uncommon for the best promotions and least expensive ski vacation deals to be available during this time.

The cold shoulder is your friend. Early and late season can offer great opportunities for ski vacation deals. The shoulder seasons–late fall and early spring–are generally warmer and less crowded, so ski resorts and travel agents are most likely to offer their most affordable ski vacation deals during that time. But the shoulder season is not the only time to get great ski vacation deals. Great ski vacation deals are also abundant in January, after the rush of holiday vacationers.

Big names can mean big prices. While the biggest mountains and most popular resorts may provide their share of thrills, the typical skier can get all the thrills they need and great ski vacation deals at some of the smaller, less traveled ski resorts.

The Internet is a great place to start. Ski vacation deals can be found on many websites. Many resorts and travel agents have online resources that will allow you to find ski vacation deals that will fit your tastes, budget, and calendar.

For easy to understand, in depth information about ski vacation deals visit our ezGuide 2 Ski Vacations.

Skiing and snowboarding may seem very similar in the types of safety gear needed, but that’s an incorrect assumption. Safety gear for snowboarding is quite different due to the lack of balance poles used and the different kinds of injuries that tend to be common. Here is an overview of safety gear for both skiing and snowboarding:

Snowboarding Safety Gear

Your first priority should be to get a snowboarding helmet. Head injuries are just one of the types of injuries that snowboarders are prone to have. Since it is so easy to fall down, especially for newbie snowboarders, the likelihood of a head injury is surprisingly high. Since there are no ski poles to help you to balance, snowboarders tend to fall alot more than skiiers, and often times, they will hit their head when falling. The seriousness of a head injury depends on the type of snow, snow depth and your speed while falling, but to massively reduce the risk of a serious head injury, just wear a helmet!

Next, you need wrist protection. Wrist injuries are the #1 injury to befall snowboarders. This is because snowboarders tend to try to catch themselves when they fall, with their wrist! So, they end up falling on their wrist or twisting it in some weird way. Up to 40% of all snowboarding injuries are related to the wrist. There are two types of wrist protection available, underglove wrist guards that you wear underneath your gloves and snowboarding gloves that have integrated wrist guards built in. No excuses, just get the wrist protection, it will save you time, money and pain down the line.

While a helmet and wrist protection are the two main types of safety gear you should have as a snowboarder, there are some other types of safety gear you should also consider. Padded snowboarding shorts are available that protect your tailbone, your butt, your hips, your thighs and your knees from the impact of falling. Snowboarding goggles are also available and protect your eyes from snow and sun glare, offer UV protection and protect your eyes from tree branches as well. There are also knee pads, elbow pads and shin guards available should you feel you need some extra protection.

Skiing Safety Gear

Like snowboarding, helmets are available for skiiers as well. Helmets provide you with some impact protection if you fall, run into another skiier or even a tree. There’s also wrist pads, knee pads, hip and butt pads and other padding available. Goggles are also important for skiiers, since visibility is extremely important. Wraparound goggles that shield your eyes from snow blindness and driving snow will help your eyes stay protected. For cross country skiiers, they may want to take along a GPS and first aid kit.

Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, there’s no excuse not to wear proper safety gear, it could save your life.

Lydia Quinn writes for Phat Sports Shades, a leading provider of high performance eyewear and eye protection for sports, motorcycle riding and outdoor activities. Visit us at: http://www.phatsportshades.com

Whether you’re on your way to the white stuff for the first time, or you’re a seasoned skiier, there’s some things that must not be forgotten whether it be for your safety or simply your comfort.

It’s surprising what a difference just a little bit in the way of warming-up before you go on the slopes can make; 30 minutes of stretching exercises loosens your muscles and lessens the aches at the end of the day.

The right gear is essential too, of course; skis, poles, boots - if you don’t own them don’t forget to rent them, but they must be the right fit or you’re going to end up with extremely sore feet. Even your socks can make a difference; surprisingly, thinner socks can be better for comfort than thick ones.

Don’t forget a backpack. A learner may think, ‘What would I need one for?’ And ‘It’s difficult enough staying on my feet without having that on my back!’ but if there’s any problems while you’re up there, it could be a lifesaver - and save a broken bone or two if you land on it and it takes the punishment instead on you - if you’ve got a few emergency supplies in it.

It’s going to get pretty cold out there (just in case you’d forgotten) and if you’re intending to be going out all day you want to stay as warm as possible. You might think a hat’s going to make you look like a kiddies’ toy, but it’s well-known that you lose most of your heat through the top of your head. There’s some very funky ones about - who knows, you might even start a new fashion?

Snow can be pretty blinding with the sun shining down on it, in fact the UV rays on ski slopes can be over 35% stronger, so wearing sunglasses or goggles is a great form of protection. Flakes of snow hitting your eyes if you’re not so lucky with the weather are another good reason to have them. Sunscreen - at least SPF 15 - is a good idea too; seems illogical, but true, that you can burn when you’re freezing!

The type of gloves you wear is up to you; there’s plenty of variety on the market, it’s just a case of what you feel comfortable in. Leather perhaps, or those woolly ones that your Gran knitted you?

Ski helmets are becoming increasingly popular now, especially with the designs improving each year. They’re more fashionable, lighter, tougher, and in some cases can be used for multiple activities such as cycling and climbing too. They are compulsory in competitive skiing and some manufacturers are being given a high profile by professional skiiers. Although most countries don’t have legislation in place to make it compulsory to wear a helmet, it is well worth checking it out.

Have fun!

Mandy Thornton writes on ski vacations in her blog, Ski Vacation
www.skivacationslopes.blogspot.com

For skiers, a getaway made to the slopes entails more than just ski passes and equipment rental; for destination skiing, it means the arrangement of accommodations, meals, and travel – all of which can add up to be an expensive prospect. Hotel accommodations alone can cost you seventy-five percent of your total vacation price; and when you add meals on top of that, a ski vacation sometimes becomes cost-prohibitive. But, if you consider a ski vacation rental, you may find that you are able to save an enormous amount of money – putting your ski getaway back into reach.

A ski vacation rental can be a great way to spend a getaway. Depending on the location you choose, you can have close proximity to the ski slopes at all times. Further, the ability to share the ski vacation rental with a number of other people significantly reduces the price. If you have family and friends that you typically travel with on a ski vacation, you may want to think about going in together on a rental. In the end, you may find that you’ve each spent hundreds of dollars less than you would have on hotel accommodations.

Additionally, a ski vacation rental also allows visitors to save money on meals. No longer are you required to eat out. The ability to prepare your own food in your kitchen can literally save you hundreds of dollars.

Of course, another benefit of a ski vacation rental – especially if you are sharing it with friends and extended family – is that your vacation takes on a party quality. Instead of everyone separating into their own hotel rooms after a day of skiing, you can all gather together for a shared meal, games, and conversation. It can be a great way to enjoy the slopes – and each other.

To find a ski vacation rental you can go through a rental agency in the destination of your choice. Rental agencies work as a liaison between property owners and prospective renters; they will broker the deal and take care of all necessary paperwork. Just be sure that you deal with a reputable company who knows the area and the property.

You can also find a ski vacation rental online at a host of websites. Often, a ski destination will host its own website geared towards tourism. On this site, they will often offer a link to rental properties in the area.

Book your ski vacation rental early and you will be sure to have much to look forward to during your next getaway to the slopes!

For easy to understand, in depth information about ski vacation rental visit our ezGuide 2 Ski Vacations

Hard Goods Hard goods is the term for all of the equipment you need for the slopes. Make sure everything is dry and stored properly when not in use.

• Skis, Snowboard (or arrangements for a high end demo)

Most enthusiasts own their own skis or snowboard. It makes parking lot to slope time shorter and your skills will develop faster with the consistency the same equipment provides. If you do not own your own skis or board be sure to make arrangements for rentals or a high end demo in advance to avoid long delays. Ski blades are a fun alternative to skiing or snowboarding.

• Bindings

A safety check on all bindings is recommended before heading out to the slopes. If it has been a while since you were last out have them checked by a certified technician.

• Boots

Boots are the most important piece of equipment. The proper boot with a good fit is the best way to enjoy your day on the hill.

• Poles

Poles come in a wide variety of prices and styles. Does it make a difference? Yes, and no. Any pole will do but once you try a good, graphite pole your average aluminum pole simply won’t cut it any more.

• Helmet

Protecting your noggin is the smartest thing you can do for yourself. It is also very warm. Make sure it fits properly for maximum protection.

• Goggles or Sunglasses

Goggles and sunglasses not only look cool they will protect your eyes from the elements. Oddly enough being able to see is pretty important on the slopes, quality sunglasses or goggles with anti-fog protection can help.

Soft Goods Soft goods is the term used for what you wear when you head out to the slopes. Dressing properly can make for a much more enjoyable day.

• Socks

Socks are the key to dressing properly. If your feet are cold nothing else matters. Use silk, wool or a hollow core synthetic weave for the best results. Keeping your feet dry is of top importance so stay away from cotton and only wear one pair of socks. More is not better in this case. Make sure the sock is fitted, with a formed heel and toe, this will reduce bulk and binding which may reduce circulation resulting in cold toes.

• Thermal Underwear

Your next to skin layer should be silk, wool or a hollow core synthetic fabric for best results. Fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin will keep you dry and warm throughout the day.

• Layering Pieces

What you layer with will be determined by the weather and what you are wearing for your outer layer. Add items to your holiday wish list that will increase your choices and flexibility.

• Vest

A vest is one of the best ways to keep your core body warm. They keep bulk down while maintaining warmth around the torso keeping the vital organs toasty. Keep in mind if your core body is warm more warm blood is available for your extremities. So, if your hands or feet get cold, wear a vest!

• Sweater or Fleece

Wearing a sweater or a fleece over your thermal underwear is the most effective way to maintain an even body temperature. Most ski sweaters and fleece are low in bulk so still allow the addition of a vest if necessary.

• Fleece Pants

Fleece pants are not only a cozy apres ski piece but essential for those cold days on the slopes. They also make shell pants more versatile by providing added insulation when needed.

• Jacket and Pants or Suit

Your outer layer should consist of a jacket and a pant or a suit. These pieces may be insulated or not (if they are uninsulated they are referred to as a ‘shell’). If they are shell pieces be sure to layer effectively under them according to the weather.

• Hat

Even if you have a helmet, a hat is an essential piece of clothing for the winter. You won’t be wearing your helmet off the slopes and things get pretty chilly when the top is left uncovered.

• Gloves or Mittens

The choice between gloves or mittens is a personal one. Mittens are warmer but most people feel more comfortable in gloves. The point is to keep the fingers covered and if they still get cold use a pair of chemical heat packs. Some gloves and mittens have specially designed pockets to hold heat packs or invest in a pair of glove liners with a built in pocket.

• Neck Gaiter

The neck gaiter is the simplest layering piece you can own. It keeps your chin and neck warm, which decreases your sensation of cold. You can change the entire look of your outfit by simply changing the color of your neck gaiter.

Reprinted with permission from http://www.skiwarehouse.com

Kjerstin Klein: Passionate skier and technical writer for skiwarehouse.com

Well finally some progress. After six months the Mayor’s office finally came back with the Certificate D’Urbanism which unfortunately came back negative on the application for the extension and the permission to run the place as a business. As you can imagine Alex and I were slightly concerned about this and were seriously on the verge of calling it a day. Thankfully the Estate Agent face with the possibility of not getting their 14 grand commission finally started to do some work and organised a meeting with the Mayor. In this meeting he apologised about the delay in the applications and put them down to some serious squabbling between departments, which resulted in the one dealing with out case pretty much turning down every application it received without even looking at them. Very professional. The upshot of it all was that he explained that since we were only catering for four rooms in out Chalet that we didn’t need a business licence and could run it as a private enterprise. It might have been nice for someone to tell us that earlier. As for the extension, it’s not so drastic as we can almost certainly build a garage in its place and convert the stable area on the ground floor to our apartment. Similarly it’s good news on the bank loan since we applied for a private loan. It seems the banks are happier to offer a loan guaranteed solely by Alex’s salary than with one guaranteed by Alex’s salary and the income for the Chalet. Go figure.

The upshot of all this is that we have finally managed to get the keys and move in despite not signing the final papers for a week or so. It seems like most of the bureaucratic nightmares are behind us now and we now face the new challenges of getting the place renovated. On arriving we found that two of the radiators have cracked with the cold, the bathroom sink leaks and the toilet doesn’t flush. Thankfully the current owner is responsible for leaving us with all these problems solved so is fixing and replacing as I write. Hopefully tonight we will be able to crank up the central heating and will be living like Kings.

We have already checked out the local pub and a restaurant. The owners of our local which is in walking distance are Dutch and seem very nice, although are not going to help my chances of improving my French. The local Village of Venosc is about five kilometres away and is much more French, so should help. Basil the dog absolutely loves it here as we can open the back door and he is off into the woods and the river. Hardly any need to walk him unlike our flat in Chamonix.

All in all Alex and I very happy and settling in well. Yesterday I got my first hint of cabin fever, so we may take the lift up to Les Deux Alpes for lunch and to check it out to remind ourselves that we are not far from civilisation.

On a much much lighter note we have started the new year in the right direction as on a recent trip to Zermatt, long over due I asked and Alex agree to marry me. Lets hope 2007 continues as positively for us.
Ecrins Mountain Lodge