Winter Wonderlands & Fun in the Sun

Compiled by Ed Boitano, “Life After 50” Travel Editor

WINTER WONDERLANDS

Whistler/Blackcomb

The Crystal Lodge & Suites is located “at the in the centre of it all” in Whistler Village. Nestled at the base of both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, we’re just steps away from the Whistler/Blackcomb gondolas. Spanning the Village Stroll, we feature the most shops and restaurants than any hotel in Whistler. Accommodations range from traditional hotel rooms to three-bedroom penthouse suites. Amenities include Ric’s Grill, Mix Martini Lounge, Old Spaghetti Factory, Starbucks, heated outdoor pool , hot tub, sauna, fitness room , high-speed Internet and complimentary ski valet. Add a friendly service team, and you will see why our guests stay at The Crystal time and time again. (800) 667-3363; (604) 938-2309 or www.crystal-lodge.com

Enjoy whistler Whistler Hotel Reservations is your complete guide to finding, planning and booking the perfect Whistler vacation. We offer information and many Whistler accommodation choices from 5-star Whistler hotels to family style condos and luxury homes. Our reservation service will also ensure you get the best information and prices possible. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff help you plan the perfect Whistler packages . Our inventory represents a diverse selection of accommodation choices, saving you from calling each of the Whistler hotels . Our agents know and love Whistler, and truly want to help you plan the most memorable vacation possible. Book your total Whistler package at (888) 882-8858 or www.EnjoyWhistler.com

Whistler Premier When you are thinking of a mountain ski vacation, think Whistler Premier. We’ll help plan and book your skiing vacation at one of our ski-in/ski-out lodging resorts from the transport to the activities. Choose from over 30 Whistler accommodation locations including Whistler Village, Blackcomb Mountain Benchlands, and Blueberry Hill. The Blackcomb Lodge offers fine Whistler hotel style accommodations in the heart of the Village, next to fine dining, shopping and Whistler Village & Blackcomb ski lifts. Contact us now for best value on accommodations, packages, and activities. 1 (888) 621-1177 or www.WhistlerPremier.com

Sun Valley

SUN VALLEY RESORT Considered by many to be the best single ski mountain in the U.S., Sun Valley's Baldy Mountain will be easier than ever to get to this year. The most significant advancement in air service in the resort's 75-year plus history begins with daily nonstop flights from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines from December 15 - March 25. January 14 -21, 2012 and January 21 – January 28, 2012 are the dates for this ski season’s annual Prime Time at Sun Valley Resort. These two weeks are designed especially for seniors 60 and over. (800) 786-8259 or www. SunValley.com

ALASKA

ALASKA RAILROAD covers 500 miles of Alaska's most stunning scenery. The fabulous rail experience includes premium GoldStar Service to Seward and Denali, comfortable seating in Adventure Class, and knowledgeable tour guides. The railroad has transported passengers through Alaska for close to a century. Open year-round, the Alaska Railroad's adventure packages and day trips include the finest accommodations and sightseeing tours along the railbelt. (800) 544-0552 or www.AlaskaRailroad.com

SEWARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Known as the 'Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park ' Seward is a picturesque town located 126 miles south of Anchorage . Discover our bustling harbor and historic downtown filled with quaint shops and art galleries. Experience trophy sport fishing, glacier and wildlife cruises, sailing, hiking, kayaking, flight seeing and more. A wide range of accommodations, restaurants, RV parks, tent camping, and visitor services are available. (907) 224-8051 or www.Seward.com

COLORADO

ASPEN SQUARE, Aspen’s downtown condominium hotel, is located in the heart of this renowned mountain resort, only a few steps from outstanding Colorado restaurants, unique shops and art galleries. Even the Silver Queen Gondola is right across the street at the base of Aspen Mountain! Featuring fireplace studio suites and condominiums, Aspen Square is a full-service hotel with outdoor heated pool, hot tub, fitness center and lobby concierge. The people of Aspen Square are ready to welcome you! (800) 862-7736 or www. AspenSquareHotel.com

Colorado Mountain Vacation Rentals & Ski Lodging offers the best selection of vacation ski condos, townhomes, and private home rentals in Summit County. Book now for this upcoming winter season and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and endless fun. With ski & summer vacation lodging in Breckenridge , Frisco , Copper Mountain , Silverthorne , Dillon , and Keystone you’re sure to find the perfect Colorado mountain vacation rental. Book today and let Colorado Rocky Mountain Resorts welcome you to the Rocky Mountains. Call to book now at (800) 635-3434 or visit www.ColoradoRMR.com

DILLON INN offers the ideal location to enjoy Summit County’s four world-class resorts – Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain and A-Basin. Nestled in Dillon, guests can choose from a wide range of spacious accommodations. Amenities include indoor pool, hot tub & sauna, free cable TV, Continental breakfast, non-smoking rooms and free shuttle to skiing. Dillon Inn is on the bicycle path and walking distance to over 100 factory outlet stores. 800-262-0801 or www.dilloninn.com

SUMMIT RESERVATIONS & RENTALS Why commit yourself to just one ski resort when you can try out your Alpine skills on six world-renowned ski mountains? Keystone, A-Basin, Copper Mountain, Breckenridge, Loveland, and Vail are all just minutes from your Summit Reservations & Rentals Condominium. Nestled on Lake Dillon, amenities include indoor heated pool, sauna and Jacuzzi. We are near shops, restaurants, cinema and on Summit ski shuttle bus route. (800) 525-9185 or www.SummitReservations.com

TWIN SEASON VACATIONS, INC.

Come stay in our DELUXE AND AFFORDABLE VACATION RENTALS 1-4 BEDROOM Condos, townhomes and private homes while you enjoy the best skiing in the world in Summit County, Colorado. Only 55 miles west of Denver and centrally located just minutes to Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Vail and Beaver Creek. Skiing, snoeshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, gold mine tours, great restaurants and shopping. VERY REASONABLE RATES! Full kitchen, cozy fireplaces, pools, jacuzzis. Mention "LIFE AFTER 50" when you call and get a DISCOUNT!! Minimum stay required. (800) 544-8418 or www.twinseasons.com

UTAH

ALPINE SKI PROPERTIES If you are looking for luxury accommodations in the scenic Park City and Deer Valley, Utah areas, Alpine Ski Properties can take care of all your needs. With over 20 years experience in property management and vacation planning, there is simply no other service as capable. Park City and Deer Valley are exceptional resort destinations. They are rich with history and natural beauty beyond compare. We are confident that you will enjoy your stay. (800) 771-1505 or www.AlpineSkiProperties.com

BRIAN HEAD CONDO RESERVATIONS Surrounded by stunning red-rock landscapes, Brian Head Resort offers a unique and affordable vacation experience unmatched by any other resort in the region. Brian Head Condo Reservations offers over 100 condominiums and cabins available for lease throughout this majestic area. Accommodations range from budget studios to luxury units with full-sized kitchens and fireplaces. Units offer close proximity to Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks and Zion National Parks. (800) 722-4742 or www.brianheadcondoreservations.com

CANYON SERVICES We offer exquisite Alta and Snowbird vacation rental homes and condominiums. Our accommodations options make it easy for you to stay at Alta Ski Area or Snowbird Ski Resort to ski or board. We offer our guests The Salt Lake Super Pass Card – a discounted pass that you can use at four Utah Ski Resorts: Alta, Snowbird, Solitude and Brighton . You will love the spectacular views of Utah 's mountain peaks, Little Cottonwood Canyon and Snowbird Ski Resort. Since we are just a day drive from many National and Utah State Parks and Monuments, this is a perfect winter or summer get-away spot! (888) 546-5689 or www.CanyonServices.com

RUBY’S INN & RV PARK is the closest accommodations to southern Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park. We offer 368 deluxe guest rooms, restaurants, general store and gallery, conference center, car care, Hertz car rentals, and a RV park and campground. Our guests can enjoy swimming pools and spas, or browse the general store, shops and gallery. We feature year round activities including horseback rides and scenic flights. Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon National Park are open all year. (866) 878-9389 or www.RubysInn.com

SEQUOIA

WUKSACHI SEQUOIA LODGE Open year-round and conveniently located within prime access to Sequoia's most popular visitor attractions, the Wuksachi LodgeSM is beautifully crafted of cedar and stone, highlighted by stone fireplaces, natural woods, and panoramic views of the surrounding forest and High Sierra peaks. Built in 1999, the Wuksachi Lodge is an upscale mountain resort featuring 102 spacious guest rooms, a full-service restaurant, cocktail lounge, retail and ski shop. (877) 404-3782 or www.VisitSequoia.com

LAKE TAHOE

ALPENROSE INN Nestled In a setting of natural beauty, Alpenrose Inn has all the amenities that will make your stay in Lake Tahoe delightful and relaxing. Located o nly 2 minutes driving or 10 minutes walking from the Gondola of Heavenly Ski Resort , guests can enjoy world-class skiing, plus the excitement of casinos, dining and entertainment. The Alpenrose Inn is in the center of it all! Experience special service and personal touches in a cozy and quiet setting for your Lake Tahoe ski vacation. Enjoy delightful and unique accommodations, beginning with a warm welcome. (800) 370-4049 or www.AlpenroseInnTahoe.com

Aston Lakeland Village Beach & Mountain Resort Tahoe’s premier condominium resort features spacious accommodations ranging from deluxe studios through 5-bedroom townhomes with loft. Enjoy a quarter mile of private sandy beach with a pier and boat moorings, outdoor heated pools, 2 hot tubs, a sauna, fitness room, beachside bistro and 2 tennis courts. There is also a complimentary shuttle service to the casinos, Heavenly Village and scenic gondola. (866) 774-2924 or www.AstonHotels.com

GOLDFISH PROPERTIES If you are looking for North Lake Tahoe Rentals and Incline Village Vacation Rentals, Goldfish Properties of Lake Tahoe is your source. Whether you are interested in long-term or vacation, you will find perfect Lake Tahoe rentals from our large inventory of properties. Tahoe rentals include everything from rustic free-standing cabins to ultra-modern condominiums. Some rentals are located in town, near championship golf courses the beach, the slopes or nestled in the woods overlooking majestic landscapes. (800) 948-7311 or www.GoldfishProperties.com

Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Creek Vacation Rentals are located along Mammoth Creek and across from the Snowcreek Golf Course. All condos feature fireplaces, firewood, fully equipped kitchens, TV, DVD players, stereos, telephones. Towels and linens provided. Most have Wi-Fi or high speed Internet access. You are five minutes away from skiing on famed Mammoth Mountain or you may choose to cross country ski, snowmobile, snowboard, go for a bobsled ride, or snow play. These activities along with shopping and fine dining experiences are accessible via the free shuttle bus service. (800) 437-4500 or www.MammothCreekVacationRentals.com

MAMMOTH ESTATES offers deluxe resort condominiums in a beautiful Alpine setting in Mammoth Lakes, California. Located walking distance to Mammoth Village’s events, guests can choose from fully furnished units, ranging from spacious studios to two, three and four condominiums. Every unit features fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, towels and linens, telephone, along with cable TV and VCR or DVD. Amenities include sauna and hot spa. Free Internet service is also available. (800) 228-2884 or www.MammothEstates.com

MAMMOTH PREMIERE RESERVATIONS features some of the finest accommodations in Mammoth Lakes, California, including condominiums in the Bridges, the Cabins, Silver Bear, Aspen Creek, Summit, Sierra Megeve, Snowcreek, Eagle Run, Mammoth Green and more. All units have fully equipped kitchens with microwaves, fireplaces, VCRs or DVDs, and telephones. Enjoy our fabulous Fall colors. Book online and check out our current specials. Ask about our $99 per night Fall Special on selected units. (non-holiday). We’re now taking Winter reservations. (800) 336-6543 or www.MammothPremiere.com

MAMMOTH PROPERTY RESERVATIONS is your home for Mammoth ski vacation rentals and travel accommodations. Established in 1964, we offer our guests the best in value and comfort with quality Mammoth Mountain rentals and lodging ranging from studios to five bedroom condos. Our rental units are fully furnished with complete kitchens and all linens and towels are included. Amenities vary and may include fireplaces, saunas or spas, spectacular views…and some units offer chair lifts just a short walk outside your front door. (888) - MAMMOTH or www.1888mammoth.com

RAINBOW TARNS BED & BREAKFAST

Situated between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes, on the eastern side of the High Sierra Mountains, is the quiet and secluded wilderness estate of Rainbow Tarns. Clean fresh snow falls regularly here in the Eastern Sierra providing the best skiing on the West Coast. Mammoth Mountain, just minutes away, offers excellent downhill skiing with high-speed quad lifts. Rainbow Tarns is located at the base of Rock Creek Canyon where there are miles of groomed cross-country ski trails. (888) 588-6269 or www.RainbowTarns.com

BIG BEAR LAKE

Big Bear Cozy Cabins We boast the lowest vacation rental prices in Big Bear Lake, CA. Come take advantage this season of our great deals. Experience customer service that will always leave you satisfied. Just let us know exactly what you have in mind for your perfect vacation and we will cater to your every request. Our cabins have fully-equipped kitchens so you can enjoy cozy, private meals. Most homes are located near the slopes, Big Bear Lake and golf course and all of Big Bear’s attractions. (909) 866-9685 or www.BigBearCozyCabins.net

FUN IN THE SUN

HAWAI’I

DOLPHIN BAY HOTEL Looking for a hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii? Experience the Aloha that the resort hotels lack. Just a short walk from downtown Hilo, Dolphin Bay Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. We cater to people who want to see the real Hawaii. We offer four types of units, each with a fully equipped kitchen, a bath/ shower, cable color TV and table fans. Stay at the hotel “rated the nicest small hotel in the Hilo area.” (877) 935-1466 or www.DolphinBayHotel.com

Kaua’i Vacation Rentals from Ahh Aloha Kauai Condos, Princeville Condos and Poipu Condos provides Kauai information and reservations for our large inventory of Kauai vacation rentals including condos, vacation homes, cottages, honeymoon suites, beach houses, bungalows and beach resorts. Our Kauai condo rentals and other Kauai vacation rentals are affordable, offer stunning views, and make a great home base for exploring Kauai adventures. It will make your vacation something to remember for a lifetime! (866) 92-ALOHA or www.Kauai-Vacations-ahh.com

KEALIA RESORT is located on scenic Maalaea Bay, just 20 minutes from Kahului airport. This central location places you within easy reach of Maui's recreational facilities, businesses, sightseeing centers and restaurants. All units are fully furnished. Amenities include ocean front swimming, private lanais and gas BBQs. Enjoy swimming, deep sea fishing, whale watching, snorkeling, golf, tennis, or just relaxing on the beach. (800) 265-0686 or www. KealiaResort.com

KIHEI BEACH RESORT is conveniently located in Maui, just 20 minutes from the Kahului Airport and the old whaling town of Lahaina. Enjoy one and two bedroom oceanfront condominiums, oceanfront swimming pool, gas BBQs and private lanais. The Kihei beach is ideal for swimming, with the soft sand stretching uninterrupted for more than 6 miles. It is the ultimate for beachcombing, walking and jogging. (800) 367-6034 or www.K iheiBeachResort.com

SUNQUEST VACATIONS Make us your homebase as you explore the majestic Kona Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. We offer a wide selection of resort condominiums and vacation homes. Choose from budget condominiums to luxurious homes with spectacular views, private pools and Jacuzzis. Visit our new Kohala Zip Line, which is spread over 150 acres of hillside, old growth ironwood and albizia forest. The course consists of 8 ziplines, two bridges and a lanai overlooking a 32' waterfall where you will break for a light lunch. (800) 367-5168 or www.SunQuest-Hawaii.com

CALIFORNIA COAST

Apple Farm Inn – Located in the happiest town in North America, San Luis Obispo, the Apple Farm Inn is known for its warm hospitality. All 104 rooms feature gas fireplaces and country décor and the grounds are covered with beautiful flowers and trees. San Luis Obispo has a cool, mild climate year round and is a perfect escape from the summer heat of Southern California. Apple Farm is located just one mile from its beautiful downtown and is a perfect home base for exploring all that the Central Coast has to offer including beaches, wine country, and Hearst Castle. Discover what the “SLO” life is all about at the Apple Farm. (800) 255-2040 or www.applefarm.com

BEST WESTERN PLUS Shore Cliff Lodge - This spectacular ocean-front hotel in Pismo Beach is perched at water’s edge against the stunning backdrop of the ocean. Features an outdoor heated pool, fitness room, spa services, Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. Take a stroll through manicured lawns or indulge in the views from oceanfront gazebos. You may even desire to take a stroll to the nearby clay tennis courts. (800) 441-8885 or www.ShoreCliff.com

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT Nestled right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary wireless internet access and cable TV , on 26 grassy, tree-lined acres. Guests enjoy General Store, children’s arcade, restaurant, laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. Bask in the oceanside solitude or use the resort as a base to enjoy wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT is like having your own beach home with all the amenities of a four-diamond resort. For a spectacular Santa Cruz vacation, enjoy 285 spacious suites and beach villas, fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, fireplaces, and private balconies facing the majestic Monterey Bay. Indulge in championship golf, in-suite spa treatments, the popular beach-fires-to-go and discounted tickets to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The luxury and comfort of Seascape makes it the popular vacation spot for couples, families and destination weddings. (800) 676-1684 or www.SeascapeResort.com

THE SEAVENTURE RESORT, one of the premier California beachfront hotels, offers luxury accommodations for less. This Pismo Beach Hotel has tastefully appointed rooms, with private balcony and hot tub, to refresh you after a day of enjoying Central Coast outdoor activities. Savor contemporary coastal cuisine along with spectacular 180 degree ocean views at the SeaVenture Restaurant. We also offer a full range of body treatments at our spa. Come join us at the SeaVenture Resort, your romantic Pismo Beach destination. (800) 662-5545 or www.SeaVenture.com

PALM SPRINGS DESERT RESORTS

FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH SPA RESORT Located just 50 miles south of　Palm Springs, you’ll find sunny, warm weather, a friendly helpful staff, many amenities, resort home rentals and incredible views. Guests enjoy two large pool areas with swimming pools, rejuvenating artesian mineral water hot spas and steam rooms, also world class tennis, bocce, horseshoes, and walking trails. Nearby you’ll find　Salton Sea State Park, Joshua Tree National Forest, Geothermal Plants, Salvation Mountain, casinos and PGA Golf, plus more.　Come join us for a weekend, and discover your Fountain of Youth. (888) 8000-SPA (772) or www.foyspa.com

SPECIALTY TOURS

HERZERL TOURS A beloved Austrian tradition going back centuries takes place at the time of Advent, the four weeks preceding Christmas - the Christmas market. . The smells, sounds and tastes of Christmas, still flourish in Austria, giving the artists and merchants the chance to give back our childhood dreams of an old fashioned Christmas. On this tour, participants visit Christmas Markets in Baroque Salzburg and in Imperial Vienna. Listen to choirs singing Christmas music, visit markets where artists display their handiworks; and be instructed in the art of baking Austrian Christmas cookies at the former Imperial bakery in Schönbrunn Palace. Sightseeing tours and great dinners round out this Christmas experience. The tour at $2,300 per person, land only, is offered Nov 30 to Dec 06, 2011. Contact Susanne at (800) 684-8488); ms@herzerltours.com or www.herzerltours.com

kumuka Worldwide is one of the longest-running adventure travel companies in the world. Destinations include Antarctica, Arctic cruises, Africa lodge based safaris, Galapagos, China and Southeast Asia, and Latin America, plus other great destinations. Choose from a range of travel styles, from family trips, small group tours, lodge based tours, overland expeditions and more. With over 600 exciting tours, ranging from two- days to 35- weeks, covering 75 countries, spanning seven continents, making use of a wide variety of transport and accommodation styles. (800 517-0867 or www.Kumuka.com

PACIFIC DELIGHT TOURS offers extraordinary travel experiences to distant destinations. We take care of your travel plans and details so you can relax and bask in the exotic beauty of the East. We invite you to join us and discover the cultural experiences, ancient treasures and scenic beauty that China has to offer. (800) 221-7179 or www.PacificDelightTours.com

Out of State Relocation

LA LOMA VILLAGE, located in quaint Litchfield Park, Arizona, offers abundant amenities, a wide range of services, and spacious, well appointed casitas and apartments. >From the beautiful pool and spa to the warm and inviting Sonoran dining room and Atrium Café, everything at La Loma has been designed with your enjoyment and comfort in mind. In this friendly community, you'll be able to move among various levels of residential options as your health care needs require. (623) 537-7521 or www.sunhealthseniorliving.org

LA POSADA Arizona-bound for retirement? La Posada, a 24-year-old not-for-profit continuing care retirement community, nestled among the pecan groves of Green Valley, AZ, is a prime option. Just 30 minutes south of Tucson, La Posada's 100-acre campus features stimulating resort-style amenities, such as an on-site astronomy observatory, fitness center, gourmet dining rooms and more. (520) 648-8131 or www.laposadagv.com

SUN CITY, ARIZONA, the retirement community that started them all offers the BEST VALUE in retirement living. The unincorporated community, northwest of Phoenix offers Low Cost of Living: low taxes • lowest fees. Great Health Care: Banner Boswell Medical Center • Core Institute. Golf Courses: 5-Regulation • 3-Executive • 3-Country Clubs. 7-Recreation Centers: swimming • tennis • bowling • Pickelball • Fitness Centers • 120+ Clubs and Activities. (800) 437-8146 or www.suncityaz.org/life

SUNRIVER ST. GEORGE is southern Utah’s premier master-planned active adult lifestyle community. Built in an unspoiled, rural location, SunRiver St. George provides a quiet, superbly planned community with occupancy limited to at least one resident 55 or older. From the golf course layout and community center design to the floor plans of our sensational SunRiver St. George homes, the active adult lifestyle is our central point of focus. SunRiver St. George is "building a lifestyle, not just homes." (888) 688-6556 or www.SunRiver.com