We may only be into the first weeks of back to school and summer vacations are all but done, but now is the time to get a jump on the best selection for your winter vacation plans.  Whether you are looking for a cozy cabin to relax by the fire and read a good book or you need to strap on some skis or a snowboard and roar down the ski slopes it is best to get a jump on the holiday travelers now!

Fully furnished vacation condos and homes are especially attractive to families.  This year you may want to reserve a place that has a washer and dryer in the home.  You won’t have to lug your clothes to the laundromat or community laundry room!  Most vacation condos have fully functional kitchens outfitted with all cookware, dishwasher and more.  You’ll be surprised just how much money you can save by dining in.

Here are a few questions that you may want to ask the owner manager when securing a winter vacation home:

• Parking?  Where do I park?  How many cars can I park?  Is the parking indoors/outdoors?  Do I have to pay any extra parking fees?  Heated garages are great - no scrapping ice of the windshield!
• Heating?  Is there a fireplace?  If yes, do you supply firewood or gas?  Does the home have central heating?  Will the home be “heated” prior to my arrival?  A home in very cold temps can take 8-10 hours to get comfortably warm.
• Access?  How hard is it to access the home in the winter?  Do I need 4 wheel drive?  Are the streets graded daily?  How far to nearby dining, coffee shops, movie theatres and attractions?  What level is the condo on, steps, elevator, one level or steps in the home, is there a unit above this?
• How far to Ski Lifts and Slopes?  Is this a ski-in and ski-out unit? 
• Ski Lift Discounts?  Do you offer or have recommendations for discounted lift tickets? Often, the owners have “insider” tips on the best deals!
• Heated Spa or Hot Tub available?  Great feature to help those “sore” ski muscles!

Start planning now - Winter vacations will be here before you know it!  Search vacation rentals online.