Ski Clubs Make a Comeback

The common perception is that skiing is a rich man's sport and a great activity to do "as a couple." But just getting to the mountain, with the skis, boots, tickets and accommodations, can add up quickly. And if you are not part of a pair, is there any romance in the endeavor?

Thanks to ski clubs, which seem to be making a comeback this season, you don't have to drop your poles any time soon. These group organizations, which have been around since the 1950's, use their collective purchasing power to negotiate deals and in turn offer members discounts on lift tickets, transportation and lodging. Better yet, they typically have day trips and weekend excursions already organized, so all you have to do is sign up and show up. As an added benefit, many also offer deals on ski gear, insurance, and weeklong getaways.

For many singles the bus trip to the slope provides the perfect encapsulated environment in which to meet friends for a day or on overnight excursions. It's a fun, social escape on cold winter weekends, and there are trips for all skill levels.

While prices vary from club to club, especially when a membership involves shared access to the lodge all-season, membership typically runs between $100 to $600 per person, per year. If you go on just one or two trips the monies saved will be worth it. Plus, most of these ski clubs tout themselves as social organizations in the sense that they hold regular parties and collective gatherings in and beyond the ski hill, including biking, canoeing, rafting and hiking excursions throughout the rest of the year.

If you are a solo skier, there are plenty of groups throughout North America that are exclusive to singles. Even those that welcome couples and families often times are comprised of mostly unmarried members. And if downhill skiing is not your thing, plenty of people turn to ski clubs to make use of the club benefits while enjoying the mountain/lodge facilities for other outdoor winter activities such as skating and snowshoeing.

To find a ski club that is right for you check out SnowSkiClub.com, SkiClub.com or browse through the postings on Craigslist in your area.

Now, if a weekly commitment is not what you are looking for this winter, a one week budget ski trip may be just what you need to brush up on your skills. With these trips beginning in January, Fast Dater Singles Travel Service has scheduled ski and snowboard vacations for Jackson Hole, Winter Park, Colorado, Big Sky Montana and Lake Tahoe, with prices starting at $735. Now is the time!