Kit, the skiing in Europe (and here I mean the Alps specifically) is much more open than out West. The tree line is much lower, so virtually all of the skiing is well above tree line except for the runs back into town that you normally only use once at the end of the day. Also, the length of the runs is typically greater - we're going to Cervinia in March and the longest run has a vertical drop of nearly 8,000 ft over 12 miles - there's really nothing in North America that approaches that. The other thing I like is that you're typically not skiing from the summits, so the scenery around you is more interesting.<BR><BR>Although I don't think you need to be worried about safety, there is considerably more personal responsibility expected in Europe, which I also like. There's no such thing as &quot;out of bounds&quot; - you ski where your ability can take you. Also, there's no closing time, as in the States. The lifts close each day, of course, but if you want to take the last ride up, have dinner in a mountain restaurant, and ski back to town in the moonlight that's up to you. They typically let you know when the trails are last &quot;swept&quot; by the patrol each day, but if you want to ski after that it's your choice. But if you restrict your skiing to regular trails (pistes) at regular hours there's really no safety issues. You don't need a guide unless you want to do some serious off-piste skiing, which is not really an option for beginners or even most intermediates.<BR><BR>We're likely headed to Cannon tomorrow - and preparing to freeze. Sure has been cold around here lately (I'm about 35 miles west of Boston), but it's nice to have some decent snow on the ground.

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Hi Dick,<BR><BR>Thanks for the feedback on Italy! I was at Sugarbush when you were at Canon. At sugarbush this weekend again. Hope the snow holds up and it is not too warm.<BR><BR>Can you tell me anything about cost and ski schools in Europe. I need some lessons also. I am only a gentle blue so far. I am SOOOOO frustrated. Tempted to go up to Grey rock for a week but the allure of Europe is much more, well alluring! Any ideas?<BR>

Grasshopper thanks for info also I will check them out.<BR><BR>

Sarah:<BR><BR>I agree with Dick...Europe is the place to go!<BR>I would get a ski package that includes lessons. Austria, especially Lech, is well suited to your needs.<BR>The costs are less than a trip out west!!<BR>But..you mentioned Grey Rocks. I learned to ski in Grey Rocks many moons ago!, We had a large group go up and had a wonderful time. The lessons you receive can not be beat on either side of the Atlantic! And ya got to love those Canadian exchange rates! Just one thing..it can get very, very cold up in lovely Canada! An aside to Dick, &quot;Why Cervinia? Although the slopes were wonderful, and so was the food...I found the town kinda of...well...quiet and a bit ugly! ( I skied one day comming over from from Zermatt) Sorry, I am just jealous that I can not go to Europe this year!!<BR>JOH<BR>JOHN

Thanks John but why Austria over Italy. How does it suite my needs? So going round and round over this. Was looking into Taos yesterday than back at Grey Rocks. I am thinking about the cold up there also.<BR><BR>Italy is the pull because well it is Italy but why do you say Austria?

One of the best web site for exploring the possibilities of a ski vacation in Europe is www.ski-europe.com<BR>You can fill out an online questionnaire based on your interests, ski ability, etc., and it will give you several ski resort suggestions that fit your needs (although it asks for your email, you don't have to enter it). Sarah, you asked about Austria and Lech came up well on beginner and intermediate skiing (FWIW, I don't think Taos is the best place for a beginner/intermediate skier to try the West--Taos is best for people who like to ski the steeps).

Sarah - Sorry, I can't comment on cost of lessons in Europe. Haven't taken a lesson in years, though I probably should and I highly recommend them.<BR><BR>John - Cervinia because of what you said - the skiing and the restaurants. Don't care about the town (we're staying out of town) and don't care about nightlife. We're skiers and foodies and also don't want to go somewhere where we have to worry about the snow. Cervinia seemed pretty snow-sure, and certainly appears to be so far this year.<BR><BR>Dick