| A snow newsletter by Dive
Fish Snow Travel |
June 2010 |
| Call us: Auckland: 09-4792210 | Toll Free NZ: 0508 348334 or Australia: 1-800-042195 |
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Hi,
Christmas is nearly here! – well not quite but goodness, half the year is gone already and we are all well into winter skiing already. If you were one of our many keen skiing customers who headed overseas last season to play in the snow and enjoy a magical white Christmas, we know you will already have booked in first for 2010/11.
If not and you've never experienced a White Christmas before, but have always dreamt of one, we highly recommend you start thinking about it for next year now!
It’s your choice, escape the Christmas madness and pressure and choose a spirited festive season with a White Christmas full of festive events including traditional carolers, Santa on skis or even a traditional sleigh, ice skating, Christmas snow sport activities and parties, après-ski festivities, tree lighting ceremonies, fireworks and so much more.
Imagine the excitement when you present your family with a magical White Christmas Ski Holiday for 2010.
If you haven't yet booked it's not too late, we still have some of the fantastic Earlybird Specials available to ensure you get to go where you want when you want and at the price you can afford. Enquire for your Ski Holiday »
In this issue of Snowtimes we have a special feature on one of Canada's premier locations - beautiful Banff Ski Area with its 3 big magical mountains, amazing shopping and cafes, not to mention a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets.
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| Have you considered skiing the Banff Ski Area yet? |
If not, you’re missing out on 1 of Canada's premier locations.
This Holiday Planner is all about the Banff ski area in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. By the time you've finished reading it we know you're going put it high on your ‘must consider a holiday there’ list!
Why do skiers & boarders go to the Banff ski area?
- Beautiful scenery
- Situated in Canada’s most famous National Park
- 3 awesome Ski Resorts
- Fantastic snow conditions
- Incredible skiing on 274 runs, 3135 hectares and 26 lifts
- 1 great value lift pass covers all 3 Ski Resorts
- Lots of non skiing activities
- One of the longest skiing seasons in North America, November - May
Don't believe us? Check it out here
Banff: Mt Norquay, The Lake Louise Ski Area, Sunshine Village
3 mountains; 274 runs; 3135 hectares of skiing terrain, 26 lifts; and all on 1 great value lift pass.
In the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff National Park is home to three of the canada's finest ski resorts; Mt. Norquay, The Lake Louise Ski Area and Sunshine Village.
The three resorts, connected by shuttle bus, offer almost 8,000 acres of skiable terrain on one convenient, tri-area lift ticket. There's terrain to suit every level and desire, from gentle groomed pistes to some of the world's most extreme in-bounds challenges.
The unique inland location guarantees the dry, light snow that this region is famous for - and there certainly is plenty of it!
Free transportation with a tri-area lift ticket between Banff-Lake Louise and the resorts means that when you're here, the choice of mountains is yours.
Stunning mountain backdrops, lack of lift queues and friendly Canadian hospitality are just some of the bonuses that make a vacation here unforgettable.
Not only are the snow and skiing conditions excellent, they have the longest ski season in North America, opening in mid November and enjoying great snow right up until May.
| Combine your Easter and April school holidays 2011 with great airfare specials, and don’t forget – kids can ski for free* |
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| Banff Ski Resorts - 3 Unique Ski Resorts - 1 Awesome Holiday |
Mount Norquay |  Trail Map »
 Family-friendly Mt. Norquay offers outstanding conditions for beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers and riders.
Celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2010-11, Mt. Norquay continues to be the locals’ gem. Famous for being the training ground of Olympic and World Cup athletes, and with excellent beginner terrain, everyone will love this small, family-friendly resort.
Just minutes from the Town of Banff, Mt. Norquay offers the only night skiing in Banff-Lake Louise, including a fully lit terrain park.
This is the best-kept secret in the Canadian Rockies!
Mt. Norquay is cited as yielding “a host to awe-inspiring vistas…every angle another postcard in the making,” by Snowboarder Magazine, August 2009.
Mt Norquay Statistics |
Vertical |
503 meters (1650 feet) |
Base Elevation |
1630 meters (5350 feet) |
Peak Elevation |
2133 meters (7000 feet) |
Acreage |
190 acres |
Average Snowfall |
300 cm (120 in) |
Snowmaking |
85% of skiable terrain |
Trails |
28 runs |
Longest Run |
1167 meters (3828 feet) |
Cumulative Length of Runs |
16.4 km (10.2 miles) |
Lifts |
1 High Speed Quad Chairlift
2 Quad Chairlifts
1 Double Chairlift
1 Surface Lift |
Lift Capacity |
Approximately 7,000 people |
Terrain: |
Beginner 20% |
Intermediate 36% |
Advanced 28% |
Expert 16% |
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Lake Louise | Trail Map Front | Trail Map Back
 The Lake Louise Ski Area is the giant of Canadian skiing!
With over 4,200 acres of terrain spread across four mountain faces, Lake Louise offers unparalleled skiing and riding just minutes from the village of Lake Louise.
The exceptional layout allows families and groups of all abilities to ski together with beginner, intermediate and expert runs from every chair.
When visiting Lake Louise, be sure to take your camera! The spectacular views of mountains, glaciers, lakes and forests are truly unique.
The Lake Louise Ski Area is the proud recipient of the WestJet Up! Magazine 2009 Value Award, an accolade acknowledging the resort’s continuous efforts to improve guest experiences.
Lake Louise Mountain Statistics |
Vertical |
991 meters (3250 feet) |
Base Elevation |
1646 meters (5400 feet) |
Peak Elevation |
2637 meters (8650 feet) |
Acreage |
4200 acres |
Average Snowfall |
454 cm (179 in) |
Snowmaking |
40% of designated runs (over 1700 acres) |
Trails |
139 runs + back bowls |
Longest Run |
8 kms (5 miles) |
Cumulative Length of Runs |
Over 100 kms (62 miles) |
Lifts |
1 High Speed 6 Passenger Chairlift
1 High Speed 6 Passenger Gondola
2 High Speed Quad Chairlifts
1 Quad Chairlift
1 Triple Chairlift
2 T-Bars
1 Carpet |
Lift Capacity |
Approximately 15,240 people/hour |
Terrain: |
Beginner 25% |
Intermediate 45% |
Advanced 15% |
Expert 15% |
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Sunshine Village | Trail Map »
Alberta’s Best Ski In Ski Out Resort
 Close to the Town of Banff, Canada’s highest elevated resort has great, guaranteed snow conditions from December to May, with an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet, on over 3,300 acres of terrain!
Plus, enjoy the novel opportunity to ski or ride in both the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia on the same run!
This is where you’ll find Banff-Lake Louise’s best ski-in, ski-out accommodation, the newly renovated Sunshine Mountain Lodge. Following a multi-million dollar wing replacement, the Lodge opened 30 luxurious new rooms in December 2009.
New Lift
In 2010-11, a new Doppelmayr quad chairlift will replace the Strawberry triple chair at Sunshine Village that, at 35 years old, has reached the end of its service life. The new lift was originally used at the recent Olympics, and will now continue that legacy here, offering even better access to beginner and intermediate terrain.
Sunshine Village holds the title of “Best View from the Best Off-Piste Run” 2008 awarded by Ski Canada Magazine.
Sunshine Village Mountain Statistics |
Vertical |
1070 meters (3514 feet) |
Base Elevation |
1660 meters (5440 feet) |
Peak Elevation |
2730 meters (8954 feet) |
Acreage |
3358 acres |
Average Snowfall |
914 cm (360 in) |
Trails |
107 runs |
Longest Run |
8 kms (5 miles) |
Cumulative Length of Runs |
Approximately 82 kms (52 miles) |
Lifts |
1 High speed 8 Passenger Gondola
6 High speed Quad Chairlifts
2 Quad Chairlifts
1 Double Chairlift
2 Surface Lifts |
Lift Capacity |
Approximately 20,280 people/hour |
Ski School |
Group & Private Ski & Snowboard Lessons
Learn to Ski & Snowboard Packages |
Daycare |
Available for kids 19 months to 6 years |
Terrain: |
Easiest 20% |
More Difficult 55% |
Most Difficult 13% |
Extreme 12% |
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 The Ski Big 3 Lift Pass
Besides giving access to all 3 mountains, the tri area lift pass includes a free round trip shuttle bus service between the towns of Banff or Lake Louise and the three ski areas. |
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| Banff Village and Banff National Park |
 The Banff National Park contains some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the World. The wilderness is pristine and inspirational. There is a naturally spectacular vista around every corner: soaring mountains, icy glaciers, wide rushing rivers and beautiful lakes, tree covered hills and the odd hot spring amidst it all.
Within all this scenic splendour a huge array of animal life can be found. Elk walk the snow covered streets of Banff village as casually as skiers and snowboarders, while moose, deer and bear wander the park at will, and rivers teem with great fishing opportunities.
Banff Village
 Most visitors to the region base themselves in the world-class resort town of Banff, where they can soak up the atmosphere in a great choice of bars, nightclubs and restaurants. If retail therapy is the order of the day, the malls are bursting with name brands that should do the trick. The variety in Banff is endless and there is something for every taste and budget.
Lured by the wilderness, the skiing, and the variety of outdoor activities, people from all over the world are drawn to Banff National Park each year. They venture into the area looking for their slice of the Banff experience, whether it's in the restaurants, shops, museums, cultural activities, or adventures in the wilderness, and of course the world-class ski destination.
There’s always plenty to do in Banff when you need a rest from the incredible skiing:
 Dogsledding - Heli-skiing
- Snowmobiling
- Torchlight dinner
- Ice Skating
- Cross Country Skiing
- Sleigh Rides
- Johnson Canyon Ice Walk
- Douglas Fir Waterslides
- Snowshoeing
- Wildlife Tours in Banff National Park
More Detailed information on Activities at Banff »
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| Early Bird Specials available when booking through Dive Fish Snow Travel: |
 Lift Pass Specials
- Buy 5 Days Lift Passes, receive 1 additional day Free
- Buy 7 or 8 Days Lift Passes, receive 2 additional days Free
- Buy 10, 11 or 12 Days Lift Passes, receive 3 additional days Free
- Buy 14 or 15 Days Lift Passes, receive 4 additional days Free
- Buy 17 Days Lift Passes, receive 5 additional days Free
- Children 12 and under ski Free. Minimum 5 day purchase applies.
Book by 15 December 2010. Conditions apply. Please call us for details.
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Our team have done the hard work for you. We have personally inspected many properties/resorts and have selected only the best for your consideration. To follow are the special deals we have negotiated on your behalf with these selected accommodations.
The Fairmont Banff Springs
 Few hotels in the world can rival the majesty, hospitality and scenery of The Fairmont Banff Springs.
Its unique blend of opulence and seclusion has been a symbol of Rocky Mountain magnificence for more than a century. Styled after a Scottish baronial castle, The Fairmont Banff Springs offers stunning vistas, championship golf courses, classic cuisine and a world class European-style spa. Experience timeless beauty and luxurious comfort in a pristine wilderness.
Distinctly furnished and cozy in character, the charming Fairmont rooms feature all of the traditional services and amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay. Fairmont rooms offer value and comfort, and feature a variety of majestic mountain vistas.
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 Specials at Fairmont Banff Springs
- Book 2 rooms and receive the second room FREE*
* conditions apply
Combine this with our special skier airfares ex NZ and Australia and great lift specials for 1 awesome package deal. Contact us for a more detailed and personalised quote |
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More information on Fairmont Banff Springs »
 Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Styled after a European Chateau, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has the most enviable address in the Rockies as the only resort nestled upon the shore of famous Lake Louise. Winter presents a dramatic wonderland of unique recreation including world-class downhill skiing, heli-skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, cross country skiing, ice skating and horse drawn sleigh rides.
There is a range of accommodation options, from a Fairmont room offering value and comfort and a variety of majestic mountain vistas, to suites offering unsurpassed luxury and elegant sophistication.
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Specials at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Book 2 rooms and receive a huge 50% off the second room*
* conditions apply
Combine this with our special skier airfares ex NZ and Australia and great lift specials for 1 awesome package deal. Contact us for a more detailed and personalised quote |
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More information on Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise »
Douglas Fir Resort, Banff
 Douglas Fir Resort is Banff’s finest family accommodation, located on Tunnel Mountain only 4 minutes above downtown Banff.
Accommodations include newly renovated condos, chalets, specialty suites and new 3 bedroom 4 bathroom family suites for up to 10 people!
All units have full kitchen, air-conditioning, fireplace (most are wood-burning) and new flat-screen TVs, DVD players and Plug n’Play panels meaning families can bring their electronic gaming systems.
Amenities include:
* two giant indoor waterslides * swimming pool * kiddie pool * games room * multi-level indoor playzone * saunas * whirlpools * steam room * fitness room * outdoor tennis/basketball courts * outdoor playground * free/unlimited use of the Town of Banff shuttle bus.
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Specials at Douglas Fir Resort, Banff
- Stay 7 – 13 nights and receive the last night free*
- Stay 14 or more nights and receive the last 2 nights free*
* conditions apply
Combine this with our special skier airfares ex NZ and Australia and great lift specials for 1 awesome package deal. Contact us for a more detailed and personalised quote |
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More information on Douglas Fir Resort »
Banff Ptarmigan Inn
 A contemporary style hotel just a couple of minutes walk to the excellent nightlife, bars, and restaurants Banff has to offer. Let’s also not forget some of the best retail therapy in any Canadian Ski town. Newly renovated with 134 attractive rooms, 2 Jacuzzis, steam room, sauna, health and spa facilities and a great restaurant – The Meatball Pizza and Pasta. Free wireless internet available for those traveling with laptops. The convenience of the Ski shuttle stopping right in front, makes for a fun and relaxing holiday right in the heart of Banff. The Ptarmigan also offers the "Best of Banff" Booklet – this is presented to all guests and entitles them to great discounts and special offers at leading Banff area retailers, restaurants and other service providers.
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Specials at Banff Ptarmigan Inn
- Stay for 7 Nights / Pay for only 6 Nights
- Children 16yrs & under stay free.
* conditions apply
Combine this with our special skier airfares ex NZ and Australia and great lift specials for 1 awesome package deal. Contact us for a more detailed and personalised quote |
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More information on Banff Ptarmigan Inn »
Driftwood
 Only a short stroll to the heart of Banff township, Driftwood Inn, perfect for the budget conscious traveller looking for an Inn with a cozy mountain feel. All rooms are finished with pine furniture and accents, and offer free wireless internet access. Guests have complimentary access to the health facilities and spa of the Banff Ptarmigan Inn, and room service provided by The Meatball Pizza and Pasta Restaurant. The Driftwood Inn’s convenient location and ample amenities make it one of Banff's best values. The Driftwood also offers the "Best of Banff" Booklet – this is presented to all guests and entitles them to great discounts and special offers at leading Banff area retailers, restaurants and other service providers.
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Specials at Driftwood
- Stay for 8 Nights / Pay for only 7 Nights
- Children 16yrs & under stay free.
* conditions apply
Combine this with our special skier airfares ex NZ and Australia and great lift specials for 1 awesome package deal. Contact us for a more detailed and personalised quote |
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More information on Driftwood »
Fox Hotel & Suites
 Fox Hotel & Suites is very new, having opened in June 2007. It offers a unique accommodation style featuring rock stonework, a mountain spring waterfall and a cave full of hot pools. The Fox features 1 and 2 bedroom suites, each with a cozy living area and kitchen nook (small fridge, sink, microwave, toaster) to provide self-catering options. Free wireless internet available for those traveling with laptops. The Fox also offers the "Best of Banff" Booklet – this is presented to all guests and entitles them to great discounts and special offers at leading Banff area retailers, restaurants and other service providers.
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Specials at Fox Hotel and Suites, Banff
- Includes Deluxe Continental Breakfast Daily
- Children 16yrs & under stay free
* conditions apply
Combine this with our special skier airfares ex NZ and Australia and great lift specials for 1 awesome package deal. Contact us for a more detailed and personalised quote |
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More information on Fox Hotel & Suites »
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| Booking your holiday to Banff |
| To our Australian Clients |
 We have an international client base and if you live in Australia
or anywhere else in the world, we can confidently handle your bookings,
no matter where your gateway airport may be. We can arrange your
holiday with or without Airfares. Please ask us for a quote in
AUD$, CAD$, USD$ or GB£. But when it comes to booking your ski holiday you can't beat good old fashion "Personal Service" and talking to a specialist travel consultant, who knows what they are doing. so if you are looking for service give us a call.
Know why you can Book with Confidence »
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Regards - "THE SNOW TRAVEL TEAM" - Dive Fish
Snow Travel
39A Apollo Drive, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, New Zealand.
Auckland PHONE: (09) 479 2210 - TOLL FREE: 0508
348 334
EMAIL: snowtravel@divefishsnow.co.nz
This email is sent by Dive Fish Snow Travel. © Dive Fish Snow Travel, 2010 www.divefishsnow.co.nz -
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