Expert: Janet Kumar - 10/27/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi Janet:
We are interested in spending a week in a nice ski resort in Lake Tahoe from 10-17 Feb 2010.  We are two families with 4 children each.  
Do you know of any deluxe villas / condos with ski-in ski-out or close to the ski lifts?  What area do you recommend?  Heavenly, Squaw or Northstar?  
Hoping you can guide us in a good direction and help us find the place we need at a good price!
Thanks,
Jack

ANSWER: Hi:  I know that Northstar has ski-in/ski-out condos that are very popular......and right on the trails.  People I know that have stayed there really like them...plus its a nice, family-friendly resort.  

Squaw is a lot bigger, and the condos are more at the bottom of the lift.  Harder to keep track of kids there...but maybe more non-skiing activities (ice-skating etc).  More expensive.

Heavenly is on the south side of the lake, in the city...more of a gambling/nightlife atmosphere.  Again, there condos are at the bottom of the lift.

If you want to "get away from it all" I would go with Northstar.  The best prices might be at Heavenly, but check around.  Book now, that is THE most popular week in Tahoe (President's weekend/Valentine's Day).....

Janet

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Janet:
Thanks for your advise.
Is it possible you can be a little more specific in recommending certain lodge or direct with an owner at Northstar or Heavenly?
Are you currently living around Lake Tahoe area?
Thanks again,
Jack

Answer
Your last question first:  I live part of the time in Reno, and part in Vegas...so I guess Reno counts as the Lake Tahoe area.  I have skiied at all three resorts in question, and stayed in South Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley.  I've never stayed at the condos in Northstar but have visited friends who have.

OK, the owner for the Northstar condos that are the nice "ski-in/ski-out" resort  (or at least the managers, since I guess some are owned by individuals) is the Northstar Resort itself.  I would try going to their website and searching for lodging.  www.northstarattahoe.com

OK, there really are no "lodges" per say at Heavenly that I know of.  Remember, it is a ski resort in the middle of the city.  The main lift (gondola) to the top literally leaves from the center of the town of South Lake Tahoe.  Again, if you want "get away from it all" its not the place to be...otoh, if you want Las Vegas style casinos and shows (albeit on a MUCH smaller scale) go for it.  When I go there I always stay at Harvey's Casino and Resort...but this is a hotel, not condos.  A beautiful hotel, and right across the street from the ski lift, but probably not what you're looking for with so many children.