Deals on Reno Skiing, Slashed Fares from Alaskan Air and More Good News About Google Maps



Photo by Jesse Cuizon

 100 Fares on Sale from Alaska Airlines
This is also being called the "Hot Deals on Ice"sale--an excuse to show photos of hunky Appolo Ohno. Who knows? That may be a good business strategy. Apparently, one of the new most popular names this year is Appolo, and if the handsome skiier has been able to sell that name to Americans, well-priced flights should be a cinch.

But I digress. You'll find all the details of the sale at the Alaska Airlines site, but in a nutshell tickets must be purchased by December 6 for travel through March 10. A 7-day advance purchase is required and a lot of dates are blacked out, including all Fridays and Sundays. Among the best prices are round-trips for $200 between St. Louis, Austin, Boston or New York and Seattle.

Google maps add biking directions in Canada
In March of this year, Google made news by adding biking directions to a number of major destinations within the US. This week, it cycled across the border, adding bike routes to maps for Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and a number of other major Canadian cities. What's there to say except "Thank you Google!"

Reno Ski Season Discounts
Most of the resorts surrounding Reno are now fully open, and though there's been no new snow in the last 24 hours, a 30-inch base, on average blankets the ground. And as many schussers know, Reno offers the delightful combination of gaming, shows and skiing meaning that when conditions are not ideal, one can still be entertained.

Currently, a number of resorts have posted deals that include both a bed and lift tickets. Among the best values:

• Circus Circus Reno: From $65 for lift tickets, hotel room, free play ticket and food vouchers. Deal requires a two-night minimum stay and covers weekdays from now through Feb. 28
• Silver Legacy Resort and Casino: A two-night minimum stay from now through Apr 30 may get visitors one lift ticket per adult, and one per child, and a $7 food credit plus a room starting at $115 a night.
• The Peppertree Inn (in nearby Tahoe City): Weekdays from Jan 3 through Mar 31, guests will receive a room, and complimentary breakfast and lift tickets for $133 a night.