I know it is a bit early but, is anybody planning on going to ESA Stowe this year?

I have been wanting to go to this event for the past several years but never made it but, this year looks very do-able.

http://esa.epicski.com/events/2010-2/stowe/

Another option is the Taos ski week, which is run all season.

6 half day lessons for $234 ($170 for discount card holders), and $99 for the March 27 "cheapie" week...

and Taos is one hell of a fine place to ski (assuming acceptable snow conditions)

http://www.skitaos.org/contents/view/ski_weeks

Eug, I was hoping to go but a bout of extended unemployment make this trip doubtful. Have you attended this event before? I went to two of the precursors organized through the site before it became an official event. Many of the same folks involved then are still with it including Bob Barnes. I also attended the first EpicSki Academy in Utah in 2003.

The Stowe weekend is a focus on tune-up skills which will help lay a foundation for good skiing habits that will stick with you throughout the season. Keep in mind that conditions and trail count can be limited but the whole mountain can be open too. If that's the case the coaching can be much more rewarding because you will have more difficult terrain options.

I don't know how they will divide classes. In years past they have used questionnaires and other times they used the tried and true ski off. I like the ski off better even though it sort of puts you in the spotlight and could make you self conscious. Either way, you can switch coaches if you really want to.

The experience was both fun and rewarding. The instructors were really good. Often times I was way out of my comfort zone and thinking that this can't be right but I realized that I was being lead to break bad habits. It gave me insight into my weaknesses and provided learning tools I used throughout the season.

The participants were all fun, interesting people and I've kept in touch and skied with a lot of them including fellow DCSkiers.

I very much enjoy making this event a season-opener; I don't think this year will be one for me either.

If you go, be _SURE_ to get at least one day of freeskiing with the attendees outside of the actual clinics. Friday is usually best for this; everyone gets their party hat on much more than on Mondays.

(I know -exactly- how to sandbag a questionnaire so I have been kicked out of groups before).

Another advanced learning option:

http://www.asiaski.com/alpine.htm

Thank you for your responses and I very much appreciate them

I checked out for a while doing road cycling as the weather as been very warm lately. This could be good or bad...

I have not fully committed yet. There were lots of expenses these past two months and things could be (well, they are) a little tight. And, my Outback is making noises in the axle areas...

The option from Comprex is also very appealing. Driving and money wise.