Ski, snowboard club offers once-in-a-lifetime trips

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Justin Weaver
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The Aviano Ski Club is looking for skiing, snowboarding and cross country enthusiasts who share a passion for the slopes, want to meet new people and most of all, who enjoy the snow-capped mountains throughout Europe.

The ski club offers weekend ski trips throughout Italy, Slovenia, Austria and on longer holiday breaks, to Switzerland and France. A membership with the Aviano ski club also includes merchandise discounts throughout the Aviano area and at outdoor recreation.

"The ski club is a great place to meet new people with common interests, whether it's boarding, skiing, shopping, going to a spa, or just relaxing," said club president Gina Cross. "Over the last few years, I have made some really great friends, and I love knowing I'm going somewhere to ski, even when I don't have time to make my own arrangements."

The main benefit of the Aviano Ski Club is just that. Not worrying about your travel plans and hotel arrangements.

For most members, the benefits of the club make their tour at Aviano that much better.

"There are some really good benefits to being part of the club," Cross said. "Logistically, everything from the research and reservations to directions and driving tips are completed for you. Socially, you meet people who ski at the same level and ability as yourself, and if you're single, or don't want to drive by yourself, you can always carpool on the trips."

All trips are "U-drive" trips unless otherwise indicated. The ski club is open to all U.S. citizens and local nationals that are employed with the U.S. Government and their dependents.

"Trips usually include breakfast and dinner and a special treat - Wine, chocolates or round of drinks-- courtesy of the club," said Cross.

This year's first trip is on Veteran's Day weekend, Nov. 11-13 to Hintertux, Austria. Other upcoming trips include Stubai, Austria, Siegi's Ski School in St Veit, Austria, Zell am See, Bad Moos, Marmalada and Lake Bled, Slovenia, just to mention a few.

Skiers, snowboarders and cross country enthusiasts interested in joining can contact any of the officers located on the Aviano Ski Club Web site at www.avianoskiclub.com. Cost is $5 per person and $10 for family for a year-long membership.

The next club meeting takes place at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 15 at the Aviano Inn in Aviano.