by Lisa Marie Mercer

Created on: September 21, 2007

Motivation is a key factor that influences a person's desire to improve his or her ski skills. As such, savvy ski areas realize that there are a number of crucial details that can have a profound effect on a new skiers motivation. The folks at the Caribou Snow School in Banff have elevated skier motivation to an art form.

Skier motivation is often influenced by convenience. Many beginner skiers are hesitant about driving to a resort, finding the ski school, hauling their equipment, etc. The staff at the Caribou Snow School has found the perfect solution. Guests of the Banff Caribou Lodge, the Banff Ptarmigan Inn, the Driftwood Inn, the Arrow Motel, the Hidden Ridge Resort and Rundle Manor can take advantage of a program that allows them to take lessons at Banff's three stellar resorts: Sunshine Village, Lake Louise and Mount Norquay They will pick you up at your hotel, and at the end of the day, they will drive you back. Once on the hill you will enjoy lift line priority privileges, as well as top quality ski instruction amidst the most scenic ski country in North America. The Caribou instructors have all reached their highest level of certification, which eliminates the "hit or miss" factor that prevails in many ski schools. You can choose either a three-hour half-day or a six-hour full day. If you wish to take a multi-day clinic, you can visit a different resort each day. For information, call 1-800-563-8764.

The participating hotels are all located in the exciting town of Banff, a destination known for its breathtaking beauty, superb restaurants and exciting nightlife. For the beginner skier, this environment is conducive to the to the enjoyment of the total snow-sport experience. Adding to the benefits of Banff is the fact that many of the hotels are surprisingly affordable.

If you are not staying at any of the participating properties, each of the Banff area ski schools has its own superb ski school program. For example, Sunshine Village has a superb program for new skiers and snowboarders. For $159 Canadian, you will receive a full day lesson, lift ticket equipment rental and lunch. Multi-day packages are also available. With its rolling hills and multi-colored gondolas, Sunshine Village is a place that is bound to get the novice skier hooked on snowsports. However, as long as you are in the Banff area, don't miss the chance to ski Lake Louise.

Lake Louise is synonymous with romance. With the magnificent Chateau Lake Louise in the backdrop, this a resort that that transport you back to a kinder, gentler era, when skiing was considered to be a sport of grace and elegance. Beginner lessons at Lake Louise come with a special guarantee. If you are unable to turn and stop by the end of the lesson, your next lesson is free! Once a week, Lake Louise features a special dinner and night skiing event. Enjoy a full-course dinner and entertainment. After dinner and entertainment, headlamps are given out, and you can ski down an easy trail to the base area.

The Banff area, which offers non-stop excitement for skiers and non-skiers, is the perfect place to learn to ski.. You should, however, heed our warnin: Once you go, you'll never want to go home!

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