5 Tips for Apres During COVID
Let’s just get this out of the way: Apres is going to look different this year. Think: Less standing in crowded bars amongst a sea of flannel. More: intimate late nights with your close friends and family. You might not be lining up a shot ski with people you just met, but we promise that this ski season will be just as ruckus and fun. We’ve got a few tips to help you make sure your liver gets worked just as hard as your legs, and to help you host your own apres for your family and friends on your ski trip.
Check State and County Regulations
First and foremost, let’s get this out of the way. The only reason why we get to ski this year is because mountain towns are in overdrive trying to give you a safe and enjoyable season. The LAST thing we want to do is put our mountain communities at risk. Remember, they are working hard to support their families, and these communities often have less access to nearby large hospitals. We want to show the communities we are visiting respect and generosity.
Before your visit, do a quick Google search to learn about any restrictions and mandates to the area you are visiting. Is there a statewide mandated cap on crowds and gatherings? 10 people? Less? Just check, so you can plan accordingly and feel good about it. Apres 20⁄21 isn’t about hosting a raging party- this season is about gathering with a few of your friends and family. And that’s GREAT. Just accept it, plan on it, and enjoy it.
Lodging with Entertaining Space
We are used to relying heavily on ski lodges, restaurants, and bars for our evening entertainment. But we know at the end of the day you’ll want to take off your masks and kick back. We get it. This year when you are planning your trip, consider what gathering spaces your group will want after the lifts stop spinning. Instead of each booking your own hotel room, what if you go in on a suite with a kitchen? Check to see what kind of common areas your lodging offers, and find out about what regulations are in place. Is the lobby open? Can you reserve an area of the lodge?
If music, a full bar, and a wide spread of snacks and appetizers are required, consider booking an AirBnb with your group. This way you can pack your portable speaker, a few board games, and unwind after a long day of skiing. Best part? No Uber or shuttle required after you’ve had a drink or two! Just walk to your bedroom (or find a spot on the couch) and sleep it off until your alarm wakes you for another morning of skiing. Pro tip? HYDRATE before bed!
Create Your Own Bar
Now, we know you probably aren’t in town for more than a week (or maybe a weekend!), and you don’t necessarily need to stock a full bar. When you roll into town, plan a few cocktails that your group will enjoy for the weekend, and pick up some basic supplies. Don’t forget to grab some citrus (lemon/limes) and some soda water from the grocery store. You could always stop by the liquor store for some basics, but we recommend looking up what local distilleries and breweries are in town to really get the full experience. Whiskey Mules, bourbon smashes, greyhounds, hot toddy’s, and warmed mulled wine are a few of our favorites.
Simple Snacks That Keep Everybody Happy
Now don’t get us wrong, you can go as heavy and gourmet on the apres as you’re willing. You’ll NEVER hear us complain. But we know people get hangry and tired after a day of skiing, and getting some quick calories and salt is often required. Here are a few of our favorite quick snacks/appetizers to get going to keep everybody happy until dinner.
Guacamole, Chips and Salsa
Fresh Veggies and Hummus
Frozen pizzas doctored up with sundried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, and balsamic drizzle
Pan roasted nachos with alllll the cheese and toppings
Charcuterie board with cheeses, meats, nuts, and fruit
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Tzatziki and Flatbread
Anything from the freezer aisle of Trader Joes
Take Out For The Win!
Look, at the end of the day, the goal is to enjoy the people you traveled with for your ski trip. Maybe you don’t feel like shopping, cooking, or planning. A little research will point out the best restaurants in the area. Order take out, make a cocktail, and enjoy your night (fun fact, some states, like Colorado, allow cocktails to come alongside your takeout order during Covid). Keep it simple, tip generously, and ENJOY.
Feeling PUMPED for your ski trip? Great! We’re stoked to drop off your skis and boots- reserve your pair today so you can focus on enjoying time with the people you love.
