Sherman's Travel

Heads up, skier and snowboarder wannabes who can make it to Lake Tahoe this weekend: Some top resorts are offering ridiculously deep discounts with their Learn to Ski and Board Weekend offers. This weekend only, a mere $30 will get you gear, a group lesson, and a lift ticket at seven Tahoe-area resorts, including the ones we’ve listed below.

Wherever you go, plan on arriving early, as some of the deals are on a first-come, first-served basis. An early arrival will also up your chances of getting the right sizes, and first-time fittings can take longer than usual, too. (And if you’re an old pro on the slopes, Mammoth Mountain has a great offering for you, too: a free lift ticket on Friday.) Read more

If you have yet to experience Costa Rica, the Central American country that’s one of the most world’s most enviable outdoor adventure playgrounds, here’s a can’t-miss deal to consider: a four-day, three-night package that includes hotel, transport within the country, most meals, and adrenaline-packed activities such as canyoneering, zip lining, rafting and horseback riding – all for just $599 (based on double occupancy).

That stellar price represents a savings of 33 percent offered by the outfitter, Tropical Adventures, along with its re-launch. The nonprofit organization, which was founded by Scott Pralinsky, an American adventure travel enthusiast who’s called Costa Rica his home since 2004, also has received plenty of praise for its authentic, volunteer-based programs, including a nod from National Geographic Adventure magazine as a Top 100 Volunteer Vacation in 2009.

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