When do I need to book my trip?
The earlier you book, the greater the availability. Otherwise, the specifics will vary. Houses and cabins book first. They are in shorter supply everywhere. Holidays (Christmas, MLK weekend, President's weekend, in that order) book early, given the fact that many groups travel long distances to the slopes, requiring longer stays. Hotels are usually the least expensive and most available option. CTI Concert Series events are popular and often book early. The term "early" means different things to different people but, for our purposes, it means the summer season. Also, the larger your group, the earlier you need to get started. Groups over 100 persons should begin planning in the spring and early summer for best availability the next winter.
|
What is the deposit and payment process?
The process may vary according to the resort and type of lodging. The standard method, with hotel lodging, is an initial deposit of $10 per reserved space, a later per person deposit to reflect a more accurate count, and a final balance prior to the trip dates.
|
What are some common add-on or upgrade items?
Add-on items include equipment upgrades, snow tubing (check w/CTI for availability), ski and snowboard lessons, clothing rentals, transportation, meeting space, and meals.
|
How many spaces should I reserve?
We know that early in your process, it will be necessary to work from an estimated number of participants. Our initial deposit allows you to do that by using your best estimate, based on your knowledge of your group. The entire initial deposit is applied toward the trip costs. You should neither aim high nor low. Your later per person deposit allows you to make adjustments to your numbers. You may add or subtract at that time. Of course, additions are made based on availability.
|
How do I make changes after I book?
If changes involve different locations or dates, it will be necessary to talk with your CTI representative. If there are changes such as number of rooms and participants, that may be done via the change form in the packet sent to you at booking. Your contract will specify due dates to avoid penalties.
|
Are free lift tickets and rental equipment available?
We follow each particular resort's policies for comp skiing. When available, complimentary lift and rental packages are based on a specific number of participants. In most cases, the ratio is one per 15 paid skiers. Example, for 16 to 31 paid skiers, the group would receive 1 complimentary package, for 32 to 47 paid skiers, the group would receive 2 complimentary packages, and so forth. Certain ski resorts have higher requirements for group rates or may have blackout periods when these incentives are not offered. These complimentary lift tickets and/or lift and rental packages will be adjusted accordingly.
|
Does everyone pay the same amount?
The package rate will vary slightly, depending on the number of persons in a room, condo or house. Quoted rates are based on maximum occupancy. Group leaders often add a small amount to the trip package cost to cover contingencies, including the possibility of less than max occupancy. Non-skiers and non-renters both receive deductions off the package rate.
|
What if it snows too much or not enough?
We get both of these questions several times throughout the ski season. There are too many variables to list. Here are three general statements:
- The decision to cancel or delay a trip should not be made earlier than 48 hours prior to departure. Road and slope conditions may change rapidly.
- CTI follows the particular policy governing each resort.
- Ultimately, each group has to decide what is in its best interests. We will work to assist the group in any way possible.
|
How do I manage the paperwork involved?
Few of us enjoy paperwork; however, record keeping is a vital part of the trip. Correct information helps the trip run smoothly. Incorrect information causes problems. To alleviate this stress (yours and ours), we have set up an online trip manager. With your contract number, you will have private access to forms and needed info. You will be guided though a simple process and have your records readily available. You can even send them directly to us upon completion.
|