Dont let the economic slump prevent you from carving out time for a quality ski vacation. Sales and reservations figures from the nations ski resorts Omega Speedmaster Racing Chronometer suggest the global financial crisis has reached the slopes. NPR reports that uncertainty over gas prices, the global financial system, and even the presidential election is keeping people from reservations. In the past few years the American tourism industry has been buoyed by international tourists lured to the US by the superior purchasing power of other currencies in comparison with the dollar.
Since the current economic crisis is worldwide, the industry might not be able to depend on foreigners.Resort owners are hoping that strong early snowfall will balance out the weak economy. Last years ski season was one for the record books, but that was before Lehman Bros. and other banks started to go belly up. We say, this is no reason Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Chrono not to hit the slopes. Maximize your time and money by heading to one of the Top 15 Ski Resorts in North America. Before you go, make sure to get in shape so you can take full advantage of that $87 lift ticket.Will the economic downturn affect your winter vacation plans? Let us know in the comments section below.--Micah Cratty
Field Tested: Hi-Tec Altitude Ultra Hiking BootsPrice: $135Verdict: A good entry-level light hiking boot for the price.If youre on the market for hiking boots, youve probably realized that there is a huge range of price options, and just as wide of a range of quality. For those shopping at the budget end of the spectrum, the Hi-Tec V-Lite Altitude Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Chrono Ultra is a basic, no frills leather hiking boot that looks good and performs admirably for the price. After testing, this is how these boots seem to stack up:1) Best Type of Trail: Flat The Altitude Ultras have a very flexible forefoot, which translates to a very smooth feeling on flat trails, but a lack of support for climbing steep sections.
