SKI/BOARD WEAR - You may want to cover this list of basic essentials; A warm hat for your head, gloves or mittens for your hands, socks (not super thick) for your feet, sunglasses or goggles, jacket and some sort of pants you wouldn't wear to class. Think layers and avoid cotton as much as possible.

CLUBBIN' OUTFITS!! We will be in Aspen!!! Go Big!! BATHING SUITS/JAMMIES are always a requirement when lounging in the saunas after a long day on the mountain. But ASPRIN is necessity after that long night at the bars. Don’t forget $$CASH$$ you won't be able to afford a headache without it.

Health Tips for a Safe and Fun Visit at 9,600 feet. As you go to higher altitudes, the barometric pressure decreases, the air is thinner and less oxygen is available. The air is also dryer and the ultraviolet rays from the sun are stronger. At elevations of 8,000 plus feet your body responds by breathing faster and more deeply, resulting in shortness of breath, especially upon exertion. Many people develop mild symptoms of headache, nausea, trouble sleeping and unusual tiredness, which we call acute mountain sickness or AMS. These symptoms usually go away in a day or two. If symptoms are severe, persist or worsen, you should consult a doctor. A short visit to a physician may save the rest of your vacation.

A more serious condition is called high altitude pulmonary edema or HAPE. This condition is recognized by a wet cough, increasing shortness of breath, and the feeling of fluid building up in your lungs. Other symptoms may include disorientation or confusion. If you feel any of these symptoms developing you need to seek medical attention immediately. HAPE is easy to treat but can be life threatening if left unattended.

The effects of high altitude can be decreased by following these recommendations:

• Increase fluid intake-drink two or three times more fluid than usual, water and juices are best: adequate hydration is the key to preventing altitude illness. You should drink enough fluids to urinate approximately every two hours.
• Avoid alcohol and minimize caffeine on your day of arrival and one to two days thereafter: be very careful if consuming alcohol, and remember, at this altitude, you may be much more sensitive to the effects of alcohol and sedatives.
• Decrease salt intake- salt causes your body to retain fluid (edema), which increases the severity of altitude illness.
• Eat frequent small meals high in carbohydrates, low in fat, and low in protein.
• Medications and oxygen can help you feel much better. Diamox is a prescription drug that prevents the unpleasant symptoms for many people. Recent experience suggests that a small dose of Diamox suffices: 125mgs the morning before you are to arrive at altitude, again that evening, and each morning and night for two days after arrival. It is generally a well-tolerated medicine with few side affects. It should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to sulfa. Some people may experience a tingling sensation in their fingers, toes and around their mouth. You may also notice a subtle change in your sense of taste, especially carbonated beverages may taste flat. As with any medication, take only as directed and discuss any potential side effects with your physician.
• Spending 1-2 night at a modest altitude of 5,000-6,000 feet decreases symptoms when you go higher.
• Sunscreen is an absolute necessity at 10,000 feet. The sun is deceivingly intense at this altitude especially when it reflects off of the snow, and a trip to the medical center for burnt skin is easily avoided with the use of spf 15 or higher.