Liftopia: Obscure International Ski Destinations

Ever get tired of skiing at the same resorts across the U.S. or just want a total change of scenery? Do you like to travel and take some risks? Here are five obscure ski destinations that would make for a nice change of pace for all you travelers out there!

• Himalayas

  Not looking for to go on a vacation so much as an adventure? Like to live life a little more dangerously (rather, a LOT more dangerously)? The Gulmarg Gondola based in Kashmir rises up to over 13,000 feet, making it the highest ski lift in the world! This is something out there for the most daring and skilled thrill seekers out there. Alternatively, if you were truly insane you could be like these guys, who trek the Himalayas and then ski down it! <a href="http://skithehimalayas.com/blog/2011/04/14/ski-the-himalayas-season-3-best-of/" target="_hplink">Video</a>

• Lebanon

  Home of some great ski resorts with first class amenities and slopes, Lebanon is a beautiful location where it's possible to go "skiing in the mornings and then swim in the beautiful Mediterranean in the afternoon." Even the resorts at its highest points are only a short distance away from the coast, with spectacular views on a clear day. Over the past 50 years Lebanon has really evolved into a top-notch ski vacation destination.

• Dubai

  Not known for its modesty, Dubai's attitude is reflected with Ski Dubai, a huge indoor ski resort built in the middle of the desert. Open year-round and offering a variety of activities including bobsledding and penguin viewing, Dubai has certainly built something quite impressive.

• Bulgaria

  Home to more than a dozen quality ski resorts, Bulgaria is known for some great snow and mild weather making it a great destination for all levels of skiers. The club and apr?s ski scene is supposedly quite extensive here so if you're into dancing in some Euro clubs until 5 a.m., this might be the place for you!

• Afghanistan

  The Bamiyan province is much safer now than it has been in the past, and it opened up to tourists in 2010. Home to the official <a href="http://www.afghanskichallenge.com/" target="_hplink">Afghan Ski Challenge</a>, this downhill ski race covers seven kilometers and almost 4,000 vertical feet! The only rules are "No weapons and everyone starts at the same time!"

I'm sure there are quite a few more obscure destinations out there. Where have you been that you think deserves to be on this list? Or what obscure locations do you want to check out that has some sick skiing? We'd love to hear your suggestions.

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Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/liftopia/obscure-international-ski-destinations_b_1645877.html

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