Hey newbies and lurkers-
I know it's almost airfare crunch time, and if you're considering attending SES '08, by all means do it! Save your nickels, burn your vacation days, grab a roommate and find a way there. Last year was my first at SES and I'll have to say it was a life-improving (if not life-changing) event.
I know Aspen lodging is expensive, but if you can find a reasonable place or bite the bullet it's a great town to visit. And you'll save car rental money because you don't need one. Get to Aspen by plane, shuttle, or carpool, and the FREE public bus will get you anywhere in town or to the mountains. And the mountains-- four resorts in one spot, all with unique personalities and carvable terrain with one (Ajax) that begins and ends right in the middle of town. The SES fee covers lifts, parties, some food and plenty of freebies, so it's worth it particularly if you can ride most of the days. Twice had free access to "First-Tracks" last year too.
The food was great, the company was better. I met some really great people from all over the globe last year. All "like-minded folks," as Al Worley put it, looking for fellow carvers from beginners to experts. In fact, I'm riding next week with a friend I met at SES '07 who invited me up.
We're all used to being the lone hardbooter at the mountain, or running with a handful of buds. At SES- we're in the majority and the synergy is amazing. Everyone's sharing stories and tips, and the sponsors are sharing boards and bindings for free with no purchase necessary. Plenty of things to do apres-carve too.
It's a great scene and one I'll remember for life. Can't wait to get back.
Unsolicited two cents from a first (but not last) time SESer.
Larry