LUXURY VACATION RENTALS IN Vail, CO

Vail General Weather Conditions

The weather changes quickly in the mountains. In summer months, expect afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Dress appropriately for changing conditions especially when hiking. In the winter months, layering your clothes will give you the most versatility for temperature changes.

Vail High Altitude

As a person climbs to higher elevations the air becomes thinner. In Vail the amount of oxygen in the air is 30 percent less than at sea level; humidity is 50 percent less. Most visitors can expect some degree of change in their bodies. Symptoms range from restlessness to shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness, headaches, and increases in heart rate. To avoid the symptoms make sure you are well rested prior to arriving. Upon arrival, drink lots of water and don’t overexert yourself. Avoid alcohol and caffeine and increase your water intake by 50 percent.
Additionally, when traveling to higher altitude liquids like shampoo, lotions, creams, etc. can open or burst due to a change in pressure. It is recommended you pack your liquids and lotions separate plastic bags in case they open.

Vail Time Zone

Vail is in the Mountain Time Zone and observes Daylight Saving Time from late March until late October.

Tipping Guide

• Taxi Drivers: $1 to $2
• Baggage Porters: $1 to $5, or more if the service was particularly friendly and helpful
• Cloakroom Attendants in Nightclubs, et al: $1 to $2
• Restaurants: 20 percent, or gratuity may be included in your final bill
• Bars and Lounges: $1 to $2 per drink
• Spa Treatments: 20 percent, or gratuity may be included in your final bill
• Tours and Tour Guides: 15 to 20 percent, at your discretion, based upon your experience
• Golf Club Cleaning: $3 to $5 per bag
• Ski Guides: $50 to $100 for a full day
• Fishing Guide: $60 to $100 for a full day
• Snowmobile Guide: 20 percent
• Sleigh Ride: $5 to $20, at your discretion, based upon your experience
• In Home Chef: 20 percent, or gratuity may be included in your final bill
• Housekeeping: Your housekeeping team may be tipped at your discretion, based upon your experience. A general guideline is $10 or more per night based upon your travel party size and in-residence activities.
• Destination Host: Your Destination Host may be tipped at your discretion, based upon the amount of travel planning you required and your overall in-residence experience.

Traveling with Prescription Medicine

If you are traveling with prescription medicines, carry them in their original containers and bring a copy of your prescription. If you buy medications abroad, be aware that they may not be FDA-approved or allowed into the United States. For more information on customs rules and regulations, please contact 202.354.1000 or visit www.cbp.gov.