While for some lounging on a beach may be the ideal vacation, but for others there's nothing like the thrill of whizzing down snowy slopes by day and cozying up by the fire at night. So grab your skiis and snowboards and start planning your next trip at one of the world's best ski resorts.

Aspen, Colorado

If you want to party with the rich and famous, look no further than Aspen. From beginner to expert, there's something for everyone on one of Aspen's four mountains. The steep climbs and bumps give both intermediate and expert skiiers plenty of options who can access terrain off the backside. The vibe is very chi chi so get ready to swig down thise martinis and rub elbows with the well-to-do when you're done for the day.

Cortina, Italy

This stylish city played home to the Olympics in 1956 and it's easy to see why. This stylish city is as good as any other resort in the Alps. The town revolves around one pedestrian street where famed Olympic skier first got his start.

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

There is more to Canadian skiing than Banff, believe it or not. A little bit French and a little bit North American, it’s one of Eastern Canada’s best known ski resorts. And it’s only an hour away from Montreal, making it easy to do a bit of sport and a bit of sightseeing.

Stowe, Vermont

Skiing in Vermont offers traditional New England charm with some major drops. The two ski areas actually lift-link to each other, a boon for skiers who want to experience everything. The area is also very well developed with over 90 shops and 60 restaurants to keep visitors occupied.

Kitzbuhel, Austria

Europe’s liveliest ski resort, St. Anton is not only beautiful but fun to boot. This 700-year-old village offers all the charm of an alpine village with all the debauchery of modern times.