SAM Magazine-Crested Butte, Colo., Oct. 30, 2008-In the wake of economic headlines, resorts are stepping step up efforts to woo winter visitors with aggressive promotions, including free airfare.

Crested Butte's Vacation Stimulus Package rewards vacationers with free airline tickets when booking additional activities such as lift tickets, spa treatments, ski lessons and equipment rental. All activities are assigned a point value and, by accruing points, visitors earn free airline tickets.

"This is a unique package," says Daren Cole, VP of sales and marketing for Crested Butte Mountain Resort. "This is the only promotion that lets the guest choose their own agenda and get exactly the vacation they want. Plus, it's easy for our guests to earn enough points to get a free airline ticket by adding items to their itinerary." The package is linked with a five-night stay at the Elevation Hotel and Spa, and can only be booked via Crested Butte Vacations.

Jackson Hole's promotion is a "four for the price of three" deal. When visitors purchase three airline tickets to Jackson Hole this winter through Jackson Hole Central Reservations, the company will throw in the fourth ticket for free. The package must be booked over the phone, is based on availability, and some restrictions apply. Expect to see more such offers as destination resorts across North America look to juice up business for the 2008-09 season. \