SAM Magazine--Aspen, Colo.., November 21, 2008, 2008 --The Aspen Skiing Company has developed a partnership with shipping company UPS to create a program which allows guests to ship skis and snowboards, bypassing the latest baggage fees implemented by airlines.

Resort guests can save approximately $50 to $300 depending on the number of bags being checked, the weight of the bags, and where they are being shipped from, all while avoiding the inconvenience of traveling to the airport with multiple bags.

"Working with UPS we have been able to put together a program that maximizes convenience and savings for guests who wish to ship their gear prior to their arrival," says Bill Tomcich, president Stay Aspen Snowmass. "With airline fees rising, and other shipping services charging more than double the rate in some cases, we believe we have created a program that will not only improve our guest's arrival experience, but will also be strongly supported by our lodging properties, Aspen Skiing Company, and even our airline partners."

Dubbed the "Aspen/Snowmass Luggage Express," the program offers a variety of shipping options, including a 2-Day Air for inbound bags and Ground for outbound. This allows guests to have their bags arrive at their lodging property just before their check-in, and allows additional savings on the return leg. This program will be offered to all guests traveling to or from Aspen/Snowmass, regardless of whether their trip was actually booked through Stay Aspen Snowmass.

Sample rates for a 50 pound suitcase or single ski bag being shipped from New York would be $129.41 inbound 2-Day Air and $49.75 return using Ground inclusive of up to $1,000 of insurance coverage. Rates through other companies offering comparable services are as high as $298 for 2-day Air and up to $121 for Ground.

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