Colorado: An inviting, safe and affordable destination this winter.

• Position: Rocky Mountain Resorts & Conference Centers - Brief Article

Some things never change. Like Colorado in the winter. It's always a great place to be. So, whether it's a ski vacation, business retreat or a weekend getaway, Colorado resorts and conference centers are prepared to greet guests with a hearty welcome.

Perhaps this year more than ever, visitors to Colorado's world-class recreational and business venues can take advantage of unique hospitality packages that surpass those of previous years. Even though many resorts and ski operators are cautious about the 2001-2002 winter season, Colorado's Tourism Office is optimistic.

"We're very encouraged by our most recent research," said Bill Jensen, chairman of the Colorado Tourism Office. "Number one, we've learned that Colorado is perceived as one of the safest destinations in the United States."

It's also a safe bet that airlines, hotels and ski resorts will create bargain packages that plug Colorado as a great place to visit, recuperate and rejuvenate throughout the winter months.

"Everyone is looking for deals and we're starting to see them," Jensen added.

To promote what may be the most affordable winter sports season in years, the Colorado Tourism Office has added a new feature to the www.colorado.com Web site that directs online guests to any new bargains being offered at a wide variety of Colorado destinations.

"This is a very well-organized site that will list the great deals that are out there," said Jensen.

Meanwhile, many resorts and conference centers have recently completed major expansions. Colorado Ski Country USA member resorts have spent $85 million for on-mountain improvements, including completion of Telluride's Prospect Bowl, which doubles...