My latest U.S. News and World Report article

PHOTO: Courtesy of U.S. News and World Report Travel

My latest U.S. News and World Report Travel article published on December 28, 2015. Titled "Top Apres-Ski Spots in the USA," you can read the article through this link: http://travel.usnews.com/features/top-apres-ski-spots-in-the-usa/.

Full text below!

With ski season in full swing, powder hounds are itching to hit the slopes. But as any ski and snowboard enthusiast can attest, a memorable ski getaway isn't only comprised of snowy runs and high-octane winter sports. Chances are, after an exhilarating day on the trails, you'll want to unwind and warm up in a lively après-ski scene. Whether your ideal post-ski activities include imbibing in creative cocktails at trendy restaurants or savoring cups of hot cocoa by a crackling fire, there are plenty of locales with enticing après-ski options. Here are four alluring après-ski places across the U.S. to experience this winter.

Vail, Colorado

Located just 100 miles west of Denver, Vail brims with luxury resorts. Pete Seibert, the founder of Vail Mountain and Vail's popular ski resort (now known as Vail Resorts Inc.), set out to create a world-class ski retreat from Vail's earliest days. Since opening in 1962, Vail has transformed into one of the largest ski areas in the world. And Vail's après-ski scene is just as enticing as its powdery terrain. After a day in the great outdoors, indulge in a gourmet pie at Bison Pizza. Made with house cured bison pepperoni, fennel sausage, roasted sweet peppers and mozzarella curds, Bison Pizza's classic dishes are sure to help you stay recharged and replenished before your next day on the trails. The Red Lion Restaurant & Night Club in Vail Village another must-see. With a regular rotation of live musical acts to brighten of the night, this lively hotspot is a rite of passage at the end of a long day on the slopes. For more live music, pop into Samana Lounge, where acclaimed DJs spin tunes regularly.

Lake Placid, New York

Host of both the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid offers a lively place to unwind after a busy day on the slopes. Along the main thoroughfare, you'll find a plethora of restaurants, bars and bakeries. And while you won't find any party-hard post-ski spots here, you will find plenty of places to relax and unwind. Stay at the Whiteface Lodge for the ultimate mix of pristine skiing and low-key après-ski spots. Tucked away in Adirondack Park in upstate New York, the lodge offers a lavish 8,000-square-foot spa. And if you would prefer cozying up with loved ones around a fireplace or over a board game, blankets and pillows (even the ingredients to make s'mores) are all provided to guests. Adults looking to get into the spirit should order a Rudolph's Milk, a cocktail made with vanilla vodka, cherry liqueur, white créme de cocoa, Godiva white chocolate and peppermint syrup – the perfect concoction to heat up after a day spent outdoors.

Park City, Utah

True ski aficionados can't miss Snowbird, Utah – one of the best-kept secrets of West Coast skiing – but if you are looking for a trendy, post-ski scene, make your way to Park City. Located approximately 30 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Park City boasts two well-situated ski resorts: Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. With over 150 restaurants and unique après-skifeatures, such as the High West Distillery & Saloon, which prides itself as the only ski-in gastro-distillery in the world, Park City offers plenty of enticements on and off the slopes. Located in Old Town Park City, the distillery offers western fare, fine wine and spirits, along with its own small-batch whiskeys and vodkas. And even ski-averse winter enthusiasts will get a kick out of the Waldorf Astoria Park City's Powder Champagne Ice Lounge, which will open in winter 2016. The intimate bar will feature an outdoor lounge area and a bar crafted from three blocks of ice, set on top of another five blocks, with a large wooden base. Along with champagne, the bar will serve hors d'oeuvres and offer entertainment.

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

While Colorado and Utah get more than their fair share of attention among ski lovers, the East Coast's charming Bretton Woods in New Hampshire offers serene après-ski spots that shouldn't be overlooked. At the Omni Mount Washington Resort, families can take advantage of kid-friendly fun like sleigh rides, tubing and even snowmobiling, while luxury-seekers indulge in relaxing treatments with a rest and recreation package that includes accommodations and guests' pick of a ski ticket or spa credit. And after a day on the trails, skiers can soothe sore muscles at the spa, which offers specialty services designed especially for winter-sports enthusiasts, including an Adventurer's Massage and an Alpine Body Glow treatment.