As ski season heats up, Zimride partners with all major resorts and bus operators to a make a one-stop shop for fun, affordable and sustainable Tahoe travel.

Zimride, the largest online ride-sharing service in North America, announced it has established partnerships with all major Lake Tahoe ski resorts and two connecting bus services, making traveling to the Bay Area’s hottest winter tourist destination more simple and economical than ever before.

Tahoe travelers choosing to rideshare with Zimride will be entered to win free gas.  Additionally, for the first time Zimride has extended its rideshare offerings to include bus options as well.  Bay Area Ski Bus and Quality Assurance Travel have partnered with Zimride to sell tickets through the Zimride.com website, making the company a one-stop shop for Bay Area residents looking to find less expensive and more social rides to Tahoe.

“We’re not just providing an alternative to Tahoe travel, we’re reinventing it,” says John Zimmer, co-founder and COO of Zimride. “There’s huge demand for social, sustainable and affordable travel, and this week our users have posted over 1,000 seats available for purchase along our Tahoe route.  That’s the equivalent of four airline flights and we’re just getting started.  The unprecedented collaboration from the major resorts and bus operators demonstrates the need for Zimride as a new form of transportation.”

If just 10 percent of Tahoe travelers choose to travel with 2 additional people this season, Zimride estimates it would take 60,000 cars off the rode, save $12 million in vehicle operating costs and eliminate 18.6 million lbs of carbon dioxide from being emitted.

To be a driver or passenger along the Zimride Tahoe route simply go to: www.zimride.com

About Zimride:

Zimride, the largest online social rideshare community in North America, is building a marketplace for drivers to sell empty seats in their car by matching them with passengers traveling along the same route. In addition to public routes like San Francisco to Los Angeles, Zimride has implemented networks for over 120 of the nation’s leading universities and companies including Stanford, UCLA, University of Michigan, Facebook and Jet Blue.

Zimride makes sharing rides for drivers and passengers fun, easy and social. It’s a new spin on ridesharing, using social networks to enable real connections. In seconds you can set up a profile, see and book a ride in your area, or post a ride of your own. With Zimride profiles, you can view photos, music and radio preferences to ensure an enjoyable ride.

Zimride proves that “life is better when you share the ride”

Get started at: www.zimride.com

With more than 140 daily flights serving 17 non-stop destinations, it’s no wonder the Reno-Tahoe International Airport was recently named the second-most efficient airport in the U.S. and Canada. A quick flight into Reno Tahoe’s award winning airport grants you access to eighteen world-class ski resorts and more than 50 golf courses, all less than 90 minutes away from the airport, as well as 24-hour entertainment in the Biggest Little City.

If you’re traveling from the Bay Area, getting to Reno Tahoe is about to get even easier thanks to Alaska Airlines. Beginning June 4, Alaska will offer two daily non-stop flights between Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport.

Meeting the needs of business and leisure travelers alike, flights will begin with a 6:00 a.m. departure from Reno with a 7:08 a.m. arrival in San Jose, followed by an 11:55 a.m. departure from San Jose, landing you in Reno at 1:00 p.m. The final flights of the day include a 2:15 p.m. departure from Reno, and a 10:20 p.m. departure from San Jose. These flights will also be timed with Alaska Airlines flights from Kona, Hawaii, making your journey from the islands more efficient than ever!

In addition to new the service between Reno Tahoe and San Jose, the Award-winning Reno-Tahoe International Airport has just begun a $40 million project to improve its baggage claim area and add restaurants and retail space. So, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure (or maybe a little of both), your next trip to Reno Tahoe just got even better!

The Big Game might be in Indianapolis, but the real Super Bowl XLVI action is right here, in Reno Tahoe, on February 5! Not only will you watch the New England Patriots battle against the New York Giants on massive screens, you’ll also enjoy great food, prizes and even NFL cheerleaders!

Watch Tom Brady and Eli Manning go head-to-head at the Super Stadium Bash XLVI hosted by the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino in the Tuscany Events Center. For $55, enjoy Bud and Bud Light draft beer at every table, all-you-can-eat stadium food buffet, a Super Stadium Bash t-shirt and mug, exciting prizes every quarter and a meet and greet with the Budweiser Girls!

The Super Bowl fun kicks off before the game even starts at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa with a special Oakland Raiderette Cheerleader meet and greet on the Paradise Terrace from 2-3 pm. After getting your picture taken with the beautiful Raiderettes, catch all the hard hitting action on HDTVs throughout the casino or on 13-feet screens in the comfort of the Race & Sports Book, all while enjoying specials on your favorite stadium food and beer!

The Silver Legacy Resort Casino is throwing the largest Big Game Party in northern  Nevada at the Downtown Reno Ballroom. Hosted by KOZZ’s Smith and McClain, you won’t miss a play or knee-slapping commercial while watching the grid-iron action on multiple giant screens. For $40, enjoy a complimentary drink, all-you-can-eat buffet, big game hat, prizes and Budweiser swag!

At the Eldorado Hotel Casino, every seat is the best seat in the house as they open up the award-winning Broadway style showroom to host the 2012 NFL Championship party, featuring stadium style seating!  Tickets for a reserved seat are $25, and include a drink, stadium food and a souvenir hat commemorating the game. If enjoying delicious micro-brews while watching the action is more your style, head over to The Brew Brothers where you’ll find eighteen big screen TVs; mouthwatering burgers, salads and pizzas; and of course, hand crafted beers. Be sure to keep your eyes open for appearances by former NFL players Frank Hawkins, Dan McGwire, Quinn Early and former Harlem Globetrotter, Eathan O’Bryant.

We may have just finished ringing in 2012, but January 23 marks another New Year, the Year of the Dragon! According to Chinese tradition, the Year of the Dragon will bring exhilaration, excitement and intensity; everything you can expect to find in Reno Tahoe. So say goodbye to the Year of the Rabbit and welcome in the Dragon with great celebrations!

The Peppermill Resort Spa Casino is welcoming in the Year of the Dragon with Our Chinese Heart – Eternal Melody on January 28. Preforming in the Tuscany Events Center, Our Chinese Heart is a classic variety show complete with singers, musicians and comedians.  Before enjoying the show, or any time between January 23 and 29, indulge in a special Chinese New Year menu at Chi, featuring braised fish maw, Chinese broccoli stir fry and a wide variety of other delicious dishes.

Join the Chinese New Year CelebrAsian at the Eldorado Hotel Casino where you’ll discover traditional Chinese specialties in The Buffet from January 23-28. Feast on customary dishes; including, barbeque pork spare ribs, Hong Kong style fried fish, roasted duck and Mongolian lamb. The celebration continues with magnificent White Crane Lion Dances winding through the mezzanine and casino floor for all to see on January 27-29 and February 2-5.

The Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is celebrating the Chinese New Year throughout the entire month of January with dining specials at Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille, Purple Parrot and Bistro Napa. Also, collect commemorative Year of the Dragon chips and a limited edition t-shirt while playing your favorite casino games. On January 28, join the Chinese Association of Northern Nevada for the Reno Chinese New Year Celebration on the casino floor, where a traditional Lion Dance promises to be the highlight of the evening!

Celebrate the transition from the Year of the Rabbit to the Year of the Dragon with food, traditional dances and fun at the Silver Legacy Resort Casino. Treat yourself to Chinese delicacies, such as Fat Choy and stir fry rice cakes, from January 27 to February 12 at Café Sedona and Flavors! the Buffet. During this 15 day celebration, be sure to catch one of the many dazzling Lion Dances near the iconic mining rig.

At the Grand Sierra Resort, you’ll find everything from a magic show to a Feng Shui workshop during the Lantern Festival, February 3-5. The Grand Theater will be full of Chinese entertainment as Chin-Chin mystifies all with his astonishing magic on Friday, February 3, and the Lion Dance-Dance Off takes over the theater the following night.  But that’s not all! Learn all about Feng Shui from Sasha Lee, test your cultural knowledge during the Lantern Riddle Contest, and enjoy the live music of violinist CryWolffs! and acoustic soloist Wilson Wong.

For a truly unique Chinese New Year celebration,  head up to Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe where you will not only  enjoy discounts on Asian food, drinks and an amazing day on the slopes, but will also see the skiing dragon make its way down the mountain!

We’ve all heard it… Pray For Snow, Pray for Snow, Pray For Snow. And we’ll be the first ones to admit some snow would be nice (hence our Snow Dance Competition where we’re giving away a 2-Night Ski Vacation to the best snow dance in order to increase the frequency of snow… Mother Nature, are you watching?), but we must share the numerous upsides for a delayed ski season that have been compelling visitors to come before snow coats our mountains for the remainder of winter. 

Last weekend a visitor told us they skied, mountain biked and golfed in the same day – that’s pretty awesome. 

1.       Learn to ski. Let’s face it, if you’re a first-timer, you aren’t going to be dropping 10-foot lips that require a snow pillow for landing, and you aren’t skiing in waist deep powder through the trees. The freshly groomed runs paired with endless blue skies create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing day on the slopes.  Plus, January is National Learn to Ski Month so resorts are offering massive discounts to first-timers!

2.       Golf. Our courses pride themselves on being open all year long, so hit them up! We have 50 within 90 minutes of downtown Reno, most of which are inside 15 minutes.

3.       Hike. It’s a rare occasion that our trails are hikeable this time of year without strapping on snowshoes.  See what’s usually hiding underneath all that snow!

4.       Rock climb. Climbers know their grips are easier to hold when it’s cold out. So what are you waiting for?

5.       Mountain bike. The trail conditions are excellent right now, so grab a friend and escape into the towering pines in the Sierra Mountains. 

6.       Ice skate. Enjoy this chilly wintertime activity, without the chill.

7.       Perfect road conditions. No moisture, no snow, no ice, no sliding. It’s faster and easier than ever to get here!

If you’re on the hill enjoying a relaxing afternoon riding the slopes of Kirkwood Mountain Resort when suddenly you catch a glimpse of people soaring through the sky, stay calm, it’s normal. (Sorry, it’s not Superman and his crew). Tahoe’s first canopy zip line tour is open during the winter season, consisting of 6 zip lines, 2 suspension bridges and heights up to 125 ft off the ground.  Don’t miss this unique view of Sierra Mountains!

By Guest Blogger,
Logan Baker

Lake Tahoe is one of the most picturesque places in America. In the summer, the sun rises over the calm lake and creates the perfect setting for a dip in the cool water or an exciting Jet Ski adventure. In the winter however, the lake and the Tahoe National Forest take on a serene and peaceful quality that you must see to believe. Whether you’re traveling by car or air charter, once you get to Reno, Tahoe or one of the surrounding areas, you need to stop by the lake. To really get the full Tahoe experience, you should consider taking a trip through the forest and around the lake on a horse-drawn sleigh or a sled led by a team of Huskies.

Dottie Dennis has been carving trails though the Hope Valley, about half an hour south of the lake, for more than 30 years. She and her team of dogs are familiar with every twist and turn of the valley has remained largely untouched over the last 160 years. If you’ve ever wanted to vacation in the Alaskan wilderness but weren’t willing to travel so far, the Hope Valley is probably the most Alaskan landscape south of the Canadian border. Dennis’ Husky Express is $240 for a 375 lb. weight limit and box lunches can be provided for an extra $10 per person.

Borges Family Sleigh Rides offer excursions around the lake and through the forest on a variety of old-fashioned sleighs. The sleighs are entirely handmade by the Borges family and are pulled by two blonde Belgian draft horses. The trip takes travelers all over the beautiful snow-covered landscape and will conclude at the top of a scenic lookout over Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re bringing the whole family or just that special someone, a Borges Family sleigh trip might be the perfect thing to spice up your vacation. The trip costs $20 for adults and $10 for kids under 11.

If you’re vacationing in Reno or one of the surrounding areas, make it a point to head to Lake Tahoe. The lake takes on a spectral kind of beauty in the winter that is simply unparalleled.

For a far from expected New Year’s celebration, join one of the many exciting parties in downtown Reno. From Go-Go dancers and gowns, to fireworks and fake mustaches, we have everything you need to make this a New Year’s Eve you won’t forget – or remember.

It may be cold outside, but inside the Eldorado Hotel Casino it’s heating up at BuBinga Lounge. Hosting a special New Year’s Eve Black and White Bash, (((xm fedie))), Roni Romance and Jessica the Ripper will be spinning well into the New Year. One cover gets you into Brew Brothers and Roxy’s Bar and Lounge, both venues are entertaining with live music and DJ’s, plus party favors, a balloon drop and toast at midnight. Cin Cin offers a more laid back celebration where you can enjoy artisan cocktails while relaxing with friends.

Ring in the New Year with the hottest Brazilian dancers inside the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. You won’t have to visit the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro to feel the heat. To start the countdown to midnight, Atlantis’ Party Patrol will roam the casino floor to hand out hats, tiaras, and noise makers! The festive parade starts at 10pm and travels through the casino floor. FREE entertainment, FREE Champagne, FREE party favors, a casino-wide balloon drop, plus everyone is a winner! This is one party that would be hard to turn your back on.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino is  on New Year’s Eve with DJ’s, dancing and dueling pianos. Enjoy one of the hottest dance parties in town, along with complimentary party favors and a midnight champagne toast at the “Rockin’ the Dome Dance Party,” hosted by DJ Kentot. Or, celebrate the New Year “island style” at Rub Bullions Island Bar, featuring the outrageous dueling pianos. If you’re looking for a dance experience with bottle service, check out Aura Lounge where you can party the night away.

Party, sip and boogie at the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino with three parties to choose from that will ring in the New Year in style. Dance into the New Year with DJ Chris English while enjoying vintage cocktails at VINTEDGE presented by EDGE – guest will receive party favors including masquerade masks and mustaches. The Club 90 band sets the mood for an evening of dancing, mingling, libations, party favors and a champagne toast at the Capri Ballroom Bash. If you’re feeling lucky, party on the casino floor. Groove to the sounds of Soul Experience at the Cabaret Lounge or jam to an energetic selection of popular music at the Terrace Lounge.

Get wild in Sammy’s Showroom inside Harrah’s Reno, where Go-Go dancers and a DJ blasting your favorite hits will fill the night with excitement. Sapphire Lounge will also help you celebrate the dawning of the New Year with music, dancing and drink specials.

For you high school juniors and seniors, welcome 2012 in New York City fashion at NYC NYE hosted by Cargo inside CommRow. Dance to the music of DJ Max, sip on specialty non-alcoholic drinks while munching on New York street food, and toast with sparkling cider at midnight while watching the ball drop on the big screen.

Glitterdome Presents and The Knitting Factory have joined forces to bring you VIP New Years Eve 2012! The epic night is hosting 6 different acts, Go-Go dancers, dragonfly aerials and exotic treats.

Finally, it wouldn’t be a New Year’s Eve celebration without fireworks. Take on the tradition and join thousands under the Reno arch to bring in the New Year as Reno lights up the sky with dazzling pyrotechnics.

By, Cody Haener

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is offering series of special discounts, in exchange for charitable donations during this year’s Holly Jolly Days!

Contributions will be donated to a number of deserving local charities, spanning the entire community. Charities include: The Salvation Army, Food Bank of Northern Nevada, Evelyn Mount Community Outreach Food Drive, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada and Toys for Tots!

Holly Jolly Days runs until Friday, December 23^rd.

Bring in two non-perishable food items (per person) to receive:

Café Alfresco

o   2-4-1 Wood Fired Brick Oven Pizza or Made-to-order Pasta

Manhattan Deli for Two for $20

o   Enjoy Two Select Menu Items, Two Drinks and a Dessert to Share

Purple Parrot $6.99 (midnight-6am)

o   Choice of: NY Steak and Eggs, Ham & Cheese Omelet, Gyro Sandwich or BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille (excludes Sunday Brunch)

o   2-4-1 Breakfast or Lunch or $5-off Dinner Buffet Nightly

Gift Shop

o   20% Discount

Club Paradise Desk

o   Free Slot Tournament Bonus Entry

Bring in a new winter coat to receive:

Spa Atlantis

o   $10 Spa or Salon Gift Certificate

Bring in a new and unwrapped toy or two non-perishable food items to receive:

Fun Center

o   $5 Game Card with a minimum $5 purchase

Just as the chaos of the holiday season mounts to its apex, the Reno downtown bar district will get its annual visit from over 4,000-5,000 pub-crawling Santas, and various other holiday spirited costumes, ready to spread holiday cheer for charity.

The evening begins precisely at 7:30pm…ish at several locations, where red-suit clad men and women meet to pick up their maps and joyfully wassail through the downtown district, stopping at over 30 selected locations, bringing the joy of giving to revelers along the way.

The charity event, free to participants, is expected to bring in about $5,000 to donorschoose.org. The participating venues along the route are asked to donate to the “Claus,” and as a reward for their generosity, they receive a visit from the crawlers.

The evening pauses for a moment to sing Christmas carols under the Reno Arch at midnight, and then the decking of the halls continues until dawn’s early light.

Santas are going to need a little more than milk and cookies to get through this night… From Naughty Elfs to Sleigh Shots, there are drink specials for all to have a good night.

The fastest way to get on Santa’s naughty list is by drinking and driving. The Silver Legacy is offering an early holiday present giving deluxe rooms Friday and Saturday for $62 a night, and $50 Sunday night. Plus, 10% of each hotel purchase to the Claus! Group Code is Santa11.

Before you hit the bars, hit the slopes only 30min away at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe for the Santa Ski Crawl December 10!

Wondering where you can get a 2011 Commemorative Cup? We made list, and checked it twice…

Chocolate Walrus
Junkee’s Clothing Exchange
Prism Magic
3rd Street
Shooters Saloon
Wurk
Duffy’s Ale House
Doc Holliday’s
Siena Hotel Casino
Men Wielding Fire
Imperial Lounge
Waterfall
Ole Bridge Pub
El Cortez Lounge
Tonic Lounge
Se7en West St. Market
Pizza Reno
Chocolate Bar
Java Jungle/Jungle Vino
Sierra Tap House
Whiskey Bar
Pin Up Pub
The Lincoln Lounge
Davidson’s Distillery
Louis Basque Corner
Abby’s Highway 40
Club Underground
Biggest Little City Club
Red Rock Studio
Strega Bar
St. James Infirmary
Studio on 4th
Pioneer Underground
West Second Street

For more information, visit www.renosantacrawl.com.