Journal

Practical guides from the owner.

Things we think you'd want to know before your trip — and a few opinionated takes on the stuff that’s easy to get wrong.

Skiing · 6 min read

First Time Skiing Northstar at Tahoe — What to Know

A practical guide to your first day at Northstar California Resort: which lifts to take, where to rent, where to eat, and the rookie mistakes worth avoiding.

Summer · 5 min read

Truckee in Summer — What to Actually Do

Northstar isn't just a ski town. Summer in Truckee is hiking, lake days, mountain biking, and one of the prettiest small downtowns in California.

Booking · 4 min read

Book Direct vs. VRBO — The Real Cost Comparison

A plain-English breakdown of why direct booking is meaningfully cheaper than VRBO for the same condo on the same nights, and what (if anything) you give up.

Day Trips · 3 min read

Getting to Sand Harbor Without Sitting in Traffic

Sand Harbor is Tahoe's most beautiful beach, and the parking lot fills by 9:30am. Here's how to actually get in.

Skiing · 4 min read

Where to Rent Ski Gear Near Northstar

Resort rentals are convenient but pricey. Here's where locals (and we) actually rent — including the shop that'll deliver to your condo.

With the Dog · 4 min read

Dog-Friendly Stays at Tahoe — What to Look For at Northstar

Bringing a dog to Tahoe? Most rentals say "dog friendly" but very few actually are. Here's what to look for, and how the condo handles it.