Aspen, Colorado

Aspen sits about 4 hours west of Denver, nestled in some truly spectacular mountain scenery.  There are only two ways in and out of town, and in the winter only one, as Independence Pass, the highest and most frightening of Colorado's mountain passes, closes in the winter (motorists with keen eyes can spot old abandoned cars  that have gone over the mountain side).  Of course, many residents have private aircraft, which affords them an alternative way out of town.  In the winter, Aspen is a fairyland, beautiful and sparkling under a blanket of white. The skiing is the best in the world, and the rich and famous dot the slopes.  In the summer, Aspen is a wonderful destination for celebrity watching, upscale shopping and outstanding dining, all in a somewhat understated atmosphere of casual wealth and elegance.  Fall in Aspen is breathtaking, with golden Aspen trees glistening under a deep, deep blue sky, often without a cloud to be seen.  This former mining town is truly a magical place.  Few can afford to live here, but anyone can visit and should, at least once.