Ice-skating, snowtubing, wall climbing, dog sledding, or simply relaxing in one of the heated pools and Jacuzzis is bound to keep those needing a break from the skis and snowboards occupied.

English is the most common language but Spanish is often spoken in south-western states.

The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.

Squaw Valley can get quite busy over the Christmas and Spring Break periods. The apres-ski is a bit limited.

Not known for its apres-ski scene, Squaw Valley has a few worthwhile nightspots of the down-to-earth variety. For an authentic local scene check out The Loft Bar and the Red Dog Bar & Grill. Long-time favourite The Auld Dubliner is a great place to savour a few pints after a hard day on the slopes and was originally a pub built in Ireland until it was dismantled and brought all the way to the US. Balboa Cafe is new apres-ski entrant offering cocktails while Uncorked is a hip wine bar popular with the jet set.

There are any number of restaurants serving just about all holidaymakers' tastes and budgets at Squaw Valley. Graham's at Squaw Valley remains an outstanding fine dining option while the Fireside Pizza Company serves some of the best pizza in Tahoe. Mamasake has a wide selection of sushi and sashimi. Hummingbirds at Clingan's Junction is getting great reviews while the Wildflour Baking Company has plenty of home baked goods and snacks. Try Northern Lights for their fantastic variety of ice cream and frozen yoghurts.

Skiing and snowboarding needs will be taken care of in shops that include Squaw Valley Outfitters, The North Face and the Orange Oval Boardshop. There are other smaller grocery stores offering enough for all self catering needs and several other novelty stores include Black Diamond Wine Exchange, Waxen Moon and Double Diamond Jewellery, selling liquor, candles and shiny stones. Granite Chief, voted the #1 ski shop in the far west by SKI magazine, can handle all tuning and waxing needs. Megalithic shopping mall The Village At Squaw Valley will cover all your remaining shopping needs.