Finance Monthly April 2019 Edition

the top of Aspen Mountain -, is much needed for the Vitamin D deprived. This trip has taught me that there are many things which bring me solace in life, and one of them is ensuring a pale Brit like me catches some rays whilst unwinding to the solemn sound of talented classical musicians. With the Aspen Music Festival and School being regarded as one of the top classical music festivals in the United States, my trip has slowly revealed all how diverse Aspen Snowmass is; it is not simply for the avid skiers and bikers. It is for the art fanatics, jazz lovers and introverts who found serenity with their violin. And this is Aspen’s hidden secret: her culture and artistic nature stretches farther than the postcard-worthy views. With my final evening in Aspen involving me keeping up the Sabering tradition at the St Regis, I reflect on the misconception that America – albeit a diverse country with incomparable states – holds little tradition and culture; here I am, (rather clumsily…I got it on my fourth try) continuing a tradition started by an avid party-goer named John Jacob Astor IV, who when he founded the St Regis in 1900s, gathered his guests for a ceremonial champagne Sabering to celebrate the transition from the day into night. And it was in this moment I began reflecting on how Aspen is more than just her wintery slopes and thrilling rides; from the display at the art institute displaying Bauhaus’ finest work and delving into the history which made Aspen an ‘Idea’ in itself, it is truly no surprise to why I heard a mother tell her eager child: ‘it’s okay, we will try kayaking when we return next Summer’, and was told by a relaxed businesswomen that she staying for an extra three months, because there is something special about Aspen and Snowmass in the glistening summer. We are too busy being told the stories of skiers and snowboarders, when America’s Rocky Mountains offers so much more than that; you can find a new home in the heart of Colorado if you ever chose to visit this captivating haven, but alas my final warning to you before you set off: be prepared to have your breath taken away... quite literally, thanks to the high altitude, (but of course, it is worth it…especially when it only 66 www.finance-monthly.com TRAVEL - ASPEN