RE: So instead of spending January in sunny Sydney I'll be in not-so-sunny Salt Lake City.
Actually, it will be sunny. not warm, but sunny. that part of US often has clear, cold days.. I haven't checked the weather reports.. but its is a great area for skiing.. (a bit is going to be done round that way in February).
but isn't the Sundance Film festival in Jackson's Hole Wyoming? if it is, you'll love it. i haven't seen all of the US, but Wyoming is the most beautiful state i have seen! and Jackson's hole is spectaculary beautiful-- this coming from a cynical NY'er! great skiing there too..
if it is SLC, well worse then the weather is SLC is not a party town.. (and commentary at the Sydney games indicated Sydney was.. )you would be likely to find more exciting night life on a walkabout in the bush, than in SLC. But it will be sunny.
