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When thinking of Canada, some people envision the Great White North, a land of snowy peaks and icy lakes. In all actuality, there is some truth to this notion. Of course, Canada is a land of many climates, but there are many regions that offer breathtaking, open panoramas unspoiled by city skylines and industrial intrusion. These areas that happen to be located in the northern reaches of the country provide some of the finest opportunities in the world, and there are a number of good places to go in Canada.

Banff is actually well-known to those even outside of the skiing circle. This town rests in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and serves as the link between Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise. These three locations combine to account for over 200 runs that span 125 miles of land ready to accept skiers of all kinds. All skill levels are represented on these slopes, and numerous instructors are on hand to help even the newest skier become accustomed to the sport. Intermediate skiers will enjoy the cruising runs, while experts will readily accept the challenges posed by long black runs.

Skiers from all around the globe make plans to to Whistler, a wondrous resort in British Columbia. Whistler is known as the best resort in all of North America in many circles, and it has received many awards to back up this claim. Whistler and Blackcomb mountains rise above the land here, and their summits are easily traveled between via the Peak to Peak gondola that was recently installed there. The Coastal Mountains are home to Whistler, and skiers ascend 1,000 meters into the air via 10-person gondolas that place them at the top of an almost unfathomable number of skiing options. Open bowls, tree runs, and undulating bump runs await lovers who are willing to take on their challenges.

In the town of Rossland, British Columbia, Red Mountain quietly awaits skiers from all reaches of the globe who seek the ultimate ski run. Once upon a time, Red Mountain was not often visited, a peak that only those in on the secret were aware of. Now that word has spread, however, the mountain welcomes a good number of skiers who are looking for a challenge. Beautiful tree skiing and unmarked slopes provide a wondrous downhill experience for even the most expert ski lover. Its 2,900 vertical feet contain so many quality runs that Red Mountain is nearly without peer in expert slopes. This is not to say that novices and intermediates will not also find a terrific slope on which to try out their skills.

Canada may seem like a perfect location in which to find quality skiing, and it is. It is a beautiful land of evergreens and crystalline lakes. Couple these sights with towering mountains, and you will find a skiers paradise. The many mountains of Canadas chains provide endless opportunities and runs for skiers of all levels.

If you liked this, try – Ski Holidays

 

So the have arrived and you have decided to take your family on a seasonal Christmas vacation. Before you get your boots on, there are a few steps you need to take in order to have a smooth, problem free, relaxing vacation.

Location – So where do you want to go? There are a huge number of around the world that are suitable for family , from Canada, to Scotland, to Japan; ultimately the decision you make will come down to your personal budget.

Accommodation – As with all decisions you will have to make concerning planning a skiing vacation, your budget will go a long way to determine what accommodation you and your family will reside in when you are not on the slopes. Will you stay in an apartment, a chalet, or a hotel? Do you want self-catering? Bear in mind, if you want action and nightlife, find a place in the center of town, and if you want peace and quiet try and look for a place on the outskirts of town.

Transportation – How are you going to get to that beautiful, slope side bungalow that you have booked? You must decide what arrangements you can make within your budget for transportation to your booked accommodation. Can you fly? Is there a nearby airport? If so, how much will the transfer costs from the airport? Is there a bus service? Of course, you could always drive yourself, but it is a after all! Regarding transportation to the ski slopes; is there public transportation? Does the hotel offer free transport? Is it within walking distance?

Clothing – Wearing the wrong clothing on the piste can be dangerous. If, for example, children are given white clothing to wear, they can easily be difficult to spot, especially with lots of other skiers around. Choosing the right size clothing and also clothing that keeps you warm is imperative. If you don’t know what you need, take the advice of the clothing rental shop owners as they do have a lot of experience, even if it may sound like they are trying to get money out of you (you can always go to another shop!). Be aware that it can be expensive hiring decent clothing, but it is certainly worth it.

Equipment – The last major factor you must consider is what equipment you need. Depending on what discipline you chose, you will need suitable equipment. Any boots you choose will have to be a snug fit as you can easily damage your feet and ankles if the wrong size is chosen. Also, remember that there are different ski types for different abilities and activities also. Get some advice from a trainer or the proprietor of the shop you wish to rent from before making any decisions.

If you take into account all of the above, you and your family should be on your way to having a fun, trouble free Christmas skiing vacation.

Next : Ski Deals

 

If you’re planning to go , you may be worried about the price tag. There are a number of ways to have a great vacation on a budget, if you are prepared to plan ahead and make some sacrifices.

The first thing on the agenda is to find an affordable destination. Many resorts are well-known, populated by the rich and famous. While the chance to catch a glimpse of your favorite star on the slopes may be appealing, it is a slim chance that is not worth the additional outlay. Lesser known resorts will have a better price. You usually can find vacation packages.

A motel in a town near the slopes will be cheaper than the fancy resort on the mountain too. You also have more options for food. You can save more for a self catering deal. If you’re traveling as a family, this is your best option.

You will also need equipment. You probably wont want to spend money on something you’ll never use again. Resorts usually have rental places. They may even buy used equipment. Compare rental costs to the cost of buying and selling the used equipment to find out which option will be more affordable. Check whether they have any used equipment you can buy at the same time.

Buy your own ski clothing. You will also need to pack and transport them. Ski clothing is bulky, although not necessarily heavy. You will need a ski suit, or pants and jacket, and a ski sweater. If you are going for a two week vacation, this can rapidly fill up your suitcase. Depending on how you are travelling and the size and weight requirements for your luggage, you may find it easier and more affordable to mail your ski clothing in a package to the resort. Be sure to advise them that the parcel is arriving, and ask them to hold it for you until you arrive.

To get started, try some group lessons. One on one lessons are more expensive. Some people will need more help than others. You may even find a resort with a ski school.

With investigation, you can find an affordable ski vacation. The trip is about the fun, not how fancy the resort is.

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Following my recent post about the affluence in Monaco, I though I’d write a quick article about Courchevel 1850, which is the wintersport equivalent of Monaco.

My wife and I went to Courchevel in 2008, and it was an experience we will never forget. When we arrived at the Geneva airport, it was snowing, and the taxi up to 1850 was absolutely terrifying because of the mass of falling snow. Sitting in a taxi with no snow chains and goingvery high up a narrow steep road was not one of my favorite moments.

Needless to say, we arrived at our hotel, Hotel Des Trois Vallees, an absolutely immaculate hotel which catered to all of our needs and more. I really can’t praise this hotel enough; the staff were perfection itself and the food was to die for! It was a -in -out hotel situated right in the heart of 1850.

Courchevel 1850 is part of the 3 Vallees, which has unrivaled opportunities for all skill levels. We had a 3 Vallees pass and during the week that we used to its full potential,  as far as Val Thorens. Whilst we were there the weather was great: it seemed to snow slightly at night and was sunny every day. I actually skied in my t-shirt one afternoon.

The amount of skiing available can be a bit daunting, but I would suggest that you plan to get to one resort per day and just take your time to enjoy the cafes and restaurants on the mountain. We also took a picnic up one day and just stopped off piste, which was brilliant.

Courchevel 1850 has a reputation for being expensive, and it’s a reputation well earned. Everything is expensive and caters to the richer among us, from the  stupidly priced restaurants right down to a bottle of coke.

If you like to do a bit of celebrity spotting whilst you ski then definitely go to Courchevel. We ended up chatting to Lee Dixon (ex Arsenal player) in Le Bar Jump one day, and apparently the Beckhams were in town, but we never saw them.

Courchevel 1850 is a definite ‘must see’ which rivals Monaco for sheer opulence and rich people. If you would like to ski Courchevel 1850 then you can do it on a budget by not actually staying in 1850, and just visiting it, as long as you have a 3 Vallees ski pass. A good place to do this from is Le Praz, a small village further down the mountain that is much cheaper.

We flew from Leeds Bradford Airport with Jet2 and got our Leeds Bradford airport parking and ski insurance from UK Airport Car Parks, the usual place we get these things from.

 

There is some dissent as to the best places in the world to so only a sample can be offered here. Some areas of the world show up on all the best of the best lists. And what’s a great place to without a vibrant nightlife and fun things to do in the surrounding area? Continue reading »

 

There are but a few French resorts which cater for all levels of abilities, with Tignes falling into this category. In fact, when it comes to diversity, Tignes apartments can’t be beaten in the Northern region of the . Looking to sightsee during time away from the ski slopes? Continue reading »

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