Learn To Ski : Ski Trip Planning

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Ski trips are the focus of this installment of our learn to ski guide.

Character and ambiance are just two of the many features of a resort that you will need to think about before selecting the right one for your ski trip; other considerations being budget, location, and what facilities are offered. We can break these important factors down into smaller components. . . .

When it comes to location, Canada, France, and the United States are the most popular destinations, but also attracting a good number of skiers are Andorra, Austria, Bulgaria, Italy and, of course, Switzerland. While prices may vary a great deal during different times of the year, the better-known countries will most likely be more expensive. Avoiding the peak season by traveling during the beginning or end of a season can result in cost savings to you.

As far as costs go, just some of the outlay for your trip will go towards travel and lodging as well as expenses for food and beverages, but you must also remember that you will be paying for passes, maybe lessons, equipment rental, and a very important, but often over-looked expense, insurance. Research the cost of things at resorts as well as the costs of getting to and staying there. Because there is little competition for retailers in the mountain resorts, prices tend to be higher than they are at home. Taking whatever you can with you and paying for things online in advance can help to minimize outgoings.

Having decided on a location, evaluate the types and quality of facilities offered at the resorts in that country. Look at how many slopes they have, the availability of ski schools, what other activities can be undertaken (snowboarding, tobogganing, ice skating, etc.), what sort of lodging is available (hotels, chalets, dormitories, etc.) and the number of bars and restaurants. Keep in mind that higher prices do not always mean better quality, and that prices can vary wildly among resorts. Considering resorts in countries that do not yet have reputations in the ski community could save you money – there are resorts in Andorra and Bulgaria, for example, that boast facilities that put the larger, more well-regarded resorts to shame at a fraction of the cost of the better-known inns.

Then you’ll want to look into the character and ambiance of potential resorts. If you are envisioning a small-town setting, where you can experience local hospitality, then you will not want to select a modern resort that is a small city unto itself; and on the other hand, if you want the newest high-tech facilities, you will want to stay away from quaint little mountain towns. Shy away from resorts that attract a party-crowd if your plan is to turn in early and hit the slopes while the snow is fresh; but if you want the energetic party atmosphere, do not choose a location where it’s lights-out at 10:00 p.m. You can find a resort that caters to your taste with a quiet, homey atmosphere, a well-defined party vibe, or a little of both and researching on the front end is the best way to determine what will make your stay a good one.

The internet can be your source for finding out all of this information; view a resort’s official website and also find reviews of them by entering ‘resort name + review’ into an internet search engine.

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