Booking your first ski holiday or snowboard holiday can be daunting and it’s usually best to seek the advice of a tour operator.
Booking your first ski holiday or snowboard holiday can be daunting and it’s usually best to seek the advice of a tour operator.
Friends who already ski might have their own ideas, but make sure they are really recommending resorts that will suit you as a first timer, not just places they like.
Tour Operators
One good idea is to look at ski areas recommended by some of Britain’s big tour operators. Companies like Crystal Ski Holidays use their huge industry knowledge to point you in the right direct of resorts and properties within resorts that are perfect for beginners, so it’s worth checking their recommendations.
Choosing a Place to Stay
There are many options available, but two of the most common ones are hotels and apartments. How do you decide which one is best for you? Here are some factors to consider:
- Budget: One of the main differences between hotels and apartments is the price. Hotels tend to be more expensive than apartments, as they offer more services and facilities, such as breakfast and half board, or a spa. Apartments, on the other hand, are usually cheaper and more flexible, as you can cook your own meals, choose your own schedule, and share the cost with your friends or family. However, you should also factor in the extra expenses that you may incur when staying in an apartment, such as cleaning fees, or groceries.
- Location: Another important factor to consider is the location of your accommodation. Both hotels and apartments can have great locations, as they are often situated in the resort centre or on the slopes, giving you easy access to the ski area, the shops, the restaurants and the nightlife. Sometimes, accommodation may be located further away from the ski resort, requiring you to drive, take a bus or walk to the slopes.
- Space: The size and layout of your accommodation can also affect your comfort and enjoyment. Hotels usually offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, and these can be cosy or spacious. Apartments, on the other hand, usually offer more amenities, such as a kitchen, a living room and sometimes a balcony. This can be ideal for larger groups or families, as you can have more room to relax, socialise and enjoy the evenings relaxing together.
- Service: The level and quality of service that you receive can also make a difference to your ski holiday. Hotels usually provide professional and attentive service, such as daily cleaning androom service. Apartments, however, usually offer fewer or no services, as you are responsible for your own cleaning and cooking.
- Atmosphere: The atmosphere and vibe of your accommodation can also influence your mood and experience. Hotels can have a more formal atmosphere, as they cater to a diverse group of guests. They can also offer more facilities such as a bar, a restaurant or a spa. Apartments, however, can be more casual and homely atmosphere. They can sometimes also offer more privacy and intimacy.
As you can see, there are pros and cons to both hotels and apartments when it comes to skiing accommodation. The best choice for you depends on your personal preferences, needs and expectations. Crystal can help you plan the perfect holiday. Their friendly staff are on hand to answer all your questions.
Beginner skiing in Bjelašnica, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s highest ski resort;
Borovets Ski Holidays – Great-value skiing and very lively nightlife, in a beautiful woodland setting.
Arinsal Ski Holidays – Good-value pick with heaps of beginner slopes in the Pal Arinsal ski area.
