If you are thinking about hitting the slopes for your next winter trip, choosing a ski resort may seem like a daunting task. There is no earth of places where you can go to. While all resorts will allow you to ski, naturally, there are a number of between them, making some better options than others depending on your wants and needs. Here are a few helpful tips.
1. Are You on a Budget?
If you are on a budget, you might consider forgoing the typical ski destinations for ones more off-the-beaten-path. You can still have a great experience while saving significant amounts of cash. If you will be hitting the slopes in Europe for example, instead of opting for the classic destinations of Switzerland, Austria or France, why not think about heading east? There are lots of great resorts like Poiana Brasov in Romania or Bansko in Bulgaria. Not only will you pay less, you will enjoy a less-crowded atmosphere.
If your schedule allows, go earlier or later in the season. Choose a smaller resort for more savings. Opt for self-catering accommodations to cook at least a few meals.
2. Traveling Considerations
The logistics of getting to a particular resort should be taken into consideration. If you are planning on flying to your desire destination, shop around for airfares; prior to just going with the cheapest available prices, keep in mind all the related costs associated with it, such as having to pay for carry-on luggage or extra transportation costs because you are flying into a less convenient airport. If you will be driving to your destination, what will the traffic situation be like on the day you are planning to go? Will weather conditions potentially put a damper on a road trip? What are the costs for parking your car each day? The duration you have for your trip is another consideration-if you only have a few days, you may choose not to want to spend a lot of time inside the car, for example.
3. Amenities and Atmosphere
Do you want to be in a bustling ski town where there is tons of stuff to do and an active nightlife or do you want a more relaxed atmosphere where you can just unwind at the end of the day with some hot chocolate by the fire? Different resorts draw different types of people. If you want somewhere more relaxed, a spot frequented by college students during winter break is not the best choice. Do you want a large selection of restaurants or do you want to be near ample shopping? Do you want to do other non-skiing activities, like ice skating? Don’t just focus on what the resort offers on-site but what may be going on in the town. Check the local tourism board for more information.
4. Look for Package Deals
Skiing is an expensive sport, but that does not mean that you have to spend a fortune to hit the slopes. There are lots of great package deals that include lift tickets, accommodation and equipment rental for a very reasonable price. This is not the type of trip where you just book the first resort you come across.
5. Get Lessons
As a first-time skier, a good ski-lesson package deal can make your trip more enjoyable. You may find it reluctant to spend some money, but if you really don’t know how to ski, you will get much more from the experience if you get some expert instruction. Investigate lesson packages at the resorts under consideration. Look for things like all-day lift tickets to the learning area, ski gear and at least one lesson that is at least two hours long. If your packages don’t include gear, make sure the resort has a ski shop on site for easy rental.
