Skiing holidays are growing in popularity but, contrary to popular belief, they are becoming more accessible financially due to lower airfares, greater competition between resorts and the wider availability of discount equipment and clothing. For the first-time skier heading to wintry climes to enjoy gliding down snowy slopes, inhale the sharp mountain air or marvel at the stunning surroundings, it’s an exciting proposition – but also a potentially confusing one. How do I find a suitable resort? Do I need lessons? What equipment do I need to take?
Choosing a Ski Resort
With literally thousands of pistes in Europe there’s plenty of choice but it’s important that you head for a ski resort cut-out to help you, as a novice skier, learn the basics rather than propelling you at 60mph down a sheer slope. Research the different resorts located close to the airports to which you can conveniently fly and find out which have nursery slopes as this is where you are likely to begin your skiing. Resorts suitable for families could be a useful starting point as many children will be absolute beginners too.
Consider a package skiing holiday from a major tour operator as you might benefit from an all-inclusive deal that includes flights, transfers, accommodation, skiing lessons and lift passes, enabling you to concentrate on acquiring new skills.
Skiing Lessons
In all probability you will want to receive some tuition in the basics (unless you want to discover for yourself how to stop, for instance, but you don’t want to find that it’s the nearest tree that breaks your descent). So find out what lessons are on offer in your chosen resort. Instructors should be fully qualified members of your destination country’s association (the PSIA in the US, for example).
Also bear in mind that your instructor should be able to converse with you in English, otherwise you might not actually learn much. Many British instructors who are registered members of the British Association of Snowsport Instructors are now authorised to work on the slopes in Europe.
Clothing and Equipment
You wouldn’t buy a horse for one riding lesson so don’t be tempted to blow the budget kitting yourself out for a week in Chamonix. Thick jumpers and fleece jackets can be worn under insulated winter coats. Waterproof ski pants, good quality gloves (not your best patterned knitted ones) and snow boots may be your only significant investments at this stage; you can always upgrade your wardrobe later once you are certain that skiing is for you.
Helmets are recommended in most resorts and in some countries are legal requirements, so check before you travel whether you’ll need one.
While hiring equipment in resort can be expensive, you may judge that for a first-time skiing trip it’s not worth the investment if you’re not sure that you’ll tackle the snowy slopes again. If you do opt to take your own skis, check with your airline if you’ll have to pay a surcharge to place them in the hold.
Keeping Healthy
Remember that skiing is an active outdoor sport that will test your body like never before so it is important to take plenty of drinks and snacks with you onto the slopes, especially as the high altitude and dry air will dehydrate you more quickly. Most resorts have mountain cafes where you can refuel and soak up the stunning scenery at the same time.
Insurance
In short, don’t even consider leaving home without it. Your standard overseas policy probably won’t cover you, so invest in a tailor-made policy designed for skiers to ensure that you are fully protected in the event of disaster.
Skiing is an invigorating winter sport and you’ll be surprised how quickly you progress. But as a first-time skier, presume that you know nothing and plan ahead to make your experience as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible.
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Article Source: Tips For A First Ski Holiday