Tag Archives: self drive

How not to drive to a ski resort in the Alps… #fail

There are many ways of setting up your roofrack, roof box and skis if you are planning to drive to the Alps.

This, however, is definitely not one of them…

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Not very aerodynamic

Ask Rob: “Should I take snow chains with me when I drive to the Alps?”

In the latest of our Ask Rob video series, Jeremy Robb asks “Should I take snow chains with me when I drive to the Alps?”

Ask your question using our Facebook page, Twitter or this blog.

For more information on holidays please go to our website or call 0845 863 0525

Ask Rob: “How long will it take me to drive to Alpe d’Huez?”

 In the latest of our Ask Rob video series, Maggie Yelland asks “How long will it take me to drive to Alpe d’Huez?”

 

Ask your question using our Facebook page, Twitter or this blog.

For more information on holidays please go to our website or call 0845 863 0525

Our Top 15 Money Saving Ski Holiday Tips

As featured in the Erna Low Ski Report 2011/12, we bring you our Top 15 Money Saving Ski Holiday Tips:

1. Book early – and take advantage of precious Early Bird discounts of up to 20%

2. Choose lesser known resorts – cheaper accommodation, cheaper lift passes and cheaper après ski

3. Self drive – you know it makes sense. Convenient with kids; fun exploration on your journey; use our free Eurotunnel FlexiPlus upgrade for maximum freedom

4. Self cater – less expensive than catered chalets and hotels; easy on tired children; relaxed and informal; masses of top end, spacious and elegant accommodation to choose from

5. Choose off-peak dates when you can but if restricted to school holidays, opt for Christmas or Easter rather than New Year and Half Term

6. Purchase groceries before you reach the resort – buy in the valley or bring supplies with you so you have total control over your Euro household expenditure. Remember staples like coffee, preserves, dishwasher tablets – fill your boots!

7. Pre-book your extras – take advantage of preferential ski hire, ski school and lift passes available through your tour operator

8. Take it with you – that’s not just food but expensive sun screens, essential sunglasses, ski accessories – hats, gloves scarves – it’s miserable without them and expensive locally

9. Free ski passes – there are some great offers for young kids and senior skiers in some resorts such as La Plagne and Les Arcs

10. Keep your après ski costs to a minimum – and still have fun. Check out free events such as night time ski descents; take the family swimming or ice skating; hire a toboggan; pack your favourite books, games and DVDs to avoid expensive local impulse buying

11. Stock up on bumper packs of snacks; pack a picnic for the slopes, it’s still the same view and the same sun – but don’t forget the waterproof travel rug; enjoy produce the from local bakeries and delis

12. Watch where the seasonnaires and students hang out; guaranteed to be good value. Just party and they’ll soon overlook your age!

13. Check out Happy Hours – a different bar every day if you’re organised. You do deserve it after a hard day on the slopes. Just remember to leave after 60 minutes!

14. Avoid an avalanche of hidden costs - Check your provider charges for roaming costs making and receiving calls and voice mails. Internet? Sign up for Skype

15. Money – consult a site like Martin’s Money Saving Tips for best deals on credit cards – using plastic overseas can result in a mountain of hidden charges. For currency purchase – pre-purchase online using services like HiFX, compare websites, commission, delivery charges and exchange rates

2011 12 brochure Our Top 15 Money Saving Ski Holiday Tips