Crystal Ski to encourage Brits to #SkiSafe
Crystal Ski teams up with The Foreign & Commonwealth Office to encourage Brits to #SkiSafe this Easter
As Crystal Ski Holidays reveals its top five spots for guaranteed snow this Easter, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is offering tips on how to get the most from a trip whilst staying safe on the slopes. It is important to recognise that a range of hazards can arise during any winter sports trip and although some can’t be avoided, travellers need to be well prepared to avoid getting caught in a slippery situation.
Crystal’s top five spots tipped for snow include:
- Tignes & Val d’Isère - offering some of the best skiing in Europe with guaranteed snow all season long. Espace Killy also boasts great off-piste skiing and board parks.
- Val Thorens - as Europe’s highest skiing resort, Val Thorens is one of the best places for snow on the continent. What’s more, with hidden gems Orelle and La Masse on your doorstep, there are miles of skiing on offer.
- Sölden - featured in the latest James Bond film, Spectre, and with two glaciers – Sölden is a unique spectacle and tipped for snow this Easter.
- Obergurgl & Hochgurgl - the highest parish in Austria and with broad open slopes that merit a late season visit, Obergurgl and Hochgurgl will be a sure bet for snow during the holidays.
- Zermatt & Cervinia - spectacularly situated beneath the majestic Matterhorn, Zermatt and Cervinia offer fantastic skiing, picturesque surroundings and lively nightlife.
Paul Rodwell at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “We want everyone to #SkiSafe this Easter and enjoy their holiday. This means following our top ten tips. Sadly accidents do happen and here at the Foreign Office we would prefer that people enjoy their holiday rather than spend it in hospital or worse. Prevention is definitely better than cure.”
Crystal Overseas Director Nikki Hooper commented: “Although it started slowly in places, this season has produced some fantastic snow fall and great conditions for skiers of all abilities. However, no matter what the weather, accidents can happen. That’s why we encourage all winter sports enthusiasts to stay safe in the mountains and take out winter sports travel insurance for their holiday.”
Ten top tips from the FCO to #SkiSafe:
Pre-departure
1. Take out comprehensive travel insurance with winter sports cover and check what it covers
2. If heading to Europe, travel with a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to get free necessary treatment at public hospitals
3. Make sure your passport is valid before you travel
4. Check the FCO’s travel advice for the country you are visiting
5. Keep up to date with the local weather conditions before you go and while you’re in resort
In resort
6. Stick with your mates when walking back to your hotel or chalet and follow the signed paths
7. Only ski off-piste if you are a confident skier, aware of the risks and are with a qualified guide
8. Wear a helmet
9. Remember the effects of drinking alcohol increase at altitude – your judgment, coordination and reaction times may be affected
10. Make sure you and your friends know that in an emergency, the number to call is 112 in Europe and 911 in USA
Related Pages
Tignes
Snow sure, true boarders' moonscape Great all-round resort with something for everyone, no matter what your ability. However, watch out some for long lift queues and crowds during school holidays and weekends.
Val d'Isere
Great mountain, expensive town. Overall, Val d'Isere has something for everyone. There's varying terrain for all abilities, some great off-piste and a good snow record but be ready to pay for it. They take card and cash, don't you worry.