Frequently Asked Questions
What is glacier skiing?
Glaciers are covered with snow in winter. Ski and board runs are created on top of the snow and because of the cold ice underneath, glacier skiing is very snow sure. However there are hidden dangers such as crevasses so it is very important to stick to the marked areas and not stray off-piste.
What is après ski?
Après ski literally means after ski and it has become a general term used to describe nightlife and entertainment away from the piste. Après ski can include everything from lively bars at the foot of the slopes to refined restaurants and varies from country to country and even resort to resort. So whether you want wild parties or relaxed cosy bars check out the après-ski descriptions for each resort.
I am worried about poor snow conditions. Friends have told me to book a resort with high altitude slopes. Is this true?
Whilst resorts with slopes at high altitude (generally above 2000m) do have good snow records it is also important to look at latitude. For example Finland is very far north so although the slopes are very low in terms of altitude the snow is very reliable. Direction of slopes is also important. North facing slopes tend to keep the snow longer late in the season or in warmer weather. Resorts with glacier skiing have guaranteed skiing and boarding throughout the season and often also in summer.
Will my ski/board instructor speak English?
All of the ski and board schools we work with have English speaking instructors and in many cases employ native English speakers.
Is there skiing/boarding on Christmas day?
Yes. Lifts, ski schools, bars and restaurants are open throughout the season in all of the resorts Kuoni Snow feature. In Europe Christmas Eve is generally the day when the locals celebrate Christmas with gala dinners in the high quality hotels and torchlight descents. In contrast New Year tends to be a very big celebration often with firework displays, parties and gala dinners.
Do I need a photo for my lift pass?
This varies from resort to resort. Full details will be provided in your itinerary which you will receive with you tickets approximately 4 weeks before your departure.
Is skiing/snowboarding covered by my insurance?
You must check your insurance policy to confirm that it does cover you for skiing or snowboarding. Kuoni travel insurance offers ski cover for an additional premium.
Is it possible for non-skiers to go up the mountain?
Yes. In most resorts there are one or two lifts (usually gondolas or cable cars or mountain railways) that can take non-skiers to view points and mountain restaurants enabling them to meet friends for lunch etc. In some resorts walker's passes are available to give access to a variety of lifts and cleared paths.
At what age can I take my children skiing?
It really depends on the child in question and how physically able they are as it can be tiring. Some resorts offer ski kindergartens for children from 3 years which will involve childcare and gentle skiing to familiarize them to the feeling of skis and boots . Children must be out of nappies to be accepted into kindergartens. Structured ski lessons normally start from 4 or 5 years upwards. However a 4 year old beginner would normally start in a ski kindergarten environment. Children must have suitable clothing including gloves (not woollen), ski socks, thermals, ski jacket and trousers or all in one suit, hats, sunglasses/goggles and sun block. Children can get cold very quickly which will really put them off so ensure they are adequately kitted out.
Snowboarding lessons normally start from 7 or 8 years upwards as younger children cannot normally control a board.
We are considering our first winter holiday and are not sure if we will like skiing. What resort would you recommend for us to try?
The best idea is to choose a resort which has good nursery slopes and is recommended for beginners but that also has a range of non skiing activities such as tobogganing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or dog-sledding. Therefore if you find skiing is not for you there are plenty of other fabulous winter activities to enjoy. Check out the activity information on the resort pages.
