A2A How to ski the Alps : simplebooklet.com

Countries to exploreThe lowdown on Switzerland,Italy, France and Austria.0809When to goWinter lasts 6 months in theAlps - so when is the best timeto go?Half a dozen highlightsThe best parts of Europe thatcombine brilliantly with the Alps.10Top ski areasWhich are the ski areas youneed to know about?1812Road trippingAdvice on putting together anAlpine road trip.26Accommodations,activities & add-onsThe types of places to stay andactivities to suggest to make youstand outWhy choose us?The benefits of booking yourclients’ trip with us.0504America2AlpsWho we are and what we do.06Enjoyable planningBuild a connection with us andyour client for better results.TABLE OFContents- 3 -

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We want to show you aroundthe Alps and beyond. Why?Because we are deeply in lovewith this mountain range, itsscenery, the food, the wine, thesnow, the places and the people- and we are pretty sure youwill feel the same way. We have extensive experienceskiing all over the world, withover 100 European ski areasunder our belt, as well as havingskied Colorado, Utah, California,Alaska, Argentina, the Arcticand New Zealand.We have over 2 decades ofdesigning and arrangingbespoke trips around the world,finding cool and exciting thingsfor clients to do and ensuringthey have a memorable andenjoyable trip.Based in London, UK, we areperfectly positioned betweenthe Western Hemisphere andthe Alps so that we can workwith you during the planningand booking phase, and then weare on hand to ensure the tripgoes exactly as planned.WHO ARE AMERICA2ALPS? Will, FounderWill has been addicted to the mountains since his first ski tripto the Dolomites in the Italian Alps at the age of seven. In thenearly 40 years since then, he's skied all over the Alps, livedand worked there and met his wife and got engaged there. Will is a qualified ski instructor who spends as much time ashe can hunting for powder.Exciting ski trips, custom-designed for you and your entiregroup, ensuring you get more than just the mountains on yourtrip. For many US skiers, exploring the Alps is a long-held ambition.Something they’ve always wanted to do, but perhaps been putoff by the distance, the cost, the language barrier and the factthat there is superb skiing at home. However now more and more US skiers are realizing that theAlps offer a fantastic value for money as prices rise in theStates for everything from lift tickets, to tuition andaccommodations. Skiing in the Alps is still the same sport, sliding across thesnow, but it’s also the chance to discover a vibrant mountainculture that has existed for centuries, meet the mountainpeople who live in and around the region, have a go at theirlanguages, enjoy their food and drink and join them to explorethe beautiful landscapes on skis or snowboards. With extensive experience skiing in over 100 places in the Alps,in every country, matched with 20 years of traveling and skiingall over the USA we know the differences between the two, andwe can work with you to find the places that match yourpassions, listen to your requirements and design the ideal trip. MEET OUR FOUNDER- 4 -TALK TO UStoll-free on 1-877-797-0720 WhatsApp wa.me/447440677183info@america2alps.comwww.america2alps.comBoating on Lake Como, Italy

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We want to work with you to create excitement,anticipation and connection so that youremember the entire process as something funand enjoyable. Whether you already have a good idea of whereyou would like to visit, or have no fixed plans,we are here to help you with first-handknowledge of the Alps and what it’s like to skiand explore there. You can get in contact with us in multipledifferent ways - via a toll-free US number,through Whatsapp, on a video call or by email.MAKING THE PLANNING FUNWe believe that your vacation starts when you reach out withyour first ideas.01- 5 -The more information we can gather, the betterwe can customize the trip to what you want.We’ll spend some time talking through plans andoptions on a video call, find out what your idealtrip would be like, take into account non-skiers,beginners, intermediates and experts, then wecan offer a carefully-selected range of places tostay, experienced ski instructors and guides, lifttickets, private transfers or car rental and extratouches like restaurant recommendations andadvice on celebrating a special occasion. 02When everything is just right we will confirm theplans and keep you informed every step of theway. Before you depart we provide apersonalized guidebook on where to ski andwhat to do in your spare time and answer anyquestions such as how to get your equipmentserviced, or what to do with your luggage. 03We’re on the Alpine time zone, so we are onhand to help while you travel and answer anyquestions you may have. 04TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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Ski knowledge you can rely on We have got over two decades’ worth of experience designing and operatingcustomized luxury trips across the world, including the Americas, so we cansay we bring as balanced a view as possible to the merits and drawbacks ofthe Alps versus the Rockies, the Andes, Alaska or even the Southern Alps inNew Zealand. We have also got extensive experience across the Alpinenations, having lived and skied in Switzerland, Italy, France, and Austria. WHY CHOOSE US?America2Alps is the culmination of years of passion for the mountains and skiing acrossthe world. We love skiing everywhere but always return to our home range. We have skiedin over 100 of the Alps’ ski resorts and head back every winter.- 6 -Carefully chosen accommodations We love a well-run hotel, cozy chalet or stylish condo overlooking the slopes,as well as a cute boutique city hotel. We’ve spent 20 years in charge ofselecting the accommodations for leading UK and US tour operators and weonly work with partners who will look after you and make sure that you havea fantastic time. Skilled instructors and knowledgeable guidesYou may be pleasantly surprised by the cost of quality ski instruction inEurope, and suddenly a week of lessons to reach the next level for you or thekids may not seem so extravagant. We only use fully certified instructors who can deliver well-thought outlesson plans in your language and we can arrange all sorts of special services.You need a diaper-changing instructor for your toddler? We can find theright person. If you’re already an expert you may want to hunt some powder. Europeworks differently to the States when it comes to mountain safety. Whilegroomed trails are secured against avalanches, most areas outside of this areto be tackled at your own risk. This makes a knowledgeable guide the numberone safety accessory. Not only that, they also find the best snow and havegreat information about the ski area and life in the country. TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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Cultural exploration Coming to Europe is about more than just the skiing, because there are greatplaces to do that in the US. We want to help you explore the culture of thedestination, getting to enjoy regional food and drink, meet local people andsee the most interesting things. Whether that’s exploring the back streets ofVenice during the quieter winter months, book-ending a spring ski trip withtime spent in the Italian lakes or seeing the sights of Paris, London or Rome,we can arrange accommodations, guides and experiences that will give youplenty to remember and talk about when you return home. - 7 -Everything in one placeWe can arrange everything you might need, from a private transfer to takeyou from home to the airport to car rental when you land. We work with topquality hotels and apartments to fit everyone from those traveling solo, tothose in a big family group. We can book the finest places in the Alps, orsomewhere simple and comfortable in a great location. If you want to cover alot of ground, we can book local flights and trains, and if you’re keen tomaximize your time we can arrange skilled instructors and guides to get youto where you need to be. We also are specialists in Switzerland, Italy, Franceand Austria, so we can help with multi-country trips and give unbiasedsuggestions.Protection for your moneyAll money paid to us is protected by a combination of our bond with theAssociation of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (ABTOT) and our Air TravelOrganisers’ Licensing (ATOL) accreditation. This means that in the unlikely event that we cease operating your trip willbe completed or the money paid will be refunded so you can book withconfidence safe in the knowledge you are protected.TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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For many Switzerland is the Alps, and the Swisshave been honing their hospitality skills fordecades. More complex than it might at firstappear, Switzerland blends a range of languagesand cultures into a compact, scenic country.Quality and thoughtfulness are always inevidence and it’s difficult to find a bad hotel ormeal. Skiing is a way of life, and historicmountain villages are everywhere. The historydoes mean villages aren’t often ski-in, ski-out –they existed well before skiing was a thing – butit does add a huge amount of character.Switzerland outside of the mountains is vibrantas well as traditional, and major cities haveplenty to see and do on a manageable scale. COUNTRIES TO EXPLOREThere are four major Alpine nations, each with a different character.01- 8 -The Alps crown Italy’s mountainous north,running the entire width of the country. Italyshares the range’s highest peaks with Franceand Switzerland in the west, while in the east ithas arguably the prettiest scenery of all in thepink-hued Dolomites. Skiing on the sunny sideof the Alps is punctuated by stops for greatcoffee and next-level pizza and pasta, but thereare serious adventures to be had for those whowant it, such as touring from rifugio to rifugio.A short hop from the mountains you’ll find thelakes, often enjoying spring weather while thesnow lingers higher up. Great cities like Milanand Venice are within easy striking distance, anddon’t discount Rome and the Amalfi Coast on alonger trip.02France claims the highest mountain in WesternEurope, and the town at its base, Chamonix, isone of the great mountain towns, full of thoseplotting an assault on the glaciers above. Franceis also home to high, ski-in, ski-out areas withmiles and miles of slopes. In many you could skitwo weeks without repeating the same run. Away from the snow there are Roman remainsto explore, the culinary center of Lyons, theglamor of the Côte d’Azur, the vineyards ofBordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne, and ofcourse, Paris. The capital is frequently the mostconvenient route into the country, so adding acouple of nights is a no-brainer.03For pure Alpine culture, Austria is the place togo. Combining state-of-the-art snowmakingwith modern lift systems, the skiing is excellentand a marked contrast to the purpose-builtresorts in France. Here ancient villages arecosseted by wooded mountains, family-runhotels offer a traditional welcome and the pridein being the most successful ski racing nation ispalpable. Après-ski is unique and committed,with a distinctive form of dance music anddancing on tables in ski boots from theafternoon onwards. Off-mountain the glories ofImperial Vienna beg to be discovered, andhitting the Sound of Music trail is also an option.04TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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November is when ski areasstart to tease their openings,and if snow allows you may finda few open at weekends. Theexceptions to this are the reallyhigh glacial resorts like Zermatt,and Hintertux in the Zillertal,which will have been operatingfor much of the year. InNovember you can expect thereto be a solid amount of terrainopen - although usually limitedto groomers - and the resortsthemselves are starting to feelfestive in the run-up to theholiday season.WHEN TO GO- 9 -December can be quiet andsnowy in the first half, butheading to a high resort is thesafest strategy. From around aweek before Christmas until justafter New Year it is peak seasonand everywhere will be busy andvibrant. The atmosphere in themountains is electric butbooking several months out isvital to secure the rightaccommodations, instructorsand restaurant tables. Localknowledge of how to beat thecrowds is invaluable at this time.January brings coldtemperatures and snow, makingthis the prime month for thosewho like to ski powder. It’s alsomuch quieter than bothDecember and February, sothere are deals to be had andthere is less pressure oneverything, from queues for liftsto queues at the bar. Resortworkers are feeling cheery aftermaking it through December soyou can expect service with asmile at this time of year.If you want the best ski conditions, mid-winter is hard to beat, but with young kids or if you enjoy long, sunnylunches, spring is a fine time to visit. Combine fall trips with glacier skiing, and plan well ahead for vacationperiods. Read on for our month-by-month guide.February brings Valentine’s Dayand Carnival - the latter being amajor festival in many parts ofthe Alps, with people dressingup in costumes and enjoyingeating and drinking beforegiving something up for Lent. It’salso another peak period, withschool vacations around Europemaking the slopes busy with kidsbombing around behind theirinstructors. Book well inadvance for lessons and expectthat queues will be longer at thistime.March starts to feel very spring-like and warmer, longer daysreturn to the Alps. It helps tohave a local guide to find thebest snow at the best time ofday. The weather is also oftengreat for sitting outside at lunchor for après-ski, and it’simportant to apply thesunscreen liberally to avoid thegoggle-tan look. Depending onwhen Easter falls March can bequiet and excellent value. Lowerresorts will start to close at theend of the month.April is the end of the season fornon-glacial resorts and, Easteraside, is usually blessed withmild temperatures and emptyslopes. The high resorts oftenstill have excellent snow rightthrough the month, but thestrong sun can turn lower slopesto slush. The best strategy inthis case is to ski early and havea late lunch, enjoying the sun ona terrace. Off the mountain,exploration is made pleasant bywarmer weather and sunnierskies.TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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Venice is beautiful, historic, iconic and, well, quite popular.Summer months see visitors thronging the narrow streetsand demand for spaces on board the vaporetti is at apremium. Winter and early spring may be chilly, and weathermore of a gamble in general, but if you’re kitted out for a skitrip you can handle most of what northern Italy can throw atyou. Carnival is the same date as Mardi Gras, making spring aprime time to visit, but still much quieter than peak season,and with a unique atmosphere created by the elaboratecostumes and masks that adorn revellers. Combine withCortina d’Ampezzo in the Dolomites.HALF A DOZEN EUROPEAN HIGHLIGHTSThese destinations make great combinations01- 10 -Verona has an astonishingly well-preserved historical core,including an amphitheater that is almost unchanged sinceEmperor Claudius decided he wanted a new venue for anight out. With some of Italy’s finest restaurants as well asthe top-three Italian wine Amarone being produced locally,dining here is a serious business, and the manageable scaleof the pedestrianized heart makes it a pleasure to strollaround finding places that take your fancy. Of course it isalso home to the (fictional) Juliet’s house which is good for aphoto op, but a minor part of this city’s attraction. Combinewith Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Dolomites.02London is a short flight from almost anywhere in the Alps, soif you are looking to do a trip taking in a few stops it makesgood sense to fly into and out of here. London is also a citythat thrives in the winter time, with interesting museums,plentiful activities to keep all members of the familyentertained and cozy cafés, restaurants and pubs to shelterin if the weather’s not on your side. With the NFL’sInternational Series it’s even possible to come to London towatch the game before heading for an early season ski trip inAustria. Combine with the Zillertal Valley.03TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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Arriving into Paris kicks a trip off in style. One of the world’smost photogenic and recognizable cities will have youpinching yourself that you are actually looking at the EiffelTower, hitting the streets of Montmartre or finding a greatlittle bistro in the Marais. Paris is well-connected by rail tothe mountains, including by high speed trains or overnightsleeper trains where you can book a comfortablecompartment, so you can travel onward with a lowerenvironmental impact. Combine with Chamonix, the 3Vallées, Paradiski, Val d’Isère, Verbier, Crans-Montana andZermatt.HALF A DOZEN EUROPEAN HIGHLIGHTSThese destinations make great combinations04- 11 -The Bavarian capital, Munich, sits on the northern edge ofthe Alps, in southern Germany. On a clear day you can seethe mountains rise abruptly, lending the city a fairytalebackdrop, accentuated by the fairytale architecture dottedaround the city. Nearby Neuschwanstein Castle perches on ahilltop overlooking the lowlands and is an easy day-trip. Ifyou want to enjoy one of Europe’s biggest parties visit inOctober for the beer festival to end them all, theOktoberfest. Combine with the Zillertal, where you can skion glacial slopes for much of the year.05On the southern side of the Alps you’ll find some of Europe’smost beguiling scenery in the Italian Lakes, which includeOrta, Maggiore, Lugano, Como and Garda. Bellagio sits on apromontory in the middle of Lake Como, surrounded bymountains that in spring are lush and green, with just adusting of snow at the very top. It’s simple to get out on thewater using the local ferries to visit the historic towns thatline the shores - or you can rent your own boat to go and seethe villas where George Clooney and Anakin Skywalker liketo spend their summers. Combine with Cervinia for cross-border skiing to Zermatt.06TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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The advent of the Epic and Ikon passes havechanged the face of access to ski areas since VailResorts' original multi-ski area unlockerbounced onto the scene over 15 years ago. For apretty reasonable outlay versus a day ticketthere was suddenly the option to ski a fullseason at various cool places and in mountainranges other than those close to home. Sincethen the list of names added to the roster hasincreased exponentially, with exciting additionsaround the world now included.More and more skiers have noted that alongsidethe big hitters in North America there areseveral ones dotted around Europe. Maybe thisshould be the year when you make the tripacross the Atlantic to see what the skiingculture is like over there - but where do youstart? This guide aims to help you start thinkingabout using an Epic or Ikon pass for a trip toEurope.The ski areasEach pass has different options, spread acrossdifferent Alpine nations, some of which may tripoff the tongue more easily than others. The firstthing to do is work out which ones there are andwhat they have to offer.Ikon starts strong in Switzerland with Zermatt,home to Europe's highest lift and best-looking mountain, with extensive slopes, gnarly terrainand a seriously fancy town.St. Moritz is the second Swiss inclusion, winterplayground of the rich and, er, richer, but also aplace with high, extensive slopes.Italy is anchored by the gigantic DolomitiSuperski area which spreads across a dozen skitowns, with gently undulating slopes watchedover by sheer pink cliffs - possibly the prettiestskiing in the Alps. The big surprise here is thatdespite the Italian passport stamp, mostly you’llhear German because this is the South Tyrol,previously part of Austria. Lastly in the Alps, Chamonix Mont-Blanc iscrowned by the highest peak in the range. Amagnet for ski mountaineers and freeriders, italso allows even those with limited backcountryexperience to enjoy high-altitude glacier skiing. - 13 -More and moreskiers have notedthe ski areas dottedaround Europe.Zooming past Lake Geneva, SwitzerlandTALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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- 14 -The Epic Pass has another strongSwiss line-up, kicking off in Verbier 4Vallées. Verbier is a boisterous, high-altitude, steep terrain ski area,attached to several more family-friendly towns which stretch across,unsurprisingly, four valleys. Crans-Montana is a sun-seeker's areawhich goes high and commandssweeping views across the RhoneValley, a massive trench bisecting theAlps. Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis, over inthe east, has benefited from lots ofinvestment to increase its appeal tothe upscale visitor, but it retains thefeel of a skier’s mountain, with steepslopes and lots of snow. In Italy again the Dolomites feature,headed up by Madonna di Campiglio. In Austria, Ski Arlberg has some of thedeepest snow, steepest terrain, cutesttowns and liveliest après-ski on offerin the Alps.Rounding off the Alpine offering, the 3Vallées is the largest fully-linked (i.e.no need to get on a bus at any point)ski area in the world. It has prettymuch everything within its giantexpanse. The Epic Pass has astrong Swiss line-upTALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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Mixing things up adds flavor, sowhile you could stick to oneEuropean destination, it'sequally valid to try and get afew into one trip (and thenpossibly add in somesightseeing on top). The Alpsspread for 750 miles fromFrance in the west to Austria inthe east, or roughly New YorkCity to Chicago. Alpine roadsare steep, winding, wet, icy andsnowy. Depending on the timeof year, month and day you aretraveling you will have tovariously share the roads withtrucks, tractors, motorcoachescarrying northern Europeanson their vacations, locals whodrive fast, visitors who driveslow and police who want toenforce chain requirements, soit invariably takes longer to getplaces than you hope. East vs West One way to limit your traveltime is to break things downinto east versus west. Thisworks best with the Epic Pass.West starts in Geneva (orParis), heads to Verbier andCrans-Montana (there’s alsosome awesome heli-skiingaround here), before hittingAndermatt and surrounds.From here you can head homefrom Zurich. CombinationsThe eastern version of this seesyou kick things off in Zurich (orMunich) and moving on to theAndermatt region, then hittingthe Arlberg before finishing inSkirama Dolomiti. From hereyou can get home after a fewdays in Verona, Lake Garda orVenice. With the Ikon Pass the west ismore limited, and you might bebest off exploring the manydifferent areas of theChamonix Valley. These skiareas are spread out overseveral miles, connected byefficient ski buses, and all havevery different characters, fromlow and tree-lined to high andglacial. There are also several full dayadventures to be had, such asskiing the Vallée Blanche, adescent from the top of Europethrough crevasses and seracsfor 15 miles or so. There is alsogreat heli-skiing just throughthe Mont Blanc Tunnel inCourmayeur, Italy. Over in the east you couldarrive in Zurich and backtracka little to Zermatt beforemoving on to St. Moritz. It’sthen a hop over to Austria toKitzbühel before heading southto Cortina d’Ampezzo and theDolomites in the DolomitiSuperski area. Finish this routeoff with a few days in Venice,or another Italian destination. How to plan itThis is a brief summary ofwhat’s possible, when inreality anything ispossible depending onyour budget and howmuch time you have – fora more thorough runthrough of the options andhow we can make themreality reach out.- 15 -TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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- 16 -How To Get AroundIn any itinerary taking in multiple ski areas, planning the easiest way to getaround is the key. We know all the routes and will help you make it simple.Multi-stop road trips Road trips are awesome fun and wholeheartedlyrecommended, but you have to accept it meansless slope time and more travel – the focus isthe journey, seeing new places, eating new food,drinking new drinks and meeting new peoplejust as much as the skiing. The relaxing way To be totally relaxed it’s worth thinking aboutprivate transfers between destinations. Highlyexperienced locals are used to navigating theroads and their comfortable vehicles comeequipped with snow tires, chains, ski carryingcapacity and full insurance. The flexible way Driving yourself gives you more control overyour journey.The drawbacks are the time it takes to pick upand return vehicles and navigating the roads.Flights Don’t ignore the option of a flight if wanting toexplore both ends of the range. A flight daymight not be the most exciting, but it gives youthe chance to catch up on emails, watch amovie, upload pictures and rest the legs andmind. Trains The network of trains around and through theAlps is excellent, but not always the fastest.There are several routes which are useful, andwhich also help reduce the environmentalimpact of your trip, so where they are an optionwe would recommend them.

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- 17 -Choose one of these trips, orreach out to create a customplan.ZERMATT & ZURICHSwitzerland’s highest skiing andbiggest city combinedFROM$3,409perpersonDOLOMITES, VERONA & VENICEThe Alps’ most beautiful mountains andtwo of Italy’s most romantic destinationsFROM$4,629perpersonST. ANTON & SALZBURGAustria’s experts’ paradise andthe city from the Sound of MusicFROM$4,241perpersonCHAMONIX & LYONThe highest mountain in the Alpspaired with one of France’s greatgastronomic citiesFROM$3,650perpersonVERBIER & PARISThe Swiss powder capitaland the French capitalmake dream partnersFROM$3,559perpersonCERVINIA & THE ITALIAN LAKESItaly’s highest skiing is great for families andthe Italian Lakes will enchant everyoneFROM$3,999perperson3 VALLÉES & NICEMix the world’s largest skiarea with the FrenchRivieraFROM$7,539perpersonPrices correct at time of going toprint. For up to date pricing pleasecontact America2Alps.

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- 18 -There are 1,000+ ski areas in the Alps so visiting all ofthem will take a while. There are some, however, that tripoff the tongue like the most celebrated around the world.Most skiers will have heard of Aspen, Vail and Whistler nomatter where they ski normally. So what are the Alpineequivalents that you should be thinking about in yourearly planning?There are a few reasons why some European ski areasbecome better-known than their rivals. Some have out-of-this world scenery, others have miles and miles oflinked terrain over numerous valleys. There are thoseknown for attracting the most daring and skilled in searchof deep, soft snow and then there are those that possess ahistoric and picturesque town, full of fine diningrestaurants and expensive boutiques. Equally there aresome which fly under the radar, offering a fantasticexperience without the crowds of the most popular.There are certain big-name Alpine ski areasyou may already know - here is the lowdown.NEED TOKNOWTop Ski AreasMONT BLANC SEEN FROM MONT FORT, THE HIGHEST POINT IN VERBIER, SWITZERLAND

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- 19 -For scenery that requires a stop to gawp every fewhundred feet the prime contenders are in Switzerlandand Italy. The Matterhorn looms over the border-straddling ski area shared between Switzerland’sZermatt and Italy’s Cervinia. This 13,000-foot peak hasclassic good looks and steals the scene everywhere youturn. The combined ski area is also extensive, high andblessed with wonderful restaurants. Honorable mentionsgo to Switzerland’s Wengen, where the Eiger, Jungfrauand Mönch 13,000-ers form the backdrop, and Italy’sDolomites, a multi-resort region with spectacular pinkrock outcrops above the slopes.If it’s miles of linked terrain clients want then France isthe best bet. The 3 Vallées consists of several ski townsover multiple valleys, where ski days can be a journeyfrom town to town. Val Thorens is the highest ski resortout of all of them, with a good choice of ski-in, ski-outaccommodations and reliable snow all season. Runners-up are Paradiski and Val d’Isère/Tignes, both in theFrench Alps.Powder snow lovers are well-looked after in the Alps.The snowiest region is Austria’s Arlberg, with its manyresorts offering something suitable for most. Lech catersto those seeking top-quality hotels while St. Antoncaters for expert skiers and the party-minded. InSwitzerland Verbier combines high-altitude with steepterrain to form one of the most challenging areas inEurope. Chamonix, in France, gives access to the glacialVallée Blanche run - a 14 mile descent through crevassesand seracs - as well as some of Europe’s most extremeterrain.The Alps have been inhabited for centuries. Themedieval core of Kitzbühel in Austria is one of the bestplaces to feel the history, as well as being a vibrant,upscale town with great skiing. Courmayeur, on theItalian side of Mont Blanc - Monte Bianco - is anotherplace where the streets ooze character.Less well-known internationally, but worth getting toknow are Switzerland’s Crans-Montana and Andermatt- both on the Epic Pass.The top picksSKI-IN, SKI-OUT VALTHORENS, FRANCETHE MATTERHORN, ZERMATT,SWITZERLAND

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Adelboden and Lenk are two towns inthe Simmental (an area renowned for itscows and dairy production) sharing agood-sized ski area that hosts one of theseason’s top ski races. Ideal for familiesand those wanting a real Swiss feel, thisis an undiscovered gem. Stay at theLenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort, a Relais& Châteaux hotel known for itsoutstanding cuisine and selection of 30cheeses.SKI AREA QUICK GUIDE A-ZHere is a rundown of our preferred ski areas. Tried and tested resorts, they all have great reasons to visit. Weknow these places well and can arrange accommodations, transfers, lessons, guides and activities. We also noteif they are on the Epic or Ikon Pass, or neither. Even if an area isn’t on Epic or Ikon, it shouldn’t be ruled outbecause lift tickets are much lower cost than their equivalents in North America.Adelboden-Lenk, Switzerland3,510 - 7,740ftNot on Epic or IkonA region rather than a ski area, there aremultiple villages tucked within thevalleys. The two best-known are Lech,upscale and confident, and St. Anton,fun and frenetic. The snow here fallsdeeper than in most parts of the Alpsand back-country adventures abound.Stay at the Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel,which looks ancient on the outside andcool and collected on the inside.Arlberg, Austria4,200-8,680ftOn Epic PassAndermatt’s Gemsstock mountain ishigh, steep and snowy, drawingpowderhounds seeking to challengethemselves. Across the valley the sunnyNätschen area is more family-friendly.The cute old town is charming withcobbled streets. Stay at the wonderfulChedi Andermatt, the sort of placewhere they’ve thought of everything.Andermatt, Switzerland4,470-9,730ftOn Epic PassHere on the southern side of theMatterhorn the slopes are wide andcruisy, making this an intermediate’sparadise. Add in some fantasticrestaurants, great coffee and lowerprices than over the border inSwitzerland and Cervinia’s a winner.Stay at the Relais & ChâteauxHermitage Hotel & Spa which combinestradition with updated rooms and has asharp focus on food and wine.Cervinia, Italy4,900-12,739ftNot on Epic or IkonKnown as the Pearl of the Alps, this townin the heart of the Dolomites is blessedby the pink mountains which rear upfrom the snowfields, making a trip herea scenic treat. It’s also the most upscaleski area in Italy where people-watchingis almost as popular a sport as the skiing.Stay at Hotel de Lën, a stylishly-updatedbolt-hole in the heart of town.Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy4,020-9,610ftOn Ikon PassChamonix is a town in the mountainsrather than a ski resort. Its diverse skiareas require a bit of work to getbetween but for adventurous skiersthere are few places better for thechance to explore high-mountainterrain in spectacular surrounds. Stay atthe RockyPop in the satellite village ofLes Houches, a great value, vibrantchoice with lots of options for groupsand those on their own.Chamonix, France3,400-12,600ftOn Ikon Pass- 20 -

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On the sunny side of Mont Blanc, herecalled Monte Bianco, Courmayeur’s oldtown is a warren of ancient streets. Theski area isn’t big but it’s respectably highand this is one of the places in Italywhere you can enjoy heli-skiing onglacial peaks - plus it makes a great twocountry trip combined with Chamonix.Stay at Hotel Lo Scoiatello, which is ashort stroll from the old town.Somewhat under the radar for such anextensive and fun ski area, Flims-Laaxhas multiple sectors and reaches highaltitudes. It also attracts a lot of freestyleboarders and skiers, not just for its onmountain parks and giant halfpipe, butalso its indoor Freestyle Academy, astate-of-the-art training facility for thesteezy of all ages. Stay at the HotelAdula, which is a short walk from Flimsand has an excellent spa.Crans-Montana’s understated glamor isevident in its cute center, full of artinstallations and sculptures which gleamin the almost endless sunshine. Thetown enjoys a quite astonishingpanorama across the Rhône Valley to awall of high peaks, and a sunny ski areamade for leisurely ski days. Stay at theretro-chic Crans Ambassador, whereformer 007 Roger Moore used to enjoy aVodka Martini.Kitzbühel is famous in Europe for theStreif, one of the steepest and toughestdownhill races on the ski racing circuitwhere the highest speed ever clockedwas 95mph. Off these - frankly terrifying- slopes the town has a preservedMedieval core that makes strolling andwindow-shopping very enticing. Stay atthe Hotel Weisses Rössl in the heart oftown and enjoy the modern interiordesign and expansive spa facilities.Just pipped to the title of the biggest,Paradiski definitely lays a claim to thebest, with altitude, scale and a blend ofski-in, ski-out purpose built lodging andtraditional villages. The 6,500ft plusvertical from the Aiguille Rouge toVillaroger is worth coming for alone.Stay at Résidence premium Arc 1950 LeVillage which has a wide choice ofcomfortable condos in a ludicrouslyconvenient ski-to-the-door location.The largest area that is fully-linked bylift in the world, the 3 Valleys gives adifferent experience of skiing - moretouring the mountain from place toplace with lift assistance. The diverseplaces you can stay offers something foreveryone, but those in search of thefiner things will want to chooseCourchevel. Stay at Hotel Le Strato, aslope-side den of design and sleeknesswith a Michelin star and a great bar.- 21 -Courmayeur, Italy3,970-9,040ftNot on Epic or IkonCrans-Montana, Switzerland4,920-9,600ftOn Epic PassFlims-Laax, Switzerland3,610-9,910ftNot on Epic or Ikon Kitzbühel, Austria2,620-6,560ftOn Ikon PassLes 3 Vallées, France4,100-10,600ftOn Epic PassParadiski, France3,940-10,660ftNot on Epic or IkonENJOYING THE SUN, LAAX,SWITZERLANDIN THE BACK-COUNTRY,PARADISKI, FRANCEGLACIERS ABOVE COURMAYEUR,ITALY

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In a mountain range full of glitzy places,St. Moritz might just take the crown.Whether it’s because of the polomatches played on the frozen lake or theformal dress code at the fanciest hotels,this place likes to put on a show. Luckilyanyone can enjoy the lakeside settingsurrounded by high peaks and snow-sure slopes. Stay at the Crystal Hotel,which is smart and central withoutrequiring you to pack a ballgown.One of the finest places to access lift-served deep snow terrain in the Alps,Verbier attracts daredevils who enjoythe high-altitude challenges. The regionalso has multiple areas and towns toexplore which provide variety, and trailswhich head far beyond the lift system,allowing for a glimpse of untouchednature. Stay at Richard Branson’s skichalet The Lodge, which is like staying ata particularly cool friend’s place.If you want traditional French charm,extensive skiing for all levels (with somereal challenges for experts) and areliable snow record with ski-in, ski-outoptions, Val d’Isère would like a word.The traditional stone town core hasplenty of great bars and restaurants andthe multiple ski sectors hold snow for along season. Stay at the Hôtel lesBarmes de l’Ours, which has a primespot on the (steep) downhill race course.A long valley reaching from the brightlights of vibrant Mayrhofen all the wayup to glacial Hintertux where you canski most of the year, the Zillertal isexcellent for an early or late-season trip.The valley provides exceptionalhospitality and tasty local food andwines for a great value, as well as variedskiing. Stay at Hotel Der Rindererhof, atthe base of Hintertux’s glacier, foraccess to skiing into spring and from fall.It would be hard to describe Zermattand not mention the Matterhorn, thepyramidal peak which dominates viewsof Zermatt. Megastar mountain aside,Zermatt bustles with those who knowthey are lucky to be there, planningadventures and enjoying the dining, barsand excellent skiing which reaches thetop of Europe. Stay at the Schweizerhoffor a wide range of restaurants, a buzzybar with DJ sets and a prime spot intown.- 22 -THE HINTERTUX GLACIER,ZILLERTAL, AUSTRIAON THE TIGNES SIDE OF VALD’ISÈRE/TIGNES, FRANCETHE ALETSCH GLACIER,WENGEN, SWITZERLANDSt. Moritz, Switzerland5,640-10,840ftOn Ikon PassVal d’Isère, France5,090-11,340ftNot on Epic or IkonVerbier, Switzerland4,920-10,930ftOn Epic PassWengen, Switzerland3,100-9,740ftNot on Epic or Ikon PassZermatt, Switzerland5,310-12,530ftOn Ikon PassZillertal, Austria2,070-10,660ftNot on Epic or ikon PassTraffic-free apart from a few electricvehicles, traditional Wengen perches ona lofty plateau overlooking theLauterbrunnen Valley, carved into adeep u-shape in the last ice age, andtowered over by 13,000-foot mountains,including the North Face of the Eiger. Ifyou don’t bring your head up whileskiing here, you never will. Stay at thehistoric Hotel Falken, which will makeyou feel like you are staying in yourGrandma’s house - in the best way.

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The choice of accommodations canmake or break a trip, so we put a hugeemphasis on finding out exactly whatyou want and need. Our first-handknowledge of the best ski areas in theAlps allows us to recommend the bestoptions for those who want ski-in, ski-out convenience, extra space to spreadout with all the family, the finest foodand spa facilities or somewhere you canbe close to the best of the après-ski. Wego out to visit and inspectaccommodations regularly, and workwith all of our suppliers to ensure yourwelcome is warm and authentic.Skiing is a thrilling and fun sport, and those wholove it do so passionately - but it isn’t particularlyrestful. Skis and snowboards are heavy, biting windsand snow sap energy and tumbles can batter thebody, so having a haven to retreat to at the end ofthe day is vital.Hotels of every type have been looking after wintersports fans for decades, even centuries in the mosthistoric resorts. We can arrange places unchangedsince the start of Alpine tourism to the newest, mostluxurious places. From simple single rooms tomultiple-room suites, we can find the right option.Some groups may prefer a condominium, apartmentor chalet with cooking facilities so that they canprepare their own meals - especially families withchildren. One of the options in the Alps is to take achalet or apartment with staff who cook breakfastand dinners and clean each day. These are mostcommon in France and can be an excellent value.Outside of the mountains we have access to well-located city hotels in Venice, Rome, Milan, Paris,London and more, perfect for sight-seeing, placeson the shores of the Italian Lakes, on the beaches ofthe Mediterranean or close to scenic countrysideand historic monuments.There is a wide range of accommodationsto fit everyone’s needs, from deluxe hotelsto homey B&Bs, and a mix of chalets andapartments for larger families- 24 -WHERE TO STAYTALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort When we first arrived we were struck by how warm the welcome was. Steppingout of the car to complimentary valet parking and a delicious drink at check-in,followed by a few hours unwinding in the spa set us up for a culinary journey -the 6 courses at dinner were expertly introduced by the chef and a charmingrestaurant team. Later we sat by the roaring fire while around us familiesplayed cards and groups of friends talked about skiing plans and enjoyed someexpertly-mixed cocktails. For a supremely comfortable and convenient skihotel with outstanding food and a real Swiss feel look no further.The Simmental is home to Switzerland’s best-looked after cows; theydine on succulent Alpine pastures throughout the summer months. Themilk they produce goes into some of this cheese-loving country’s best-loved cheese, and the Relais & Chateaux Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resorttakes full advantage of that, providing guests with a 30-variety cheesebuffet as just one course at dinner. The focus on gastronomy extendsacross both hotel restaurants, as well as the hotel’s mountainrestaurant up at 4,500 feet. Add to that a superb spa, skiing to and fromthe door, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and this makesfor a compelling choice in the heart of the Swiss Alps.America2Alps’ opinionBadstrasse 203775 Lenk im SimmentalSwitzerland For availability and pricescontact America2Alpswww.america2alps.cominfo@america2alps.com5* 6-night packagesfrom $2,950ppPackages include 1 night in a 5 star hotel in Zurich, return private transfers, 4 nights at the 5 star Lenkerhof including breakfast, dinner, soft drinks from the minibarand spa access and ski passes for 2 people for 3 days. Prices correct at time of going to print. For up to date pricing please contact America2Alps.

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Ski areas aren’t just for skiersand we can take care ofeveryone’s needs when they arethere. From winter hiking andadvice on how and where tomeet up for lunch at altitude, toadvice on spa days, we’ve got thefamily covered. We can arrangeski tuition at the right level inthe right language, guiding tohelp experts explore the back-country and special experienceslike heli-skiing and dog-sledding, or even a mountainpicnic.FINISHING TOUCHES- 26 -We believe one of the thingsthat makes the Alps a specialpart of the world is the food anddrink, and enjoying those inaddition to skiing gives you thebest flavor of the area. Youmight enjoy a cheese-tastingsession with a master cheese-maker, or want to go wine-tasting in some of Europe’s mostcelebrated wine regions.We provide restaurantrecommendations for placesboth on the mountain and off.Whether you want to be lookedafter from the moment you setoff, with an experienced drivernegotiating snowy, windingroads and all luggage beingtaken care of, or if you want tosteer your road trip yourselfwith a well-equipped rental car,we can arrange it.We can also arrange flights,both intercontinental andacross Europe, as well as sleepertrain journeys, so that we haveall transport options to makethe journey go smoothly.Add some special experiences that will have you smiling to yourself at the memory for years to come.The opportunity to add on a fewdays somewhere the you havealways wanted to visit is hugewith an Alpine ski trip. Gatewaycities like Rome, Venice, Londonand Paris combine naturally withthe mountains. We have privateguides who can unlock thesecret sides of Europe’s most in-demand destinations, funactivities for all the family anddining experiences torecommend. We know the bestoptions from our first-handexperience and can help youpick.If you prefer to travel lighter wecan arrange ski and snowboardrental from shops in convenientlocations, as well as arrangeequipment for ski-touring,avalanche safety gear or takingthe kids sledding.Should you already have yourown equipment you want tobring, we can plan the route sothat you have assistance whereyou need it.We can arrange ski passes andadvise on ways to use your Epicor Ikon Pass.With a background in ski-instructing we can field inquiriesfrom expert skiers, or those whowould like to do something moreadventurous.We can arrange adventures liketours from hut-to-hut high inthe mountains, or improvementcamps for those who like to uptheir skills.If you have questions about thelikely conditions you will find,the type of skis you should takeor the vertical drop, theoperating hours and so on, wecan help.TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

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UKSWITZERLANDITALYFRANCEAUSTRIAGERMANYNon-stopflights toLondon from:ATL, AUS, BOS,CHI, CLT, CVG,DFW, DEN,DTW, RDU,IAH, LAS, LAX,MIA, MSP,BNA, MSY,NYC, MCO,PHL, PHX, PIT,PDX, SLC, SFO,SEA, IADNon-stopflights toGeneva from:NYC, IADNon-stopflights toZurich from:BOS, CHI, LAX,MIA, NYC, PHL,SFO, IADNon-stopflights toMilan from:NYCNon-stopflights to Romefrom:BOS, CHI, LAX,MIA, NYC,PHL, SFO, IADNon-stopflights to Parisfrom:ATL, BOS, CHI,CVG, DFW,DEN, DTW,RDU, IAH, LAX,MIA, MSP,NYC, PHL,PHX, SLC, SFO,SEA, IADNon-stopflights toVienna from:BOS, CHI, NYC,IADNon-stopflights toMunich from:ATL, BOS, CHI,CLT, DEN, IAH,LAX, MIA,NYC, SAN, SFO,SEA, IAD- 27 -LONDONPARISGENEVAZURICHMILANROMEVENICEVIENNAMUNICHSALZBURGMAJOR ALPINE HUB AIRPORTSAccess to the Alps is straightforward via the major hub cities in Europe. Informationcorrect at the time of going to print. For up-to-date routes and advice on the bestroutings please reach out.TALK TO US TOLL-FREE ON 1-877-797-0720 WHATSAPP WA.ME/447440677183info@america2alps.com www.america2alps.com

A2A How to ski the Alps

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