EXOTIC LOCATION

The world of skiing is becoming increasingly more interesting as new ski frontiers open up, offering snow sport fans the chance to ski in more exotic locations than ever before. Japan, Chile, Lebanon, Slovakia, Bulgaria and many more countries not renowned for their mountains are attracting British skiers who are looking for a ski experience that’s a little out of the ordinary.

However, despite the availability of these new destinations, which are gaining a bigger slice of the ski market, France still remains the most popular location to ski for the Brits and it’s not hard to see why.

France offers arguably the best skiing in Europe, with dozens of huge resorts in the Alps, not to mention the lesser known range of the Pyrenees. It also has one of the best cuisines in the world and due to having the highest mountains in Europe, (with resorts like Val Thorens), you can be fairly certain that you’ll actually have real snow to ski on, even in this age of global warming which is threatening the survival of ski areas situated at lower altitudes. And on top of all this, France’s close proximity to the UK and the huge number of cheap flights now available means that skiers can be on the slopes in just a few hours.

Resorts like Brides Les Bains, Tignes Val Claret, Morzine, La Clusaz, Chamonix, Thollon and Les Arcs are all close to major airports, and with ever more airlines offering low prices on flights to Lyon and Geneva, getting to these resorts is quick and easy and won’t break the bank.

France also offers skiing in the lesser known ranges of the Massif Central and the Pyrenees, mountains that are completely separate from the Alps. Although not as famous or fashionable as the better known French resorts, these areas can offer cheaper and often quieter alternatives to the old favourites.

So, although some skiing and snowboarding adventurists are seeking snow further a field, France’s close proximity to the UK, its ease of access and the low cost of travelling there, are likely to keep it at the number one spot as the Brit’s favourite ski playground.

Modern day life can be extremely stressful and in this current economic climate it is even more so.  People need to get away to unwind and recharge their batteries.

The problem, of course, is can they still afford the type of holidays they are used to?  It doesn’t matter what that was, it still costs a lot of money.

Of course, travel can be lower in cost than it was a year ago.  This is partly due to the exchange rates for different countries.  By the same token, if you live in an area where the currency has weakened your costs for an overseas holiday will have increased.

The UK now gives greater value for your money than previously.  UK travel agents report bookings up significantly for this current year, both for visitors and for the Brits taking holidays at home rather than travelling abroad.

It means the UK is a more attractive destination for many people but will they get the sort of holiday they are looking for and used to?

The thing the Brits talk about the most is probably the weather.  It is so changeable there is always something to say about it.  For a very few weeks of the year you may get really lovely weather.  The problem is trying to decide in advance when that will be.  One summer August may have a heatwave, the following it could be cold enough for greatcoats.

Generally, when you go on holiday, you want the weather to be good enough to be able to relax in but not energy draining.  For example, you could expect plenty of sun and sand in the Sahara but it is not recommended as a holiday resort.  You could want snow and ice for skiing but neither of the poles are likely to provide the sort of holiday you want.

Can one still have a memorable holiday, in luxury surroundings, with all the amenities possible from golf to spas, water sports to shopping, sand, sea and cool drinks available, without it costing a fortune?

Fortunately, the answer is YES.

One travel group has been providing luxury holidays at greatly reduced prices for over 20 years.  You needed to join their network in order to participate but the savings made will cover that cost after just two or three weeks of holiday.

Originally, you could only join this group by invitation but recently this has been opened up to anybody.  It is still not generally advertised and relies on word of mouth but you no longer have to go to a presentation with high pressure techniques similar to Time Share presentations.

The cost of joining is far less than buying a Time Share and you have a choice of over 5000 locations around the world instead of just one.  With no annual fees required or maintenance costs, the savings can be spectacular.

Most of the resorts offer a full range of activities, especially for golf.  Many are close to or associated with a championship course, including some of the best in the world.

Some resorts are all inclusive so that you pay a set amount each day for all drinks, food, amenities and activities, usually excepting motor water sports.  This is excellent for controlling spending.  All others are self catering so you can plan your own holiday.

The accommodation comprises villas or apartments from one to three bedroomed.  All will have kitchen, lounge, often balcony and a dining area.  Some are with Marriotts, Sheratons and other top class hotels, as you would expect.

Prices will, of course, vary but they have a pricing policy that ensures you never pay more than $799 for a full week and many are around $298 per week.  That is, of course, per villa or apartment, not per person.  This is usually much below half the normal costs and generally below a third.

With reduced cost air travel and even cruises available, they can guarantee the whole package will ensure anybody wanting a high quality holiday anywhere around the world can now afford to have one.

Membership is for life and can be used also by family and friends to obtain the same benefits.  It can even be bequeathed to your heirs.

For some details please visit www.holidayscostless.com.