Stats o’clock!

Posted on January 31, 2013 by Paula Liiv

Here at Alpine Answers we like to keep tabs on the latest trends and tendencies in the chalet market and after all the festivities one of our highest priorities was to see whether there were many beds left to sell across the Alps.

We work with a huge number of chalet operators and collate availability for more than a thousand properties of various quality and size, which gives us a good idea of what is out there and helps our clients to make the right decisions and avoid disappointment.

The table below shows how booked up each of the remaining weeks of this season are. Data collated on 31st December 2012.

Bed availability table according to Alpine Answers Chalet Market Research 2013

January Departure weeks

This season many people organised their parties early, booking their chalet well in advance. This resulted in almost 80% of January beds being sold by the end of December – an unprecedented high figure. Perhaps this can be attributed to some growing confidence in the UK economy but undoubtedly the amazing snow falls from the very start of the season have played a major role here.

Over the course of this last month big groups have struggled to find much choice, especially when looking for holidays packaged with flights from the Northern UK airports. However, there were some great deals in January, the cheapest period of the season so far being the 19th/20th January departure week with prices plummeting as low as £229 per person (catered chalet with flights and transfers). However, these prices were rare – and the chances of bagging last minute beds this cheap were not high.

February Half Term

The main UK Half Term week (16th – 23rd Feb 2013) is very busy but some operators with remaining beds and flights have started to discount so there are actually some great deals up for grabs. The week starting 09th/10th February was originally priced very steeply (many tour operators assumed it was a popular UK school half term week) and as a result was only 60% full by the beginning of January. The low popularity to travel on this week has now created some massive discounts for this period. Those parents that do have children with this half term week are in luck if they are looking for a last minute getaway to the Alps or North America.

Half Term skiing!

March Departure weeks

March weeks have not been discounted yet but from the beginning of February we will start seeing some reduced prices for these weeks. Bearing in mind that over 50% of March beds were sold during the last 4 weeks big groups can’t be too picky and must book on the spot when they come across something they like. For families looking to ski over Easter the latter of the two Easter weeks starting 06th/07th April is relatively under sold at this point in time. Perhaps there will be some late deals to be had for this week. Although please remember that the higher, more snow sure, resorts will always get booked out early.

Next Winter season 2013/14

Just out of interest I had a look on the next season’s enquiries and was surprised to find out that we have already been contacted by over a 100 separate party leaders with their 2014 requirements. So it’s certainly not too early to start seriously thinking about your next perfect white Christmas or happy New Year holiday!

Perfect White Christmas with Alpine Answers.

Conclusions

Unless you are just two people living near London who don’t care what room you stay in, and have absolutely no preference on which resort to go to the lesson to learn from the above statistics is to book in advance. You should also bear in mind that small independent ‘accommodation only’ chalet operators can’t compete on late deal prices with the larger package holiday tour operators who cut their prices in order to sell their committed flight seats. Therefore when booking late it never works out cheaper to buy flights in advance and wait for an ‘accommodation only’ late deal. Of course there are advantages in booking with a smaller (accommodation only) chalet company - higher quality service from more motivated staff; better chalet cooking using higher grade ingredients and superior chalet furnishings. It’s just that price, on a last minute booking basis, is not one of those advantages.

If you are looking for advice on any of our chalets or hotels please get in touch as we are here to help. Call us: 020 7801 1080 and speak to one of the sales team. Or visit our website: www.alpineanswers.co.uk

Top Tips for Bagging a January Bargain

Posted on December 20, 2012 by Alexis Morton

The ski season is well underway, with many resorts opening earlier than planned due to all the fantastic snow that has been falling throughout the European Alps. Don’t worry if you haven’t booked up yet as January is a great month to ski and if you book a catered chalet then there could be some hot skiing deals to take advantage of.

In living memory the early season snowfalls have never been this good, so what better excuse do you need to grab those skis, pack your bag and hit your favourite resort. With a deep snow base to cover the rocks the off-piste conditions are already fantastic – time to lay some fresh tracks? We think so!

Here are our essential tips to make snapping up a great chalet deal that bit easier.

1) Find yourself 10 spare minutes and get yourself onto our website. Select either the ‘Ski Chalets’ or ‘Chalet Deals’ tab. The chalets, availability and prices that can be found in either section are exactly the same – it’s just that the information can be viewed slightly different from one section to the other. Use the search and sort functions to get a quick and easy feel for price – vs – quality for the week you wish to go. Then simply give us a call: 020 7801 1080. We are absolutely delightful on the phones (honest) and as these late deals don’t last long it’s always best to contact us directly to get the very latest prices and availability. Please remember that, as much as we would like it to be different, the availability on our website is NOT live.

2) To give you some ideas every two weeks or so we will email out an e-Newsletter which highlights a quick view selection of the best current deals. It’s a great way of finding out the latest deals throughout the season, and with lift passes and free places on offer, what’s not to like? Sign up at the top of our website home page and while you are there please ‘like us’ on Facebook and ‘follow us’ on Twitter to see where we’ve been and what we’ve been up to.

3) You need to be flexible on your departure airport. London Gatwick and Manchester will be your main getaways to the Alps – only very occasionally will you be able to get yourself a regional flight. On a last minute basis these are about as rare as a hen’s teeth.

4) The popular chalets in the uber popular ski resorts of Courchevel, Val d’Isere, Zermatt, Verbier , Meribel and St Anton sell out faster than Usain Bolt runs the 100m. If you can’t find a chalet in your chosen resort at the price or quality you wish for then please simply trust our alternative suggestions. We know all the smaller resorts worth going to and will be able to give suggestions to places that you might not have considered. These will offer superior quality at a lower price compared to the premier league resorts – so why not open your mind and treat yourself to something different?

5) Even numbers in your party are vital! Book in pairs to get the best deals and widest choice. No one wants to be an odd one out and paying the empty bed supplement for a ‘single use’ double or twin room will rain on anyone’s parade.

6) If you are a ‘single traveller’ – be prepared for a room share. Most single rooms are snapped up months in advance.

7) Think you can find a short break at a last minute bargain price? Then think again. Unfortunately there is no such thing as a reduced price for last minute short breaks. All short breaks are put together on a bespoke basis so there are no ‘committed’ beds or flight seats – hence why there are no last minute deals.

8) Can’t decide which resort to go to? Why not check the Alpine Answers’ snow forecast page to get the latest weather and snow condition updates? This should give you some good ideas.

9) Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about ski hire – we have some great on-line ski hire discounts to take advantage of when you pre-book. It will just take you seconds to book and will save you bundles.

10) Always remember… if you have seen a great deal then chances are someone else has too. Being the fastest finger to the buzzer is key! Be ready to make very quick decisions – often this means being able to book on the spot. No late deals can be held ‘off sale’ while you spend time calling around your mates and their mums. Delays may well mean you miss out on the fantastic offer we just found you!

If you are looking for a last minute deal or would like advice on any of our chalets or hotels please get in touch as we are here to help. Call us: 020 7801 1080 and speak to one of the sales team or visit our website: www.alpineanswers.co.uk

Use an Independent Operator – Notice the Difference!

Posted on December 13, 2012 by Sophia Phillips

Looking for a catered ski chalet with fabulous food and attentive chalet hosts? Then book a chalet run by an independent operator and notice the difference!

Check-in lines that almost stretch from one Gatwick terminal to the other at 4am, shared transfers with 50 people and a resort rep with a less than subtle goggle tan. Does this sound familiar? If so, chances are you have probably booked a catered ski chalet package deal at some stage with a mass market tour operator. Now, don’t get me wrong – these deals do offer fantastic value for money and are very hassle free given that you can organise your entire ski holiday in one phone call. Although, for nearly the same price you could book a catered chalet with an independent operator. Why make the switch you may wonder? Well, the main difference is a more personalised experience in a number of ways. For example, independent operators only look after a handful of chalets (not 50+) and tend to have a more stringent recruitment process and are consequently able to be more selective with the staff they choose. Additionally, they have more flexibility when it comes to catering and dietary requirements and are not bound by the same set menu every week of the season. Other extras often included are return airport transfers or a ski guide and driver service which are usually just for your chalet – not shared services across multiple chalets and guests.

Nearly all independent operators do not offer flights but we can buy those for you and we can also arrange private taxi transfers to meet those flights. Using our ATOL license you will be financially protected – really there is no better way to travel than by scheduled flight and private transfer.

Here are my top picks for chalets run by small independent companies who always go the extra mile for their guests…

1. Chalet Sapin de Reberty – Reberty (Three Valleys).

Chalet Sapin de Reberty, Reberty (Three Valleys ski area)

If you are in search of a chalet which will serve top notch food, do not look any further than Chalet Sapin de Reberty. Head chef Max has previously worked for the esteemed Noma restaurant in Copenhagen which has won ‘No. 1 Restaurant in the World’ for the past three years running. Prices start from £576 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board.

2. Chalet Gentiane – Les Gets (Portes du Soleil)

Chalet Gentiane, Les Gets (Portes du Soleil ski area)

Sleeping up to 16 people, the Gentiane is one of the most comfortable chalets in Les Gets. It is a big hit for large groups of young professionals – especially given that it offers guests unlimited wine and beer throughout their stay. With a high staff to guest ratio, the owners go out of their way to ensure guests have an enjoyable and relaxing ski holiday. Prices start from £580 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board.

3. Chalet Bouquetin – Morzine (Portes du Soleil).

Chalet Bouquetin, Morzine (Portes du Soleil ski area)

Not only is Chalet Bouquetin one of the newest chalets in Morzine this season, it also comes with complementary transfers from Geneva when you book the chalet for sole occupancy. Complete with a wake up drink each morning, your own ski guide, driver service, wine cellar and fabulous wellness facilities including a hot tub and sauna, the Bouquetin has everything you want from a catered ski chalet holiday. Prices start from £675 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board, including transfers from Geneva.

4. Chalet Jardin d’Angele – Courchevel 1300 (Three Valleys)

Chalet Jardin d'Angele, Courchevel 1300 (Three Valleys ski area)

Provided you are not too fussed on nightlife, Chalet Jardin d’Angele is ideal for groups wishing to ski in a world class resort without the price tag commonly associated with catered chalets in the Courchevel region. Prices start from £699 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board, including transfers from Geneva.

5. Chalet Mautalent – Flaine Morillon (Grand Massif)

Chalet Mautalent, Flaine Morillon (Grand Massif ski area)

Despite the fact Chalet Mautalent is a little way from the piste, the spacious chalet and amazing food definitely make it worth your while. With an owner who has trained at the Fat Duck and Chez Bruce in London, you are in for an absolute culinary treat staying here for the week! Prices start from £499 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board, including transfers from Geneva.

If you would like to discuss any of the above suggestions or are interested to learn more about other independently run properties, please do not hesitate to contact me on +44 (0)20 7801 1080.

All you want for Christmas…

Posted on December 5, 2012 by Rachael Wheeler

It’s the first week of December and panic strikes. There’s three weeks left until Christmas and you have got precisely ONE present (which definitely doesn’t count if it’s just an early present to yourself). However, do not worry; I have collated the all round best snow-related Christmas presents to give your friends and family this year.

1. For your not so little, little brother? I’ve got it sorted. If your budget can’t quite stretch to a luxury catered chalet this year then I have the ultimate useful present for you. Remember those days when it’s a total blue bird, the sun is shining and you have been trekking up a mountain with your skins on for the last 20 minutes. You seem to be wearing about 400 layers and are the equivalent temperature of a roasted turkey and all you want is a refreshing ice cold beer? Now you can. Bringing forward the Burton Beeracuda – an over-the-shoulder beer holder. This tidy liquid lunch box stores five cold ones in the insulated sleeve, and a sixth on the koozie-enhanced shoulder strap. Present one. DONE!

Present No. 1: Burton Beeracuda

2. Boyfriends and husbands. If they sadly cannot leave the office to get a proper week’s skiing in this season why not simply bring the office to them whilst they are on the mountain. Get them the Oakley’s airwaves goggles. GPS, Bluetooth, you name it…. they’ve got it. He can scroll through his emails, read his texts and check out how fast he’s going all whilst skiing. Just make sure he keeps an eye out for the trees…

Present No. 2: Oakley Airwave Goggles

3. Now then ladies, it’s your turn. Gents listen up, forget diamonds they just aren’t practical in the snow. Therefore think Chanel. Specifically theses limited edition Chanel skis. Ladies, you’re welcome.

Present No. 3: Chanel skis

4. Do you need to buy a present for one of the following…a ) a student? b) a Shoreditch “hipster “ – in which case this won’t be a new idea as it’s just their normal everyday wear. c) David Hasselhoff. If you answered “yes” to at least one of the above give the guys at Retro Rentals a call for all you could ever want in epic retro ski wear. They have a fine, quality selection of Peach spandex and very tight pants to fit all shapes and sizes. The Alpine Answers girls have personally tested these and highly recommend them for your next holiday.

Present No. 4: Retro Rentals ski clothing

5. The mother-in-law. Well, snowblades obviously. ‘Nuff said.

(For your own safety we will not be printing any photos of snowbladers/blades as these are seriously damaging to your credibility).

6. Now last but by no means least. This is the biggest, and probably up there with the best, present you will ever give or receive. How about spending Christmas with 10 of your closest friends and family, treating them to a luxury ski chalet in the heart of the exclusive ski resort of Courchevel 1850. Sound good? Well, it looks even better. Log onto our website and check out beautiful Chalet Baltoro in Courchevel for the ultimate white Christmas.

Present No. 6: Luxury Chalet Baltoro - Courchevel 1850

If you would like to discuss your Christmas pressie list with me, or if you would prefer some advice with booking your next ski holiday please do get in touch with me. I look forward to hearing from you. Alternatively if you would just like to browse our site and check out the latest chalet availability and hotels that we feature go straight to: www.alpineanswers.co.uk or telephone: 020 7801 1080.

Skiing doesn’t have to be the main event…

Posted on November 30, 2012 by Anna Sampson

Anna explores the off-slope events worth watching in 2012/13.

Snowbombing in Mayrhofen may not be entirely your scene but I can’t help thinking
a ski holiday is always enhanced when there is something fun going on in resort. Stumbling across a live concert or downhill race is always a happy coincidence but why not book your holiday to coincide with your favourite act or ski hero?

This year’s winter events calendar could see you crooning along to ‘Lady in Red’ with the legend that is Chris de Burgh (Zermatt Unplugged), or gasping in awe as you experience the sights and sounds of thundering polo pony hooves at the world class competitions in Kitzbuhel or St Moritz!

Take at look at the Alpine Answers hot pick of events for the 2012/2013 winter season:

DECEMBER 2012
What: Andros Trophy
When: 08th – 09th December 2012 (Val Thorens, France)
When: 21st – 22nd December 2012 (Alpe d’Huez, France)

Think ‘Top Gear on ice’, the Andros Trophy is fast adrenaline packed rally racing on ice. It is the world’s premier ice racing championships and attracts star drivers from motorsport’s past and present, such as F1 World Champions Alain Prost, Jacques Villeneuve and 1996 Monaco GP winner Olivier Panis.

The Trophy speeds off on the 8th December in Val Thorens, which is perfect for high, early season skiing and revs up the resort of Alpe d’Huez on the 21^st December.

Andros Trophy - Ice driving Championships - Val Thorens

Where to stay:

There is a huge array of catered chalets in Val Thorens, including the lovely Chalet Phoenix with its access to indoor spa facilities. Or for something more luxurious try one of the quality hotels in Val Thorens such as the Hotel Fitz Roy ****.

If you are feeling the pinch with Christmas approaching then the catered chalets of Alpe d’Huez represent great value for money. If you are feeling a bit flash then the Chalet Hotel Sarrene has amazing wellness facilities and is also in a ski in ski out location!

JANUARY 2013
What: Snow Polo World Cup
When: 18th – 20th January 2013 (Kitzbuhel, Austria)

Set against the stunning mountain backdrop of Kitzbühel this free event is a feat of action-packed equestrian elegance and is the world’s largest polo tournament on snow. Whether you are a polo enthusiast or not you can’t help but admire the stunning polo ponies galloping across the snow-topped Münichauer Wiese at top speed. The event boasts international culinary delights and many evening shows and parties which further enhance Kitzbuhel’s already vibrant nightlife.

The social highlight is Saturday’s VIP polo players’ party with tickets available at the Kitzbuhel Tourist office, so get out that fur and dust off those dancing shoes – it’s time to party, Austrian Polo style!

Snow Polo World Cup - Kitzbuhel

Where to stay:

Accommodation here is probably cheaper than St Moritz but it’s still not for those watching their purse strings. Our recommended hotels in Kitzbuhel include the stunning Hotel Kitzhof **** and the extravagant luxurious Hotel Weisses Rossl ***** with its fantastic spa and wellness facilities.

FEBRUARY 2013
What: Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup
When: 23^rd – 25^th February 2013 (Meribel, France)

Renowned for its social après ski scene and brilliant chalets, Meribel is not just about over indulging. This season Meribel will host the fast paced Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup including downhill and super-combined events, featuring the best women skiers from around the world.

This awe inspiring event is one for the entire family. Marvel at the top speeds reached by the girls as they hurtle down the challenging courses with their rolls, high speed turns and steep terrain. Rub shoulders with the likes of American, Lindsey Vonn, and our own, Chemmy Alcott, who is hoping to return to form this season, even with a piece of metal in her leg!

After all the excitement of the races why not treat yourself to a drink and a dance in your ski boots at Meribel’s new Folie Douce bar.

Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup - Meribel

Where to stay:

Our recommendation for chalets in Meribel include the luxury Chalet Du Vallon in Meribel Village with state of the art entertainment room, the well priced Chalet Serpolet with games room and hot tub and the boutique Chalet Hotel Parc Alpin with indoor pool. For the height of luxury the brand new Hotel Kaila ***** will be the top pick of the Meribel hotels.

MARCH 2013
What: The Winter X-Games
When: 20th – 22nd March 2013 (Tignes Val Claret, France)

Not for the feint hearted this event is the highlight of the extreme winter sports calendar. You may not have your trousers hanging around your knees or be surgically attached to a neon beanie but you are sure to be impressed with the adrenaline fuelled, gravity defying, feats these athletes produce. The competition draws the biggest names in freestyle skiing and snowboarding to compete for the title of X-Games champion. Of course there is plenty of music and après ski fun on the side. What’s more you get all this action and excitement for free!

The Winter X-Games - Tignes

Where to stay:

The catered chalets in Tignes cover a wide range of budgets and standards providing something for everyone. From the cheap and cheerful Chalet Tavaillons, good for groups as it sleeps up to 24, to the comfortable Chalet Annapurna 2 with its indoor Jacuzzi. Our top recommendation for a lovely hotel in Tignes is the Hotel Village Montana **** but for those saving for a rainy day the highly social Alpaka Lodge is brilliant, especially appealing to a younger crowd.

APRIL 2013
What: Zermatt Unplugged
When: 09th – 13th April 2013 (Zermatt, Switzerland)

Set underneath the breathtaking backdrop of the Matterhorn Mountain and its iconic peak is the Zermatt Unplugged music festival. This unique and charming festival is a yearly spring-skiing feature and is one of the hottest tickets on the Zermatt calendar. In the past artists and bands such as Chris de Burgh, Alanis Morissette, Amy MacDonald and Lionel Richie have performed. Set in several marquees, club stages and on various mountain venues the festival is dedicated mainly to acoustic music.

What’s not to love? Live music, fantastic on-mountain dining and one of the most stunning ski resorts in the world! Reserve your tickets early!

Zermatt Unplugged - Acoustic Music Festival - Zermatt

Where to stay:

Chalets in Zermatt generally adhere to the modern Swiss mountain style of decor and architecture – chic and stylish with lots of glass, stainless steel and use of rarefied alpine light. Release your inner rock star and stay at the uber trendy Heinz Julen Loft (Robbie Williams stayed here) or go for the more economical and well located option of Chalet Genepy. Situated on the main high street, Zermatt’s Hotel Mont Cervin Palace ***** and the ever impressive Zermatterhof Hotel ***** will ensure you are well pampered, while the Alex Schlosshotel **** is always a firm favourite with our clients.

Feeling inspired? Or need more information? I would be delighted to have my knowledge put to the test. Feel free to give myself or one of our friendly team a call on: 020 7801 1080 or drop us an e-mail on ski@alpineanswers.co.uk.