Frequently Asked Questions - COVID-19

Whilst we are confident there will be a ski season this winter, the uncertainty around travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic remains. Many people are still very keen on the prospect of skiing this winter, but are naturally apprehensive about booking in the current climate. 

In this post, we’re answering our clients’ most frequently asked questions, but for further information and advice tailored to you, please don't hesitate to call us on 020 7801 1080. 

What are ski resorts doing to limit the spread of coronavirus?

After the sudden end to the ski season last winter, European resorts have spent the last few months preparing to reopen. Many resorts have successfully opened for the summer season without seeing an exponential rise in the number of COVID-19 cases. As the winter season approaches, more resorts are beginning to publish their specific measures and protocols in order to keep guests, staff and residents safe during the ski season. This typically includes mandatory face coverings in public areas and social distancing on ski lifts. Ski buffs or neck warmers covering the nose and mouth are widely considered an acceptable face covering.

We are updating our COVID-19 Coronavirus Ski Resort Updates & Safety Protocols page when we receive updates from resorts. We currently have information for the Tirol region of Austria, the Ski Amade region, Ischgl, Zermatt, Tignes and Val d’Isere. More resorts are expecting to release their rules and guidance throughout October and November, so please check back regularly for more details.

How can I make my ski holiday safer?

Many travellers are concerned about contracting coronavirus whilst on their ski holiday. If this is a particularly concern for you and your group, consider booking an exclusive-use. self-catered chalet property so the only individuals within your accommodation are those in your ‘social bubble’. Many of our clients are also considering driving to resort this winter, as this will avoid busy airports and aeroplanes. We’ve also written a detailed blog post on how to book a safer ski holiday this winter.

Will I get my money back if I am unable to travel?

Many of our chalet and hotel properties have updated their booking terms and conditions amid the coronavirus pandemic. Lots of operators are now offering flexible cancellation policies, 100% money-back guarantees, extra low deposits and extended final balance payments. This means that you can book a safe and enjoyable ski holiday, with the security of rebooking or receiving your money back if you cannot travel due to the pandemic. 

However, as each operator we work with has their own individual booking conditions, please call one of our ski holiday specialists for advice. We will be able to help you choose a property with the type of financial security and booking conditions that suit you best. 

Alpine Answers is also ABTA bonded and we hold an ATOL license, so you have extra financial protection.

What if I have to quarantine on my return?

Whilst nobody can predict government travel advice several months ahead in this current climate, we have written a blog post detailing how the UK government is understood to choose which countries are added and removed from the ‘travel corridors’ list.

Lots of chalets are operating a money-back guarantee if the government is advising against travel when you are due to go skiing, or if you need to quarantine on your return to the UK. For specific chalet recommendations and exact terms and conditions, please call and speak to one of our ski holiday specialists. 

Can I get travel insurance to cover me?

One of the biggest concerns for our clients this winter is securing travel insurance that will protect them from coronavirus-related issues. Which? has a fantastic article on their website explaining which insurance companies are providing what cover in relation to COVID-19. According to their article (correct as of 15.09.20), the only provider currently covering travellers if their destination restricts borders before they are due to travel for reasons relating to the pandemic, or if the FCDO changes its advice before they travel, is Nationwide. 

Despite these challenging and uncertain times, we’re confident that the ski resorts will be open this winter and that we can all be back out on the slopes, enjoying the fresh mountain air. Our team can help you book a safe, secure and enjoyable ski holiday for this winter. Please send us an enquiry using our website, or give us a call, and we can help you book the perfect accommodation in an ideal resort, with booking conditions that suit your specific needs.