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Ski Accommodation in Apartments and Chalets in
France
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The cost of skiing isn't coming down, and more and more people are
opting for a do-it-yourself ski holiday in self catered chalets and
skiing apartments. There are of course large tour operators offering
discount ski apartments with flights at some crazy prices too; these
are usually at the lower end of the market, and can be really useful
where budgeting is imperative. If it's a last minute decision where the
resort and quality are not important, these cut price ski holidays can
be an attractive option.
France is currently the most popular ski destination for UK skiers,
followed closely by Canada and the US. British skiers find that the
flexibility of self service ski accommodation in apartments and chalets
has a lot to offer because it gives the independence not available from
tour operators. With carriers selling cheap ski flights like EasyJet
and Bmibaby and fast internet access, it is now possible to organise,
book and pay for travel and ski accommodation in a matter of minutes
all on your own.
There are two types of ski accommodation - the apartment and the
chalet. In France the apartments are often referred to as 'boxes'. For
the most part that's what they are - piled one on top of the other into
vast brutal concrete apartment blocks. Some may have had some wood
slapped on the side as a minimal concession. They may be ugly, but they
have their advantages.
At the budget end this type of ski accommodation can be cheap! The
blocks are usually on the piste and right next to the skiing so there
is no walking, and the facilities such as restaurants, supermarkets,
bars and shops are close by. They are purely functional with little or
no aesthetic considerations. They just provide a bed, a bathroom, a
small kitchenette, a sofa, and a table and chairs.
The quality end is comparative luxury. Companies such as MGM now have a
reputation for building ski accommodation in more attractive buildings
and converting town houses into flats where you can at least swing a
cat. Chamonix is a perfect example; because the town has historic and
architectural importance attached to it, there are some wonderful
buildings that have been converted with taste and flair.
You can also choose from a vast selection of private chalets throughout
the Alps as self catered chalet options. These will vary in quality but
as they may be people's second homes they can be more roomy and
comfortable, and built attractively in the traditional style. As a rule
expect them to lie in outlying villages, although sometimes they will
be centrally located next to the piste.
Ski apartments and chalets will have any number of beds from two bed
'studios' to twelve bed 'duplexes' and more. For medium quality expect
to pay between £100 and £250 per person depending on season and
location. Because competition is strong, you nearly always get value
for money.
You will also have to pay a returnable deposit for breakages. Bed linen
and towels will not usually be supplied in ski accommodation but can be
rented by the agent for a reasonable fee. There will be an inventory
before you leave and you'll be expected to leave the place clean and
tidy!
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