Niseko, Queenstown, Whistler and Val d’lsére – these are the names that come to mind when you imagine planning an overseas holiday to the snow. But why not make 2015 the year to travel, and ski, outside your comfort zone. Travel Insurance Direct suggest putting one of these eight destinations on your list of must-ski slopes from around the world.
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1. Morocco
80km from Marrakech are the Atlas Mountains, where the tiny ski resort of Oukaimeden gives snow enthusiasts a truly unique experience. The village sits at 2,600m, with the highest chair lift reaching 3,258m. The mountain has all of 5 runs, mostly hard-packed moguls or steep icy slopes (best saved for the experts). But Oukaimeden has its perks – donkeys shuttle guests between the lifts and local men sell bags of walnuts, honey and jewellery at the bottom of the slopes. Sometimes, culture counts for everything.
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2. Argentina
Las Leñasin Argentina is tricky to get to, but the journey is well worth it. Thanks to its diverse and extreme terrain, this mountain has become the playground of the professionals. While the mountain boasts 29 runs, it’s the back-country that snow enthusiasts come to explore. Check your travel insurance policy covers back-country activities and hire a guide to help you safely navigate back to base camp.
3. South Africa
South Africa is possibly the last place on earth you would expect to take a ski holiday. Yet, on the southern slopes of the Drakensberg Mountains lies the Tinfindell Resort and its 57 acres of skiable terrain (that’s one-hundredth of the size of Whistler Blackcomb). Tinfindell Resort has had a few tough years over the last decade, but its snow guns are still going strong. This resort is one to tick off the list, if only so you can post an Instagram from the peak.
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4. Kashmir
The Himalayan resort of Gulmarg has become a pilgrimage for adventurous skiers and snowboarders. When westerly and south westerly storms hit the Pir Panjals, they unload mounds of snow on this lucky resort. Skiers and snowboarders are blessed with what has affectionately been coined ‘curry powder’. Gulmarg has some of the best conditions on the highest lift-accessed slopes in the world, ascending to almost 4,000m with 2,200m of vertical descent. And the lunch time curries aren’t bad either.
5. Cyprus
Mount Olympus is synonymous with Greek mythology, not with skiing holidays. However, there is more than just an incredible view from the Troodos Mountains. Cypriots come out in droves when winter hits and the snow starts falling. Mount Olympus is a favourite among locals, so be prepared to queue and get there early if you intend on hiring gear. This is one of the few locations in the world where travellers can have a ‘Fire and Ice’ experience – swim in the morning and ski in the afternoon.
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6. Iran
If you can get past the fact that it borders Iraq and Afghanistan, Iran could be one of the most unforgettable snow experiences you have. Two hours from Tehran, you’ll find the Shemshak and Dizin Resorts which boast spectacular views and amazing conditions. It’s almost possible to forget you’re even in Iran, until you’re faced with segregated lift lines and alcohol-free après ski. But if it’s a unique ski holiday you’re after, Iran certainly ticks the box. Just check your travel insurance policy covers travel to Iran and avoid crossing into Iraq or Afghanistan. Organising a guide can also help you negotiate your way through Tehran and up into the mountains.
Photo by Brian Nevins
7. Alaska
Avid fan of extreme skiing? You can’t go past Thompson Pass in Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. This is the holy grail of heli-skiing and the terrain is not for the faint hearted. The Chugach Mountains are very steep and very wild. With 25 metres of snow fall annually, there’s no shortage of powder and you’re guaranteed some pretty impressive views. Don’t brave this one alone – double check your travel insurance policy covers heli-skiing and organise a guided trip with a heli-ski provider.
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8. Dubai
If high altitude isn’t for you, then the man-made slopes in Dubai’s Mall of Emirates might be more your level. This completely indoor snow park is the largest in the world, showcasing 3,000 square metres of snow. There are 5 runs of varying difficulty, with the longest run measuring 400m. Ski Dubai offers everything you’d find on the mountain tops – ski lifts, ski and snowboard lessons and gear hire. And then some things you’re unlikely to see in the wild, like a ‘Penguin Encounter’. Just don’t get too comfortable in the consistent -1 degree temperature. Walking back into the 40 degree heat can be a shock to the system.
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Heading off to chase the powder in 2015? Stay safe with TID’s snow safety tips.
Check your gear Whether you’re hiring or bringing your own, always check your gear for damages before heading up the mountain.
Wear protection First and foremost, put a helmet on your head. List any pre-existing sprains or previously broken bones on your insurance policy and wear protective guards to prevent further damage.
Know your limits Since 2012, TID has received close to 1000 medical claims for skiing and snowboarding accidents, everything from torn ACLs to broken collarbones. Take it easy and leave the Double McTwist 1260s to Shawn White.
Take lessons If you’re feeling a bit like Bambi on those skis, book in for a lesson. Even if it’s just a refresher course, a bit of instruction can go a long way and help you make the most of your trip.
Emergency plan Before you head to the chair lift, grab a trail map and familiarise yourself with the mountain and the out-of-bound areas. If you’re with a group, make sure you have each other’s contact numbers and meet up regularly.
Get travel insurance TID offer a Snow Sports and Activities option which covers travellers for claims as a result of skiing, snowboarding and other snow activities.
Insure valuable items In the last 36 months, TID customers have made hundreds of claims for lost or damaged belongings while on the mountain. Ensure you insure any valuable items you plan on taking on the mountain itself, such as a GoPro, mobile phone or camera.
Words by Phil Sylvester – TID
