Considering a trip to the mountains? With an extensive list of resorts to choose from for every ability and budget, it’s never been easier to find the perfect place for your ski holiday.
France remains king when it comes to convenience, thanks to purpose built accommodation which provides easy access to the slopes; Switzerland is a picturesque alternative if you’re looking to stay in a traditional alpine village. The Italians promise unbeatable hospitality and stunning mountain scenery combined with some of the Alps’ most affordable prices. Look to Austria if après ski is top of your priority list – gluhwein and schnapps are in plentiful supply in its mountain bars and restaurants.
Don’t forget to take out winter sports insurance before you travel including substantial cover for emergency medical expenses. If you’re planning to venture away from the designated slopes, make sure your policy includes cover for off-piste skiing. Some policies will also include cover for equipment – useful if you’ve invested in your own kit and want to insure against theft, loss or damage. Be sure to read your policy wording carefully to check what you are covered for.
Read on for our pick of the five best ski resorts in Europe.
If you’re travelling to Brazil, here are some essential tips to help better plan your journey:
Consult with your General Practitioner or Practice Nurse 6-8 weeks in advance of travel. They will assess your particular health risks before recommending vaccines and/or antimalarial tablets.
Cases of locally transmitted Zika virus have been confirmed in the last 3 months. You should follow the advice of the National Travel Health Network and Centre and discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider, particularly if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
If you become sick or injured during your trip, and need urgent medical attention, dial 192 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and/or accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. Private hospitals will not accept you unless you can present evidence of sufficient funds or insurance.
Travellers to Brazil are entitled to emergency medical treatment in public hospitals; however public hospitals are often crowded in larger cities.
However far you travel; however long you travel for; make sure your next trip is memorable for all the right reasons. View our range of travel insurance products here.