“Skiers are people who tend to be more gungho, as they’re happy to throw themselves off mountains,” says Rupert Longsdon, founder of the upmarket Oxford Ski Company. The company’s bookings are up on recent seasons. This initially involved a swing towards chalets — including a new offering with live-in staff who become part of your bubble during your stay — but, lately, hotel bookings have also come back strongly. Longsdon concedes he deals with travellers less likely to have been affected financially by the pandemic. “People have been looking to go a little bit longer, or even go twice.” He feels the travel demographic likely to be most affected is the new-to-ski crowd, perhaps nervy about the trip anyway, further dissuaded by the crisis. oxfordski.com
Chalet rules
British operator Ski France has seen a positive response to its new Catered Contactless Chalets. “They have claimed almost 60% of new bookings, whereas chalets were previously only a quarter of our winter sales,” says co-owner Joanna Laforge. “It certainly seems that guests appreciate their own space and not having to interact with strangers.”
This story is from the Winter Sports 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Winter Sports 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The craftspeople of Sarawak
From ancient pottery to embroidery fit for Miss World, meet the producers championing traditional artisanal creations in Malaysia's island region.
ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES
From ice skating and cross-country skiing to snowy train rides and cosy cabins stays, there are many memorable ways to make the most of the European winter
GOLDEN YEARS
Join the celebrations century of statehood as the island marks half a with fireworks and parades
A TASTE OF The Philippines
A TRIO OF BIG, BOLD FLAVOURS DOMINATES THIS ARCHIPELAGO NATION'S UNIQUE CUISINE
WHERE TO STAY Helsinki
FINLAND'S CAPITAL HAS AN OFFBEAT SIDE THAT SHINES THROUGH IN ITS CREATIVE HOTEL SCENE
A YEAR OF ADVENTURE
Make 2024 one to remember with these epic trips, putting fairytale castles, cultural exchange and slow travel front and centre
Bear Grylls
THE TV PRESENTER AND FORMER SAS OFFICER ON RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL, COMFORT ZONES AND EXPLORING THE WORLD ON HIS DOORSTEP
BOSTON
In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.
BALI
Known for its beaches, jungles and colourful temples, the Indonesian island of Bali is also home to a vibrant and hugely varied offering of local dishes, from grilled octopus with starfruit to rich Padang-style curry
MANCHESTER
A spirit of rebellious creativity infuses the northern city, with old factories turned into artists' studios and a unique sense of style on display throughout