Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 1

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Welcome

Mountains so high, powder so deep! WHEN it comes to snow holidays, the NorthernHemisphere has it all - hundreds of snowfields, hugeannual snowfalls and skiing traditions dating backhundreds of years. Although many Australians learn to ski in the SnowyMountains or New Zealand, for those who really lovethe white stuff the skifields of Europe, North Americaor Japan offer the opportunity to take their skiing orboarding to the next level, with mountains and runswhich dwarf the local offerings. Aussies love to travel, and the Northern Hemispherealso offers the chance to escape the summer heat andexperience foreign cultures in a unique holidayexperience which includes the exhilaration of longerruns, deeper drifts and more mind-boggling facilitiesthan will ever be seen in Australasian skifields. Northern Hemisphere skiing alsoprovides great opportunities fortravel agents, with fully inclusivepackages comprising air, transfers,accom, ski hire and even mealspopular with many travellers. Europe is where it all started, andthe scope of the ski offerings inFrance, Switzerland, Italy and Austriahas to be seen to be believed. Although there are dizzying WorldCup runs which daredevils can use torocket down the mountain, theresorts also offer terrain which issuited to a wide range of abilities -and because the mountains are sobig, with so many runs, there aregenerally very short queues. Many mountain ranges have a large number ofresort villages, which are all interconnected throughnetworks of ski lifts which make a day on the slopes agreat way to sightsee and explore the local region. And it’s not just about the skiing, with otherattractions including OIympic bobsled runs, glaciers,tunnels, terrain parks, parachute-skiing and of courselots of apres-ski Schnapps! Canada is also growing in popularity with Australianskiers, with many Aussies spending the Christmas

holidays enjoying a cool break in the many family-friendly resorts across the country. Last year’s Winter Olympics in Whistler firmlyfocused the world’s attention on skiing in Canada,with resorts expecting a big influx of visitors this year. Most of the ski action in Canada takes place in thewestern provinces of Alberta and British Columbia,and the huge variety of resorts means there’ssomething for everyone - from upmarket luxurythrough to family-friendly resorts and plenty forbudget skiers who just want to hit the slopes too. The USA is more affordable for Aussie skiers thanever, with the increase in flights and cheaper faresacross the Pacific due to the entry of V Australia andDelta Air Lines in the last year or so. Skiing is on offer in many states including Colorado,

Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming and California in resorts suchas Aspen, Jackson Hole, Sun Valley, MammothMountain and Lake Tahoe. And finally, slightly closer to home and gaining inpopularity every year with Aussies are the fabulousskifields of Japan. There are resorts on the islands of Honshu andHokkaido, with popular destinations including Niseko,Rusutsu, Furano, Hakuba, Shiga Kogen and MiyokoKogen.

Canada page 2Europe page 4Japan and Asia page 6USA page 8Who to contact page 10Competition page 10Air Canada full page page 11MySwitzerland.com page 12

In This Issue...

Win a fabulous skiholiday in Switzerland IN this issue, we’re giving readersthe chance to win a fantastic sixday ski holiday in Switzerland fortwo people courtesy of SwitzerlandTourism, Saas-Fee and the SwissTravel System. The prize includes seven night’saccommodation in a three star self-catering apartment in the Swissmountain village of Saas-Fee; a fourday ski pass and first class travel onall public transport withinSwitzerland with Swiss Passes. Flights aren’t included and theprize is for Travel Daily readers inthe Australian travel industry only. See page 10 for entry details.

Photo courtesy of Apex Mountain Resort: Tourism BC / Don Weixl

Top tips for agents• Some resorts don’t rent ski

clothing, so clients planning to dothis should ensure the gear isavailable at their chosen destination.

• Make sure your clients have travelinsurance, because accidents canhappen - and when overseas theycan be very expensive!

• Helmets are highly recommendedfor both children and adults.

• If possible avoid booking skiholidays in the busy Christmas-New Year period because that’swhen prices are extra high.

Travel Daily welcomes you to its 2010 supplement dedicated to Northern Hemisphere skiing. Winter is almost over in Australia, and keen powderhounds who want to keep the excitement going are set to fly northfor the summer to make the most of some of the amazing ski experiences available in the other half of the world. This special issue aims to give travel agents a taste of the many skiing options available in Europe, North America and Asia.

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 2

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueCanada

The Ski and Snowboard Guide

Click here to get your FREE 2010 Ski andSnowboard GuideDiscover what makes Canada the ultimate ski destination

Call: 1300 391 583www.valuetours.com.au

res@valuetours.com.au

WhistlerCANADA

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• Kids 12 yrs & under Ski FREE^

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* Terms & conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars twin occupancy per room and are correct as at 04/08/10. Offers are subject to availability & can change without notification due to fluctuations in charges and currency. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer & valid for sale until sold out. ^Children ski free offer is valid on a one for one basis with each paying adult. Valid for sale dates and valid for travel dates as listed above. To be read in conjunction with the suppliers’ terms & conditions, a copy of which can be obtained from your Value Tours consultant. Credit Card surcharges apply. Prices for other room types are available on request. For full terms and conditions please view www.valuetours.com.au/BrochurePage.aspx

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Experience the back country with Heli skiing

Photo courtesy of Great Canadian Heli-skiing

FOR powder hounds, there is nothing like the untracked powder in theremote back country. In British Columbia’s wild northwest severaloperators offer Heli-skiing packages, which include luxury mountainlodge accommodation, unique heli-skiing terrain and meals. Or ifthere is too much of the fluffy stuff and the chopper can’t fly thensnowcats can take skiers to the powder choked mountains.

This is a high value productso can offer great agencycommission, as well as givingclients the experience of alifetime. For details see:canadianheli-skiing.com orwww.sevendescents.com.au.

To whet your appetite seethis video from GreatCanadian Heli-Skiing (click).

Getting ThereVancouver is the gateway toBritish Columbia and Alberta,with direct flights from Australiaor via LAX and SFO. Domesticflights take skiers to local airports.

British Columbia

Banff Lake Louise/SunshineVillage/Kicking Horse - fly toCalgary Int’l Airport, 3hr transferto Lake Louise and KickingHorse, Panorama.Jasper/Marmot Basin - fly toCalgary, then 5hr transfer; or flyto Edmonton then 3.5 hourtransfer.

Alberta

Whistler - 2 hours from YVR.Silver Star, Big White andRevelstoke Mountain- fly toKelowna, then 1.5-2 hr transfer.Sun Peaks - fly to Kamloops;then 45 minute transfer.Fernie and Kimberley - fly toCranbrook; then transfer 1hr forFernie and 20mins for Kimberley.Mount Washington - fly toComox; then 45 minute transfer.Panorama - fly to Calgary; then3.5 hour transfer.

Canada ski popularity soars THE upcoming Canadian winterski season is set to be bigger thanever, as the country’s ski areascontinue to bask in the glow fromthe Winter Olympics which wereheld in Whistler during February. Most of the best ski areas are onthe western side of the country, onthe soaring slopes of the CanadianRocky Mountains, in the provincesof British Columbia and Alberta. There are alsoplenty of flightsavailable toCanada,including non-stop servicesbetween Sydneyand Vancouveroffered by AirCanada, as wellas many easyconnectionsfrom trans-Pacific flights to Los Angeles andSan Francisco. Resorts popular with Australiansinclude Whistler Blackcomb - thesite of the Olympics - comprisingtwo huge mountains which areconnected by a delightful village aswell as the Peak to Peak Gondolawhich gives easy access to bothmountains. A series of villages are nestled onthe slopes, with easy access to thewhite stuff via high speed lifts. Also in British Columbia is BigWhite - Canada’s biggest fully ski-in/ski out resort. The appropriately-named BigWhite averages 7.5 metres ofperfect powder snow every year,with more than 7000 acres ofterrain including five bowls, treelines and runs ranging from

beginner right through to expert. Big White was named NorthAmerica’s best family resort, and italso offers an interchangeable liftpass with the nearby Silver Star. So many Aussie families head toSilver Star each year it’s notunusual to hear an Australianaccent in every lift line. Silver Star has lots of character,with a village built in the style of an

1890s Canadian mining town, andthere are lots of other activitiesavailable including ice skating,snow shoeing and snowmobiling. British Columbia also boasts SunPeaks which is Canada’s thirdbiggest ski area and is accessible bybus from nearby Whistler, SilverStar, Big White and Revelstoke. Other British Columbia resortsinclude Kicking Horse MountainResort, Red Mountain and Ferniewhich is tucked into the province’ssoutheastern corner. Moving into Alberta skiers willenjoy the spectacular Banff andLake Louise areas, which offeraccess to the Sunshine, Lake Louiseand Norquay ski areas. There’s also the unspoiledMarmot Basin resort in JasperNational Park, accessed via Calgary.

The snow train IT’S easy to fly to most ofCanada’s ski resorts, but manytravellers prefer the picturesqueexperience of VIA Rail’s snow trainbetween Vancouver and Jasper. The journey takes skiers throughthe breathtaking Rocky Mountainsinto Alberta and Jasper NationalPark, with special Dome carsproviding 360° views of thespectacular landscape. For more information seewww.snowtraintojasper.com.

Marmot Basin express THE Marmot Basin resort in therugged Jasper National Park willoffer the longest high speed quadchair in the Canadian Rockies thisseason, with the new $8mCanadian Rockies Express. The 2.3km long lift has a verticalrise of 596m and provides skiersand boarders with a sensational4km top to bottom ride.

Mount

Washington

Whistler

Marmot Basin

Kicking Horse

Lake Louise

Panorama

Mt Norquay

FernieKimberely

Apex

Red Mountain

Silver Star

Sun Peaks

RevelstokeBig White

Map courtesy of Canadian Tourism Commission

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 3

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueCanada

Call: 1300 391 583www.valuetours.com.au

res@valuetours.com.au

Banff CANADA

INCLUSIONS: 5 nights – The

Fairmont Banff Springs in two Fairmont rooms

3 day tri-area lift & bus pass

VALID: 02 – 31 January 2011 BOOK: By 30 Sep 2010

" BONUSES INCLUDED:

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$ 649* per person twin share

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* Terms & conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars twin occupancy per room (based on 4 people travelling) and are correct as at 03/08/10. Offers are subject to availability & can change without notification due to fluctuations in charges and currency. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer & valid for sale until sold out. ^Children ski free offer is valid on a one for one basis with each paying adult. Valid for sale dates and valid for travel dates as listed above. To be read in conjunction with the suppliers’ terms & conditions, a copy of which can be obtained from your Value Tours consultant. Credit Card surcharges apply. Prices for other room types are available on request. For full terms and conditions please view www.valuetours.com.au/BrochurePage.aspx

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Fast Facts

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola - what a marvel WHISTLERBlackcomb builta massive4.4km-longcable car to linkthe twomountains. The resortoperatorsproudly tout thethree worldrecords held bythe cable cars,including theworld’s longestunsupported span (3024m), thehighest lift of its kind (436m abovethe valley floor) and the longestcontinuous lift system on the globe. The spectacular 11 minute ridebetween the Rendezvous andRoundhouse Lodge stations givesan amazing panoramic view of theslopes - and there’s no waiting,with a new cabin departing every49 seconds and carrying 28

passengers each time. Total capacity is 2050 people perhour each way, and there are 28cabins in all – two of which arepainted silver and have glass floorsfor a really amazing downwardview of the valley below. The gondola has extensive safetyand backup systems and isdesigned to operate in a wide rangeof conditions, including handlingwind speeds of up to 80km/h.

Ski in Eastern Canada ALTHOUGH most of the big skiresorts are in the western provincesof Alberta and British Columbia,there are also options for skiers inthe country’s French-speakingeastern province of Quebec. There are three main ski areas -the Laurentides, the Quebec Cityarea and the Eastern Townships. Most of the resorts are nearQuebec City or Montreal, spreadout across the LaurentianMountains and the Appalachians. There are about 75 resorts intotal with hundreds of runs onoffer, with some of the biggestbeing Tremblant, Saint-Sauveur,Saint-Anne and Le Massif. There are also a number of smallresorts dotted around Nova Scotiaand Ontario.

Sunshine set for 2010 BRITISH Columbia’s SunshineVillage Ski Resort is undergoing amakeover in the lead-up to thestart of the season in November. A new high-speed quad chair isbeing installed, and will becomethe resort’s ninth “superlift” (high-speed, quad and detachable chairs). The resort’s main Borgeaubuilding near the base parking lot isalso undergoing a full interior andexterior renovation, and will offermore restaurant and retail facilitiesas well as a bigger guest service area.

Sisters are doing it!

AN innovation at Sun PeaksResort in Canada this winter is anew female-only branch of the skischool there called Ski Sisters. The brainchild of two long-time“Sun Guides” Chase and Laurie(pictured above) who have beenoffering complimentary tours of themountain for some years, the SkiSisters program aims to helpwomen discover (or rediscover)their confidence and passion forskiing on the Sun Peaks slopes. Strictly for the ladies, participantscan just spend the day cruising withThe Sisters, or work to improvetheir skills and confidence as theyaccess more of the mountain. The pair said they came up withthe idea after often encounteringwomen on the hill who were skiingby themselves because theycouldn’t keep up with theirfamilies, “but after a couple of runswith us they were having a blast”.

Everything ski atcanada.travel/ski THE Canadian TourismCommission has collected lots ofimportant information for skierstravelling to Canada into a singleplace - the offfical Ski Canadawebsite at canada.travel/ski. The site includes details of all thetop ski destinations, wholesalerpackages, travelling to Canada andother things to do while there. There’s also a link for travelagents wanting to learn more viathe Canada Specialist Program.

Get naked in the snow A $10 MILLION renovation atBanff’s Hidden Ridge Resort hasseen the introduction of fourPremier King Suites - with perfectlyprivate balconies, a sunken hot tuband amazing mountain vistasproviding the perfect excuse for abracing skinny dip.

Key:beg = beginner slopesint = intermediate slopesadv = advanced slopesexp = expert slopes

Banff Lake Louise: 26 lifts; avsnowfall 9m; 20% beg, 36%int, 44% adv

Sunshine Village: 12 lifts; avsnowfall 9m; 20% beg, 55%int, 25% adv

Mt Norquay: 5 lifts; av snowfall3m; 20% beg, 36% int, 44%adv

Jasper: 11 lifts; av snowfall 6m;10% beg, 58% int, 32% adv

Marmot Basin: 8 lifts; avsnowfall 4m; 30% beg, 30%int, 40% adv

Alberta

Whistler Blackcomb: 38 lifts; avsnowfall 10m; 20% beg, 55%int, 25% adv

Big White: 16 lifts; av snowfall7m; 18% beg, 54% int, 28% adv

Silver Star: 15 lifts; av snowfall7m; 20% beg, 50% int, 20% adv

Sun Peaks: 11 lifts; av snowfall6m; 10% beg, 58% int, 32% adV

Fernie: 9 lifts; av snowfall 9m;30% beg, 40% int, 30% adv

Revelstoke: 4 lifts; av snowfall9m; 7% beg, 46% int, 47%adv

Kicking Horse: 5 lifts; avsnowfall 7m; 20% beg, 20%int, 60% adv

Red Mountain: 6 lifts; avsnowfall 7.5m; 15% beg, 40%int, 45% adv

Mount Washington: 8 lifts; avsnowfall 11m; 20% beg, 35%int, 45% adv

Kimberley: 5 lifts; av snowfall4m; 20% beg, 42% int, 38% adv

Apex: 4 lifts; av snowfall 6m;16% beg, 48% int, 36% adv

Panorama: 9 lifts; av snowfall4.8m; 20% beg, 55% int, 25%adv

British Columbia

QuebecStoneham: 7 lifts; av snowfall

2.7m; 27% beg, 21% int, 37%adv, 15% exp

LeMassif: 4 lifts; av snowfall6m; 20% beg, 37% int, 12%adv, 31% exp

Mont Sainte Anne: 12 lifts; avsnowfall 4.7m; 23% beg, 45%int, 32% adv

Tremblant: 14 lifts; av snowfall- 4m; 17% beg; 33% int; 50%adv

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueEurope

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 4

Fast Facts

Europe - so much choice for skiers SKIING is a way of life in many parts of Europe, withsoaring mountain ranges providing mind-bogglingslopes in many different countries. Probably the most famous range is the Alps, whichcrosses the continent passing through France, Austria,Germany, Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland. Although there are many ski areas across Europe,the main ones marketed by wholesalers in Australiaare in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. There are many different resorts on offer, with mostgiving access to huge interconnected ski areas withhundreds of runs providing huge variety. And there are lots of other activities too, with manyareas having Olympic-standard bobsled tracks wherevisitors can enjoy an escorted high speed run. There’s also the spectacle of ski jumps, tunnels andglacier skiing, along with great apres ski nightlife - notto mention the opportunity to soak up someEuropean culture and great cuisine. The season gets underway just before Christmasusually, by which time resorts are already blanketed insnow which must be seen to be believed.

Most Aussies will combine a European ski trip withother touring, meaning it’s a great opportunity fortravel agents to assist with a variety of product. Lots of resorts offer fully inclusive packages andmost are located right on the snow for the ultimate inski-in, ski-out holiday convenience. Other areas offering ski resorts include Scandinavia,Andorra and many countries in Eastern Europe.

Unforgettable Arlberg THE Arlberg region in Austria’swest is the cradle of Alpine skiing,with its spectacular landscapes,amazing snow and hospitalitymaking for a great snow holiday. The Arlberg contains five villages:St Anton, St Christoph, Stuben, Zursand Lech, each with its owndistinctive character and withamazing ski areas offering morethan 80 mountain railways and lifts- all accessible via the ‘Arlberg-card’. See www.arlberg.net.

The Alpsregion

Dolomites

The

ArlbergSt. Moritz

The Alps

region

Zermatt

INNSBRUCK is the place to stay for a unique winter experience. Havingtwice hosted the Olympic winter games it is a centre for winter sportsactivities. The Olympia Skiworld Innsbruck offers skiers and boardersnine ski regions to explore, with just one ski pass to access themountains. There is something for everyone from gentle slopes to steepchutes in the 295 kilometres of runs. Shuttle buses transport skiiersfrom Innsbruck to the nine skiing regions, and from some holidayvillages to other ski areas.

There are also lots of other winter activities to try ranging fromtobogganing, snow shoe and winter hiking, curling , ice skating and bestof all bobsledding. Tearing down the 1,210m Innsbruck Olympicbobsleigh run at high speed is an unforgettable experience.

Or just explore the beautiful city of Innsbruck, with its mix of modernand traditional architecture. TheInnsbruck Card includes freepublic transport betweenInnsbruck and major attractions,as well as entrance to all of thespectacular museums and sightsin Innsbruck, including thenearby Swarovski Crystal Worldsat Wattens. For more details goto www.innsbruck.info.

Winter in Innsbruck

Photo courtesy of Austrian NationalTourist Office

SwitzerlandSt Moritz: 25 lifts; snowfall 7.6m;

20% B, 70% I, 10% AVerbier: 100 lifts; snowfall 3.3m;

32% B, 42% I, 36% AZermatt: 41 lifts; snowfall 9m;

9% B, 55% I, 36% A

ItalyCortina: 51 lifts; snowfall 5m;

33% B, 62% I, 5% ACervinia: 24 lifts; snowfall 9m;

15% B, 65% I, 20% ABormio: 14 lifts; snowfall 1m;

35% B, 48% I, 17% ACampitello: 53 lifts; snowfall 5m;

20%B, 45%I, 35%ACourmayeur: 22 lifts; snowfall

7m; 34% B, 54% I, 12% A

FranceChamonix: 62 lifts; snowfall

9.6m; 13% B, 66% I, 21% ACourchevel: 200 lifts; snowfall

6m; 20% B,22% I, 58% AMeribel: 200 lifts; snowfall 5m;

17% B, 34% I, 49% AVal d’Isere and Tignes: 100 lifts;

17% B, 47% I, 36% AVal Thorens: 200 lifts; snowfall

9m; 15% B, 75% I, 10% AMegeve: 81 lifts; snowfall 5.08m;

30% B, 45% I, 25% A

AustriaSt Anton: 85 lifts; snowfall 7m;

25% B, 50% I, 25% ALech: 35 lifts; snowfall 6.4m; 25%

B, 40% I, 35% AZurs: 86 lifts; snowfall 6.4m; 30%

B, 40% I, 30% AInnsbruck: 75 lifts; snowfall 8m;

31% B, 57% I, 11% AKitzbuhel: 56 lifts; snowfall 1.8m;

45% B, 43% I, 12% A

KEY: B = beginner; I =intermediate; A = advanced

Austria - where skiing is a way of life AUSTRIAN children probably learnto ski before they can walk, withabout two-thirds of the countryboasting alpine terrain. There are more than 800 skiresorts across Austria, boasting astaggering 3003 lifts taking skiersand boarders to the top of 22,000square metres of groomed slopes. Austrian ski areas marketed inAustralia are mostly in the Tyrol region- north of Italy, south of Germanyand to the east of Switzerland. There’s Innsbruck - with a ski liftstation right in the middle of theCBD to take guests right to the topof the mountain - with the tag line‘25 minutes from city shops tomountain tops’. Kitzbuhel offers 56 lifts rising to2000m above sea level, with a huge145km of groomed slopes. The Arlberg (see separate story) is

renowned as one of the best skiregions worldwide, while Serfau-Fiss-Ladis is the top family ski areain the European Alps, with lots ofslopes suitable for all ages. There is also skiing availablearound Salzburg, with a number ofresorts connected to the city by theSalzburg Snow Shuttle which runsthrough the winter, takingpassengers to one of seven differentski areas each day of the week. More details at www.austria.info.

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 5

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueEurope

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It all started in Europe THE earliest records of peopleskiing date back more than 4000years, with rock drawings in Norwaydepicting people on ski-like objects

attempting to hunt localwildlife.

Back then it wasa matter of

survival forthe Samipeople of

the frozen north, with recreationalskiing really only taking hold in the1800s when the industrialrevolution and the invention ofengines and electric power allowedthe creation of funicular railwaysand eventually ski lifts. And so it’s no coincidence that allof the major manufacturers of cablecars, ski lifts, pomas and T-bars allhail from various Europeancountries, and in particularSwitzerland.

Ski France - you knowyou want to THE French Alps boasts lots oficonic resorts including ChamonixMont-Blanc, Les Arcs, Alpe D’Huez,Meribel, Tignes and Val D’Isere. Many of the ski areas are linkedtogether, with scores of liftsaccessible using a single ski passacross a number of resorts. The Paradiski ski domain is onesuch area, comprising resortsincluding La Plagne, Les Arcs, andPeisey-Vallandry each of whichincludes several delightful villagesoffering on-snow accommodation. Resorts are often known by theirelevation, such as ‘La Plagne 2100’which is 2100m above sea level. All of the Paradiski ski lifts areaccessed using an electronic passwhich can be read through clothing,meaning skiers can just leave it intheir pocket and have the gatesopen up automatically. Highlights of this region includeglacier skiing at an altitude of3250m - and some enterprising skibums have even dug a gigantic cavebeneath the glacier, which has beenrigged up with lights and icesculptures for a unique experience. One of the Paradiski runs is called‘Le Tunnel’ and travels from Rochede Mio to Plagne Bellecote - via atunnel right through the mountain.

Rail your way around RAIL is one of the best ways to getto many European ski resorts - it’sconvenient and inexpensive as wellas being a great way to travel. This year cross-channel railoperator Eurostar is operating anumber of services directly fromLondon to the French Alps. Fares start at A$175 one way instandard class and tickets areavailable through all major railwholesalers including CIT, Rail Plus,Infinity Rail and Rail Tickets. The twice weekly services call atMoûtiers, Aime-La-Plagne andBourg St Maurice which are closeto lots of amazing resorts includingLa Plagne, Courchevel, Tignes,Meribel and Les Arcs. To make things even easier,Eurostar is also allowing an extraitem of luggage to be carried at noextra charge on top of the regularallowance - such as a pair of skisand a snowboard. The extensive Swiss TravelNetwork is the perfect way to getto resorts in Switzerland, with fast,frequent, clean and convenient railservices criss-crossing the country. See www.raileurope.com.au.

Super Swiss skiing PRINCE Charles does it, so whynot your clients? The small Swiss ski resort ofKlosters is famous for being thefavourite snow holiday destinationof the heir to the English throne -but Switzerland offers lots of otherfabulous ski options too. Davos, St Moritz, Wengen,Zermatt, Verbier, Villars, Wengenand even Grindelwald all havefabulous snow and spectacularscenery. St Moritz is also famous for itshealth springs - along with morethan 400km of ski trails, whileZermatt sits at the foot of theMatterhorn, and offers the ability toski between countries as its threeski areas straddle the Italian border. See www.myswitzerland.com.

Italy - the Dolomites IN north-eastern Italy lie theDolomite mountains, with a numberof resort villages providing access toone of the world’s biggest ski regions. There are a staggering 464 liftsavailable - all of which can beaccessed using the DolomitiSuperski Pass. The closest major Italian cities tothe Dolomites are Milan and Venice.

A flurry of flights THIS season British Airways will forthe first time offer special ski flightsfrom the heart of London intoChambery in the French Alps. The Embraer 190 jet services willoperate from London City Airportfour times per week from 18 Dec. Geneva is also an ideal gateway toboth the French and Swiss Alps.

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 6

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueJapan and Asia

Book Early Bird Specials with Japan Holidaysyour Japan Ski SpecialistSpecial Bonus includes2010-11 Hakuba Alpen Resort Family PackagesBook By 30 Nov 10

Contact Japan Holidays NOWTel: 07 3300 2396 Web: www.japanholidays.com.au

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Fast FactsHokkaido

Niseko: 38 lifts; avg snowfall -11m; terrain: 30% Beg, 40%Int, 30% Adv

Rusutsu: 18 lifts; avg snowfall -8m; terrain: 30% Beg, 40%Int, 30% Adv

Furano: 11 lifts; avg snowfall -8m; terrain: 40% Beg, 40%Int, 20% Adv

Kiroro: 9 lifts; 35% Beg, 35%Int, 30% Adv

Tomamu: 11 lifts; 30% Beg,40% Int, 30% Adv

Sahoro: 8 lifts, 30% Beg, 40%Int, 30% Adv

TohukuZao: 42 lifts; avg snowfall -

12m; terrain: 40% Beg, 40%Int, 20% Adv

Appi Kogen: 18 lifts; avgsnowfall - 8m; terrain: 30%Beg, 40% Int, 30% Adv

Alts Bandai: 11 lifts; avgsnowfall - 8m; terrain: 35%Beg, 40% Int, 25% Adv

NaganoHakuba: 55 lifts; avg snowfall

- 11m; 30% Beg, 40% Int,30% Adv

Shiga Kogen: 71 lifts; avgsnowfalll - 8m; 30% Beg,40% Int, 30% Adv

Nozawo Onsen: 19 lifts; avgsnowfall - 11m; 40% Beg,30% Int, 30% Adv

ASK AN EXPERT: GLENN GOULDINGGlenn Goulding is company director of DeepPowder Tours in Sydney, specialistsin ski andsnowboarding holidays.Why would you choose to ski Japan?The snow quality is really good, it’s close toAustralia and easy to get to.What’s your favourite resort there?Niseko for sure! Up to 16 metres of annual snowfallsays it all!

Why do you love it so much?Because it usually has the best snow conditions, and also has agreat village atmosphere with quaint restaurants & bars. Theinfrastructure there is second to none.Any tips for Aussies?Obey the mountain rules, have an onsen, & if staying at a hotel orpension, make sure you eat in for dinner during your stay.

SKI JAPAN – direct to Sapporo (CTS) with Continental AirlinesSKI some of the Worlds BEST SLOPES - SAME DAY

Ex CNS via GUM - $700, Ex SYD/MEL/BNE via CNS – $1000Plus taxes and charges For full details call 1300 737 640Fare based on travel 13Jan – 31 Mar 2011 – ticketing until 30Sep 2010 – Reservations in G class/35day validity

China - a new frontier CLUB Med is one of the firstwestern ski operators to see thepotential of the massive Chinese skimarket - but its new resorts willalso be marketed across the globeto offer a unique ski experience. The first Club Med ski resort inChina, the Yabuli Resort in China’snorth-east is set to open in Nov. It’s in a picturesque national parkin the Heilongjiang Province nearthe borders with Mongolia andRussia, and like other Club Medswill offer an all-inclusive experienceperfect for families and couples. Club Med Yabuli will have 284rooms, with facilities including aspa, indoor heated swimming poolas well as kids’ clubs for ages 2-18and an ice skating rink. And all of the runs are accessedvia comfortable enclosed gondolas,and the gateway city is Harbinwhich offers regular flights fromBeijing and Shanghai. Reservations for Club Med Yabuli(pictured below) for the northernwinter 2011 season are now open -for more details seewww.clubmed.com.au.

HOKKAIDO

HONSHU

• • •

• Tokyo

•

•

• ••

Map courtesy of Japan Holidays

FuranoNiseko

Rusutsu

•

Appi

ZaoNozawa

Shiga Kogen

Myoko Hakuba

•Sahoro

Aussies love skiing in Japan LAST year more than 30,000Australians visited Japan to ski,with the most popular area beingNiseko on the northern island ofHokkaido - but there are manyothers too and they’re all gaining infavour with Aussies. Japan is also closer than mostother northern hemisphere skidestinations, being a 10 hour flightand another advantage is that it’s ina similar timezone to Australia,meaning there’s hardly any jetlagso your clients can hit the slopes alot faster. A ski holiday in Japan not onlyoffers fabulous snow but can be agreat cultural experience, allowingtravellers to soak up the Japaneseculture while they’re there. A must-do is a traditionalJapanese onsen - a hot public bath(often with natural thermal springwater) which is a truly cross-cultural experience. The Niseko region offers fourinterlinked resorts: Annapuri,Higashiyama, Hirafu and Hazanonoand has a wide range of runs forskiers and boarders of all standards. There’s also some terrific terrainfor boarders, includingquarter and half-pipes,table tops, widechutes and bigtree runs.

Niseko offers a huge range ofaccommodation so guests can becertain of finding something thatsuits their needs perfectly. Furano is also on Hokkaido andboasts average annual snowfall of 8metres, meaning clients are sure tohave plenty of the white stuff. A popular option for families isthe Club Med resort in Sahoro,further west on Hokkaido whichoffers fully inclusive packages andextensive kids facilities. Further south, the main island ofHonshu features the Hakuba Valley- a group of ten resorts in the JapanAlps offering over 200 runs. Also on Honshu is Shiga Kogen,Japan’s biggest resort with 21villages covered by a single lift pass. It’s about 90 minutes from theWinter Olympiccity ofNagano.

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 7

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueJapan and Asia

Powder Tours are Australia’s most experienced wholesaler of snowto Japan. If your client wants to travel to Japan CONTACT US NOW!

Email info@deeppowdertours.com Website www.deeppowdertours.com

Getting ThereQantas, Jetstar and JapanAirlines offer direct flights toJapan from Australia, whileContinental Airlines alsoflies straight into Hokkaido(Sapporo) from Cairns (viaGuam).

Nagano & Niigataprefectures

From Tokyo the bullet train(JR Nagano Shinkansen)takes 95-110 mins west toNagano. Express bus tansfersare available from Naganostation to Hakuba and ShigaKogen resorts. Resorts in theNiigata prefecture can beaccessed from Naganostation via local train linesand then bus transfers, or viaJR Joetsu Shinkansen trainfrom Tokyo, approx 2 hrs.

Tohoku

Hokkaido

Snow MonkeysThe Nagano area is famous for its hot springs. Visitors can take aday off from the slopes and experience an onsen (natural hotspa) at one of the local villages. Or for an unforgettableexperience see the world famous snow monkeys at theJigokudani Wild MonkeyPark. Home to about 200wild Japanese Macaque,they can be seen spendingtheir days soaking in thenatural hot springs, keepingwarm in the harsh winterconditions. Photo courtesy of Japan Holidays

Skimax offers Korea A NEW offering from ski specialistwholesaler Skimax this year is snowholiday packages in the Koreanresort of Yongpyong. Known as “Korea’s Ski Mecca,”Yongpyong has hosted manyinternational ski events and is acontender for the 2018 WinterOlympics. It’s located about 200km east ofSeoul and offers skiing from mid-Nov through to Apr on 31 ski slopesaccessed via 15 chair lifts and a3.7km long gondola. There’s a wide range of accomoptions, with premium luxuryhotels on offer right through totraditional Korean ‘Ondol rooms’. The Skimax range includes hoteland apartment accommodationand there are both western andAsian restaurants along with lots ofother facilities such as karaoke bars,a bowling alley and hot springs. Details at www.skimax.com.au.

This area is in the northernpart of Honshu, and accessis via train from Tokyo ondifferent lines depending onresort town. Bus transfers areavailable from local trainstations to resorts. Travel timecan be up to 5 hours fromTokyo to some resorts.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernisland, is accessed viadomestic flights, leavingfrom Haneda airport inTokyo. Fly to Shin-ChitoseAirport (Sapporo), Obihiro orAsahikawa depending onwhich resort guests arestaying in. Most operators willorganise airport transfers toaccommodation, or localbus services are available.

Why is it so deep? THE northern part of Japan isacross the Sea of Japan fromSiberia, with huge weather systemscrossing from the sub-arctic regionsthroughout the winter. Meteorologists say the moisturecontent of these storms is about8% on average - which translatesinto “champagne powder and lotsof it,” according to one expert. Some Japanese resorts receive upto 14 metres of snow each seasonso conditions are sure to be good.

Hit the back country A NUMBER of specialist operatorstake small groups out into thesnowy Japanese wilderness, far off-piste where the snow is so deep ithas to be seen to be believed. Hokkaido Powder Guides runs an“Off-piste Week”, with professionalguides teaching participantsbackcountry safety equipment use,and the best techniques for ridingthe spectacular powder. The company also runs regularAvalanche Skills Training coursescovering rescue techniques andsnow stability tests - details atwww.hokkaidopowderguides.com.

Hakuba - the next big thing JAPAN’S Hakuba Valley on themain island of Honshu is expectedto increase in popularity withAussie visitors who are seekingsomething new this winter. Hakuba receives more than 10metres of snow each season, withplenty of powder, and there arealso lots of other specialattractions including aZen Monk experience andthe Nagano SnowMonkeys (see below). The region offers tenresorts and was the hostof the 1998 NaganoOlympics, and mostwholesalers now offerHakuba packages -including Japan Holidayswhich has a seven day bed andbreakfast twin share deal includingmeet and greet services, six AlpenLift passes, a choice of three Day

Tours and one free hotel dinnerleading in at $1420pp. There are also optional add-ons inTokyo from $150pp/night, withJapan Holidays md Anthony Luxtonsaying that it’s becoming morecommon for Aussie visitors to buytheir ski clothing and other gear on

arrival in Japan, where “prices ofbig brand items are significantlycheaper than in Australia” - seewww.japanholidays.com.au.

Niseko ski tips AUSTRALIAN travellers to Nisekoshould find it relatively easy to getaround, with most signs, restaurantmenus and ski lessons in English. The average winter temperaturein the villages is around -5°C andit’s even colder on the mountain, sogood quality ski wear is a must. During the months of Nov-Feb it’salso essential to have goggles -because with up to 15m of snoweach season it’s often snowing.

Special rail pass JAPAN Rail East is offering aspecial limited-period version of itsJR East Pass, with unlimited travelfor any three days in the threemonth period from 01 Sep-30 Novon all JR East Lines. JR East is also offering foreigntourists a free copy of the Englishedition of the Zagat ‘Best ofNagano’ restaurant guide at any ofits travel service centres - includingat Narita International Airport.

Photo courtesy of Japan Holidays

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueUSA

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 8

USA2010/11 Brochure OUT NOW ! "

the global snow travel experts!

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* Terms & conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars twin or quad occupancy per room and are correct as at 03/08/10. Of fers are subject to availability & can change without notification due to f luctuations in charges and currency. Not valid in conjunction with any other of fer & valid for sale until sold out. ^ Children ski free of fer is valid on a one for one basis with each paying adult. Valid for sale dates and valid for travel dates as listed above. To be read in conjunction with the suppliers’ terms & conditions, a copy of which can be obtained from your Value Tours consultant. Credit Card surcharges apply. Prices for other room types are available on request. For full terms and conditions please view www.valuetours.com.au/BrochurePage.aspx

For more information or bookings contact your local Travel Agent or Value Tours: EMAIL: res@valuetours.com.au WEB: www.valuetours.com.au PHONE: 1300 391 583

INCLUSIONS: 7 nights – standard

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VALID: 25 Nov – 08 Dec 2010BOOK: By 01 Dec 2010

INCLUSIONS: 7 nights – lodge room 5 day Colorado

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per room twin share

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7 nights from only

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2010/11

Mammoth Mountain

Lake Tahoe

- Heavenly/Northstar/

Squaw ValleyDeer Valley

Park CitySteamboat

Beaver Creek/

Vail

Aspen/Snowmass

Telluride

Keystone/Breckenridge

Jackson Hole

The Canyons/

Snowbird

Sun Valley

Winter Park

The USA - so much more affordable now THE arrival of new airlines on routes betweenAustralia and the USA has seen fares plummet, withskiing on the fabulous slopes of Colorado, Idaho,Wyoming, Utah and California now within the reachof significantly more Aussie powderhounds due to thecompetition introduced by Delta and V Australia. US resorts are very welcoming of Australians, and infact Aussies are the top international visitors to theiconic resort of Aspen in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains,which incorporates four ski areas: Aspen, Snowmass,Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Aspen is also popular with celebrities so a bit ofstar-spotting on the slopes can add even moreexcitement for your clients. As well as Aspen, Colorado boasts other majorresorts including Steamboat, Beaver Creek, Vail,Winter Park, Telluride, Keystone and Breckenridge - allwith high quality snow, excellent accommodation,dining and nightlife. Steamboat is further north in the Rockies, and itswild west theme and friendly welcome complementsits trademarked fabulous Champagne Power snowand has seen it named the top family resort in NorthAmerica (see page 9 for an Aussie agent’s opinion). Beaver Creek, Vail, Keystone and Breckenridge offera common lift pass, with Beaver Creek offering anupmarket snow experience with gourmet restaurantsand uncrowded conditions. Vail is the biggest ski resort in the USA, with a hugeselection of accommodation and more than 100restaurants and bars across the valley, while there are193 trails accessed by 31 lifts.

Getting There Keystone and Breckenridge are in Colorado’s TenMile Range and offer hundreds of runs as well as lotsof other activities such as sleigh rides, dog sledding,snow-shoeing and ice skating. Further south Telluride is renowned for itsspectacular conditions, with 300 days of sunshineeach year along with 8 metres of snow on average. Utah also offers a great ski experience, with severalresorts located in the Wasatch Mountains just 40

minutes drive from the capital, Salt Lake City, includingPark City, Deer Valley and The Canyons. In the further northern state of Wyoming is theresort of Jackson Hole which enjoys more than 11m ofsnowfall each winter and boasts uncrowded slopes,while Sun Valley in Idaho has been described as the“best single ski mountain in the world”. And closer to the Pacific gateways of Los Angeles andSan Francisco are the Californian ski resorts ofMammoth Mountain and the Lake Tahoe area, whichare gaining in popularity as Aussies discover how easythey are to visit and their sensational skiing.

Qantas, United Airlines, VAustralia and Delta Air Linesoffer direct flights to the USA.

California

Colorado

Idaho/Wyoming

Utah

There are direct flights fromLos Angeles to MammothMountain, while visitors tothe Lake Tahoe area usuallyfly into Reno, Nevada.

Aspen has its own airport,while other resorts areaccessed from Denver,Hayden or Eagle airports.

Sun Valley has its ownairport, while Jackson Hole isabout 40 min from Jackson.

The major Utah ski resorts areall 30-45 min drive from thecapital, Salt Lake City.

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueUSA

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 9

Sun Valley: 12 lifts; 36% B, 42%I, 22% A

Jackson Hole: 12 lifts; 10% B,40% I, 50% A

Fast Facts

Idaho and Wyoming

California

ColoradoAspen Mountain: 8 lifts; 48% I,

26% A, 26% EAspen Highlands: 5 lifts; 18%

B, 30% I, 16% A, 36% EButtermilk: 9 lifts; 35% B, 39%

I, 26% ASnowmass: 24 lifts; 6% B, 50%

I, 44% A, 32% ETelluride: 18 lifts; 23% B, 36% I,

41% AVail: 32 lifts; 18% B, 29% I, 53% AKeystone: 20 lifts;19% B, 12% I,

49% ABreckenridge: 29 lifts; 14% B,

31% I, 55% ABeaver Creek: 17 lifts; 19% B,

43% I, 38% ASteamboat: 18 lifts; 14% B,

42% I, 44% ACopper Mountain: 22 lifts;

21% B, 25% I, 54% AWinter Park: 25 lifts; 8% B, 36%

I, 56% A

Mammoth Mountain: 28 lifts;25% B, 40% I, 20% A, 15% E

Squaw Valley: 33 lifts; 25% B,45% I, 30% A

Northstar at Tahoe: 18 lifts;13% B, 60% I, 27% A

Alpine Meadows: 14 lifts; 25%B, 40% I, 35% A

Heavenly Valley: 29 lifts; 20%B, 45% I, 35% A

Kirkwood: 14 lifts; 15% B, 50%I, 20% A, 15% E

Sierra at Tahoe: 12 lifts; 25% B,50% I, 25% A

Donna Sheather is a Sydney travel agent who loves skiing with her family whichincludes a powderhound husband and three energetic teenage boys, who arelucky enough to have experienced a number of US ski holidays.

Why would you choose to ski in the USA?America is a very travel friendly destination, with compatible culture and greatshopping. There is a wide variety of ski resorts throughout the Rockies.What’s your favourite resort there?Without a doubt it would have to be Steamboat in Colorado. This is a puredestination resort located about 3 hours drive from Denver. I love the relaxedfriendly Wild Western hospitality of this old mining town. You really feel likeyou’re in cowboy country.

Why do you love it so much?Steamboat has the copyright on Champagne Powder. The tree skiing is the best I have everexperienced, from glades to tight tree runs. There is also so much to do for everyone from sleighride dinners to tubing. It really is a great resort for families. There is also an abundance of greatrestaurants. And all the ski school programs are so well organised.Any tips for Aussies?Always ski/board with a helmet and stay well hydrated. It is also important to have good qualitygloves and thermals. It also helps to improve your fitness before you go so that you can really enjoya good day’s riding. Remember, that’s what you’re there for!

ASK AN AGENT : DONNA SHEATHER of Jetset Chatswood, NSW

Park City: 16 lifts; 17% B, 50% I,33% A

Canyons: 17 lifts; 10% B, 44% I,46% A

Deer Valley: 22 lifts; 24% B,43% I, 33% A

Alta: 11 lifts: 25% B, 40% I,35% A

Snowbird: 13 lifts; 27% B, 38%I, 35% A

Utah

KEY: B = beginner; I = intermediate;A = advanced; E = Expert

Photo courtesy North Lake Tahoe Marketing Cooperative

More for Aspen ASPEN has expanded its retailofferings this year with the additionof upmarket Paige GambleHandbags which are popular inNew York as well as a number ofother boutique additions. And this winter visitors will alsoenjoy new restaurants including there-opened Red Onion, the SilverQueen and an expansion of theSyzygy bar, club and restaurant.

California here we come! WHEN Aussies think of Californiathey think of Hollywood, beachesand Disneyland, but the state alsohas some of the best skiing in theUSA - all easily accessible from thegateway of Los Angeles. Mammoth Mountain is renownedfor its vast ski areas, just a 40 minflight or six hour drive from LAX. The skiing is centred around thetown of Mammoth Lakes, whichoffers a wide variety of accom, anda free shuttle service offers skiiersdirect access to any of the fourbase stations from town. Receiving an annual snowfall ofabout 10 metres, the seasonextends for over half the year, fromNovember to July. With over 3,500 acres of skiableterrain, 150 named trails, plus backcountry access there is somethingfor every level of boarder or skiier. To the north, the Lake Tahoe areais also a fantastic option for Aussies. Only 45min from Reno, there arenumerous ski resorts dottedaround the spectacular lake onboth the Nevada and California sideof the border. Located in South Lake Tahoe isHeavenly Ski Resort,the highest in theTahoe area. Skiiers can ski inboth states in oneday, with anextensive network oflifts and trails alloffering amazingviews of the lakebelow - and forapres ski night life

the Nevada side of town hascasinos for gambling andentertainment. On the northern side of the lakeresorts include Alpine Meadows,Diamond Peak, HomewoodMountain Resort, Kirkwood, MtRose Ski Tahoe, Northstar-at-Tahoe,Squaw Valley USA and Sugar Bowl. Some of these have bandedtogether to be included in the SkiTahoe North Interchangeable LiftTicket which allows access to sevenmountains, so you can try them all. Accom is available at each resortor in local towns, and all the resortsreceive an average snowfall of over9 metres so you can’t go wrong. For snowboarders Northstar-at-Tahoe is a popular choice, beinghome to the Burton Academy withtop boarding instructors as well asseveral terrain parks, pipes andfreestyle terrain. Squaw Valley was home to the1960 Winter Olympics and featuresThe Village at Squaw, with lots ofrestaurants and shops to enjoy. To see more about what’s new inSquaw Valley for 2010/11 seewww.tahoetopia.com or click here

Lake Tahoe on high A FANTASTIC add-on to a Tahoeski holiday is a scenic helicoptertour which gives a spectacular viewof Lake Tahoe from the air. HeliTahoe flights depart dailyfrom the airports in South LakeTahoe, Minden-Tahoe and Truckee,and the operator also specialises inUltimate Experience Weddings,where the pilots coordinate in-flight wedding vows withspectacular sunsets over the lake. Every seat is a window seat, andprices start at US$54 per person -see www.helitahoe.com.

Jackson Holes out THIS winter will see boardersenjoy radical terrain at Jackson Holein Wyoming, with the creation offive “Burton Stash Parks” which usenatural features to create ramps,rails and jumps across the mountain. The resort will also benefit from alonger season with a 25% boost insnowmaking, and it’s easy to getthere too with a new daily UnitedAirlines flight direct from LAX.

2010 Southern Hemisphere Ski Issue

Travel Daily Australia | 1300 799 220 | www.traveldaily.com.au | August 2010Page 10

2010 Northern Hemisphere Ski IssueWho to Contact

Planning your client’s ski holiday?

Ski Expresswww.skiexpress.com.au - 1300 130 524

SkiMax Holidayswww.skimax.com.au - 1300 136 997

Value Tourswww.valuetours.com.au - 1300 361 322

Ski Operators

Switzerland Tourismwww.myswitzerland.com - (02) 9262 1377

Ski Information

Qantas - www.qantas.com.au

Japan Airlines - www.au.jal.com

Emirates - www.emirates.com

Airlines

Deep Powder Tourswww.deeppowdertours.com - 1300 305 451

ClubMedwww.clubmed.com.au - 1300 855 052

Japan Holidayswww.japanholidays.com.au - (07) 3300 2396

Austrian National Tourist Officewww.austria.info/au - (02) 9299 3621

California Travel and Tourism Commissionwww.visitcalifornia.com.au - (02) 9361 0660

Italian Government Tourist Officewww.italiantourism.com.au - (02) 9262 1666

Japan National Tourism Organizationwww.jnto.org.au - (02) 9279 2177

Air Canada - www.aircanada.com

Delta Air Lines - www.delta.com

V Australia - www.vaustralia.com.au

Continental Airlines - www.continental.com

Etihad Airways - www.etihadairways.com

Lufthansa/Austrian - www.lufthansaexperts.com

Thai Airways International - www.thaiairways.com.au

Ski Information

Canadian Tourism Commissionwww.canada.travel/ski - (02) 9571 1866

Air France/KLM - www.afkl.biz

United Airlines - www.unitedairlines.com.au

EXCLUSIVE for this special ski issue, Travel Daily is giving readers thechance to win an amazing ski holiday in Switzerland.

This fantastic prize for two people, courtesy of Switzerland Tourism,Saas-Fee and Swiss Travel System includes: seven nightsaccommodation in a three-star self-catering apartment in Saas-Fee,Valais Switzerland for two people; a four day ski pass and first classtravel on all public transport within Switzerland with Swiss Passes.

Saas-Fee is a gorgeous mountain village set 1800 metres high by theAllain Glacier. It offers 22 lifts, including cable cars, a funicular railway,gondolas, chairlifts and surface lifts (draglifts). Other activities at theresort include snowboarding (halfpipe and park), paragliding, hanggliding, and tobogganing. Saas-Fee is car free which makes theholiday even more special.

For further information about skiing in Switzerland visitwww.MySwitzerland.com

For your chance to win this spectacular holiday, simply send in acaption to go with the cheeky photo pictured to the left.

Email your answers to: skiswitzerland@traveldaily.com.auEntries will be accepted until close of business on Wednesday 9thSeptember and the winner will be announced in Travel Daily onMonday 13th September.

The Travel Daily subscriber who sends in the most creative caption forthis photo will be the lucky winner of this amazing prize!

WIN A SKI HOLIDAY IN SWITZERLANDWIN A SKI HOLIDAY IN SWITZERLAND

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Photo: www.funpics.com

Start your vacation with Air Canada.Your holiday begins the moment you step aboard our Air Canada Boeing 777. Our Executive First Suites offer you the ultimate in onboard luxury with fully lie-flat beds. Whether it’s Alpine or Apres, book with Air Canada and we’ll make sure you arrive refreshed and relaxed and ready to hit the slopes. Call Reservations on 1300 655 767 or speak to your friendly travel agent.

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MySwitzerland.comSwitzerland offers everything you would expect from a heavenly winter vacation. Plus a whole lot more: snow reliability, perfectly groomed ski slopes, long downhill runs and a remarkable service. For information and reservation please contact freephone number 0011 800 100 200 30 from 8 am to 6 pm Swiss time/ 4 pm to 2 am Australian time. Or you can send an email to info.aus@myswitzerland.com and you will get an answer within 24 hours.

We do whatever it takes to make your winter vacation perfect.