The 2022/23 winter sports season is quickly approaching, so it's about time to start thinking about where you want to go. We've picked out our favourite resorts in Europe and internationally, for the best skiing, and the best après. <br> <br>
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Avoriaz, France
If you’re chomping at the bit to hit the slopes, Avoriaz in the French Alps is your safest bet for early snow. Part of the 600km network of slopes in the Portes du Soleil ski area that covers both France and Switzerland, this ski-in/ski-out resort has some of the best blue and black runs in the region. <br> <br> However, it also offers plenty of slopes suitable for beginners, as well as a ski school and plenty of equipment for rent. There’s also plenty of tracks for Nordic skiing, for those who aren’t interested in going downhill. And of course – plenty of options for après ski, with 9 different bars to choose from in the resort alone. <br> <br> Once you’re done with skiing, the Aquariaz indoor aquatic centre offers a variety of pools and waterslides for both play and relaxation. In contrast to the wintery slopes, it’s a tropical paradise with plenty of greenery to help you warm up. <br> <br> The resort opens on the 9th of December with apartments starting from €769 per week. <br> <br>
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Zermatt, Switzerland
If you’re looking for a ski resort with world-class parties and the chance to rub elbows with celebrities, Zermatt in Switzerland is a must. This resort in the shade of iconic Toblerone mountain the Matterhorn is renowned worldwide for its après ski parties. Your first stop should be the Iglu Dorf, which is rebuilt every year in collaboration with artists who put their own spin on the concept. <br> <br> The resort itself has breath-taking views, which you can experience on a 12.5km long ski safari taking you all the way around the mountain, with plenty of photo ops along the way. The slopes come in a variety of difficulties, so everyone can find one suited to their level. <br> <br> This ski-in/ski-out resort offers ski schools for both children and adults, as well as equipment rental. The season opens on the 27th of November and apartments start from £1,350 per week. <br> <br>
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Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
For the absolute best slopes in Europe, Cortina d’Ampezzo can’t be beaten. The resort hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956, and is set to do so again exactly 70 years later, in 2026. This UNESCO world heritage site is home to a wide variety of slopes – and though they’ll be used to battle it out for the world title, there’s plenty of options for beginners as well. <br> <br> In fact, Cortina d’Ampezzo might be the most famous ski resort in the world, with many films being shot there as far back as 1920. Famous examples include James Bond movie For Your Eyes Only and Cliffhanger starring Sylvester Stallone. Why not take a tour of the different movie locations? <br> <br> The resort offers lessons in both skiing and snowboarding – as well as dogsledding. Participants have a short theoretical lesson followed by an excursion with the dogs – and yes, there’s extra time at the end to pet the dogs. <br> <br> In the evenings, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a slightly more low-key après ski experience than many other resorts, with the focus being less on lively parties, more on glamorous cocktails. Hotel de la Poste has served the area since the 1830’s, playing host to celebrities like Jane Fonda and Elizabeth Taylor. No guarantees you’ll spot any familiar faces, but it’s worth a try! <br> <br> Cortina d’Ampezzo opens on the 27th of November and apartments start from €980. <br> <br>
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Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Looking outside of Europe, you’ll also be able to find Olympic slopes in Whistler Blackcomb, which hosted the Winter Olympics in 2010. This resort is the biggest in North America, with over 100km of trails. You can go up the mountains in a regular ski lift, or, for more of an adventure, you can go heli-skiing, and throw yourself down the mountain from a hovering helicopter. Do make sure you’re fit and able for this though – it is not recommended for beginners, or for your first day of the season. <br> <br> There are plenty of other slopes suitable for all levels, as well as lessons available for those who need them. And once you’re done with skiing, why not go ice-fishing? You’ll have to miss out on the après ski that night as you’ll get up really early in the morning, but in return, you’ll get an unforgettable experience with the chance to eat fresh fish that you’ve caught yourself. <br> <br> And speaking of après ski, there’s plenty to choose from in Whistler. The fun starts only a few steps away from the slopes, with the Garibaldi Lift Company being a favourite of locals and tourists alike. <br> <br> The winter season at Whistler Blackcomb starts on the 24th of November, and you can find accommodation from CAD $910 (about £585). <br> <br>
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Niseko, Japan
This Japanese winter sport paradise is famed for its powder snow – allegedly the best in the world. Located in the North of Japan, this resort, which is accessible by bus, is popular with locals and international tourists alike. And with Japan only recently opening its borders to international travel, the resort will be opening its arms to keen skiers. <br> <br> The Japanese are famous for their partying, and the après ski in Niseko is no exception - in nearby Hirafu village, there's plenty of options to dine and drink once you're done for the day. In fact, many of the options available can almost be called Japanese-European fusion, like the fondue-like snow crab sharing pot found at The Crab Shack. <br> <br> If you visit Niseko in February, it is worth taking a detour to Sapporo for its annual snow festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The whole city is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 250 snow and ice sculptures. <br> <br> Niseko ski resort opens on the first of December, and accommodation starts from ¥186,165 per week (about £1,090). <br> <br>
Wherever you strap your snowboots on, stay safe, and make sure that you’re getting the best rates and fee-free spending abroad by using your Caxton Currency Card. Apply for yours today, or top up your existing card.