Expert skier talks resorts, mountain lunches, snow and head gear
Ski Independence managing director Michael Bennett hopped onto the (virtual) TravelMole ski chair for a chat about his ski holidays.
Are you a skier or a boarder?
A skier
The Alps or the Rockies, which are best?
Impossible to choose so I’d recommend everyone try both. Ten years ago, the Rockies had the edge with better lift systems, slicker service and better value lodging; but European resorts have invested heavily in their infrastructure and are much more customer focused than before. There’s no doubt Europe’s edges are still rougher than North America, so the Alps appeal more to clients looking for authenticity.
Do you like a long lunch or to ski hard all day?
Ski hard all morning then stop in the early afternoon for lunch. Most days we’ll manage an hour or two skiing after lunch, but some days a restaurant terrace on a sunny day can be too hard to leave
Would you choose a big resort or somewhere more intimate?
I’d go for a bigger resort with more going on – we’ve got three younger children so a ski holiday can’t just be about the skiing. Swimming can be a great late afternoon activity to keep the kids happy – our kids are big fans of Aquariaz in Avoriaz – a tropical water park at altitude. ~
Are you an off-piste powder hound or do you stick to the marked runs?
If you’d asked me 20 years ago I’d have said the former, now it’s the latter but I still love skiing powder if it’s easy to access and safe. I’m happier skiing off-piste in North America as the terrain will always be part of the patrolled and marked ski area.
Hat or helmet?
Definitely a helmet – I’ve heard too many horror stories to ever contemplate skiing without one.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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