Top tips
Not sure what to pack, what to wear or how to talk the talk? Here are some top tips for beginners to help you look and sound like a pro!
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Where to ski and snowboard
Choose a ski resort that caters for beginners. An ideal beginners ski resort will have:
- Plenty of long, wide nursery slopes and green (beginner) runs
- High quality tuition with English-speaking instructors
- A variety of lifts to get up and down the mountain (especially important for snowboarders for whom drag lifts can be particularly tricky)
Recommended resorts for beginner ski holidays include:
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Ski clothing
You don't have to spend a fortune. Key items are:
- Jacket - lightweight yet warm and both wind and waterproof
- Salopettes - warm, waterproof trousers specially designed for snowsports
- Hat, scarf and waterproof gloves
- Ski socks/tubes - extra thick and long specially designed for wintersports
- Layers rather than thick, bulky clothing
- Ski clothing hire - better still why not hire your ski clothing and accessories? See Ski and snowboard extras for more details
Note: wrist guards are recommended for snowboarders
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Sun protection
The sun in the mountains is far more intense due to the high altitude and the reflection off the snow. The following sun protection is essential:
- Goggles and sunglasses - goggles are worn in more blustery and snowy weather conditions
- High factor sun cream and sun block - the lips and nose are particularly prone to burning