Winter sports grasp the interest of not just sports enthusiasts but also adventurers who seek thrill and excitement. The winter season sweeps a range of enticing destinations off their feet, offering them opportunities to engage in various sports and unwind at aftersport gatherings. One of the advantages of the winter season, as compared to the famous summer season, is that it is less crowded. However, with its popularity rising among many people, the crowd might not be as thin as expected.
Certain things are worth keeping in mind before you set out on a winter sports trip. While it is relevant to decide what sports equipment to pack along, and the accommodation, there are three factors that you shouldn’t be neglecting.
Weather conditions: Winter sports primarily rely on snow. Therefore, it is necessary to keep tabs on the snow conditions and the climate of the place you plan on visiting. Mountainous terrains tend to have unpredictable weather conditions, so be prepared for an unexpected hot sun as much as a heavy snowfall. Do not entirely depend on a single source for weather forecasts as they may not be accurate.
Accessibility: If you dream of mountain skiing in an Italian town like Livigno, plan meticulously. Being located near the Swiss border, far from populated cities and airports, reaching there could be quite a task. A comprehensive trip plan with places to visit, restaurants to dine in, and the mode of transport is essential.
Safety: Compared to summers or autumns, winter sports tend to be riskier with a higher rate of injuries. Use only tested and marked slopes and ensure your safety especially when traveling with family. Never compromise on safety to save a few bucks. Several travel insurances offer full holiday coverage, do consider taking one.
Among the many winter sports-friendly locations, some stand out for their distinct perks. Whistler in Canada is known to be the biggest ski resort in North America. Its location north to Vancouver gives it an added advantage. With a bustling community, Whistler offers sports like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and heli-skiing. Along with the sports, you also have numerous après-ski relaxing activities, winter sports schools, and several social events. A visit to the 2010 Winter Olympic venue, the Olympic Park, situated within the city, could be an absolute delight to sports enthusiasts.
Chamonix, situated near Mont Blanc in France, the oldest ski resort, presents a panoramic view with its massive glacier, known as the “Sea of Ice”, that seems like a sculpture carved by nature itself. However, this place is known for its unpredictability with risky slopes and erratic weather conditions, thus positing a threat of avalanches.
Finally, Queenstown in New Zealand, located near Lake Wakatipu, offers breathtaking views of mountains like Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, and the Remarkables. Sports apart, one may also indulge in activities like bungee jumping. Queenstown provides affordable hotel and hostel stay making it further appealing to sports lovers.
Winter opens a gamut of sports activities to pursue – skiing, slalom, skating, snowboarding, among others. All you need is an inclination towards sports and a little bit of planning. With winter around the corner, it is time to stow away your snowboards and skis. So, put your sports gear on and hit the snow as the chilling season of joy and merriment beacons sports enthusiasts across the globe.
