It’s no secret that the Alps are home to some of the best skiing in the world. If you ask us, there’s simply no other destination that compares. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or you’re looking to take the plunge, you’ve got plenty to choose from. If you want to get in some serious skiing action, you should try for the passes that take you into the Swiss Alps or for the Apres-Ski in the Italian regions of Trentino and Meridione. There’s just so much more to do beyond the runs. For example, you can hit the ice rink or take a sleigh ride. The list of activities is endless!
If you love being on the slopes but you also want to try something new, you might consider taking up skiing. It’s not as hard as you think and with a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to master it. We didn’t think it would be possible to have both pizza and ski on our minds at the same time, but we were wrong. With a little bit of planning and research, it is possible to combine the two as we know it. Here’s howโฆ
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Make The Right Preparations
We won’t sugarcoat it for you โ getting into shape for ski season is no easy feat. You’ll need to make a lot of dietary changes and get your body used to the cold. Most importantly, you’ll have to learn how to ski. Don’t worry, though, you’re not going to hurt yourself. Even the most experienced skiers at top ski resorts are always willing to give tips and tricks. After all, everyone wants to make the most of their visit and have some fun. So make sure you’re prepared and ready to ski before you hit the slopes. We know from experience that it’s tough to get into shape fast enough to make the most of the season. That’s why we advise you to take it easy at the beginning and build up your stamina. Don’t be afraid to take a break if you feel like you’re not improving fast enough. You’ll make the right adjustments as you go along and have the time of your life. Don’t worry, by the end of the season you’ll be able to tackle anything without fear.
Get The Right Equipment
You wouldn’t go on a holiday to the beach without your swimsuit and water shoes, would you? It’s the same with skiing. You’ll need proper equipment to have any chance of enjoying yourself. If you have a budget in mind, there are plenty of affordable options that won’t break the bank. Be sure to get a helmet, goggles, a ski jacket and a pair of ski pants. You’ll also need a sleeping bag and matresses. If you stay in a hostel or lodge, they’ll usually have these things available for you to use. The only piece of equipment that might be a little bit more pricey is the ski suit. But for the most part, the above list should cover pretty much everything you need. Of course, you might want to add more layers (think gloves, socks and a hat) as the temperature drops. We know it can get pretty chilly on the slopes, especially in the evenings. So don’t forget about the layers and keep a warm body mass. The cold air can sneak up on you when you least expect it. You might also want to add an anti-polo shirt to the mix. We couldn’t resist mentioning this one last piece of advice because we love to see photos of people in ski boots holding up a sign that reads โpoloโ. It’s pretty funny but also very stereotypical. You’ll find many Italians proudly wearing black polo shirts while riding the powder. If you want to keep warm on the slopes, be sure to check out the sherpa winter sport collection. These are the guys who have been hand-making the warm winter clothing for the Alps for decades. We couldn’t recommend them enough.
Find The Right Place
There are plenty of places to ski around the world, but not all of them are created equal. Some places are simply better than others. If you want to go from pizza to parallel skiing, you might have to travel a bit and try some new resorts. We were lucky enough to live near some of the best ski resorts in the world. Chances are, if you live in an area where the snow stays on for a lot of weeks, you’re going to be able to find some good skiing. Just make sure you’re not in an area where the snow melts to quickly โ you don’t want to be scrambling for your car keys in the morning. Also, try to stay away from resorts with a lot of lift operators. It’s stressful to go from one terrace to another just because there’s no room for everyone. Lastly, make sure to check the weather before you start your holiday. We know it can be hard to find out the weather in advance, especially during the peak season. When you do find out, don’t forget to check the forecast not only for the day but for the next couple of days as well. Depending on where you are going and when you’re traveling, you might need to adjust your itinerary a bit. Don’t get discouraged if the weather isn’t perfect โ you can still have a good time. Just keep in mind that perfect conditions aren’t always achievable.
Learn How To Ski
Even if you’ve never done it before, skiing is pretty easy to learn. Of course, there are some basic rules that you need to follow (like staying in well-marked areas and avoiding dangerous spots). But other than that, most resorts are pretty liberal with the skiing techniques and styles they teach. They also tend to encourage beginners to show off their skills, which can be a helpful thing. That’s why skiing is probably the best sport for people who want to travel and try new things. You’re bound to have a good time no matter what.
If you want to go from pizza to parallel skiing, you’ve got a lot of work to do. But with a little bit of planning and research, it’s definitely possible. By the end of the season, you’ll be hitting the slopes in style and enjoying yourself immensely. We know from experience that having both pizza and ski on your mind at the same time is a lot easier said than done. But it’s worth it, we promise you. Just make sure to follow these tips and you’ll have a blast.