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Top 5 Ski Towns to Spend a Winter Abroad: #1 Val Thorens, France | FRANCE | 12/31/2008, by Catherine_Parker
This is the highest resort in Europe and as such is very reliable when it comes to the white stuff. In fact with north-facing slopes guaranteeing good snow for a long season, even off the glacier Val Thorens is often regarded as 'snow sure'. A major advantage of the riding here is that the 3 vallees ski domain is connected by a common ski pass so you can get more mountains for your buck and many of the jobs allow staff a free pass which is a huge perk. Also having 5 terrain parks giving access to bordercross tracks, quarter pipes and jumps makes it a perfect place for you snowboardy types.
Europe is also notorious as being more of a party place than the USA & Canada and generally better suited to letting your hair down. The après ski party scene has been in full swing every season now for years, and you can guarantee a good, friendly and enthusiastic night, pretty much any night in Val Thorens. I love you Canada but Europe wins the drinking contest. For those who consider the nightlife to be a big part of their seasonal experience Val Thorens has it in spades. In fact it may be one for the slightly more hardcore (and strong of liver amongst us). Still it can't be denied that Val Thorens always has a party going, reliable snow and some pretty nice staff perks. A worthy number 1!
| Pros | Cons |
| Reliable Snow | Too much of a party scene for some |
| 3 Vallees Ski Pass | Can be difficult without passable French |
| Good for Boarders | Some very expensive bars |
Val Thorens
Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Val_Thorens
http://www.skijobs4u.co.uk/ski_jobs_valthorens.htm
http://www.unpluggedvalthorens.com/val-thorens/bars.php?lang=en
Val Thorens View
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