While British and Irish skiers deliberated whether to hit the slopes this winter, the Alps have had the best snow for many seasons and prices have been keener than the sharpest ski blades. Here is Directski.com’s round-up of the top six late season ski bargains, in the resorts with the guaranteed late season snow.

Late skiing in Val d’Isere, France
If 300km of slopes, some of the best skiing in the world with the highest lift at 3,450m, doesn’t do it for you as a skier, nothing will. This `bring your own bling’ ski resort is immensely popular, has great skiing, lively nightlife and is the hub for posers worldwide. Its height and good snow record make it a safe bet for late season skiing, Directski.com make it affordable:-

Val d’Isere late ski offer:
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self catering at the 3* Jardins de la Balme, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers:

GATWICK – NOW: £309 WAS: £529, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £319 WAS: £549, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £309 WAS: £449, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR379 WAS: EUR559, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Chamonix, France
One of the easiest mainstream French resorts to get to, just over an hour’s drive from Geneva, Chamonix offers world class skiing and is built for experts, but beginners will find plenty of patient instruction in the ski school too. Less glitz, more of the serious stuff here, but full-on nightlife too. The snow will be sound right into April:-

Chamonix late ski offer:
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self-catering at the 2* Résidence Maeva Chamois Blanc – L’Aiguille, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers:-

GATWICK – NOW: £284 WAS: £504, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £294 WAS: £524, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £284 WAS: £424, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR332 WAS: EUR512, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Mayrhofen, Austria
This pretty Austrian town in the heart of the vast Zillertal ski area also has one of Europe’s largest snowboarding parks, the Vans Penken Park, and over 150kms of pistes, for sheer skiing and boarding enjoyment. Nightlife is loud and lively when the skiers come back down the mountains at the end of the day. For year-round, yes, 365 days skiing, the free ski bus takes skiers up to the Hintertux Glacier further up the valley.

Mayrhofen late ski offer:
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self catering at the 3* Moigg Apartments, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers:-

GATWICK – NOW: £319 WAS: £619, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £319 WAS: £599, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £419 WAS: £719, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR509 WAS:EUR689, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Kaprun, Austria
Kaprun is a pretty, Austrian snow-sure resort around an hour or so from Salzburg airport. Situated at the foot of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, its location ensures skiers can get plenty of the white stuff not only at the end of the main season, but year-round too. The resort is full of Austrian charm, less lively than some, but plenty of après ski action to be found.

Kaprun, late ski offer
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self-catering at the 3* Schonpflug Apartments, based on 5 sharing, including return flights and transfers.

GATWICK – NOW: £299 WAS: £529, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £299 WAS: £509, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £299 WAS: £529, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR419 WAS:EUR599, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Livigno, Italy (Belfast and Dublin departures only)
Located at 1815m with mountains banked on either side, Livigno has reliable snow, 57 slopes, over 150 kms of pistes, and, strangely, a duty free status. It’s a large and sprawling resort, cheaper prices attract plenty of younger skiers and it’s both great value and a good choice for late season skiing and boarding.

Livigno, late ski offer
DUBLIN
Directski.com 13th March, 7 nights self catering accommodation at the 3* Livigno Ski Apartments, based on 4 sharing including return flights from Dublin and transfers, was 539 euros, now 409 euros, saving 130 euros.

BELFAST
Directski.com 20th March, 7 nights self catering at the 3* Livigno Ski Apartments, based on 4 sharing, including return Belfast flights and transfers, was £499, now £339, saving £160.

Late skiing in Pas de la Casa, Andorra
This lively Andorran resort has the country’s biggest ski area and highest lift-served terrain and now links to the resort of Soldeu too, resulting in 186 kms of pistes, rivalling some of Europe’s big names in skiing. Big investment in snow-making has ensured skiing right into April, the resort isn’t pretty, but its boxy concrete accommodation is so close to the lifts, who cares?

Pas de la Casa, late ski offer
Directski.com, 21st March, 7 nights self catering at the 2* Sandi IV Apartments, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers.
GATWICK – NOW: £279 WAS: £399, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £249 WAS: £429, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR 339 WAS:EUR 539, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205
BELFAST: (No departures on 21st March) : Directski.com has 7 nights self-catering accommodation in the Sandi IV apartments in Pas de la Casa for £469, £329, departing 14th March.

This week’s top ski holiday offers from Directski.com includes a week’s skiing in the French resort of Meribel for £219, saving £200, and a `better than half price’ week in Val Thorens for £299, saving £330, both with self-catering accommodation, return flights from Gatwick and transfers. For Manchester departures Directski.com has a week’s skiing in Meribel for £199, saving £250 and a week’s self-catering ski holiday in the top Austrian resort of Soll for £319 (was £569).

GATWICK DEPARTURES

27th February, 7 nights Méribel Valley, £219, saving £200

A week’s ski holiday with self-catering accommodation at the 3* Résidence Cybèle apartments in Méribel Valley can be booked with Directski.com for £219 per person (was £419), saving £200 per person, including return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Departs 27th February and must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

20th March, 7 nights Val d’Isère, £289, saving £240

A week’s self catering at the 3* Jardins de la Balme apartments in the world class ski resort of Val d’Isere can be booked with Directski.com for £289 per person, saving £240 per person (was £529), departing on 20th March, including return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

HALF PRICE SKIING : 6th March, 7 nights Val Thorens, £299, saving £330

Departing from Gatwick on 6th March Directski.com has a week’s self-catering ski holiday in Val Thorens with a massive £300 per person saving, now £299 (was £629) including accommodation at the 3* Cheval Blanc Apartments and transfers. Based on 6 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights Söll, Austria £299, saving £240

Directski.com is offering a week’s self-catering ski holiday for £299 (was £539), saving £240 per person with accommodation at the 3* Schindlhaus Apartments in the Austrian resort of Söll, based on 4 sharing. Departs from Gatwick on 6th March and must be booked by 25th February. The same holiday with Manchester flights can be booked for £319 (was £569). Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

13th March, 7 nights Saalbach, Austria £609, saving £130

Departing from Gatwick on 13th March Directski.com has a £130 saving off a week’s half-board ski holiday in the Austrian resort of Saalbach now £609 (was £739), includes accommodation at the 4* Hotel Kristall and transfers, based on 2 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights Andorra, £299, saving £180

A week’s ski holiday with self catering accommodation at the 3* Olimpiades Apartments in the Andorran resort of Pas de la Casa can be booked with Directski.com for £299 per person (was £479), departing on 21st March, including a saving of £180 per person, return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights Andorra, £389, saving £180

A week’s ski holiday with half board accommodation at the 4* St. Gothard Hotel in Arinsal, Andorra, can be booked with Directski.com for £389 per person (was £569), departing on 21st March, including a saving of £180 per person, return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 2 sharing. The same holiday from Manchester can be booked for £379 (was £479). Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

MANCHESTER DEPARTURES

HALF PRICE SKIING : 27th February, 7 nights France, £199, saving £250

Departing on 27th February Directski.com has a massive saving of £250 per person off a week’s self catering ski holiday at the 3* Résidence Cybèle apartments in Méribel Valley, now £199 per person, was £449, including return Manchester flights, transfers and self catering accommodation, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

20th March, 7 nights Val d’Isère, £279, saving £250

A week’s self catering in an apartment at the 3* Jardins de la Balme in the world class ski resort of Val d’Isere can be booked with Directski.com for £279 per person, saving £250 per person, (was £529), departing on 20th March and including return fights from Manchester and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights Val Thorens, £299, saving £250

Departing from Manchester on 6th March Directski.com has a week’s self-catering ski holiday in Val Thorens for £299 per person (was £549) , saving £250, with accommodation at the 3* Cheval Blanc Apartments and transfers. Based on 6 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

27th February, 7 nights Val d’Isère, £529, saving £190

A week’s half board ski holiday at the 3* Chalet Hotel Gelinotte in the French resort of Val d’Isere can be booked with Directski.com for £529 per person (was £719), departing on 27th February, including a saving of £190 per person, return fights from Manchester and transfers, based on 2 sharing. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights Söll, Austria £319, saving £250

Directski.com is offering a week’s self-catering ski holiday in the 3* Schindlhaus Apartments in the Austrian resort of Söll for £319 (was £569) including a £250 per person saving, return Manchester flights and transfers. Departs 6th March. Must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights Andorra, £379, saving £100

£379 (was £479) buys 7 nights’ self-catering ski holiday at the 3* Olimpiades Apartments in the Andorran resort of Pas de la Casa, based on 4 sharing, saving £100 per person. The holiday departs from Manchester on 21st March and must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights Andorra, £369, saving £100

£369 (was £569) buys 7 nights’ half board ski holiday at the 4* Hotel St. Gothard in Arinsal, based on 2 sharing, saving £100 per person. The holiday departs from Manchester on 21st March and must be booked by 25th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

East is a festival that celebrates the best of East London. It focuses on drawing together cultural and creative organisations across East London.

East 2010 runs from the 4th – 9th of March and explores the themes of Architecture, the Asian Subcontinent, Minimalism and Travel with over 100 specially curated events, world class artists, workshops and walks across the six day.

The Museum of London Docklands is hosting several events for the 2010 East festival, inculding a Docklands art and architecture walk, the photo loot and a stroll around the old Jewish East end.

Details of all these events and more can be found at www.museumindocklands.co.uk.
The Best Deals For The Best Of The Late Season Snow

While British and Irish skiers deliberated whether to hit the slopes this winter, the Alps have had the best snow for many seasons and prices have been keener than the sharpest ski blades. Here is Directski.com’s round-up of the top six late season ski bargains, in the resorts with the guaranteed late season snow.

Late skiing in Val d’Isere, France
If 300km of slopes, some of the best skiing in the world with the highest lift at 3,450m, doesn’t do it for you as a skier, nothing will. This `bring your own bling’ ski resort is immensely popular, has great skiing, lively nightlife and is the hub for posers worldwide. Its height and good snow record make it a safe bet for late season skiing, Directski.com make it affordable:-

Val d’Isere late ski offer:
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self catering at the 3* Jardins de la Balme, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers:

GATWICK – NOW: £309 WAS: £529, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £319 WAS: £549, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £309 WAS: £449, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR379 WAS: EUR559, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Chamonix, France
One of the easiest mainstream French resorts to get to, just over an hour’s drive from Geneva, Chamonix offers world class skiing and is built for experts, but beginners will find plenty of patient instruction in the ski school too. Less glitz, more of the serious stuff here, but full-on nightlife too. The snow will be sound right into April:-

Chamonix late ski offer:
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self-catering at the 2* Résidence Maeva Chamois Blanc – L’Aiguille, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers:-

GATWICK – NOW: £284 WAS: £504, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £294 WAS: £524, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £284 WAS: £424, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR332 WAS: EUR512, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Mayrhofen, Austria
This pretty Austrian town in the heart of the vast Zillertal ski area also has one of Europe’s largest snowboarding parks, the Vans Penken Park, and over 150kms of pistes, for sheer skiing and boarding enjoyment. Nightlife is loud and lively when the skiers come back down the mountains at the end of the day. For year-round, yes, 365 days skiing, the free ski bus takes skiers up to the Hintertux Glacier further up the valley.

Mayrhofen late ski offer:
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self catering at the 3* Moigg Apartments, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers:-

GATWICK – NOW: £319 WAS: £619, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £319 WAS: £599, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £419 WAS: £719, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR509 WAS:EUR689, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Kaprun, Austria
Kaprun is a pretty, Austrian snow-sure resort around an hour or so from Salzburg airport. Situated at the foot of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, its location ensures skiers can get plenty of the white stuff not only at the end of the main season, but year-round too. The resort is full of Austrian charm, less lively than some, but plenty of après ski action to be found.

Kaprun, late ski offer
Directski.com, 20th March, 7 nights self-catering at the 3* Schonpflug Apartments, based on 5 sharing, including return flights and transfers.

GATWICK – NOW: £299 WAS: £529, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £299 WAS: £509, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
BELFAST – NOW: £299 WAS: £529, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR419 WAS:EUR599, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205

Late skiing in Livigno, Italy (Belfast and Dublin departures only)
Located at 1815m with mountains banked on either side, Livigno has reliable snow, 57 slopes, over 150 kms of pistes, and, strangely, a duty free status. It’s a large and sprawling resort, cheaper prices attract plenty of younger skiers and it’s both great value and a good choice for late season skiing and boarding.

Livigno, late ski offer
DUBLIN
Directski.com 13th March, 7 nights self catering accommodation at the 3* Livigno Ski Apartments, based on 4 sharing including return flights from Dublin and transfers, was 539 euros, now 409 euros, saving 130 euros.

BELFAST
Directski.com 20th March, 7 nights self catering at the 3* Livigno Ski Apartments, based on 4 sharing, including return Belfast flights and transfers, was £499, now £339, saving £160.

Late skiing in Pas de la Casa, Andorra
This lively Andorran resort has the country’s biggest ski area and highest lift-served terrain and now links to the resort of Soldeu too, resulting in 186 kms of pistes, rivalling some of Europe’s big names in skiing. Big investment in snow-making has ensured skiing right into April, the resort isn’t pretty, but its boxy concrete accommodation is so close to the lifts, who cares?

Pas de la Casa, late ski offer
Directski.com, 21st March, 7 nights self catering at the 2* Sandi IV Apartments, based on 4 sharing, including return flights and transfers.
GATWICK – NOW: £279 WAS: £399, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
MANCHESTER – NOW: £249 WAS: £429, Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448
DUBLIN – NOW: EUR 339 WAS:EUR 539, Visit www.directski.com or LoCall 1890 201 205
BELFAST: (No departures on 21st March) : Directski.com has 7 nights self-catering accommodation in the Sandi IV apartments in Pas de la Casa for £469, £329, departing 14th March.

Directski.com continues what is one of its most successful ski seasons to date with more keen offers from hotels and apartments in France, Austria and Andorra. Prices for a week’s ski holiday start from only £179 for 7 nights skiing with return flights, self catering accommodation for 4 and transfers, while this week’s top savings include £400 half board hotel in Les Menuires for £559 (was £959).

GATWICK & MANCHESTER
20th February, 7 nights Méribel Valley, £179, saving £250
A week’s ski holiday with self-catering accommodation at the 3* Résidence Cybèle apartments in France’s Méribel Valley can be booked with Directski.com for £179 per person (was £429), saving £250, departing on 20th February, including return fights from Gatwick or Manchester and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

GATWICK DEPARTURES

6th March, 7 nights Chamonix, £289, saving £200

A week’s self catering ski holiday in 2* La Riviere Apartments in the French resort of Chamonix can be booked with Directski.com for £289 per person (was £489), saving £200, departing on 6th March, including return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights Söll, Austria £329, saving £220

Departing from Gatwick on 6th March Directski.com has a week’s self-catering ski holiday in the Austrian resort of Söll for £329 (was £549), saving £220, with accommodation at the 3* Schindlhaus Apartments and transfers. Based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

20th February, 7 nights Les Ménuires, £559, saving £370

Departing from Gatwick on 20th February Directski.com has a £370 per person saving off a week’s half board ski holiday in the French ski resort of Les Ménuires now £559 (was £929) with accommodation at the 3* Niege et Ciel and transfers. Based on 2 sharing. These offers must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights, Pas de la Casa, Andorra, £249, saving £180

A week’s ski holiday with self catering at the 2* Sandi IV apartments, Pas de la Casa, Andorra, can be booked with Directski.com for £249 per person (was £429), saving £180, departing on 21st March, including return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights 4* hotel St. Johann, Austria £599, saving £250

Directski.com has a £250 per person saving off a week’s skiing, with half board accommodation at the 4* Sporthotel Austria in the Austrian resort of St. Johann, now £599 (was £849), based on 2 sharing. Departs from Gatwick on 6th March. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights 4* hotel, Andorra, £389, saving £180

A week’s ski holiday with half board at the 4* St. Gothard Hotel in Arinsal, Andorra, can be booked with Directski.com for £389 per person (was £569), saving £180, departing on 21st March, including return fights from Gatwick and transfers, based on 2 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

MANCHESTER DEPARTURES

HALF PRICE SKIING : 20th February, 7 nights France, £179, saving £250

Departing on 20th February, Directski.com has a £250 per person saving off a week’s self catering ski holiday at the 3* Résidence Cybèle in Méribel Valley, now £179 per person (was £429) including return Manchester flights and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights Chamonix, £269, saving £160

A week’s self catering ski holiday in 2* La Riviere Apartments can be booked with Directski.com for £269 per person (was £429), saving £160, departing on 6th March, including return fights from Manchester and transfers, based on 4 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights 4* hotel, St. Johann, Austria £629, saving £250

Save £250 off a week’s sking, now £629 (was £879) including half board accommodation at the 4* Sporthotel Austria in the Austrian resort of St. Johann, available through Directski.com based on 2 sharing. Departs from Manchester on 6th March. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

6th March, 7 nights Söll, Austria £359, saving £230

Just £359 (was £589) for a week’s self-catering ski holiday, saving £230, with accommodation at the 3* Schindlhaus Apartments in the Austrian resort of Söll, available through Directski.com, based on 4 sharing. Departs from Manchester on 6th March. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights Andorra, £249, saving £180
£249 (was £429) for a 7 nights self-catering ski holiday at the 2* Sandi IV Apartments in Pas de la Casa, based on 4 sharing, saving £180 per person. Departs Manchester on 21st March. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

21st March, 7 nights Andorra, £389, saving £180
£389 (was £569) for 7 nights’ half board at the 4* Hotel St. Gothard in Arinsal, saving £180 per person, based on 2 sharing. Departs Manchester on 21st March. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

20th February, 7 nights Les Ménuires, £559, saving £400

Departing from Manchester on 20th February Directski.com has a week’s half board ski holiday in the ski resort of Les Ménuires for £559 (was £959) with half board accommodation at the 3* Niege et Ciel, transfers and a massive £400 saving. Based on 2 sharing. Must be booked by 18th February. Visit www.directski.com or call 0800 358 0448

Sumptuous food, unique Savoyard homes, tailored service and some of the best skiing and scenery in the Alps make booking a chalet holiday with The Alpine Club an ideal tonic to your winter blues.

The Alpine Club are also the ONLY Chalet Company to have the confidence to share all their guests feedback; they don’t cherry pick the best quotes, they don’t use a blog, where friends can say nice things about them; they employ independent company ‘Feefo’ to ask all their guests for their opinion and all the feedback is published. The Alpine Club is delighted to announce guests rate The Alpine Club service as 100% excellent.

And if this were not enough to tempt you, they have also reduced the last few remaining rooms in February & March by up to £300

Sunday 21 February:
Abode £825pp (SAVE £300)
La Ferme de Belleville £675pp (SAVE £300)
Sunday 7 & Sunday 21 March:
La Ferme de Belleville £675pp (SAVE £300)

Subject to availability & terms & conditions. Prices includes seven nights luxury accommodation and cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, canapés and sumptuous five-course dinners on six days; medal winning house wines, fluffy towels, bath robes and toiletries, DVD, film library, wifi, in resort driver service and local taxes. Excludes all travel.

Slovenia is set to host a wide variety of events throughout 2010 including World Cup ski jumping, the Bohinj International Wild Flower Festival, the Cow Ball and cultural carnivals.

These are just some of the events being held throughout 2010 in Slovenia.

21st January – 4th April 2010
Pablo Picasso: Bullfights. Myth. Eros

This Ljubljana exhibition of Picasso’s work brings together 11 series of prints, including a selection of prints from the Suite Vollard series that art critics consider to be one of the 20th century’s most important print series. Bullfights, myths and Eros are recurrent themes in these prints. An accompanying programme of workshops, lectures and film screenings will run alongside the exhibition at Mestna Galerija Ljubljana.

www.picasso-clave.si

25th – 31st January 2010
World Winter Masters Games in Bled

The pretty town of Bled will play host to the first ever World Winter Masters Games (WWMG) in January 2010.

The games are open to recreational athletes over the age of 25 competing in sports including ice hockey, alpine skiing, cross country skiing, ski jumping and indoor football.

The WWMG’s opening ceremony will be held in Bled, with a closing ceremony taking place in Kranjska Gora. There will also be a number of other events for participants and spectators to enjoy throughout the games, including gala dinners, tours of Bled Castle and much more.

This is the inaugural winter sports event for the World Masters Games, but the original event has been staged seven times, with over 20,000 amateur athletes participating in the more recent competitions.

www.2010mastersgames.com

6th – 16th February 2010
50th Annual Kurentovanje Festival, Ptuj

This annual takes place in Slovenia’s oldest city, Ptuj, each spring. Kurenti are figures dressed in sheepskin who go around the town wearing masks, a long red tongue, cow bells, multi-coloured ribbons and sometimes feathers and horns. This is one of Slovenia’s most famous carnivals, now in its fiftieth year, which attracts over 100,000 visitors each year. During the festival, Ptuj is alive with music and dancing, competitions and events, plus opportunities to sample local wines and traditional ‘Ptuj chicken’.

www.kurentovanje.net

12th March 2010
Pruning of the Old Vine

The pruning of the official world’s oldest vine in Maribor is a ceremonious occasion each spring. The town’s vinedresser carries out the pruning and the vine’s scions are then presented by the Mayor of Maribor to selected representatives of other wine growing regions as a sign of friendship and co-operation.

www.maribor-pohorje.si/default.aspx?str=284&jezik=2&stran=priporocamo&id_pod=20

18th – 21st March 2010
Ski Jumping and Ski Flying World Cup Final

Planica, an alpine valley in the northwest of Slovenia is famous for its ski jumping, being the first place for a jump of over 100 metres to be registered and where the current World Record of 239 metres was set in 2005.

From 18th March, spectators can witness some of the world’s top ski jumpers take on the jump at Planica. Traditionally, around 1,500 of the crowd come armed with accordions to play Planica’s famous theme song.

Standing tickets cost from €3 per child / €10 per adult and seated tickets start from €30.

The alpine resort of La Plagne, situated in the heart of the French Alps, presents an exciting and mouth watering menu this winter. Experience authentic traditional cuisine and delicious culinary delights served up at a selection of the resort’s top restaurants.

The Little Red Riding Hood
Located in a truly authentic renovated farm house, La Plagne 1800’s charming restaurant has a traditional rustic decor that takes its guests on a wonderful journey through time. Complete with a wood burning stove, nooks and crannies and low ceilings, The Little Red Riding Hood creates the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes.

The Matafan provides a perfect fusion of traditional Savoyard specialities and gastronomic dishes
The Matafan is the perfect place to beat any hunger after a day on the slopes! Established in 1980, the Matafan was the first bar-restaurant in Belle-Plagne. Its name comes from the Patois word for a potato pancake, a meal traditionally eaten by farmers in the morning before going to work in the fields and is now famously a dish designed to “keeps hunger away”. The Matafan’s menu offers a perfect fusion of traditional Savoyard specialities and semi-gastronomic dishes. The traditional décor and delightful antiques creates a refined dining experience.

Experience an inventive and refined cuisine at the C.
This restaurant is one of its kind in the resort of La Plagne. The restaurant “C” is found at the Carlina Hotel in Belle Plagne and brings a modern twist to all food lovers. The chef, Frédéric Grillet, offers inventive dishes with a blend of refined flavours set to tantalise your taste buds!
www.carlina-belleplagne.com

And for those looking for something further afield, La Plagne offers a number of mountainside refuges hidden away on the slopes…

The Forperet – the perfect refuge for any cheese fanatic
This mountain side restaurant can be found on the slopes of Plagne-Montalbert, in a converted sheep farm. The Forperet Farm offers an exclusive menu composed of dishes made from local cheeses (Tomme and Beaufort).
The refuge proudly offers an undiscovered recipe, “Fondue de Mandrin”, which is a delicious dish made with “Tomme de Savoie” cider and apples.

The most popular dish by far is the traditional oven baked Tartiflette – a dish so popular guests are advised to reserve in advance!
The Forperet provides a truly unique dining experience. They can watch Roland, the restaurants owner working hard in the kitchen, and guests are even invited to visit the Forperet’s Farm animals including goats, sheep and rabbits.
www.forperet.com
Le Sauget mountain refuge

For those looking for a change of surroundings, guests can spend the night on the slopes in an authentic mountain refuge, Le Sauget.
Tucked away on the slopes in Montchavin, Les Coches, Le Sauget offers the perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle – it’s a great way to recharge your batteries after a hard day on the mountain!

For the last 36 years Patricia and Gérard have invited skiers and food lovers alike to their isolated mountain refuge, which provides guests with an idyllic relaxation area complete with an outdoor wood heated hot tub and sauna. Inside you can find a library by the fire place and pool table. The restaurant is a member of the Tarentaise Tastes and Culinary Traditions Academy and all 6 charming bedrooms are decorated in a traditional mountain décor.
Le Sauget can be accessed by ski or by chairlift and prices start at 84€ a night per person.
Tel. + 33 (0)6 88 45 28 19 www.le-sauget.com

Journey through time to The Laisonnay
The Laisonnay refuge is situated in the heart of the Champagny le Haut valley, on the edge of the Vanoise National Park. From the middle of February onwards, guests can access the Laisonnay by skiing off-piste, snowshoeing, or by cross country skiing, as well as on foot, where they can enjoy a traditional Savoyard lunch cooked on an open fire. The traditional dishes are all family recipes passed down from generation to generation, including Grandma Catherine’s “Farçon” or Grandpa Jean’s Savoyard Hotpot.
This mountain restaurant has been open for 45 years and it’s a real gem in the resort. With no electricity or mobile phone access this rural refuge promises to take you on a historical journey.
Tel. + 33 (0)6 08 54 34 61 / www.laisonnay.com

Experience the magic at the Chalet des Verdons

The Chalet des Verdons Sud is a high altitude restaurant built from wood and local slate, which perches on the slopes of Champagny en Vanoise. The restaurant offers exclusive, private dining experiences which are available for reservations every Thursday evening. Accessible via a 30 minute snowmobile ride, the evening comes to life on the soft and cosy sofas around the central log fire, where slippers and furs await your arrival.
Accompanied by the accordionist’s live music, this is set to be a truly unique experience for diners!

The recent cold snap in the UK has lead to a surge in bookings for European ski accommodation specialist Pierre & Vacances, particularly in the lesser-known ski resorts across the Alps and Pyrenees, where sales have increased on average by 17%. Pierre & Vacances also believes that the recent snowfall across the country has encouraged families to book a trip to the slopes, with self-catering accommodation over February half term week in particular demand. Skiiers, and particularly families, are advised to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Pierre & Vacances, which offers accommodation in over 40 ski resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees, as well as all over France, has this month seen an increase in bookings for properties in the lesser-known resorts, which offer large ski areas and more affordable ski packs and après ski activity. Pierre & Vacances properties in resorts such as Les Coches. Valloire and Valmeinier, Avoriaz and Les Carroz have reported increases in bookings at an average of +17% on previous years, indicating that customers may be willing to try slightly less well-known resorts in order to get the best value from their annual trip to the slopes.

Trading over the past two weeks has been particularly strong for Pierre & Vacances with January trading now on a par with last winter. Recent sales have also recorded an increase in holidays booked for later in the season, when rates are lower. British skiers may be hoping for an excellent season, like last year’s, when the snow lasted well into the later months.

Sales for the end of March are already strong, with ski trips booked for the week before Easter (commencing 27th March 2010) being particularly popular. This week is classed as ‘off peak’ in France, but is a school holiday for much of the UK – thus British customers are taking advantage of being able to get a low season price for a holiday in a high season week.

Pierre & Vacances is also putting the recent increase in sales down to its current ‘Beat the Euro’ campaign, which aims to alleviate the poor Euro/Sterling exchange rate by offering at least 15 per cent off all ski accommodation across the Alps and Pyrenees. This deal is valid on all dates until the end of the season – including school holiday and Easter dates. Prices for a one-week break in Alpe d’Huez for example start from only £343 (previously £404) for a studio apartment sleeping two people at Pierre & Vacances Résidence Les Bergers in April 2010.

Snow conditions are currently excellent across the Alps with lots of fresh snow and cold temperatures reported, particularly in the Southern Alps in resorts such as Alpe d’Huez and Vars, where snowfall of up to 14cm per day is expected this week.

With snow conditions at their best across the Alps, and temperatures remaining low, snow conditions for half term skiing will be excellent.

There is still time to book a half term holiday with Ski Freshtracks – skifreshtracks.co.uk.

For adults travelling with children*, Ski Freshtracks Families Half Term Action holiday in Davos gives parents the chance to discover this famous ski resort at their leisure whilst the kids have a half term to remember discovering Davos’ ski areas with Ski Club leaders. Families stay in the 4* Sunstar Parkhotel. £1295 half board incl. scheduled flights, transfers and Ski Club leaders.

For older children** who want a taste of adventure, Families Off Piste week in Andermatt offers quiet slopes, away from the crowded pistes of many resorts with accommodation in the relaxed atmosphere of the 3* Hotel Sonne. Mountain guides are provided all week to take adults and children to find the best of Andermatt’s powder. £1295 half board incl. scheduled flights, transfers and mountain guides.

For adults who are restricted to travelling during this period without children, Ski Freshtracks have availability in Grindelwald, a picturesque corner of the Jungfrau region. Staying in the 4* Sunstar Hotel, single rooms are at no extra supplement. Instruction is included in the price: £1050 half board incl. rail transfers and Ski Club leaders. (Flights available from ~£250).

– ESPECIALLY AT THESE PRICES!

Specialist ski tour operators Ski Total and Esprit Ski are both reporting their phones ringing off the hook as the current snow conditions across the UK remind British skiers of the pleasures of a slope-side winter break.

Managing Director Andy Perrin says

“Snow can be a blessing or a curse, and there’s certainly been plenty of cursing these last two days here in the UK, with stranded motorists, closed roads and public transport in disarray! But there’s nothing like a hefty snowfall to remind skiers where they’d rather be – out there on the slopes, where the snow is the ultimate blessing, bringing fun and excitement instead of misery and stress.”

Nor will a family ski holiday break the bank! For just £299 per person, Esprit Ski (01252 618 300 / www.espritski.com ) is offering Chalet Schatzi in La Rosiere, for one week with catered chalet board and a free Baby-Listening & Child-Patrol service. Prices are based on a family of four (total price £1,199), including flights from Stansted (regional flights available at a supplement) departing on 17th January.

For adult skiers, Ski Total (01252 618 333 www.skitotal.com) offers savings of £649 per couple to the prestigious resort of Courchevel 1850, staying in Chalet Hotel Coq de Bruyère.

For departures on 17th January from Stansted (regional flights available at a supplement), the price is now £325 per person, including flights, transfers, 3 days free Ski-Hosting and a week’s fully catered accommodation with five-course dinners, wine and coffee on six evenings.