The arrival of spring doesn’t need to mean you need to abandon your desire to ski this year just yet.
It can feel strange to think about skiing when you are sitting in tropical Saigon, but the convenient international airport allows one to travel to some of the world’s best hills in the world. And some ski resorts in Japan, France, and Canada, in particular, stay open far later into the year than one might assume. With runs operating through the end of April and the beginning of May, they offer tremendous opportunities to hit the slopes while enjoying cozy resort atmospheres and opportunities to pamper oneself with great food, drink and services.
People understandably associate snowy mountain vacations with the winter holidays, which means that the resorts are much quieter right now. The well-groomed slopes are thus perfect for beginners looking to learn the sport and experienced pros who can appreciate more space to maneuver. While premier ski resorts always aim for personalized attention and privacy, the sense of seclusion is particularly profound when occupancy is low.
In addition to the less crowded mountains across Asia, Europe, and North America, spring promises milder temperatures and longer days that encourage even more time outdoors. Snowshoeing, hiking, horseback riding and of course skiing and snowboarding all benefit from more sunlight and warmer weather. There is a certain carefree vibrancy that comes with swapping thick polar gear for lighter attire and taking in the scenery that remains blanketed by pristine white snow while one’s home is already rushing toward summer.
Once one realizes great skiing awaits in April, the biggest challenge could be deciding where to go. Japan is an obvious choice given its proximity to Vietnam, stellar amenities, and its renowned “JAPOW” or Japan powder. Created when cold northern air rushes down from Siberia and across the Sea of Japan, Hokkaido’s snow is notoriously dry, light, and fluffy. This deep and fluffy snow is perfect for newbies while also welcoming a new sense of adventure for experienced athletes.
Club Med Kiroro Peak and Club Med Kiroro Grand, Hokkaido, Japan
A visit to a ski resort in Hokkaido also fosters explorations of local towns and culture. Delicious food, particularly Japanese gifts and aesthetics and a variety of entertainment opportunities for the entire family are an intrinsic part of any vacation. For many who have dreamed of going to Japan, centering a trip around skiing is an ideal means to do so.
The town of Otaru near Club Med Kiroro Peak and Club Med Kiroro Grand.
Depending on one’s schedule, even further trips could be possible. France is blessed with epic mountains, and five of them offer skiing that represent a popular nexus of a diversity of runs, affordability and charming mountain towns. In addition to exceptional snow conditions, the high-elevation sites that remain open in late spring boast unparalleled European culture and sophisticated amenities. Meanwhile, many sites in North America also remain popular well into April as warm days and freezing nights at high elevations provide great conditions for those eager to hold onto winter vibes and appreciate the contrast of drift-covered mountains rising far above thawing valleys.
Club Med Val d’Isère, France (top), Club Med Tignes, France (left) and Club Med Québec Charlevoix, Canada (right).
Organizing a ski trip in the spring, when vacation days are limited and precious time for planning is at a premium, can be difficult. Having a trusted partner manage the logistics of booking rooms, handling reservations, tickets and transportation can make the seemingly impossible trip achievable. Club Med is one such company. Founded in 1950 by Gérard Blitz, it invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept. Over the years it has improved the oft-emulated model by adding activities for children and families while retaining a uniquely French touch to its all-inclusive holiday packages. Today, Club Med operates nearly 70 Resorts characterized by premium accommodations, exceptional hospitality and personalized services, beautiful locations, refined dining concepts and lounges, and distinct architecture and design elements.
Club Med has five destinations, in particular, that provide unparalleled spring skiing opportunities. Club Med Kiroro Peak and Club Med Kiroro Grand in Hokkaido, Japan; Club Med Tignes, Club Med Val d’Isère, and Club Med Val Thorens Sensations in France; and Canada’s Club Med Québec Charlevoix all have their unique allure. Taking into account the travel, experience and amenities preferences of any individual, couple, family or group of friends, Club Med can make the entire trip an effortless time spent enjoying the outdoors and one another’s company.
Vietnam obviously does not have a long tradition of snowsports, but living or moving here does not mean one cannot maintain or develop an appreciation for the beloved pastimes. One can be sitting in 35-degree Saigon heat, showered by sunlight gobbled up by orchids and snake plants one morning, and find themself swooping through fresh powder the next. As magical as that sounds, it is very possible.
For more information and booking inquiries, please visit Club Med’s website or email contactus.asia@clubmed.
[Top image by Alberto Prieto]
