7 ways in which ski holidays have evolved in the last 20 years

The concept of a ski holiday has changed on every level in the last 20 years. Today’s ski holiday experience caters for a wide audience, a large range of abilities and is generally geared up to maximise pleasure per hour! Here are the 7 main ways in which ski holidays have changed:

1. Most of us will have experienced the violent jerk of the start of the drag lift seemingly trying to drag you up the hill by your nether regions. Most of you won’t miss the fact they have now been largely replaced by comfy chairlifts. Some of you will miss the violent jerks and you need to have a word with yourselves.
2. I remember one of my first ski holidays when we went up and down the same 2 pistes for 7 days in a row. As an excited 12 year old, I thought it was incredible. Now, I live in Morzine and I haven’t even skiied on every piste that my Portes du Soleil ski pass covers.
3. When you look at the old, long, stiff skis that are now hung ubiquitously on the walls and bars of the restaurants of Morzine & Avoriaz, it is difficult to believe it was possible to turn on those 2 metre long behemouths. Modern day technology now makes it possible for intermediates to take on slopes like the Swiss wall, an x-rated, very steep mogul field in the Portes du Soleil.
4. The original ski outfits of the 80s involved an all-in-one suit & bold colours that was practical for a day on the mountains. The modern ski outfits on the other hand, involve an all-in-one suit & bold colours that are practical for a day on the mountains.
5. Fondue, tartiflette & raclette are staple mountain foods and we LOVE them. But it is nice to break it up with something a bit different and these days curries, noodles, fish & chips and even Sushi are a welcome addition to the local cuisine in Morzine.
6. The discerning ski-holiday maker has come to expect a lot more than an accordion and a horn next to the fire in the bar at the bottom of the slopes. Last year’s ‘Rock the pistes’ festival saw top notch bands and artists from all round the world playing a series of concerts on the pistes of the Portes du Soleil. Artists included Babyshambles, The Klaxons & the legendary Lee Scratch Perry. Not to mention the regular bass camp Wednesday night mash-ups in town.
7. The anonymity of a week long hotel stay is now a thing of the past for most skiiers. The catered chalet holiday experience is now the holiday of choice. Personalised service, fabulous 4-course dinners, luxury ensuite rooms, hot-tubs & unlimited wine are just a few elements of an AliKats Mountain Holiday in Morzine. If you haven’t already, treat yourself…