The La Tania Ski Blog

Latest news, snow, pics, gossip and information from the locals in La Tania – latania.co.uk

 
All the latest news from around the Three Valleys from the La Tania locals. A real blog since 2006, not just endless re-posts for search engine optimisaton! Photos, gossip, snow reports, what's on and all the latest on the Apres Ski scene... Now fully optimised for iPhone, Touch and Android Mobiles - just go to latania.co.uk/blog and view on your phone. Our other past blogs & favourites here

 


 

The Franglish Comedy Festival is back! 27 – 31 January 2025

Top comics including Marcus Brigstocke, Harriet Kemsley, Tatty Macleod and Lou Sanders appear in Méribel from 27th to 31st January 2025.

Live stand-up in two languages!

The Franglish comedy festival is coming to Meribel next week to host the very best of Francophone and Anglophone comics. 

There will be English language shows, French Language shows and shows in both languages!

Shows take place in resort bars and the main shows will be at the Meribel Auditorium theatre. If you like laughing or skiing you’ll love the Franglish Comedy Festival!

Tickets and further information at: www.franglishfestival.com

Hot Air Balloon Rescue!

Not sure what was going on with the hot air balloon that we often see above Courchevel 1850 on still mornings.

It gave Biollay a close shave at 09:30 this morning and landed between the lift and the family park. It then took off again and we assumed it was a drill.

Then a little later we get pics from Paddy from Ski Some Day of the balloon coming down in La Tania. Surely this wasn’t planned?

Skiing thrills in the French Alps and road adventures in South Africa

The French Alps are renowned for their breathtaking scenery—snow-capped peaks, pristine slopes, and an abundance of winter activities. Beyond skiing, visitors can engage in snowshoeing, a peaceful way to explore the serene landscapes, or for the more adventurous, paragliding offers a bird’s-eye view of the stunning alpine vistas. La Tania is strategically positioned to provide access to a variety of slopes, catering to all skill levels, from beginners to expert skiers.

The charm of La Tania extends beyond its slopes. The village itself is a picturesque setting with cozy chalets and welcoming après-ski venues. It’s a place where families can bond over hot chocolate by the fireplace or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the snow-laden paths. The resort’s commitment to sustainability also adds to its appeal, with efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly tourism.

But what if the thrill of skiing could be complemented by an entirely different adventure? Imagine transitioning from the icy slopes of the Alps to the diverse landscapes of Southern Africa—a journey that combines the thrill of skiing with the wonder of exploring new terrains. Could such a contrast enhance the overall travel experience? For those intrigued by such a journey, Drive South Africa offers a gateway to explore the stunning diversity of Southern Africa’s landscapes.

Drive South Africa: A journey through diverse landscapes
South Africa offers a tapestry of landscapes that beckon exploration. From the lush greenery of the Garden Route to the dramatic vistas of the Panorama Route, a self-drive adventure through South Africa promises an unforgettable experience. The country’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from savannahs teeming with wildlife to rugged coastlines—present a stark contrast to the snowy peaks of the French Alps.

Driving through South Africa allows travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s natural beauty at their own pace. The Garden Route, with its scenic coastal views and quaint towns, is a popular choice for road trippers. Meanwhile, the Panorama Route offers breathtaking views of the Blyde River Canyon and cascading waterfalls, a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Interestingly, Southern Africa is not devoid of ski opportunities. Afriski Mountain Resort in Lesotho provides a unique skiing experience in the heart of Africa. Though not as expansive as the Alps, Afriski offers a distinct charm, with its high-altitude slopes and vibrant cultural backdrop. The juxtaposition of skiing in the Alps and in Africa highlights the diversity of global ski destinations.

The thrill of skiing in the French Alps and the adventure of a South African road trip may seem worlds apart, yet they share a common thread—a love for exploration and discovery. Both destinations offer a chance to step outside one’s comfort zone and embrace the wonders of the natural world.

The allure of active holidays
Active holidays have gained popularity among travelers seeking more than just relaxation. The combination of physical activity and exploration provides a fulfilling travel experience, appealing to those who cherish nature and adventure. Skiing in La Tania and exploring Southern Africa embody this spirit of active holidays.

In La Tania, the invigorating rush of skiing down the slopes is complemented by the tranquility of the surrounding alpine environment. It’s a destination where physical exertion meets serene beauty, offering a holistic escape from the mundane. Similarly, a self-drive journey through South Africa invites travelers to engage with the landscape, whether it’s hiking through national parks or observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Both destinations cater to the desire for unique experiences, allowing travelers to connect with nature in meaningful ways. The allure of active holidays lies in the balance of adventure and relaxation, providing a refreshing break from the routine of daily life.

Planning your next adventure
For those inspired to combine a ski trip to the French Alps with a road trip through South Africa, careful planning is essential. Timing is a crucial factor; the ski season in the Alps typically runs from December to April, while the best time for a South African road trip is during the dry season, from May to September.

Travelers should consider flight logistics and the necessary visas for each destination. It may be beneficial to fly into major European hubs before heading to La Tania, and from there, plan the journey to South Africa. Rental car arrangements and accommodation bookings should be made in advance, especially during peak travel periods.

Resources such as travel guides and online forums can provide valuable insights into both regions. For those seeking a seamless experience, travel agencies specializing in bespoke itineraries can offer tailored packages that encompass both skiing and self-drive adventures.

From peaks to plains: A journey of contrasts
The journey from the peaks of the French Alps to the plains of Southern Africa is one of contrasts—yet these differences create a harmonious travel narrative. The adrenaline of skiing is balanced by the tranquility of South Africa’s landscapes, offering travelers a unique blend of excitement and serenity.

While the Alps captivate with their majestic heights and winter allure, Southern Africa enchants with its vast horizons and vibrant ecosystems. Each destination offers its own brand of adventure, inviting travelers to embrace the diversity of experiences available across the globe.

In the end, the journey is not just about the destinations but the stories and memories created along the way. Whether carving through the snow or driving through the savannah, the spirit of adventure remains a constant companion, encouraging us to explore the world with open hearts and curious minds.

Escapade in a Day – The Spaniards!

Chema, Ramón, Julia, Carlos and Miguel back on the 1st January 2008. Original link broken so re-posted here!

A great effort – click on the images for the full size pics

Is skiing your favourite winter sport? Make sure to put your safety first by keeping these 5 tips in mind

 Many people wait enthusiastically for winter only because they can go skiing – and for good reason, as few sports in the world can truly match the agility, speed, and adventure of skiing, combining breathtaking scenery with the opportunity to rocket down a mountain’s side at over 40 mph. However, as with all sports out there, skiing can be dangerous, especially if you don’t take the right precautions. 

Due to the speed it involves and the mountainous terrain, skiing can lead to serious accidents. Thankfully, you can avoid any distressing incidents if you take skiing seriously and stay safe while on the slopes. Below, you can find our top 5 tips on ski safety, so read on! 

Don’t disregard skiing rules
There is a code for drivers that tells them how they should behave on the road, and if they don’t follow the rules,  they could get sued in case another driver gets involved in a traffic collision due to their negligence. Similarly, the FIS (International Ski Federation) also has conduct rules for skiers, which are legally binding and cover different scenarios, among which the most important rule is to give priority to the person in front of you. 

Others rules that are worth mentioning here include overtaking ( which is allowed, but only if you leave enough space for movements that the skier in front may do), descending or climbing on foot ( which you can only do if you stay to the side of the piste), as well as stopping on piste, which is prohibited unless there’s no other option ( for instance, when there are low-visibility or narrow areas on the slope). These are just a few rules that the FIS has laid down, but it’s essential to check them all to stay safe on piste. 

Always wear a helmet 
This is a tip that you shouldn’t overlook, because it will make a ton of difference when it comes to your safety on piste. In fact, it’s just as essential as wearing a helmet while on the motorcycle because many skiers exceed 30mph (surprising, but true), and ice on the slope can be really hard. Skiing is among the top 20 recreational activities leading to head injuries, while severe head trauma accounts for about 20% of all ski-related injuries. 

In fact, head injuries are a frequent cause of death for skiers, and if they aren’t fatal, they can cause severe disability. This is why many insurance companies make it a condition to wear a helmet when skiing, and it’s recommended to check it when buying a policy. 

Make sure your boots fit properly 
Your boots should be a good fit because they will ensure you have the necessary support and control when skiing. If they are too loose or too tight, you will likely feel uncomfortable on the slopes and want to stop skiing sooner than expected. 

So, in order to get your money’s worth out of the ski pass, it’s imperative to take additional measures to ensure that your gear fits perfectly and makes you feel comfortable when enjoying your time on the slopes. 

Know your limits
Here’s the thing: you should never ski on a trail that exceeds your skill level because this could be incredibly risky for you and other individuals on the piste. It’s best to err on the side of the caution and opt for a trail that fits your ability level. If you aren’t sure which path you should take, it’s best to start with the easier trail, and work your way up more challenging terrain as soon as you become more experienced. 

Our recommendation is to watch other skiers on the slope, as this will help you get a sense of how difficult the trail is – for instance, if other skiers fall frequently or struggle on the piste, this indicates that the piste isn’t suitable for you, as it is too hard -and that’s alright! After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry, right? So, be cautious and look for any moguls, drop-offs, or other features that can only be navigated safely by skiers with advanced skills. 

Stay alert in hazardous weather conditions
High winds or heavy snowfall can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to skiing, as these extreme weather conditions can increase the risk of falling and experiencing severe injuries. If the weather makes you feel uncomfortable and unsafe, it’s definitely wise to wait out in a designated ski lodge, warming hut, or any other protected area. If you cannot find shelter, staying with your group is recommended to ensure that no one is left behind. 

When planning your time on the slopes, it’s a good idea to check the weather announcements beforehand or check if the resort staff is giving any warnings. If they do, you should consider their recommendations, such as staying off the mountain or avoiding certain areas, because they are meant to keep you safe. Besides inclement weather, also be aware of tree wells. If you’re generally on the lookout for fresh snow, you probably enjoy skiing in the trees; however, as the snow falls, it can form a tree well which can be very risky if you aren’t careful and take the necessary precautions. Falling into a tree well could lead to you being buried because of how soft the snow is. So, be mindful of the terrain and choose to ski in big open spaces between the trees. 

The bottom lin
It’s very important to follow the advice in this blog when on the slopes because this will help you avoid an injury that, at worst, could threaten your life. As enjoyable as skiing is, it also poses risks, and it’s always better to take preventive measures to avoid any potential disaster from happening and turning your life upside down.  Stay safe out there and enjoy your skiing adventure! 

RIP Mitch – La Tania Family Loses A Much Loved Local, Colleague and Friend

Awful, tragic news hit the La Tania community very hard last week as we lost a much loved local, colleague and friend, Mitchell Hopkins. Just starting his third season with girlfriend Michaela running a catered chalet after being out here all Summer enjoying the biking, hiking, via ferrata climbing, padel tennis etc and even covering a few shifts in Pub Le Ski Lodge – it was a pleasure to get to know him and enjoy a pint together.

Always willing to help out anyone, and always with a smile on his face, he even did a Snow Report for us on the opening day of the season in Val Thorens on 23 November this year as the only person we knew who was travelling across that day – something we are sure was out of his comfort zone, but being Mitch he wanted to help us out.

I think I first met Mitch at a Chalet Test Meal just before a season started and after some excellent food we had a late night discussion and taste tests on which coffee pods were the best (pretty sure we agreed it was Lidle actually!).

Speaking to people this week, so many mentioned his smile, his love of La Tania in Summer & Winter and of course his love for soul mate Michaela (aka Kayla) who shared his passion for life out here. Recently he stated that this was the best year of his life – so sad and so unfair that it has been cut so short.

Very proud of the La Tania Family that immediately rallied round offering love and support to Michaela plus help and assistance in getting families out here, sorting accommodation and transfers plus people covering shifts and work rotas to make sure visitors holidays still go ahead. Please make sure we continue to look after everyone who is close to this.

Seeing the amazing strength of Kayla and meeting her and Mitch’s family last week was very emotional but also very comforting to to see the support they are getting and seeing their love for Mitch.

Mitch was on his return down to La Tania when the tragedy happened, collapsing with heart failure and despite the efforts of the Ski Patrol Medics (a doctor also flown in immediately by helicopter once the alert was raised) they were unable to revive him. Mitch was only 35 years old.

We’re absolutely sure Mitch will be riding in the sky looking down on Folyères each time we pass by – you will be missed by so many who had the pleasure of meeting you.

There is a GoFundMe page for Mitch’s family to help them through this awful time and a donation to a charity of their choice will be made. Please Donate Here

Finally a few words from Kayla:
He was doing what he absolutely loved on one of his favourite ski slopes. He was happy, listening to country music and had the best weather for his final ski

Lots of love and commiserations to all family and all friends, RIP.

The Official Opening of the new Saulire Cable Car

The Saulire cable car has finally been repaired following accidental damage caused during a load test on 29 September 2021. The official opening ceremony and reception was held on Thursday 12 December 2024 and it is now open to the public.

The original lift was installed in 1952 and held 30 people. In 1984 when the current lift infrastructure was installed it was the largest in the world with a capacity of 160 people. The new cabins have a capacity of 130 people and the 3 year POMA renovation (complicated by having to adhere to new safety standards) has cost €10 million.

A grand reception with champagne on arrival was held in the base station with the Mairie and CEOs of Poma and S3V plus representatives of the designers and engineers teams, Tourist Offices, Les 3 Vallees etc. One of the Poma engineers received a special employee award which was a nice touch – the videos of them high up on the wires installing drive systems was pretty scary to watch.

What if the NHS fails to take care of your ski-caused accident?

How are NHS negligence payouts calculated

As exciting as skiing is, it’s safe to say that the feat involves a high risk of falls and trips that can lead to injuries of all difficulties. While most injuries are self-inflicted and caused by personal accidents like falls or failed turns, with few of them being caused by collision with other slope participants, the damage done doesn’t consider things like “who, why, and where”. Some of the most commonly injured areas are the hips, legs, lower back, and so on. When it comes to head injuries, one can experience traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, or concussions, to name the worst. This is where the NHS (or an independent hospital) makes the difference between recovery and more suffering. 

Nevertheless, the duty of care that comes with boasting the “essential worker” title is sometimes broken due to slips, human errors, negligence, recklessness, insufficient information or experience, etc. The last thing you want when enjoying your favourite sport on the slopes is to end up inquiring “how are NHS negligence payouts calculated” and variations on the problem. So, before anything terrible happens, why not hit the slopes equipped with knowledge about what happens if you don’t receive the deserved treatment from an NHS member? Suppose a misfortunate accident occurs and leaves you questioning your well-being – you’ll be better positioned if you have the necessary insights into what you can do to guarantee your duty of care is respected. Let’s commence our journey, shall we?

man riding snow skis

ACL tear misdiagnosis 

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial ligament in the knee’s middle, responsible for keeping it stable and joint. This injury doesn’t need a violent twist or misuse to occur; even being in the wrong position at the wrong time can be enough to cause it, making it one of the most frequent injuries in skiing. Some individuals may even have knee modifications that naturally make them likelier to incur this injury. Now, erroneous ACL tear misdiagnosis is a typical case of medical negligence. To demonstrate your claim for medical negligence is valid, the misidentification must have resulted from a duty of care breach, the medical professional being responsible for this onus by default. Moreover, you must have experienced damage that could’ve been evaded. From an injury overview to proof of the medical negligence that caused you distress, many factors will be counted when determining a compensation claim’s success and the potential reimbursement you may be entitled to. 

Importantly, not every ACL tear misjudgment has to be triggered by the reckless treatment of a medical expert. That’s why you must ensure your situation falls under the eligibility criteria when pondering whether to make a medical negligence claim, where three standards are essential to prove. The medical expert or institution owed you a duty of care, and they breached their duty, so the negligence caused you harm that could have been avoided.

An overview of the claim criteria 

As a skier, you’re prone to incur injuries in the knee, like MCL and ACL tears or meniscus injuries, as well as ones beyond the body part in question, such as sprains, fractures, the skier’s thumb, and head injuries. When it’s demonstrated that they necessitate medical treatment from a professional, the specific expert begins having a duty of care towards you the moment they get in charge of improving your situation. The requirements of a lawsuit against reckless medical professionals or institutions are pretty much the same for every ski-caused injury that they failed to diagnose correctly, for which they prescribed wrong or insufficient mediation, or where the surgical operation went wrong. For instance, you may be eligible to fill against your medical professional or institution if the received medication dosage is too much or insufficient and leads to illness (or, in extreme instances, death) or if you receive wrong or no medication at all. 

At the same time, evidence of surgical negligence can have you win against the expert who breached their duty of care. Objects forgotten within the patient, wrong body part surgeries, and other similar science-fiction-like cases unfortunately occur, cases in which the victim or a victim’s close one can fill a lawsuit. The dosage you receive could be too high or too low, and both could lead to illness or fatality in some extreme cases. Additionally, you may receive altogether the wrong medication, or even no medication at all when it was, in fact, necessary.

There’s a three-year limit 

Besides other medical negligence claims, these claims must commence within three years – the standard deadline stated in the Limitation Act 1980. With or without an attorney, you must support your case with proof, like pharmaceutical bills, medical records, and so on. A few elements are included in the time limit, like info about the injury and proof of the negligence’s harm.

In specific circumstances, you may be able to claim compensation even if the three-year timeframe has passed, where the court should grant an exemption from the rule. Nevertheless, meeting the eligibility criteria is challenging, and so is if you don’t work with a skilled lawyer. Also, the timeframe is suspended for injured skiers (or, people in general) under 18, as they can’t make claims until their coming of age. The expiration date only starts after they’re legally adults.  

The law is on your side

If the NHS fails to properly take care of you and your injury after a ski accident, a few options to reduce your harm exist. First, you should seek the opinions of one or more medical professionals; a second thought weighs a lot if you feel like the first treatment wasn’t adequate. After you know where you stand with your injury and you, a lawyer, or a claim compensation solicitor decide that you meet the eligibility criteria to fill against the treatment provider, it’s time to file the complaint with the medical institution. In this case, the NHS relies on a formal complaint procedure to approach concerns about care standards. Complaints generally result in thorough investigations, which may end up in corrective actions or enhanced care.

If your treatment was wrong and did you harm, things like rehabilitation expenses and medical costs may prove you’re a victim of the NHS. If your case turns out successful, you may be entitled to receive damages to cover the inefficient care and the consequent harm incurred. 

Get proper assistance

Organizations and niche lawyers exist that support patients and victims in determining their rights and navigating claims or complaints against the NHS, so dare to make justice for yourself if you, or a close one, suffer from such unfortunate negligence. 

Piste Preparation – Latest from S3V

S3V have just released these photographs taken at the weekend by Cédric Perretier, Head of the S3V Piste Service. Creux looking absolutely magnificent above with S3V doing all they can on the grooming and snow cannon front for a great opening on Friday. Snow in the forecast too!

Below is video of the new Saulire cable car from Mica Tissot. It does look very impressive…

Scheduled Lift Opening for the first 2 weeks in the Courchevel / La Tania Ski Area

6 December 2024 – click image for full size
7-13 December 2024 – click image for full size
14-20 December 2024 – click image for full size

First Pint Of The Season


Subject to a Stewards Enquiry – looks like Carrie and Graeme of Come-Ski are WINNERS!

The runners and riders….

First Pint Odds at Pub Le Ski Lodge – La Tania 17:00 today: The original Alpine Fish n Chips Fry-Day Novice Chase…

Paddy’s Day evens jt fav
Raching It Up evens jt fav
It Could Get Hairy 5/4
Meet Me On The Corner 5/4
Taking Flack 5/4
Tommy Gun 5/4
Jewel Tim 5/4
Luke Who’s Here 6/4
Les Boulangeries 6/4
Go Johnny Go 6/4
King Charles 6/4
Rocks Off 2/1
Get Snowed On 2/1
Dulux Dick 2/1
Legs Eleven 5/2
The Live Rambler 5/2
Irish Boxer 5/2
Angel Gabriel 5/2
Tall Paul 5/2
Daft as a Brush 9/4
A Right Carry On 9/4
Don’t Eat Gray Ham 9/4
You’re Nicked 3/1
Tell No Tayles 3/1
Safety Karabina 3/1
Tiny Timmy 7/2
Kelly’s Heroes 7/2
Shaun The Sheep 4/1
It’s Fused 4/1
Take Aime 9/2
Claire’s Accessories 5/1
A Crystal Will 7/1
Marks & Spencer 8/1
Lean Machine 9/1
Michelin Star 11/1
Slippery When Wet 11/1

15/1 Bar.
All real race horse names.
When the fun stops stop.
Bet responsibly.