Beyond La Tania: 3 of the Best Olympic Ski Resorts To Visit

After the success of the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France, the surrounding region started to receive a lot more attention from travellers seeking a winter getaway. In particular, the La Tania region capitalised on this interest and turned itself into a popular family-friendly ski resort destination. A lot of places around the world have seen similar trends emerge after hosting the Winter Olympics, which means that holidaymakers have a plethora of ski resorts to choose from.

#1: Whistler Blackcomb, Canada (2010 Winter Olympics)

One of those resorts is Whistler Blackcomb, widely considered one of the best in the world. Found in the stunning Coast Mountains of Canada’s British Columbia, this resort hosted events in downhill, slalom, and giant slalom back in 2010’s Winter Olympics. 

One of the best features of Whistler Blackcomb is the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. It spans an impressive 4.4 kilometres between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and even holds a world record. The distance makes it the longest unsupported cable car span, and as you might imagine, the views are incredible. 

Skiers and snowboarders of all abilities can find something suitable here, with the upgraded facilities post-Olympics now providing greater access to over 8,000 acres of ski terrain. These new upgrades include attractions like the Cloudraker Skybridge, one of the highest pedestrian bridges in North America.

#2: Chamonix, France (1924 Winter Olympics)

Next up is a ski town and resort near Mount Blanc in France, only a few hours from La Tania. Chamonix is situated in the French Alps, and it was the host of the first-ever Winter Olympics 100 years ago. The legacy of this site remains strong, with many visitors flocking to Chamonix’s slopes each ski season.

One major benefit of Chamonix is that it’s easily accessible, and cheap flights are almost always available owing to a multitude of airways covering flight paths to the area. It’s worth noting that, despite being in France, the nearest airport is actually Geneva Airport, which is renowned for being well-connected. When you look at flights with Opodo, for example, you’ll see plenty of flights on this route from carriers like Air France and Lufthansa. Upon arrival, you won’t have to worry about trekking far as Chamonix is only about 100 kilometres away.

Although Chamonix does offer a range of slopes suitable for all skill levels, it’s renowned for its challenging and extreme skiing opportunities. The famous Vallée Blanche glacier run is a perfect example of this, where skiers traverse a huge 20-kilometre descent. While beginners are welcome at Chamonix, it’s sometimes quite intimidating for novices, so it might be best to try elsewhere for your first ski trip.

#3: Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy (1956 Winter Olympics)

Number three on the list is Cortina d’Ampezzo, located in Italy’s Dolomite mountains. This resort gained international fame when it hosted the Winter Olympics back in 1956, an event that marked a transformative period for Cortina.

Cortina is very unique, as is evidenced by the fact that UNESCO declared the region a World Natural Heritage Area back in 2009. The Dolomites region is generally well known for its dramatic scenery, and the diverse terrain of Cortina has created some very challenging skiing trails. This means that safety is important, including following any specific laws that the Italian government has in place.

Something else that’s interesting about Cortina is that it has also long been considered Italy’s winter playground for the elite. So, if you feel like rubbing shoulders with Italian high society, this might be the perfect resort for you.

The Winter Olympics has led to many different regions investing in infrastructure to bring tourists to the area with great success. Each resort mentioned offers something a little bit different, blending history and world-class skiing. Whether it’s La Tania or one of the others that you pick, it’s hard to go wrong.

Top Apps You Need on Your Smartphone When Travelling Solo

Google Maps: Navigational Companion

Solo travel is an enriching experience that allows you to explore the world on your terms, embrace new cultures and discover your inner adventurer. With the power of technology at our fingertips, solo travellers can now rely on a variety of mobile apps to navigate unfamiliar destinations, connect with fellow globetrotters and even play live casinogames for entertainment along the way. This article will delve into a selection of must-have apps for solo travellers.

No solo travel adventure is complete without Google Maps. Harnessing the world’s most powerful search engine, this app provides real-time navigation, public transportation information and points of interest. Whether you are wandering through bustling city streets or on your way to shred some fresh powder at some nearby slopes, Google Maps ensures you’re always headed in the right direction.

TripIt: Your Personal Travel Organiser

TripIt is a traveller’s best friend when it comes to itinerary management. Forward your flight, hotel and activity confirmations to TripIt, and the app organises them into a single, comprehensive itinerary. This eliminates the stress of juggling multiple bookings, ensuring a smoother solo travel experience.

Casumo – Live Casino & Slots: Entertaining Downtime on the Go

While exploring new destinations is exhilarating, there are moments when solo travellers might crave some downtime entertainment. Casumo offers a unique way to enjoy casino games on your smartphone or tablet. Whether it’s slots, blackjack, poker, or roulette, this app provides a chance to unwind and potentially win some extra travel funds.

Duolingo: Language Learning Companion

Breaking down language barriers is essential for solo travellers. Duolingo is a user-friendly language-learning app that offers bite-sized lessons in a variety of languages. Learning a few key phrases can help you connect with locals and navigate with confidence.

SoloTraveller: Connecting Solitary Explorers

SoloTraveller is a social networking app designed exclusively for solo travellers. Connect with like-minded individuals, find travel companions for specific destinations and share tips and experiences. It’s a great way to combat loneliness and make new friends on the road.

Citymapper: Navigating Public Transportation

Citymapper is a navigation app tailored to urban travellers. It offers comprehensive public transportation information, real-time updates and multimodal routing options. It’s especially handy when navigating intricate public transit systems in unfamiliar cities.

Conclusion

Going on a solo travel journey is an empowering experience, and the right apps can enhance every aspect of it. From navigation and language learning to connecting with fellow travellers and enjoying downtime entertainment, these apps cater to the unique needs of solo adventurers. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities or seeking tranquillity in nature, these apps are your digital companions, helping you make the most of every moment on your solo travel escapades.

Skiing and snowboarding for millionaires

VIP resorts with casinos for the chosen few

Amidst the pure white expanses of the world’s most stunning mountain ranges lies an exclusive playground for the rich and gambling-minded. Skiing and snowboarding have long been a winter pastime for both 1 deposit casino thrill seekers and nature lovers alike. 

However, at the zenith of luxury and adventure, there are elite resorts catering to clients for whom money doesn’t matter and whose thirst for exclusivity is as unquenchable as their love of the slopes.

These are VIP resorts that not only promise world-class skiing and snowboarding, but also the opportunity to gamble the night away in glitzy, high-stakes casinos. 

The combination of casinos and winter vip resorts

Casinos complement winter resorts for several reasons, especially for the affluent clientele. Here are the key factors that make casinos a sought-after facility in luxury winter destinations:

● Year-round appeal

Although skiing and snowboarding are seasonal, Modern trends in casino design attract guests year-round. This broadens the resort’s appeal and maximises its profitability beyond the winter months.

● Evening entertainment

After the sun goes down and the slopes close, even the most avid skiers and snowboarders need entertainment. Casinos offer a vibrant nightlife where guests can socialise, be entertained and experience the thrill of gambling.

● Diverse revenue streams

Casinos generate significant direct revenue from gaming activities. They also contribute to other revenue streams, as visitors are likely to spend money on lodging, dining, shopping and other amenities.

● Attract high-end customers

Casinos tend to attract high-spending individuals who are looking for a luxurious experience. This demographic is often willing to pay more for exclusive services, which is in line with the luxury branding of many winter resorts.

An all-encompassing luxury experience

The elite come to these destinations for the ultimate luxury experience. The presence of an on-site casino adds to the resort’s multi-faceted appeal, offering glamour and sophistication that matches the luxury lifestyle of the wealthy.

● Unseasonable weather conditions

Sometimes weather conditions mean that skiing and snowboarding are prohibited. Casinos provide an alternative form of entertainment when outdoor activities are limited.

● Employment and economic growth.

Casinos create jobs and can contribute to the economic growth of a region, which often justifies their development in the eyes of local stakeholders.

● International Gambling Events

Major casinos often host international gaming tournaments and events that can attract visitors from around the world, giving the resort international exposure and prestige.

● Networking space

Casinos serve as social centres where business and pleasure often intersect. For many affluent individuals, these venues provide a relaxed environment to meet peers and socialise.

In the context of winter resorts for millionaires, casinos ensure that lavish experiences go beyond daytime entertainment. It’s about creating an immersive environment that takes into account all aspects of luxury and relaxation, offering a seamless transition from the adrenaline of the slopes to the excitement of high stakes games.

Why do millionaires favour winter resorts?

Millionaires, like any other people, are looking for experiences that match their interests and lifestyle. However, their considerable financial resources allow them to pursue luxury and exclusivity to a greater extent. Here are a few reasons why millionaires may prefer luxury winter resorts:

● Exclusivity

Luxury winter resorts often promise a level of exclusivity that matches the preferences of millionaires. They can enjoy private ski slopes, avoid long queues and provide a high level of service and privacy.

● High-end amenities

These resorts typically offer exceptional amenities such as gourmet restaurants from Michelin-starred chefs, top-notch spa services, and rooms with premium amenities.

● Networking Opportunities

Such resorts are a gathering place for the elite, providing millionaires with opportunities to connect with people close to their hearts and fortunes. They can form new business connections or strengthen existing relationships behind the scenes at the gaming table.

● Security and privacy

Luxury resorts often have robust security measures in place, which is essential for millionaires who prioritise their safety and privacy. They can relax away from the attention of prying press.

Best vip resorts with casinos in winter

Welcome to the sanctuaries of the rich, the snowy Edens where millionaires come to play.

Courchevel 1850, France

Part of the largest connected ski area in the world, Le Trois Vallées, Courchevel 1850 stands proudly at the pinnacle of luxury winter sports destinations. The resort boasts immaculately groomed slopes, modern lift systems and plenty of experienced instructors ready to cater to the every whim of skiers or snowboarders.

The resort is not only characterised by its extensive ski runs, but also by its luxurious facilities. Michelin restaurants, designer boutiques and exclusive nightclubs abound. However, in the warm evening light, the truly rich reach for the roulette and poker tables of the resort’s private casinos, where the clinking of champagne glasses can win or lose a fortune.

St Moritz, Switzerland

St Moritz isn’t just a winter resort; it’s a winter legend. Located in the Engadine Valley and surrounded by the majestic Alps, it has hosted the OI twice. Synonymous with high society and typical extravagance, St Moritz is the right place for those who want to enjoy the slopes by day and the lively casino scene at night.

The famous St Moritz Casino, magnificent in its exclusivity, requires not only monetary wealth but also a certain social status to enter. Its private rooms are the arena for high rollers who, after a day of snow skiing, enjoy the adrenaline rush that only a well-played hand or a lucky spin can bring.

Aspen, USA

Aspen, the jewel of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, has long been a favourite winter holiday destination for celebrities and business tycoons. Offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in North America, the four mountains are suitable for all skill levels without sacrificing luxury.

As the sun dips behind the snowy peaks, Aspen’s elite migrate to the city’s gaming halls, which, while not as grand as the casinos of Europe, offer a more intimate setting for those with bankrolls to match their lofty ambitions. Aspen’s charm lies in its combination of rustic charm with the exclusivity of a private club where invitations only happen behind closed doors.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Although not located among the alpine heights, Monte Carlo deserves a mention for its legendary status in elite circles. For ski and snowboard enthusiasts looking to take a short helicopter ride to the nearby Southern Alps, Monte Carlo can be a luxurious base.

The gilded halls of the Casino de Monte Carlo are world renowned. Here, the stakes are as steep as the surrounding mountain slopes, and the clientele is used to taking risks, whether on the snow or at the tables. One evening in this casino, under the glow of Bohemian crystal chandeliers on the shores of the Mediterranean, can trump even the most exciting day on the slopes.

Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier, a popular destination for serious skiers and snowboarders who also have a penchant for the finer things in life. The resort’s high altitude terrain makes for fantastic skiing conditions, while the luxury chalets scattered around the town provide complete exclusivity and comfort.

As evening falls, the modestly luxurious casinos come alive. Available to those staying in luxury residences, these casinos offer a quiet diversion from the bustling public resorts, promising as fast-paced skiing down a pristine trail as the turn of a card on the bough.

Lech Zürs am Arlberg, Austria

Located in Austria’s exclusive Vorarlberg region, the Lech Zürs Hotel is a regular holiday destination for royalty and celebrities. Thanks to its “champagne climate”, it boasts both high-quality snow and an upscale social life.

The ski resort offers exceptional off-piste skiing and breathtaking pistes for all levels. Apres-ski activities include fine restaurants and elegant bars. Although the casinos are more discreet in their offerings, the high society that frequents Lech Zürs includes seasoned players who find the understated lounges to their refined tastes.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt, home to the famous Matterhorn, is another gem of Switzerland frequented by the elite. In addition to great skiing and snowboarding conditions, Zermatt’s appeal is its car-free village and world-class accommodation. Although the resort itself does not have a casino in the traditional sense of the word due to careful Swiss regulation, many of its visitors have been known to enjoy high-stakes gaming in private chalets and luxury suites, often arranged by hotels for the most VIP of guests.

Banff and Lake Louise, Canada

For those looking beyond the alpine confines of Europe, the majestic landscapes of Banff National Park offer a luxurious backdrop for both thrilling winter sports and upscale holidays. Lake Louise, with its turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks, offers superb skiing conditions. The luxurious Lake Louise Chateau may not have a casino within its walls, but it is well known for partnering with exclusive gaming events to create temporary casinos for the elite visiting these pristine Canadian slopes.

Klosters, Switzerland

Klosters shares a ski area with the more famous resort of Davos, but offers a more refined and exclusive atmosphere that has made it a favourite British Crown holiday destination. The town exudes a quiet charm, guaranteeing privacy and discretion, aspects that are highly valued by its wealthy clientele.

Klosters has access to extensive ski slopes throughout Davos and benefits from the presence of high quality casinos in close proximity, ensuring that après-ski is as tempting as skiing.

Jackson Hole, USA

Jackson Hole in Wyoming, featured on the reputable CasinoUSA website is renowned for its rugged terrain and luxury accommodations, attracting an affluent crowd seeking adventure on and off the slopes. Although Wyoming is not known for its casinos, the establishment’s affluent clientele partake in private gaming nights held in the most luxurious lodges, where guests fly in renowned croupiers and dealers to guarantee an unrivalled gaming experience.

Conclusion

At these high-altitude VIP havens for the rich, the thrill of the ski slopes can only be matched by the excitement of the casino. Skiing and snowboarding for millionaires is not just a hobby; it is a testament to a luxurious lifestyle where a gust of cold mountain air is surpassed only by the excitement of gambling. And while the stakes are high, so are the rewards in a world where wealth and adventure meet.