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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

 


 

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.

Medical Centre 2024 Update

La Tania Courchevel Medical Clinic Update 2024

Welcome everybody… Seasonnaires, Locals and Tourists.

This year, the COURCHEVEL (La Tania) MEDICAL CLINIC will open 5 days a week Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 18:30. However there may be some weekend opening so please check the new website courchevelmedicalclinic.com or our facebook page.

The COURCHEVEL MEDICAL CLINIC can provide medical advice, traumatology, pediatric and gynecology advice, emergency medical care (oxygen, nebulization, intra-veinous drip for pain, vomiting, hangover, etc…), first medical care in traumatology ( X-ray, stitching, plaster casts), vaccinations, etc.

Your transfer to a hospital will be organised if necessary. For 10 years, our objective is to provide the best medical care with the aim of giving you great memories of Courchevel even if you are ill or injured.

Doctor Aude Joncquiert Latarjet is also trained for facial injections for aesthetic purpose and she will be happy to give you a free consultation and a free facial analysis.

Don’t hesitate to consult us – An avalanche of goodies are waiting for you!

Have a good winter season. Enjoy…

Latest Pics Around La Tania As Snow Cannons Tested Before Snow Next Week

Looking across to Biollay from Chenus

The Snow Cannons are finally firing up in #LaTania this evening as colder weather sets in and more snow is forecast from Saturday and next week. Looks like this was just a test and they will be in full operation next week.

Perfectly normal for the snow to disappear from the warm ground on lower slopes in November but currently above average cover above 1900m.

Snow Cannons tested in La Tania overnight

Courchevel 1850 were making snow yesterday and the piste bashers were getting to work.

The new netting across the red Moretta Blanche piste down to La Tania where it diverts all traffic down the green Plan Fontaine to resort level.

The latest pics from the Moretta Village development – still working /spon it before the main snowfalls of Winter at this level and they pack up until the Spring.

Above 1900m the snow cover is above average, so at present this is above 1850. Things set to change next week and temperatures dropping.

Snow cover looking decent above 1850

Meanwhile Val Thorens has the following lifts open for it’s “Grande Première this weekend:

Portette
Funitel Thorens
Moraine
Funitel Grand Fond
Deux Lacs
Moutière
Lac Blanc
Funitel Péclet
Cascade
Cairn
Plein Sud
Caron
The covered magic carpets and Orelle is open too!

It’s looking pretty good over there…

Thanks to Andrea at Snow Retreat, Ralph from Freeride Republic and Ian & Angie S for the pics.

It’s Beaujolais Nouveau Time…

Only a days recovery before Val Thorens opens on Saturday – a week earlier than planned!

Thanks to Ralph at The Freeride Republic for the pics.

Up Saulire, Down Suisses – Great Pics of Courchevel

Great pics around Courchevel after Ski-Dazzle’s Sallyann hiked up Saulire for some fresh tracks down Suisses yesterday. Good Work!

10 Things to Do When It’s Wet and Cold Outside

Brrr! The rainy days are upon us. Now is that time of year when clouds crowd the sky, rain pours down, and it gets darker and darker, earlier and earlier. It can be a tough adjustment from the long, light evenings of summertime, but you can still make the most of this cosy time even if you don’t go on a winter vacation

Now is a great opportunity to exercise your cooking skills, find a new hobby, catch up on reading, or just relax with your loved ones, a great movie, and a glass of wine. Don’t let the winter get you down. Make a point to enjoy new activities on wet and cold days—you might just find a new favourite thing to do. And who knows, you might have such a grand time that you’ll find yourself looking forward to next winter by the time spring starts blossoming. 

Spa Day

Whether a traditional Korean soaking spa or a Western massage parlour, treat yourself to a day’s worth of pampering and relaxation. Even a trip to the nail salon will leave you looking lovely and feeling decompressed. 

You can warm up in heated pools and rooms at certain spas, so if it’s especially cold out, choose a location that offers hot tubs and crystal-charged rooms to clear your energy and toast you up from the inside out. Some places even allow you to bring masks, gels, and creams so that you can enjoy your very own bespoke beauty routine, all in the comfort of a well-serviced spa area. Enjoy!

Work Out

Exercise out all that excess energy! If you’re feeling trapped inside and going stir-crazy, a trip to the gym can be a godsend for relieving restlessness. And, not to mention, it’s good for you! Lift weights, enhance your cardio on the treadmill, or swim laps for a low-impact workout that will leave you feeling like one million bucks. 

Making a gym visit your natural response to wet and rainy days can be highly beneficial for your fitness routine and overall well-being. You’ll be feeling and looking stronger by the time shorts season rolls around again. 

Catch a Movie

Is anything good out? Probably! The holidays are when many studios release their most anticipated titles of the year. Catch a good movie to kill a few hours and enjoy a bit of escapism. Look up art houses or smaller local venues if you’re looking for a unique film outside the big Hollywood name options. 

Of course, you can also just find something on one of the million-and-one streaming services you pay for. Whether you want to venture out into the wild world or cosy up on the couch, enjoying a movie is a classic cold-day activity.

Start a Craft

Want to learn how to sew, get into woodworking, or renovate a rundown area of your home? There are so many crafting tutorials on the internet that you’re sure to find a creative task you’ll enjoy. 

Whether it’s jewellery making or something more ambitious like re-tiling your bathroom, watch a bunch of YouTube videos on the topic, make a detailed list, and stock up on the supplies you need. You’ll feel productive and accomplished when you finish your first rainy-day activity!

Play at a Casino

Try your chance at winning big when you punt online or take a trip to a brick-and-mortar gaming establishment. Discover new casinos before you venture out to make sure they offer the games you crave. 

Most places offer slots, table games, and roulette, while others also offer sports betting and more. Whatever game you crave, a rainy day is the perfect time to play it. And who knows—you might just win big. Maybe wet days are your lucky charm.

Take a Walk

The stoic Swedes love to say, “Det finns inget dåligt väder, bara dåliga kläder.” That means there’s no bad weather, just bad clothes. Bundle up and enjoy the outdoors with a little walk around your neighbourhood. The rain makes everything look different and vibrant, so pack a camera and a hot thermos full of tea and see your world through new eyes.

A little rain never hurt anyone, so pull on your waterproof jacket, don a hat, and remember good footwear. You’ll be happy you got out and about, even if it’s just for a little bit. Afterwards, you can warm up inside with a big bowl of soup and a soft blanket.

Go to the Museum

Enrich your mind with a visit to your local art, history, or science museum. You may discover a new love or fascination for a topic you’ve never encountered before. Taking the kids to a children’s museum can also be a great family activity that’s adventurous and educational all at the same time! Best of all, you might just learn something new.

Pro tip: pack a picnic lunch that you can enjoy in the car or under a covered area beforehand to keep the outing relatively affordable. 

Take on a Cooking Project

Make that six-hour roast, or embark on a slow-cooked journey to delicious Bolognese. Cookies, cake, pie, and other involved baking projects are also a fun way to expand your culinary horizons! 

Whether you try something new or rely on an old classic that has you puttering around the kitchen for hours, cooking is a great and nutritious way to fill up your rainy-day hours and tummies. 

Read a Book

Catch up on the latest novel or tap into some educational material you’ve been meaning to get around to. Reading on the couch is great for your brain and feels even more relaxing when accompanied by the soft pitter-patter of the rain on your windowsill. 

In today’s day and age of social media, cell phones, and technology, many of us rarely read for fun anymore. Change that and get through that huge stack of magazines you’ve yet to read. You’ll be smarter for it!

Complete a Puzzle

Break out the jigsaw puzzle and challenge your spatial thinking! Start with the flat edge pieces if you’re intimidated at first. You’ll get into a flow and begin to recognize the shapes and patterns with more ease as you go. 

When you’re all done, you can admire your handiwork—and you’ll have an excuse to buy another puzzle. Happy solving!

La Tania Opens One Month Today!

And the Ski Lodge in 3 Weeks…

Friday 1st December is First Pints day as Pub Le Ski Lodge opens for Winter. Celebrating it’s 30th year there’ll be a party or two this season as we go back to the 90’s…….

First Tracks! Skiers Spotted On Saulire…

On Saulire this morning some Ski Tourers were spotted on the Webcams

Probably the usual suspects but they may wish to remain anonymous – the usual warnings from S3V (the ski area mgmt company) regarding heavy machinery, cables, unsafe areas etc as the ski area prepares the terrain for opening will be along soon no doubt…

Good effort people! And thanks to Mark R for the heads up.

Revolut’s Standing in Online Gambling Industry

Some gambling destinations are doing better than others in many ways. For example, a casino or sportsbook may have a long list of interesting games courtesy of top software companies but may lack customer support or payment services, and vice-versa. This situation is unending, and finding the perfect gaming venue seems almost impossible. Interestingly, some operators have tried solving their problems by integrating convenient and affordable systems. For instance, some sportsbooks now use Revolut as one of their payment methods to overcome the issue of performing online transactions. Find out more about this next-generation payment option in this article and how it would change the iGaming industry. 

5 Things You Need to Know About Revolut Payment Method

Revolut is a digital bank or wallet designed to make life convenient for people as it facilitates easy and seamless transactions. It was only recently introduced but has become one of the world’s most popular digital wallets used by bettors on online gambling sites. Now, while all bookmakers support Revolut, this payment method’s presence will change the gambling industry’s status quo. But before that happens, you should know the following things about the digital payment option. 

What is Revolut?

Revolut is a payment method that uses a digital debit card to perform online transactions. This eWallet option was introduced by its London-based company, Revolut Ltd., in 2015, and it was immediately accepted into the gaming industry, especially betting sites. For about 7 years now, Revolut has proven to be more effective than other methods known to or supported by most bookies. It has provided bettors with a fast, secure, and easy way to make deposits and withdrawals online in a range of currencies – at no processing cost. Currently, Revolut operates in Europe and Asia and has an app on the Google Play Store or App Store. It is also quite popular among norwegian bookmakers.

How to Get a Revolut Debit Card

Revolut acts as a digital debit card, but that doesn’t limit it from being a physical debit card. Users can get an actual debit card in some authorized countries after meeting the requirements. First, you must create an account with the company to get a digital debit card. During account creation, you must comply with KYC regulations to validate your data. Then, you can request to get a debit card from customer support to be able to withdraw money at any ATM. You have to pay shipping and processing fees to get it. Apart from the obvious difference, both cards have many similarities (i.e., digital and physical).   

How to Use Revolut

Whether you get a physical or a digital debit card, you can still use them to process transactions online. People who use Revolut will definitely have a great time using the payment method’s service. And for those who don’t know how, here is a step-by-step guide to depositing with Revolut. 

Step 1 – Download the mobile app on your smartphone and create an account 

Step 2 – Go to the homepage and select the “Add Money” option 

Step 3 – Select a payment method and enter an amount alongside other requested information 

Step 4 – Complete the process by clicking the “Add Money” button. 

How to Find Revolut Sportsbooks

Finding bookies that accept Revolut can be difficult because not every bookmaker supports the payment method. The population is growing, but it will take a little more time. Notwithstanding, top online bookmakers that offer this option to deposit easily and withdraw are 22Bet, 888Sport, and 20Bet. 

There is something more interesting about Revolut bookmakers – they offer special and regular bonuses to bettors. For instance, after you’ve created an account with the betting site and placed a bet using the payment method, you will be eligible for a welcome bonus, increasing your possibility of winning more prizes. 

However, it is important to read the payment service provider’s terms and conditions before using it as a default option.  

How is Revolut Better Than Other Banking Options?

Revolut seems to be the future of betting sites, as it has several benefits, making it even better than most banking options. For instance, it is a digital wallet that allows other payment methods. It also allows users to withdraw from all ATMs at no charge. More importantly, this payment method ensures that users can exchange currencies at a good rate – even better than those offered by banking institutions. 

However, the major challenge with Revolut banking is that not everyone will be ready to accept the initiative, especially as most people think there is a lack of credibility. Notwithstanding, there are hopes that many people will start using this next-generation method soon.  

Conclusion

Before now, there were growing concerns about how casinos and sportsbooks could do better and offer better customer service. Some were able to develop new strategies that ensure members get the best experience. One such strategy is accepting intelligent payment options like Revolut. This eWallet method has saved most players from the troubles of doing online transactions. Unfortunately, even though it has been around for almost a decade, not every bookmaker has it. On the other hand, the reviews so far have been impressive, and the fact that people can withdraw anywhere in the world with a Revolut debit card is impressive. That being said, Revolut has a developing presence in the sports betting industry.  

House for Winter Season Rental in Le Buisson (between St Bon & Bozel)

As usual, season accommodation is in short supply and the added issues of the closure of Saboia B in La Tania towards the end of the season isn’t helping either. This may help companies looking for staff beds or people wanting to do a season.

Chris H has this house to rent in Le Buisson, situated between St Bon and Bozel – less than a 10 minute drive to La Tania. It’s a two bedroom, sleeping 4 (maximum) he’s looking for around €10k for the season from 01 December 2023 to 30 April 2024, maybe less for a couple only.

Bedroom 1
Lounge / Diner

For further information and enquiries please contact Chris via email at: enquiries@lataniarentals.com