On Mon, 7 Jan 2008 08:18:19 -0800 (PST), in
,
wrote:

Hi

I'm trying to get my head around booking a skiing holiday.

I've never skiied before so am concerned about being fleeced!

As a first time skiier, I expect what I'm looking for is pretty
standard - flights (from London) to the destination, accommodation,
equipment hire, ski lift passes and teaching.

What I can't seem to find is anyone who can bring that all together
inclusive - it would be nice to be able to arrive and not have to
worry about sorting these things out. Is there an operator anyone
would recommend?

A bit of an outside bet, perhaps, but if you (preferably) speak French
and don't mind hostel-style accomodation, the UCPA offer packages
which include accomodation, food, lift pass, equipment hire (including
clothing, I understand) and intruction for bargain-basement prices.

For example, a week in Flaine starting March 30th will cost just Eu445
for all the above. (Forgive the wrapped link)
http://www.ucpa-vacances.com/recherc...mois=3&jour=30
Given that a standard week's lift pass alone is Eu218, that is an
incredible price.

They don't offer transport packages from the UK, but if you can get
Eurostar to Paris or Lille they'll include the French coach or rail
journey. Or just get Easyjet to Geneva and use one of the transfer
services listed at http://www.flaine.com/fr/acces-station-avion.php

Also, I know April is getting a bit late for snow - is it best to head
for high altitude areas like Les Deux Alpes and Val Thorens?

Flaine also has an excellent late snow record (it would be my first
choice in April), although UCPA also have centres in many other ski
resorts, including high ones such as Val Thorens and Tignes.