So we all know that travelling during the school holidays sucks. However there are plenty of people who have to; whether that’s because of time off restrictions from work (TEACHERS! We’re talking to you!!), your only ‘holiday dates’ or whether you realise actually it can be an ace time to be away. Obvs we speak mostly from a ‘coming to stay with us in Morzine’ point of view – but it’s still relevant wherever you stay.

• Travel on odd days / odd hours. Sure you might miss one day of your holiday, or might be there a day early – but the flight/train price can be severely altered in your favour and if you have to spend a night in Geneva, so be it.
• Go by coach. Don’t turn your nose up at it, it’s a real good option and particularly on peak weeks. Just go prepared (eye mask, ear plugs, fully charged gadgets, headphones…) – you get on in London and wake up in resort and it’s cheap. Check out our mates at SnowExpress (for Morzine you are aiming for Cluses)
• Go for child free accommodation. Children are like farts – you only like your own ones. Particularly if you work with children, the last thing you want to do is spend your precious time off with them. The obvious choice here is US! We have a no under 18s rule in our chalets (except for exclusive hire) so kick back and banter away without fear of offending poor little Johnny.
• Play the game. The Portes du Soleil (where we ski / snowboard) is actually pretty good at absorbing the crowds, but there are definitely pinch points. Speak to your chalet staff, they know where/when these are.
  • • • Get up early or late. That 9:30 lift is a NIGHTMARE!
      • Ski during lunch. Eat early or late, but NOT at lunchtime!
      • Ride ’til late – the lifts are mostly open until 5pm, the kids / crowds are way gone by late afternoon
      • Listen to local knowledge – maybe get on a bus and go to that underused part of the mountain
      • Book your lessons, dinner table, mountain extras ASAP (before you go away)
      • Head to the grungiest aprés, thee’s no way little Tarquin is going to be in that mosh pit

Surprisingly the holiday weeks can be the most rewarding. The towns are always super lively, there are all kinds of parades and fireworks going on. EVERYTHING is open, but to enjoy it and make the most of your time – PLAY THE GAME!

Got any top tips?! Let us know in the comments below.