More piste less pennies
So you have decided to take a holiday, now all you have to do is choose what type of trip; city break, lazing around on a beach or maybe something a little more active such as skiing.
Obviously in the current economic climate price is a major consideration and there is a common misconception that skiing is the most expensive option. This is not always the case there’s an incredible array of ski destinations such as the established resorts of Europe and America, others less well-known options located in all corners of the world including Asia, Africa and even Australia.
All it takes is a little imagination, think outside the box and do some research, as there are plenty of budget options. To narrow down your search, you will need to decide whether you actually want to get the cheapest price or are looking to get more for your money outside the Euro zone. Either way you can start saving money before you even leave home by taking out Staysure.co.uk low cost over 50s travel insurance.
If you want to go for the budget option and get away for a few days on the piste without breaking the bank, then consider our eastern European neighbours such as Romania, Slovenia and Bulgaria. Previously considered a forbidding unknown quantity in the west, as members of the EU Slovenia, Bulgaria and more recently Romania needed to meet specific criteria with regard to their economy, human rights and currency. Now as fully paid up members it’s possible to experience the beautiful dramatic mountain landscapes and traditional town native to these as yet under explored countries.
Bulgaria is arguably the best known ski destination to emerge from behind the former iron curtain. Borovets, Pampolova and Bansko are the main resorts located in the foothills of the Pirin Mountains in the southwest of the country, each have benefitted from huge government and overseas investment over the last few years resulting in real growth in infrastructure, accommodation and facilities, attracting more overseas visitors each year.
Romania mostly known for the fictional Count Dracula and its dramatic Carpathian Mountains, also called the Transylvanian Alps has a landscape that lends itself beautifully to skiing and snow sports in general. If looking for fairytale surroundings consider Sinaia located close to the Bucegi Mountains approximately 120km from Bucharest is the oldest and beautiful ski resort, known locally as the ‘Carpathian Pearl’. Alternatively Poiana Brasov located just 12kms from the city of Brasov nestling at the foot of Postayaru Massif is already established a thriving international ski resort.
Eastern European resorts may lack much of the Swiss or French sophistication but what they lack in polish, they make up for with charm and incredibly low prices. Although Bulgaria, Slovenia and more recently Romania adopted the Euro your money will still go a long way.
It’s worth remembering that when taking a ski trip that casualties can often occur, invariably due to a third party, so it’s essential to choose an adequate over 50 travel insurance ski policy. Apart from covering vital medical bills in a foreign country, it also covers costly ski equipment and much more. www.staysure.co.uk
