We flew into Geneva in Switzerland and bused for about an hour and a half up to Avoriaz. The drive was a little disappointing given the lack of snow but given that it was my first time in Europe, it was quite interesting.
The border crossing was a complete non event, we just drove straight accross. In fact, I only got one stamp on my passport for the whole trip - when we returned to London!
We were blessed with outstanding weather the whole trip, but this didn't help the snow situation. Nonetheless, we were able to ski all week, and even though it was quite icy, it was still a lot of fun.
I skied by myself for the whole week and packed in a good 6 - 7 hours each day (apart from Christmas day where I had pressing duties as Santa Claus). I got over all of the runs that were open and managed to take the camera out as well.
On Christmas Eve we were treated to a huge fireworks display, one of the best I've ever seen.
Santa visited on Christmas Day as we took time out for Christmas dinner and a few drinks. I had skied in the Santa suit all morning (which is why I am missing my belt after a spill when I had attempted a jump) and got some great comments (most of which were in French) and my photo taken a few times.
A couple of drinks in the main 'street'.
Avoriaz was car free so methods of transport were limited to snow mobiles or horse drawn sleighs, complete with jingling bells.
A few snaps of the slopes, the first being the view from our back door onto the beginners slopes.
Looking back to the resort from the slopes....
...and from the chair lft coming back from a run down the valley
A much needing snow maker in action, somewhat misdirected.
On the slopes.
Anyone order a lift?
Frozen waterfall.
Poor Sarah had a rough week, a strained ankle after a friendly Frenchman couldn't understand that he was causing more pain when helping her up, and getting hit by a horse after it was spooked by a helicopter. This couldn't keep her down though and she skied every day and improved out of sight.
Chris attacking the intermediate slopes on the last day. Brilliant afternoon for those of us who find it funny when watching friends fall over.
Me flying down the slopes, going so fast that Chris didn't have time to use the zoom....
Ice skating - this was about as active as Chris got on the ice...
Me trying to recapture the skills I had when I was 12.
Sunset on the last night.
