Insiders View on Courchevel

By Veronique Beulz

Nestled between sky and mountain, Courchevel is a fairy village where luxury and tradition merge. Three Valleys – the largest ski area in the world, offering more than 600 km of ski slopes. An exceptional destination where diversity, enjoyment of skiing and emotion will delight skiers of all levels. The glitziest of the French Alpine, Michelin-starred restaurants and a buzzing nightlife, Courchevel today is a cosmopolitan destination attracting a jet-set crowd.

What makes Courchevel a good travel destination?

Courchevel is a ski destination for everybody, whether it’s a skiing expert or a beginners, shopping lovers, nightlife, and gastronomy

Tell us something that every traveler should know when travelling to Courchevel?

You will see the biggest ski area in the world, the biggest concentration of luxury accommodation, shops and gastronomic restaurants in France.

Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Courchevel?

One must visit place is La Saulire, the highest point of Courchevel.

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals?

Most of the locals live in Courchevel all the year, 2000 habitants most of them have two jobs, for example ski instructor during the winter and some other job during summer time.

Where should one go to get the best of the Nightlife in Courchevel?

La Mangeoire and l’Aventure, restaurant and after midnight client dance on the tables. During the lunch Nammos, Cap Horn, Folie Douce and Chalet de Pierre to dance on the snow.

What are things which one must buy when in Courchevel?

Genepi (strong liquor) off course cheese like Le Beaufort or Reblochon.

Which are the most romantic places to visit in Courchevel?

Lunch in mountain restaurants with the view of Mont Blanc around the fireplace.

What are the local festivals which one must visit when in Courchevel?

Christmas and New Year for the lights in the village and February for the fireworks festival

 The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about Courchevel?

Nice local restaurant in the old village of Le Praz: Restaurant Le Bistrot du Praz very nice food and nice village.

According to you what is the best thing about Courchevel?

The ski area is just amazing with a lot of fun and activities for everybody.

 

 

By Veronique Beulz, 37yrs
Director of Sales Les Neiges

 

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All you need to know about Capri

By Shobita Louis 

The Island of Capri has long been a popular day trip for travellers visiting Naples or the Amalfi Coast (Sorrento, Positano  & Ravello). The island can also be considered an excellent alternative to stay on as well.

Location:

Capri is a pretty island in the Bay of Naples and has two towns – Capri and Ana Capri. The historical city centre (Piazzetta) is located in Capri.

How do I get there:

Ferries or speedboats, if however, you want, a helicopter transfer can be arranged

Getting around the Island:

The city centre of Capri and other parts are car free. However, public transport is very efficient and taxis are available 24 hours. The easiest ways of travelling whilst on the islands are,

  1. Buses (they are actually minibuses)
  2. Taxis
  3. The Funicular railway
  4. Walking – for those inclined, you can actually walk from Capri to Anacapri (It is about an hour uphill)

 

When to go or not to go:

PEAK SEASON (July & August) – It is crowded and expensive and is better to avoid

HIGH SEASON (June – September) – Rates are lower than the peak season, however, can be a bit crowded

LOW SEASON (April, May & October) – This is a good time to visit as the rates are better and crowds less

REMEMBER – Most hotels are closed from November to about mid or end March. Many shops and restaurants are also shut. There are about two restaurants open during this time, mainly for day trippers. Ferries will have less service and the funicular is also closed usually in November and December for maintenance.

The Wanderers’ Take

  • Hire a ‘Gozzo’, a traditional Sorrentine wooden boat to take you around the island for the day. This allows you to swim at various locations and explore the rugged coastline, hidden caves and secluded beaches.
  • The island is a ‘walker’s hikers paradise’ and there are several amazing walks and hikes around the island. Even if you are not an enthusiastic walkers, this would be a unique and once in a life time experience because of the views!
  • A visit to the iconic Blue Grotto is a bonus for those staying on the island. Once the day trippers with their boats are gone, you may be allowed actually swim around the Blue Grotto cave!
  • If you are more adventurous, you could explore the coast on a canoeing trip
  • In the evening, once the day trippers are gone, the island is less manic and becomes a different place. Add a touch of pizazz to your holiday; dress up and relax in the glamorous and charming main square, in one of several cafes and bars, listening to the live bands that sometimes play there while you sip on a glass of wine.

 Who should go there:

– Someone looking for something different!
– Excellent for couples, honeymooners or someone celebrating an anniversary
– Families with teens – there’s history and also some fun outdoorsy things to do!

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