68. Trains, Planes and Automobiles - An Owner’s Insider Advice

🎙️ Episode 68: Trains, Planes & Automobiles — An Owner’s Insider AdviceIn this final episode of the winter season, host Lesley Thomas is joined by special guest Helen Keast—an Alpine property owner sharing her real-life journey into buying, travelling to, and enjoying her apartment in the French Alps.From discovering a hidden gem in Les Sybelles to navigating the buying process and finding the best ways to travel, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest experiences for anyone considering Alpine property ownership.🏔️ From First Turns to Property OwnerHelen began skiing in 2018 and quickly fell in love with the mountainsInspired by the podcast, she discovered Les Sybelles—a vast yet under-the-radar ski domainPurchased an apartment in 2024 after a focused and search process💡 Key takeaway: You don’t need to be a lifelong skier to invest in an Alpine lifestyle.📍 Why Les Sybelles?One of the largest interconnected ski areas in Europe—yet still a “hidden gem”Family-friendly atmosphere with less emphasis on nightlifeExcellent value compared to more well-known resortsStrong rental potential with growing international interest🏡 Buying Made SimpleSmooth and fast purchase process (from viewing to ownership in ~3 months)Fully digital legal system makes buying from abroad easier than everOff-plan purchase completed quickly with minimal complications💡 Insight: Modern systems have significantly simplified overseas property buying.🚆 Travel Smart: Train vs PlaneHelen shares her preferred route—and why she now favors train travel:UK → London → Eurostar → Paris → TGV → Saint-Jean-de-MaurienneComfortable, scenic, and surprisingly cost-effectiveComparable door-to-door time vs flyingLess stress, more “holiday feel” from the start✨ Pro tip: Book early and consider upgrading to Eurostar Plus for added comfort.❄️ Life as an OwnerRegular visits across both winter and summer seasonsQuality family time—especially skiing with her sonRelaxed resort vibe with great amenities but no overwhelming crowds☀️ Beyond Ski SeasonLes Sybelles shines year-round:🚵 Mountain biking, hiking, and high-ropes courses🧖‍♀️ Spa days and relaxation spots🏊 Poolside lounging and lake swimming🏃‍♀️ High-altitude fitness and outdoor activities🍽️ Food & Drink HighlightsHelen’s personal favourites include:🍔 La Table du Grizzly – a hit for burger lovers🍷 Les Alpes – reliable, varied dining all season🍝 L’Izarelle – dining with piste-side views🧀 Blue Ice – standout value and unforgettable tartiflette💰 Rental & Investment InsightsStrong demand during peak winter months (Jan–early March)Hands-off rental management makes ownership easyCombination of lifestyle enjoyment + financial return💡 Perspective: A compelling alternative to traditional investments—“investing in lifestyle.”🚀 Final ThoughtsHelen’s experience highlights why Les Sybelles is gaining attention:Accessible, affordable, and authenticIdeal for families and lifestyle investorsStrong potential for future growth🔗 Property in the Podcasthttps://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/005108/If you’re considering buying a property in the Alps or want to explore current opportunities:👉 Visit Alpine Property Investments👉 Browse available listings and expert insights👉 Get in touch to discuss your goals and optionsThanks for listening to this season of the Alpine Property Podcast. We’ll be back soon with more insights—until then, enjoy the mountains, wherever you are.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Steve Thomas explores Courchevel, one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world, set within the vast Les Trois Vallées. As the resort celebrates its 80th anniversary during the 2025 to 2026 season, this episode takes a deeper look at its origins, evolution and why it remains one of the most desirable alpine destinations for visitors and property buyers alike.A Vision Ahead of Its TimeOriginally conceived in 1942 by Laurent Chappis and Maurice Michaud, Courchevel was designed as a purpose built ski resort that would exist in harmony with its surroundings. The vision prioritised low rise architecture, minimal environmental impact and seamless integration between lifts, slopes and accommodation. The now standard concept of ski in ski out living was pioneered here, setting a blueprint that many resorts still follow today.Four Villages, Four ExperiencesCourchevel is made up of four distinct villages, each offering its own atmosphere, lifestyle and property profile:Le Praz (1300): a traditional Savoyard village with cobbled streets, chalets and a strong sense of community. It offers a quieter pace and excellent value while still providing fast lift access to the wider ski areaCourchevel Village (1550): a balanced and family friendly setting with easy slope access and excellent amenities, including Aquamotion, a modern complex with pools, spa and leisure facilitiesMoriond (1650): lively and well connected, popular with international buyers and known for its vibrant atmosphere, accessibility and strong rental demand1850: the jewel in the crown, offering luxury at the highest level with five star hotels, fine dining, designer boutiques and some of the most exclusive ski properties in the AlpsWorld Class SkiingCourchevel delivers exceptional skiing, both locally and across the Trois Vallées:Around 150km of pistes within Courchevel alone85 percent of slopes above 1800m, ensuring reliable snow conditionsA full spectrum of terrain from beginner areas to advanced off piste routesDirect access to the wider Trois Vallées network, offering over 600km of skiingModern lift infrastructure ensures efficient movement across the resort, allowing skiers to maximise their time on the mountain.Beyond the SlopesCourchevel is far more than just a ski destination, offering a rich lifestyle experience year round:Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dog sledding and ice skatingSummer transforms the resort into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, golf and outdoor adventureLuxury shopping in 1850 features brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and PradaA world class dining scene, including Michelin starred restaurants like Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc, alongside traditional Savoyard cuisine across all villagesAccessibilityDespite its alpine setting, Courchevel is highly accessible:Around 2 hours from Geneva and LyonTrain access via Moûtiers, followed by a short transferPrivate arrivals via its renowned altiport, one of the most unique in the worldProperty OpportunitiesCourchevel offers a diverse range of property options, catering to different budgets and objectives:Le Praz: excellent value and authentic alpine living1550 and 1650: strong balance between lifestyle use and rental potential1850: ultra prime real estate with global demand and premium pricingWhether you are seeking a second home, a rental investment or a long term base in the Alps, Courchevel provides flexibility, prestige and long term appeal.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Lesley is joined by Adam Day, a client who recently purchased a beautifully renovated chalet in Saint-Sorlin-d'Arves, part of the Les Sybelles ski domain in the French Alps.Adam shares the full story behind his journey from long standing family ski holidays to owning a chalet of his own in the mountains. What began as a search for a simple apartment across multiple European countries ultimately led him and his family to a hidden gem in the Maurienne Valley.This is a real, honest account of what it feels like to move from dream to reality.From Family Holidays to Alpine OwnershipHaving spent years skiing in resorts such as Les Gets, Chamonix and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Adam and his wife Nikki reached a new stage of life.With their children now grown and no longer tied to school holidays, the timing finally felt right to invest in a property of their own.Initially searching across France, Italy and Austria, they refined their criteria to focus on:A genuine dual season resortAccessible skiing without extreme terrainStrong summer hiking and outdoor activitiesGood value within budgetA relaxed, authentic alpine atmosphereThat brief ultimately led them to Saint Sorlin.Discovering a Hidden GemLike many buyers, Adam had never heard of Les Sybelles before beginning his search.After spending time skiing in the area and getting to know the village, it became clear that this was not a high profile “see and be seen” resort, but something arguably better: a traditional French village with character, charm and year round appeal.For Adam and his family, that balance of authenticity and practicality was exactly what they were looking for.Apartment Search to Chalet VisionInterestingly, Adam originally set out to buy an apartment.However, during a viewing trip he was introduced to a derelict chalet with potential. What followed was a leap of faith backed by confidence in the developer, the build quality of previous projects and the guidance of the Alpine Property Investments team.The result is a fully renovated chalet designed around family use, comfort and long term enjoyment.Adam talks candidly about:The importance of trusting the right developerThe French legal process and how it compares to the UKDigital signing and how the buying process has evolvedSetting up utilities, taxes and ongoing managementHis experience highlights how smooth the process can be with the right professional support.First Arrivals and First ImpressionsThe first night in the chalet delivered exactly what they had hoped for.A comfortable, beautifully designed home.Dinner out at a local restaurant.A sense of arrival.Since purchase, the property has already been used extensively in both summer and winter, with hiking trips, family stays and ski holidays forming part of their new rhythm.Saint Sorlin offers:Easy access to skiingWalkable village amenitiesFamily friendly infrastructureRelaxed après ski optionsSpace to breatheAnd for this season in particular, exceptional snowfall.Why Saint Sorlin WorksAdam makes an important point. No resort is all things to all people.Saint Sorlin is not ultra glitzy. It is not Courchevel. It is not about high end designer boutiques or Michelin starred dining.It is about:ValueAuthenticityAccessibilityFamily atmosphereDual season livingAnd for many buyers, that combination is exactly what makes it so compelling.Property of the Podcast Brand new 3 – 4 bedroom apartments for sale:https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/005057/ Chalet at €1,040,000:https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004977/Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final instalment of this three part mini series, Steve and Lesley Thomas conclude their in depth discussion on how to choose the right Alpine resort based on lifestyle, budget, investment goals, and long term return.Drawing on over 20 years of experience advising buyers across the French Alps, this episode moves beyond lifestyle preferences and into the practical realities of value for money, capital growth, rental income, and where to invest for the strongest returns.Recorded during one of the busiest ski seasons since Covid, Steve shares current market insight including increased buyer motivation, rising enquiry levels, stronger sales activity, and a noticeable shift in investor behaviour.This episode brings together everything discussed in Parts One and Two, helping listeners align resort choice not just with how they want to live, but with how they want their property to perform.Topics Covered in This EpisodeCurrent market conditions across the French Alps and what is driving buyer demandThe best resorts for spring skiing and late season snow suretyKey altitude, slope orientation, and infrastructure factors for reliable snow conditionsResorts that combine skiing with rock climbing, paragliding, and other outdoor pursuitsWhere to buy if remote working flexibility is importantAlpine resorts with casinos and true thermal spa facilitiesThe top destinations for luxury lifestyles and prime property marketsWhere to buy if headline resorts such as Val d’Isere, Courchevel, Meribel, and Megeve are out of reachSatellite villages and emerging regions offering lower costs per square metreThe Maurienne Valley and Les Sybelles as value driven alternatives with dual season appealFactors influencing long term capital growth including infrastructure investment and limited supplyExtended winter season versus dual season rental strategiesThe realities of rental yield, agency fees, occupancy levels, and value driven demandSteve also explains how buyer behaviour is evolving, with more clients seeking lifestyle acquisitions funded by restructuring existing portfolios, alongside overseas investors diversifying capital into the French Alps.The episode provides practical examples of current price points across both prime and value focused resorts, highlighting how strategy, timing, and location selection can significantly influence both enjoyment and financial return.Investment and Rental ConsiderationsFor listeners focused on return on investment, the discussion explores:Resorts with diminishing development land and limited new build supplyLocations benefiting from confirmed or proposed infrastructure improvementsThe impact of altitude and season length on rental weeksWhy value driven ski domains such as Les Sybelles can outperform expectations on occupancyThe importance of property positioning, views, ski access, and agency fees when calculating net yieldSteve also addresses a common misconception that dual season resorts automatically generate stronger returns, explaining how longer winter seasons in high altitude resorts can balance the equation.Thinking About Buying in the AlpsThis three part series has been designed to help buyers think strategically about resort selection, not simply emotionally.If you are considering purchasing a property in the French or Swiss Alps and would like to explore which resort best suits your lifestyle and investment objectives, visit:www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukYou will find a wide selection of properties for sale along with contact details to arrange a consultation or viewing during your next visit to the mountains.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 64: The 10 Questions You Should Ask Before Buying a Property in the French AlpsIn this solo bonus episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Lesley Thomas takes listeners through one of the most important conversations any prospective Alpine buyer can have before committing to a purchase.Recorded during the height of the ski season, when resort schedules and client commitments are at their busiest, this episode offers practical insight while Steve and Lesley prepare to record the third and final instalment of their current mini series.Rather than going quiet, Lesley uses this episode to address a topic that comes up in almost every buyer conversation. Whether you are purchasing your first Alpine property or adding to an existing portfolio, there are certain foundational questions that determine whether a purchase truly works for you over the long term.This episode focuses on the ten questions every buyer should ask themselves before buying a property in the French Alps. These are not surface level considerations. They are the questions that influence lifestyle satisfaction, financial comfort, flexibility, and resale potential long after the excitement of the initial purchase has passed.Topics Covered in This EpisodeUnderstanding your true motivation for buying in the French AlpsWhether you are buying for present use or future life stagesChoosing a resort that genuinely fits your lifestyle and usage needsSetting a realistic budget that includes all associated costsRental performance considerations even when income is not the main driverUnderstanding the French legal and ownership frameworkDeciding how hands on or hands off you want to be after purchaseAssessing long term resale and liquidity potentialBalancing emotional excitement with clear decision makingThe importance of having the right guidance throughout the processLesley explains how different answers to these questions naturally lead buyers toward very different resorts, property types, budgets, and ownership structures. She also highlights common mistakes that occur when these questions are not addressed early enough.This episode is particularly valuable for buyers who want confidence and clarity before taking the next step, and for those who want their Alpine purchase to support both lifestyle enjoyment and long term peace of mind.Thinking About Buying in the AlpsThese ten questions form the basis of the conversations Steve and Lesley have with clients every day. Not just around what to buy, but why they are buying and how that decision fits into their wider lifestyle and financial plans.If you are considering purchasing a property in the French or Swiss Alps and would like to explore your options in more detail, visit:www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukYou will find a selection of Alpine properties for sale, along with contact details to arrange a conversation or viewing.Thank you for listening to the Alpine Property Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and sharing it with anyone who may be thinking about buying in the Alps.Steve and Lesley will be back very soon with the third and final instalment of their mini series once the peak season schedules allow.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part Two of this extended mini series, Steve and Lesley Thomas continue their exploration into helping listeners identify which Alpine resort best suits their lifestyle, travel preferences, and long term property goals.Following the response to Part One, and the volume of listener questions received, this originally planned two part series has now evolved into three episodes. This ensures there is time to properly explore each topic without rushing, allowing buyers to fully understand the wide range of lifestyle options available across the French Alps.This episode focuses on how second home buyers are increasingly choosing resorts based on year round activities and ease of access, not just skiing alone. Steve shares extensive insight into resorts that excel across multiple seasons, particularly for clients who want to combine winter sports with summer pursuits.Key topics:Resorts that offer both excellent skiing and world class road cyclingLocations synonymous with Tour de France stages and iconic mountain climbsSteve also explains how upcoming infrastructure projects, particularly the new international high speed rail connection through Saint Jean de Maurienne, are set to transform accessibility and future investment potential across the Maurienne Valley.Throughout the episode, listeners gain a clear understanding of how lifestyle priorities such as cycling, dining, sustainability, transport links, and summer enjoyment are increasingly shaping where buyers choose to own property in the Alps.This episode is ideal for second home buyers who want flexibility, dual season enjoyment, and long term relevance from their Alpine property.Property Featured in This Episodehttps://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004990/This week’s Property of the Podcast highlights a brand new luxury residence in the highly sought after dual season and high altitude resort of Tignes Le Lac.Perfectly positioned ski in ski out at an altitude of 2100 metres, this rare off plan development offers direct access to the slopes and is located just 80 metres from the Palafour chairlift, close to shops, restaurants and resort amenities.The residence will comprise 25 apartments ranging from one to six bedrooms, with sizes from 37 to 160 square metres. Each apartment will feature generous outdoor space, mountain views, parquet flooring, underfloor heating, fully fitted kitchens, and wood panelling throughout the living areas and bedrooms.Built by a highly regarded Alpine developer, the project blends modern architecture with traditional Alpine styling and incorporates a curved design, green roof, and solar panels, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.Owners will benefit from underground parking, private ski lockers, cellars, and access to a communal wellness area with hammam and sauna. A restaurant and three shops will be located on the ground floor, offering exceptional convenience.Prices range from €538,000 to €3,618,000. With high altitude property in Tignes in short supply and demand for strong rental income continuing to rise, this represents a compelling investment opportunity.Episode 55 of the Podcast (Road Cycling):https://shows.acast.com/63c101e03d134f0010824fef/68655698a03e7f04b08e4ac9 Episode 44 of the Podcast (Mountain Biking)https://shows.acast.com/63c101e03d134f0010824fef/66b391efec20c36e8e135c8a Episode 17 of the Podcast (Golf)https://shows.acast.com/63c101e03d134f0010824fef/64a43acb1355cb0011b5d361.Part Three of this series will conclude the discussion by focusing on budgets, running costs, rental potential, and long term return on investment.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 62: Weekend Getaways, Apres Ski, High Altitude and Value for Money. What Resort Suits You Best? Part OneIn the first episode of 2026, Steve and Lesley Thomas return to the Alpine Property Podcast to kick off a brand new year and celebrate a major milestone. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Alpine Property Investments, founded by Steve in 2006 following their own journey into owning property in the Alps.To begin the year, and to mark this anniversary, Steve shares two decades of on the ground knowledge in a two part series designed to help listeners understand which Alpine resorts best suit their lifestyle, skiing ability, travel needs, and investment goals.In Part One, the conversation focuses on the French Alps and explores the key factors second home buyers should consider when choosing where to buy, including altitude, snow surety, length of season, ski area size, accessibility, apres ski, family friendliness, and value for money.Steve explains why the French Alps remain the most popular choice for international buyers, covering topics such as classic freehold ownership, no restrictions on buying or selling, the ability to reclaim VAT on new build properties, strong rental demand, and the protection offered by the French banking system for off plan purchases.Throughout the episode, Steve answers common client questions, including:Which resorts offer the highest altitude skiingWhere to buy for snow surety without skiing above 3000 metresThe longest ski seasons in the French AlpsThe largest ski domains by sizeBest resorts for Christmas and New YearWeekend getaway resorts with easy airport accessThe top destinations for apres ski and party atmosphereThe prettiest and most authentic Alpine villagesHidden gem resorts that still offer excellent valueWhere to buy for off piste skiingThe best resorts for non skiers and mixed ability familiesThis episode is packed with practical guidance for buyers who want clarity on where to focus their search, particularly those feeling overwhelmed by the sheer choice of resorts across the French Alps.Part Two will continue the conversation by looking more closely at costs, budgets, and investment potential to help listeners further refine their decision on where to buy.Find Out MoreProperties of the podcast: ValloireBrand new apartments https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004929/Chalet at €1.1 million https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004937/To explore current opportunities or discuss where might suit you best in the French or Swiss Alps, visit:www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukIf you would like to arrange a property viewing during your next ski trip, or simply talk through your plans for buying a second home in the mountains, Steve and Lesley would be delighted to help.Website links and contact details can be found below.Thank you for listening to the Alpine Property Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the show, as it helps others discover the podcast.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 61: La Toussuire & Les Sybelles – A UK Buyers’ Inside GuideIn this festive Christmas Day episode of the Alpine Property Podcast, Steve and Lesley Thomas are joined by client Richard Kenee, who shares his personal journey of buying an apartment in La Toussuire, part of the Les Sybelles ski area.Richard and his family, based in Essex, made the decision to purchase a ski property after years of travelling and skiing across the US, Japan, Canada, and Europe. In this conversation, Richard explains why they chose La Toussuire, a resort that was not originally on their radar, and what ultimately made it the right fit for their family.Together, they explore what makes La Toussuire and the wider Les Sybelles area so appealing for UK buyers, including ski in ski out access, village atmosphere, ease of travel from multiple airports, and its strong appeal as a dual season resort for both winter skiing and summer activities such as cycling and hiking.Richard shares honest insights into:Why he looked beyond the Three Valleys and ParadiskiHow quickly the buying process moved from viewing to completionWhat it feels like owning a home in the Alps for the first timeLife in La Toussuire across winter and summer seasonsRestaurants, village life, and family friendly skiingThe advantages of buying new build property direct from a developerSteve also highlights current property opportunities in La Toussuire, including brand new apartments nearing completion and an upcoming chalet development offering larger ski in ski out homes.This episode is a valuable listen for anyone considering buying a ski property in France, particularly those looking for an authentic Alpine resort that still feels undiscovered, while offering excellent skiing, strong lifestyle appeal, and good long term value.Find Out MoreInterested in seeing and renting Richard’s apartment? Please find below the link to browse further details and how to book:https://www.altitude1750.com/en/apartment+holiday-rental+toussuire+73+r29490520.html?marche=1&transaction=3&com=toussuire&dep=73&chambres=4For the two properties mentioned in the podcast please find below the relevant links:Apartment link https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004605/Chalet link https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004954/To view available properties or register your interest in upcoming developments, visit:www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.ukIf you would like to arrange a property viewing during your ski holiday, or simply discuss your options for buying in the French or Swiss Alps, Steve and Lesley would be delighted to help.Website links and contact details can be found below.Thank you for listening to the Alpine Property Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing the show, as it helps others discover the podcast.Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 60: Safety First – Ski Map Symbols, Slopeside Signs, Mountain Etiquette, Emergency Numbers and MoreWelcome back to the Alpine Property Podcast with Steve Thomas. Kicking off the new season, this week’s episode is all about staying safe on the slopes—essential listening for beginners, seasoned skiers, and everyone in between.We explore everything from ski map symbols and slopeside signs, to mountain etiquette, emergency numbers, and other critical safety considerations. Plus, we introduce a featured property in this episode, highlighting a fantastic opportunity in the French Alps.Understanding Ski Map Symbols & Slope ClassificationsWhether you’re heading to the French Alps, North America, Japan, South America, Australia, or New Zealand, understanding the slope classification system is essential. In Europe, ski slopes use a colour-coded system:Green: Beginner-friendly, gentle slopes (5–15%), often near resort centres. Ideal for learning turns and controlling speed.Blue: Beginner–intermediate slopes (15–25%), smooth with slight variations in terrain. Perfect for gaining confidence.Red: Upper intermediate slopes (25–40%), steeper and narrower, designed for confident skiers to improve technique.Black: Advanced slopes (40%+), steep, often ungroomed with moguls and obstacles. Only for experienced skiers.Orange/Yellow: Special zones or exceptionally challenging slopes, sometimes used for fun areas or off-piste routes.Maps and on-slope markers indicate difficulty, slope names, lengths, and lift access, helping you navigate safely and aiding emergency services if needed.Ski Lifts & On-Mountain NavigationSki maps also mark lift types:Surface lifts – magic carpets, T-bars, and button lifts for beginners.Chairlifts – from singles to high-speed 8-seaters, forming the backbone of the network.Gondolas & Cable Cars – transport passengers over long distances, e.g., the Vanoise Express, the world’s largest double-decker cable car.Funiculars – steep mountain railways in select resorts, like Les Arcs or Val d’Isère.Mountain Etiquette & Emergency PreparednessThe International Ski Federation’s 10 rules form the “highway code” for skiers and boarders:Respect others and control your speed.The skier ahead has the right of way.Overtake safely and give ample space.Look up and down the piste before entering or ascending.Avoid stopping in narrow or obstructed areas.Respect signs and markers at all times.Assist others in accidents and exchange contact details if involved.In emergencies, know the resort ski patrol number or dial 112, Europe’s 24-hour emergency line. Be ready to provide your location, piste marker info, and details of the incident.Featured Property: Samoëns, Grand MassifIn this episode, we highlight a new development in Samoëns, part of the 265km Grand Massif ski domain, just 60 minutes from Geneva.41 high-end apartments (2–5 bedrooms) across 4 chalet residences.Sizes: 44–121m² with terraces, balconies, or gardens.Features: Modern kitchens, underfloor heating, wood parquet flooring, ski lockers, cave, and underground parking.Prices: €370,000–€990,000, with competitive €8,850/m² rates.Ownership: Classic freehold, optional rental with VAT reclaimable post-construction.This resort is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, swimming, golf, and more, offering all-year appeal in a historic, picturesque village. A full video tour and property details are available in the show notes.Property Of The Podcast: https://www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/properties/004860/andhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oCKg-WzGYQ&t=1sSubscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 59: Not Long Now – Getting Fit Ahead of the Upcoming SeasonWelcome back to the Alpine Property Podcast with Steve Thomas. As we wrap up the summer season, many listeners are juggling back-to-school routines and last-minute family plans. So, for this week’s episode, we’re shifting gears slightly from property and resorts to focus on preparing yourself for the upcoming 25–26 ski season.With high-altitude resorts like Tignes in the Espace Killy and Val Thorens in the 3 Valleys opening on 22nd November, followed closely by Alpe d’Huez, Les Deux Alpes, Val d’Isère, Montgenèvre, and Avoriaz on 29th November, now is the perfect time to get ski-season ready.Whether you’re a property owner, a regular visitor, or planning your first trip, skiing requires more than enthusiasm—it requires preparation. From booking your flights, accommodation, equipment, and passes, to physically preparing your body, getting fit ahead of hitting the slopes is key to avoiding “rubber legs” on day one.Why Getting Ski Fit MattersReflecting on my early ski trips in the 90s around Lake Tahoe, I remember the energy and stamina required to tackle the mountain from dawn till dusk. Today, at 58, keeping up with our boys has made pre-season training even more essential. Modern lifts travel faster and higher, giving skiers more time on the slopes—which is great, but also more demanding on your body.Preseason Ski ConditioningSkiing uses muscles many of us don’t train regularly, so preparing ahead helps reduce fatigue, improve technique, and minimize injury risks. You don’t need to be an athlete or have a gym membership. Exercises can be done at home and should focus on:Strength: Squats, lunges, glute bridges, calf raises, wall sits, hip rolls, and lateral ski jumps to mimic skiing movements. Upper body exercises like press-ups and bicep curls help with control and recovery from falls.Core: Planks (standard, side, reverse), Russian twists, mountain climbers, dead bugs, and bird dogs improve balance, posture, and control.Stamina: Build endurance with cross-training, cycling, running, or brisk walking for around 30 minutes, 2–3 times per week.Flexibility: Daily stretching improves your range of motion, helping prevent strains on uneven terrain.On the SlopesOnce at the resort, continue stretching before and after skiing. Always warm up on an easy slope to practice your technique and avoid injuries. Stay hydrated, well-fed, and listen to your body.Property UpdatesWith winter approaching, we have exciting new apartments and chalets coming soon. Check the Featured Property section on our website for the latest opportunities.If you’re interested in arranging a property viewing during your ski holiday, or beginning your journey to owning a second home, we’re happy to help. Visit our website or contact us directly to discuss your goals and preferences.Until our return in December, stay fit, stay safe, and we’ll see you on the slopes!Subscribe to our newsletter www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk/newsletter-signup/ to learn more! For more information, visit www.alpinepropertyinvestments.co.uk and contact us at:📧[email protected]📧[email protected] us on Instagram www.instagram.com/alpinepropertyinvest/Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/AlpineProp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.