Insurance is a must for all ski season workers

Going on skiing holidays is the ultimate travelling adventure. Travelling, even on a budget, requires money — money that is often not readily available at the click of a button. Working on a ski resort provides the opportunity to travel to unique and magnificent areas, participate in extreme sports such as skiing and snowboarding, and you can earn money to help offset daily living expenses. Whether you are in an uninspiring job, or are a recent school or university graduate, working at a ski resort appeals to everyone. Ski resorts offer seasonal work opportunities on a short-term contracts, from 2 weeks to 3 months.

Ski Jobs

There are a variety of ski jobs on offer that cater for all kinds of interests. Jobs in the snow, such as ski guides or ski instructor jobs, are geared toward the self-proclaimedadventure junkie. While such jobs are fun and interactive, safety is of utmost importance and there is little room for negligence or bad behaviour. Service jobs on offer include working in resort bars or restaurants which allows you to enjoy parties with the locals and holiday makers.

Benefits

The first and most obvious benefit is the financial benefit. Salaries vary among ski resorts, however it can be viewed more as a money-savingholiday.

• Accommodation and food are often subsidized
• Ski equipment hire and clothes can be offered at discounted rates
• Your work environment is a scenic masterpiece — which is always good for the soul, if not the pocket

When to go

The choice of ski resorts is endless and in order to assist you in the decision process, check out the Essential Travel Magazine’s pick for Top 10 Ski Destinations in the World. In the northern hemisphere, such as the US, Europe and Canada, the ski season usually begins from late November or early December. This would be considered peak season and it is a festive period to work for ski resorts with Christmas and New Year celebrations in full swing.

Ski Insurance is vital

Like any holiday abroad, it is highly advisable to obtain insurance coverage. Working at a ski resort does predispose you to some risks that one cannot control. Natural elements such as weather conditions and snow avalanches can affect your flight schedules in and out of the ski resort areas. Furthermore, skiing is an adventurous sport and can be dangerous depending on your experience level — much care needs to be taken when on the slopes.

Working at a ski resort combines the best of both worlds — travelling and working — but the main advantage is having the most scenic office space right under your cold toes.

Kerri Prissman writes for Essential Travel, providers of travel extras, travel information and travel news.