Canada vs the USA: Which ones best for your school ski trip?
With over eight years of experience in hospitality and extensive training in resort knowledge and customer service, I know what it takes to deliver a successful school ski trip. Having worked as a rep at SkiBound’s Clubhotel Vallee Blanche in Alpe d’Huez, I’ve seen first-hand the difference the right support makes for Party Leaders and their students. Now, I work closely with schools to ensure their ski trips run smoothly from start to finish, creating experiences that are not only safe and well-organised but truly unforgettable.
Long-haul ski trips provide an experience no other: combining the wonder of the slopes with element of discovery results in more memory making. We always say at SkiBound: “the farther they go, the more vivid the memories” which is why we love long-haul ski trips, they provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When planning any ski trip, but particularly a long haul one, it can be tricky to decide on a destination. Canada and the USA are frequent ski destinations, due to their varied terrain and snow-sure resorts, but which destination will suit your school best? We’ve broken down the differences, to make this initial planning stage easier. Here at SkiBound we’ve evaluated all possible destinations and only offer the very best to our customers, so which ever destination you choose, your set to have the best school ski trip.
Canada - Why Choose it?
Snow Reliability
Canada is known for its’ excellent ski conditions and long seasons, running from November to late April. One of SkiBounds’ Canadian ski resorts in particular, Banff is set at a high-altitude of 1400 metres, meaning greater expectations for snow, and longer ski seasons. As Canada’s resorts are much further North than resorts in France, Switzerland and Austria, you can expect more reliable snow. Greater snow conditions mean better quality slopes to ski on. Consequently, students may get a greater opportunity to progress.
Welcoming culture
Canadian ski resorts in particular are well-known for their helpful and accomodating locals. From the restaurant staff to the ski lift operators, everyone is happy to help. These extra little nods of hospitality can really make a trip, allowing students to feel comfortable and staff to feel confident about their student’s safety.
Value
Due to the vast uninhabited areas of Canada, ski slopes are wide and lengthy. The skiable terrain in SkiBound’s Canadian resorts are second to none, meaning more opportunity to improve ski ability. Canadian ski resorts have been frequently rated highly for their value, considering aspects like varied ski abilities, family-friendliness and availability of apres-ski activities.
Scenic Beauty
One thing which cannot be argued when it comes to Canada is the unique scenic views throughout this country. With outstanding natural beauty at every turn, Canada comes out on top when scenery comes into play. Panorama is always reliable for jaw-dropping mountain view, being one of the Canadian Rockies’ premier skiing destinations.
" Skibound have created an amazing package that has provided an adventure of a lifetime, and created wonderful memories for the students on the trip. When asked the students have said the ice hockey, and the moments of progress on the slopes were their favourite moments. The feeling of self confidence and achievement was palpable on a daily basis."
Sherfield School, Jasper
USA - Why Choose it?
Big mountain experience
Like Canada, the USA is home to the big mountain experience. With varied terrain and long, windy slopes, students are given all the tools they need to get their practice in, and performance up. There is an endless amount of terrain to explore, particularly in the resorts SkiBound have selected.
High service levels
You will always find high-quality service in the USA, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ski experience. Nothing is ever too much in American hospitality, which is great when considering all your students, there is always an extra pair of hands to help.
Cultural immersion
American culture cannot be replicated elsewhere. That well-known friendly atmosphere, classic American dinner dishes and endless entertainment is what draws people into American holiday destinations.
Inspiration
The United States can provide students with that extra sense of adventure through local culture and endless possibilities. The saying ‘more is more’ is true when it comes to the USA. Jay Peak for example, offers fantastic après opportunities in the form of an indoor water park, cinema and ice-skating rink!
" Skibound provided us with an amazing trip. All fully organised and great value for money. Any requests were dealt with quickly and with a positive outcome. The pre-departure information and advice was excellent as was the in resort rep. A brilliant trip! "
Garforth Academy, Cannon and Waterville Valley
Practical considerations
As well as considering the amazing elements both Canada and the USA have to offer, it’s also important to consider what is best for your students and teaching staff. In order to make the most informed decision possible, you should discuss travel logistics with your ski trip team, and SLT. In addition to providing the best accommodation possible, here at SkiBound we carefully assign airports based on location, and availability. Time zones are also another consideration often overlooked, students may need time to adjust to the time differences and change in schedule, so make sure to think about all potential scenarios.
Another important consideration if your overall group goals. What memories do you want your students to come away with? If you want your students to gain more independence, then consider adding more free time into your itinerary. If you want your trip to have an educational element as well, let your tour operator know! We can personalise any trip to suit your needs, like adding the Jasper Planetarium into your visit, or organising for students to see Boston for the day when at the Waterville Valley resort.
Both Canada and the USA are spectacular choices for a school ski trip, and with our help you’ll have the best time! Whichever you choose, your students will return with skills, confidence, and lifelong memories. It’s our 40th Anniversary this year, so there’s no better time to book. We have years’ worth of experience under our belts and are here to support you in every step of the trip. If your ready to get started, or have some initial questions, please contact our sales team now!