These blogs are designed to bring you valuable insights, expert travel tips, and inspiration for your next adventure. I ‘ll be sharing destination highlights and insider knowledge to help you make the most of your travels.
Hot Topic for February: Skiing Holidays
Having just returned from an incredible ski holiday in Japan, I want to share some insights and inspiration on how an active holiday like skiing can enrich your life.
Did you know that February is the best month to book your next snow holiday? Whether you’re a seasoned skier or dreaming of your first snowy adventure, this edition will help you navigate the best resorts, travel tips, and all-inclusive options to make your ski trip unforgettable.
But first, let me introduce Petra’s Travel Studio!
I am passionate about offering a boutique travel service that delivers personalised and creative travel experiences beyond expectations.
Specialising in families and small groups, I provide expert guidance, tailored solutions, and a caring, hands-on approach to ensure every journey is seamless and unforgettable.
As an independent travel adviser, I have no sales targets—my priority is always what’s best for you. Whether you need reassurance as a first-time traveller, clarity on your options, or creative solutions outside the box, I am here to simplify the process, offer expert insights, and create a stress-free experience.
Travel is an investment in memories, and I take great care in making sure your time and money are well spent.
When it comes to ski holidays, I can arrange everything from flights and transfers to accommodation of all types—budget-friendly stays, apartments, luxury hotels, and all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts like Club Med in destinations around the world.
I handle lift passes, ski lessons, and all the logistics so you can simply enjoy the adventure. Whether you’re new to the snow or an experienced skier, together we design itineraries tailored to your needs.
Skiing in Japan: Why Club Med Sahoro Was the Perfect Choice
I have just returned from my second ski holiday in Japan, this time at Club Med Sahoro—all-inclusive experience that has been on family’s bucket list for a long time. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
Expectations were high as I loved my last ski trip to Nozawa Onsen, but I cannot recommend Club Med highly enough for families in particular, or for small groups whether it’s a multigenerational or friends and families who travel together. I would go back to Nozawa in a heartbeat if travelling without children but would always choose a Club Med experience for families.
What Makes Club Med Special for a Ski Holiday?
The all-inclusive concept is simply unparalleled. Your accommodation is right on the slopes (known as ski-in and ski-out), meaning you wake up, enjoy an incredible selection of buffet breakfast with views of the snow-covered mountains and within minutes, you are in your ski gear, ready to hit the slopes.
Whether you are taking your first ski or snowboard lesson or heading straight to the top of the mountain, everything is designed for ease and maximum fun.
Even during the busiest Christmas and January season, there are no long waits for lifts. Each day you get two 2-hour lessons, all included, along with ski passes, accommodation, all meals and drinks, plus tons of activities and entertainment to keep everyone happy, even if you choose not to take part in skiing.
Ski and Snowboard Lessons for All Levels
Don’t think ski lessons are just for beginners! There are lessons for absolutely everyone, from first-timers to those tackling off-piste deep powder skiing.
At Club Med, instructors use a special method that guarantees you’ll be able to ski or snowboard in just 2 days.
Club Med made everything seamless. My husband and I were able to enjoy ski lessons and quality time together while our younger kids were either in their own lessons or having fun in the kids club. The food was amazing, the staff were incredibly friendly, and the whole experience was stress-free.
For our first ski holiday as a family, it couldn’t have been better. We all had an amazing time and made so many great memories together. Thank you, Petra, for helping us plan such a fantastic trip! We highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a well-organised and unforgettable holiday.
From delicious buffet meals to varying daily activities, there was always something different to do. The ski lessons were fantastic and so professionally organised. Our kids went from complete beginners who had never skied before to confidently skiing down the slopes by the afternoon of the second day. The instructors were patient and encouraging, also making it fun.
We loved it so much that we’re thinking of booking again.
Even though I grew up skiing in Europe from the age of three, I was amazed at how much I could still improve with the right guidance. Let’s be honest—most of us wouldn’t usually pay for a lesson after we’ve been skiing for years, but when it’s included, why not make the most of it and challenge yourself?
Why Club Med Works So Well for Groups
What I loved the most about this trip was that we travelled with three other families, and because everything is in one place, it made it so easy to spend quality time together.
The resort has everything you need—skiing, dining, entertainment, and relaxation—so you never need to stress about making plans or where to eat and, particularly in Japan, how they are going to fit you in. After a full day on the slopes, who really wants to get dressed up again to find a restaurant? That’s where Club Med is priceless in my opinion.
The food was absolutely outstanding, with an impressive variety of Japanese and international cuisine and quality that catered to everyone. Whether you are a foodie or just looking for easy family-friendly options, there is always something delicious available all day long—even outside of meal times.
As expected, there are age-appropriate kids clubs and activities, and the programs are super engaging, giving opportunities to the children to be on stage and make new friendships.
Things to Keep in Mind
One thing to be aware of is that you are on the mountain, so you don’t have access to nearby Japanese villages unless you plan a separate excursion. That’s why I always recommend adding a few extra nights before or after to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural experiences.
A stopover in Sapporo, Tokyo, Kyoto, or another destination can truly complete your trip!
Club Med Resorts in Japan
Japan has four Club Med ski resorts: Sahoro, Tomamu, Kiroro Peak, and Kiroro Grand.
One exciting thing about Kiroro is that the ski season is extended until April, which is pretty amazing if you’re looking for late-season snow!
Best Time to Book – Up to 30% Off
- Japan, Canada: Up to 30% off
- Europe: Up to 20% off
The best time to book is now! Club Med always offers 30% off when booked almost a year in advance, and this discount gradually drops to 20% and so on as the travel date gets closer. The closer you book, the more expensive it gets!
A 20% non-refundable deposit will secure the best possible price—don’t hesitate to contact me so I can provide further details and help you decide which package is the right one for you.
Additional Cost-Saving Tip
To maximise your savings, book flights + all-inclusive package together, as this includes free return airport transfers—which can save a family of five up to $1,000!
Exploring Other Favourite Ski Resorts in Japan
While Club Med offers an incredible, hassle-free ski experience with its all-inclusive concept, it’s not the only great option out there. Japan is home to a variety of world-class ski resorts, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
For those who love a traditional Japanese village feel, I highly recommend Nozawa Onsen, where fantastic skiing meets authentic cultural experiences—from historic streets to healing hot springs.
Whether you prioritise easy access from Tokyo, apartment-style accommodations, a luxury hotel experience, or a budget-friendly trip, there’s a resort that fits your needs.
The reality is, there’s no single best ski destination—it all depends on your travel style and priorities. My goal is to truly understand what matters most to you, so we can find the perfect ski experience tailored just for you.
Let’s explore some of the incredible options across Japan!
Nozawa Onsen
Why Go: A charming ski village with a rich history, natural hot springs, and fantastic skiing.
Best For: Travellers looking for a mix of traditional culture and great skiing in a relaxed setting.
Vibe: Cosy, authentic, and steeped in local charm.
Appi Kogen
Why Go: One of Japan’s best-kept secrets, offering long, immaculately groomed runs, consistent powder snow, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Best For: Families and intermediate skiers who love wide, quiet slopes with minimal crowds.
Vibe: Peaceful, premium, and beginner-friendly—great as an alternative to busier resorts.
Furano
Why Go: Less crowded than other major resorts, Furano offers stunning panoramic views of Hokkaido’s mountains and a charming Japanese town vibe.
Best For: Intermediate and advanced skiers looking for a mix of challenging runs and an authentic Japanese experience.
Vibe: Laid-back, scenic, and ideal for skiers wanting off-piste adventures while enjoying a local town atmosphere.
Hakuba Valley
Why Go: With ten interconnected resorts, Hakuba has something for everyone—from beginner slopes to world-class backcountry skiing.
Best For: Groups with mixed abilities, skiers who want variety, and those looking for a lively après-ski scene.
Vibe: Energetic, social, and diverse—the perfect mix of great skiing, international visitors, and Japanese culture.
Tomamu
Why Go: A modern, family-friendly resort with an Ice Village, wave pool, and fantastic snow.
Best For: Families, beginners, and those seeking an all-in-one winter experience with extra activities.
Vibe: Luxury, modern, and designed for family fun—excellent for travellers who want more than just skiing.
Shiga Kogen
Why Go: Japan’s largest interconnected ski area, with high-altitude powder snow and one of the longest seasons.
Best For: Advanced skiers, long-stay travellers, and those searching for Japan’s most extensive terrain.
Vibe: Serious skiing with minimal distractions—less nightlife, but incredible snow conditions and endless terrain.
The Magic of Snow: More Than Just a Holiday
There is something truly magical about snow—and it has a way of bringing out the child in all of us. It’s not just about skiing or snowboarding; it’s about those little moments that make the experience unforgettable:
✨ Watching the first snowfall and feeling the crisp air on your face.
✨ Having your first snowball fight and laughing until your stomach hurts.
✨ Making snow angels or building a snowman, just like in childhood fairytales.
✨ The pure joy on a child’s face when they touch snow for the first time.
But beyond the fun, I’ve also witnessed firsthand how an active holiday like skiing can build confidence, resilience, and independence—especially in children.
On our latest trip, my 12-year-old son experienced a huge boost of confidence. Over five days, he progressed four levels in snowboarding—and I watched him show up early for his lessons and stay after to keep practicing. Watching his determination, progress, and self-motivation unfold was truly special.
Another unexpected highlight was watching the children try new foods. Because of the huge variety of dishes, they were able to explore new flavors and textures—things they may not have tried at home. Travel opens doors to new experiences in so many ways!
Let’s be honest—ski trips aren’t just active holidays—they’re moments of connection with nature, loved ones, and your inner child. There’s something about playing in the snow that reminds us to live in the moment, embrace adventure, and find joy in the simplest things.
I truly believe every child (and adult!) should experience this wonderful phenomenon at least once. Let’s make it happen!
Travel Hacks for Your Next Snow Adventure
✈️ Flight Connections & Stopovers
There are many flight options to Japan! You can fly direct or make a stopover in Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Singapore. This is a great way to break up the journey, adjust to colder weather, and even add a little adventure before hitting the slopes.
On my recent trip, we flew Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong—not only was it a seamless experience, but we also had time for a Disneyland visit for a very small additional cost!
💸 Booking the Best Deals
Book early (ideally 10–12 months in advance!) to secure the best deals and availability. Flights also tend to be cheaper when booked early. If you can be flexible with dates, avoid school holiday peaks for better prices and fewer crowds.
🎿 Lift Passes & Lessons
Many resorts offer discounted lift passes when bundled with accommodation. Ski lessons are worth it, even if you’ve skied before—most resorts offer advanced coaching to help you improve and explore more challenging terrain!
🏔️ Exploring Beyond the Slopes
Skiing and snowboarding is incredible, but don’t miss out on other winter experiences like onsen (hot springs), night skiing, or even snowshoeing. Resorts like Nozawa Onsen let you ski all day and soak in healing thermal waters at night—pure bliss! Or take a break and visit the snow monkeys!
🛡️ Travel Insurance with Snow Cover
Make sure your travel insurance covers skiing and snowboarding! Many standard policies don’t include adventure sports, so check the fine print before booking.
