Ski Travel Safety Tips
Whilst it is nice to know that you have piece-of-mind by having good insurance cover, having to make a claim should always be the last thing you want. It is also important to understand where you are not covered and to take the necessary actions to avoid costly situations.
Here are a few tips to think about to try and help you:
- Keep high value items on you at all times unless locked away in a secure location in your accommodation or lockers
- Never leave high value items unattended in a car at any time
- Make sure you always lock your skis up when in a public place. Whilst they won't be covered by insurance in most cases, they are far less likely to be stolen (or taken by accident)
- Carry avalanche gear with you if you intend to ski beyond the boundary of the resort. Again you won't be covered for this on your insurance
- Do not undertake any high risk activities such as heli-skiing without making sure you are covered by your insurance policy if not sure ASK the question.
- Wear a helmet if you intend to tree ski - it could save your life
- Don't ski beyond your ability
- Check your baggage allowance with the airline you are travelling with. Excess luggage can be expensive
- Always, always, always, ski in control and have fun.
Tips about Skiing in Japan:
The Japanese are an incredibly polite race, so it’s important to embrace this culture whilst in skiing in Japan. Of course it’s rude to push into lift queues in any country (except Austria!), but the politeness needs to extend to appropriate behaviour in the streets, restaurants and bars. “Please” and “thank you” are essentials words to learn in Japanese.
- Japanese Onsen Etiquette - There are many onsens (hot springs) in Japan, which is not surprising considering the degree of geothermal activity in Japan. Onsens are the perfect remedy for sore muscles. They’re generally gender segregated, but occasionally you’ll find a touristy mixed onsen or a private onsen. Many onsens are indoors, whilst some will also have an outdoor onsen with screening for privacy. Japan also has some a la naturale onsens out in the backcountry where there is no attached infrastructure.
- Don’t rely on technology - The Japanese might have come up with just about every technological gadget you can think of, but just try getting money out of an ATM at nearly any ski resort. You will fail because they don’t exist.
- Credit cards – forget them also… Japan is a cash society so make sure you get some Yen at the airport or before you go. You can now obtain cash from your local post office.
- Don’t expect the Après scene of Europe or North America in Japan. Unless you go to Niseko of course or Hakuba you won’t find much nightlife at a Japanese Resort. A ski holiday for the Japanese is about three things, skiing, onsens and eating.
- Trains run on time in Japan - so if you are running late, don’t expect the trains to be delayed.