Verbier or Meribel?

Both are well known for incredible skiing, word class apres skis, live music and famous DJ’s but how do you decide whether it is going to be Verbier or Meribel.

For us, there are a couple of key points to consider.

The two courses run at different times of year with Verbier kicking off at the start of December and Meribel not getting up and running until January. Not only do you need to make sure you are available to suit these dates but the one thing lots of our students overlook is whether they are happy to be away for Christmas. We personally love Christmas in the Alps there is nothing quite like a Christmas morning ski followed by a huge meal with friends but it is not for everyone. Don’t forget to think about your Mum though, she might find it more important than you.

A skier doing a jump in the park

Photo by Jacek Dylag on Unsplash

Being away for Christmas is not the only impact of the different dates, the Verbier course finishes right before half term. This is the busiest week of the year in every resort and finding work will be easy so you can add a few extra weeks of paid work into the mix. It is really important that you are aware that outside of the peak weeks it is unlikely you will find full-time work. So please don’t do this course if you will be relying on the work to pay your bills.

The Meribel course finishes just in time for Easter this 3 week period is the second busiest in the season and the most common time for schools to run their trips to the alps. Again this makes finding work to see you through to the end of the season very easy. As the course starts later you are also able to work in the UK for a little longer to ease some of the financial pressure.

Two skiers at the top of Val Thoren

There is a small price difference between the two courses but this is just one expense that you need to take into account. Our Verbier course is aimed at those who want a little more freedom. We include breakfast and dinner 5 days a week, but that is all. This means you are required to either shop or eat out on a more regular basis. As you will no doubt be aware, Verbier is a sought after resort in a country with a high cost of living. Supermarkets in the resort are expensive and eating lunch on the mountain will cost you at least 18chfs.

In Contrast, despite not being a cheap resort itself our Meribel Course is far more inclusive. We include Breakfast 7 Days a week and lunch and afternoon tea 5 days a week. Not having to buy lunch and having access to snacks in the chalet will really help you spend less while you are in resort. Drinks and meals out, while not cheap are also cheaper than Verbier.