Growing up in tropical Singapore, who hasn’t dreamt of going on a winter wonderland vacation someday? From the powdery slopes of Japan to the majestic peaks of Europe, we explore renowned ski holiday destinations across both the northern and southern hemispheres. First-timers can consider signing up for popular ski holiday packages, which also encompass other winter attractions, like catching the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
Inspired yet? Don’t miss the special discounts and packages for SAFRA members, coming up at the SAFRA x EU Holidays Travel Fest 2024 from 5 to 7 April at SAFRA Toa Payoh (more on that below)!
1. Gangwon Province, South Korea
If you’d like to dance to your very own winter sonata, then a South Korean ski holiday is for you. Gangwon-do boasts world-famous resorts like Mona Yongpyong – often touted as Korea’s Ski Mecca, as well as the Insta-friendly Vivaldi Park Ski World, where trendy folk tackle slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Beyond the adrenaline rush, fill your social media with K-drama scenery on Nami island, adorable alpacas at Alpaca World, and Daewallyeong Farm’s friendly sheep. Bookend your ski adventure with a stop in port city Incheon, famous for historical sites and natural hot springs, as well as world-class shopping, iconic palaces and delicious dining in Seoul.
2. Hokkaido, Japan
With an exciting blend of powder snow and cultural immersion, Japan offers a well-rounded winter wonderland escape. Hokkaido, the northernmost island, boasts world-class resorts like Niseko, with vast interconnected slopes and a charming village atmosphere. When the legs need a rest, go on snowmobile or snowtubing adventures instead.
Or warm up with a soak in steaming onsen hot springs – a quintessential Japanese tradition. You can see snow monkeys doing the same at Hakodate’s botanical garden! Other must-dos in Hokkaido include tasting ramen in Asahikawa, strolling along canals in idyllic Otaru, and toasting to a magical vacation at the Sapporo Beer Factory.
3. Harbin, China
The capital city of China’s Heilongjiang province is probably best known for the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. Running from late December to mid-February every year, the spectacular event alone justifies your flight tickets. Of course, while you’re there, venture up – and down – the slopes of majestic Changbai mountains.
From 1996 Asian Winter Games host Yabuli to the family-friendly Wanda Changbaishan International ski resorts, a diverse range of trails, cableways and theme parks are on offer. Afterwards, exploring the fairytale world of Snow Town and cultural gems like the Jilin Manchu Museum will make your Chinese ski holiday even more unforgettable.
4. The Arctic Circle
Embrace the magic of the Arctic Circle with a true winter adventure in Finland. Learn to ski at Ounasvaara in Rovaniemi, before experiencing Arctic ice floating and trundling along on a reindeer sleigh ride. With long daylight hours extending your playtime, there’s plenty of time to meet Santa Claus, go on a husky safari or join an ice-breaker cruise.
After dark, embark on an Aurora hunting expedition in a snowmobile. In Saariselkä, you can even stay in a luxurious Lappish Kelo-glass igloo and enjoy front-row seats to the celestial light show! Seafood lovers should also consider an excursion about 400 km north of the Arctic Circle to Kirkenes, Norway, which boasts the best king crabs around.
5. New South Wales, Australia
Australia might surprise you as a ski destination, but its Snowy Mountains offer incredible slopes and stunning scenery. Shred the legendary powder at Perisher, the largest ski resort in the southern hemisphere, where multiple resorts combine for endless runs on diverse terrain. Thrilling descents aside, look forward to a plethora of winter activities.
Gondola rides unveil breathtaking alpine vistas, while snowshoeing lets you explore the hushed beauty of snow-gum forests. Discover the charming après-ski scene in alpine villages like Jindabyne or Thredbo too. Finally, round off your trip to New South Wales exploring Sydney’s iconic sights from Darling Harbour to Bondi Beach.
6. Switzerland
With pristine glaciers and charming alpine villages, Switzerland is the quintessential ski holiday destination. Carve tracks into the fresh powder in the Zermatt, Saas-Fee or Jungfrau regions. For a change of pace, take a heart-pounding sledge ride down Mount Bussalp, Europe’s longest sledging run, or try tobogganing around scenic Interlaken.
In between, visit traditional Christmas markets, sip steaming mugs of hot chocolate, indulge in an authentic Swiss fondue and soak in the beauty of frozen lakes overlooked by snowcapped peaks. Consider complementing your Swiss trip with pitstops overland to Germany’s Black Forest and the picturesque village of Colmar in France.
Exclusive Travel Deals for SAFRA Members!
SAFRA members enjoy up to additional $110 off per pax for ski packages; more info at safra.sg/travelfest.
Free Beginner Ski Trial for SAFRA Members by EU Holidays (SAFRA Toa Payoh)
Not a SAFRA member yet?
Swing by our Membership booth at the Travel Fest and take advantage of our exclusive 3-day membership specials. Join us now and unlock a world of exclusive benefits and endless adventures! Visit safra.sg/promo for more details.
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