travel

When you combine the festive cheer of an après-ski wine tasting with the creative fun of wreath making, you know it’s bound to be a memorable evening! That’s exactly what I experienced last week at the Jet2 Après-ski event in Leeds, held at the charming Friends of Ham. Not only was it a fantastic evening, but it’s also got me dreaming of my next snowy adventure! Friends of Ham is a delightful spot—a warm, inviting space with an atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, or in my case traveling up from the Midlands. If you’re ever in Leeds, it’s well worth a visit, I’d happily return! The combination of excellent wine, delicious bites, and an après-ski vibe felt like a little Alpine escape. Jet2, who hosted the event, didn’t just give us a taste of the Alps; they gave us all the inspiration we needed to start planning our next ski trips. Roll on those snowy mountains! My Ski & Snowboard Evolution Last season, Les Gets in the French Alps was my home away from home. It’s a picturesque gem nestled in the Portes du Soleil ski area, and I spent countless days snowboarding through its pristine slopes. Learning to snowboard added a new layer of excitement last season—there’s something magical about mastering a new skill on the mountains, even if it means a few extra tumbles along the way… Which I certainly did! This year, I’m ready to branch out. With Jet2’s incredible range of ski destinations, the hardest part is deciding where to go next. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, a newbie snowboarder, or somewhere in between, there’s a destination to suit your vibe. Where Jet2 Can Take You? Jet2’s ski destinations are a dream for winter sports enthusiasts. Here are a few that have caught my eye: 1. Andorra I have been here before many years ago for a ski trip, but more recently for my husband’s Winter Triathlon race. For those seeking lively après-ski and perfectly groomed slopes, Andorra is calling. Nestled in the Pyrenees, it’s known for its duty-free shopping and beginner-friendly terrain, making it a top pick for mixed-ability groups. Explore flight to Andorra (into Barcelona) with Jet2. 2. Austria’s Snowy Charm Austria’s ski resorts have that classic Alpine charm and I absolutely love the people here, they’re so friendly and welcoming. Places like Innsbruck and Salzburg offer not just fantastic skiing but also rich culture, picture-perfect villages, and delectable food. Oh, and a little tip, when you’re doing an apres-ski drink cheers, the word is ‘Prost!’ See Austria’s ski destinations with Jet2. 3. French Alps—Beyond Les Gets If you love Les Gets as much as I did, why not explore other gems in the French Alps? Chamonix, Tignes, and Alpe d’Huez all boast incredible pistes and breathtaking views. We lived in Val d’Isere for a ski season, and the Espace Killy is 100% going to keep you occupied on your trip! Book your French Alps adventure. 4. Italy—Dolce Vita on Snow Italy’s ski resorts, like Sestriere and Livigno, combine world-class skiing with authentic Italian cuisine and hospitality. After a day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than a hearty plate of pasta and a glass of wine. This hasn’t been on my radar, but after reading more, the idea of excellent mountain fun and exquisite food? Count me in! Plan your Italian ski getaway. 5. Swiss Precision Switzerland’s ski resorts are legendary for a reason. Zermatt and Verbier promise high-altitude skiing and unparalleled luxury. If you’re after postcard-perfect views, Switzerland won’t disappoint. Find out more about Swiss ski holidays Next on My List… After last week’s event, I’m itching to pack my gear and hit the slopes, especially since the weather has turned to feel like true winter! I’m eyeing Austria for its picturesque villages and epic après-ski, but Italy’s allure is hard to resist—who wouldn’t want to pair snowboarding with pure Italian indulgence?! One thing’s for sure: Jet2 makes the planning effortless, from flights to transfers and accommodation. If you’re dreaming of snow-capped mountains and thrilling descents, now’s the time to plan your escape. Not sure if it’s mountains you’re after, but still want that alpine experience? You should really take a look at the Christmas Market City Breaks Jet2 do. I’ve done these before, and if you’re looking to get into the Holiday Spirit – it’s a must. And finally, if you need a little après-ski practice, start with a visit to Friends of Ham and raise a toast to adventure. Where will your next ski trip take you? Would love to get your recommendations! *This was a press event invited by Jet2