International Ski Destinations
Ski Trips with a PhD
Skiing the Swiss and Italian Alps
International ski trips are a great way to enjoy some sightseeing while indulging in some downhill skiing. In some cases, it may be less expensive than skiing in the United States. I discovered this on my first trip to Bormio, Italy.
Before I learned to ski, I was an avid traveler. My journeys would take me to small towns in the Czech Republic and little known islands in Italy. I spent a summer studying Italian in Perugia, and saw parts of Italy where no tourists set foot. However, once I began skiing, my vacation dollars were spent at ski resorts. Before long, my husband and I grew weary of the “disneyfication” of ski areas created by American ski and real estate companies.
Then, one day we discovered an article about Bormio, Italy. Bormio is not a ski town. It is a medieval village that just happens to have a ski hill. The town is actually more famous for its thermal springs than it is for its skiing. Since ancient times, the curative powers of Bormio’s waters have been mentioned in Roman documents.
You’ll find that European skiing differs significantly from North American skiing. European mountains belong to the town, and the lifts and trams are owned by private companies. Serendipitously, you may find yourself skiing past a local farm. While North American trails are rated Green, Blue and Black, the European Trail System is Green, Blue, Red and Black. In general, Bormio is an excellent area for intermediates, who will be thrilled to ski the Stelvio Downhill, where the World Cup Races are held.
Photo: Bormio Bus Stop
After skiing, take a stroll down Via Roma, Bormio’s main street. The street is lined with quaint, unique shops. Frescos adorn the exterior of the houses. Stop into a bar and treat yourself to Bombardino, which is a drink made of an egg liqueur to which Scotch whiskey is added. The heated mixture is topped with whipped cream.
By now, you’re probably ready for the hot tub. Bormio takes things a step further. Since the 1st Century A.D., the town has been famous for its thermal baths. Today, you have the luxury of immersing yourself in ancient history while you enjoy the healing properties of the mineral springs.
Photo: Bormio, Italy
In contrast to Bormio, Switzerland is extremely modern. We stayed at the Hotel Terminus, a lovely little Davos hotel, located across from the train station, and a block from the tram. You can board the train directly from the airport. Travel light! There are three connecting trains to Davos. Though connections are tight, the Swiss give the words “on time departure” a whole new meaning!
Early season conditions limited the number of open trails at Davos. However, it’s still an awe-inspiring place to ski. Swiss skiers and riders are extremely fast, so look uphill before making your descent! However, they do have an astonishing ability to maintain high levels of speed without collision!
In contrast to Davos, St. Moritz is more of a “skier’s mountain.” As such, its ambience is less frenetic. Stunning, wide open trails lead you toward spectacular vistas, which people stop to admire. The trails meander to the base with a graceful elegance which is only matched by the finesse of the skiers who grace the mountain’s terrain. This image alone made the trip worthwhile, for it defines a grace I seek for myself.
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