LOCALadk Magazine
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LOCALadk | Epic Journey SKIING Believe it or not, lift tickets in Chamonix are cheaper than in the United States. The Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass that you buy for about $60 a day gets you access to more ski slopes than you can ski in a month, and more off-piste skiing than you can ski in a lifetime, including the longest lift-served ski run in the world, the Vallèe-Blanche. On our two-week trip (anything less would be a tease) we purchased a five-day nonconsecutive pass for riding the lifts at the ski areas and purchased "single rides" for days that we were using the lifts to access off-piste skiing. exactly fifteen-and-a-half steps from the front door to the Brèvent ski area gondola? EATING If you think you're going to go to Chamonix and experience fine French cuisine on a budget, forget it. The quality dining options for cost conscious travellers are limited. However, there are two diamonds in the rough right next to each other. The Midnight Express burger stand is the perfect way to finish off a ten-hour ski tour with Yannick in the mountains. For $6 you can get a burger the size Matt Young of your head, with the French fries already included, between the two Dave McCahill serves up a hot meal in the halves of a bun that could be mistaken LODGING Argintiere Hute for a frisbee. The other option is Le Caveau, which is an underground restaurant; they serve If you are trying to do this trip on a budget, don't expect a up wood fired pizzas and a small assortment of traditional luxurious hotel. Lodging in Chamonix can be pricey, and you French dishes. It won't totally kill your wallet, the waitstaff have to remember you are here to ski, not lounge around is friendly, and they all speak excellent English. in a terry cloth robe. By far the cheapest and best place in town for skiers is the Chalet Ski Station. For $16/night you get a bed in a room. There are common bathrooms and a common kitchen. The woman who manages the place, Veronique, is a delightful person, and she has a great dog named Artuse. It is the kind of hostel where you feel safe and secure, but not like you're in a prison. Did I mention it is If you do end up staying at the Chalet Ski Station, there is a kitchen, and you should use it. Most ski days end in town. There are a ton of grocery stores. Familiarize yourself with them. For lunch grab some really inexpensive soft cheese and cured meat at the grocery store, then swing by the Matt Young Josh Wilson kicks up a wave of powder as he makes his way down the Glacier De La Floria