Students can be snow buddies too. Those studying abroad can take advantage of nearby slopes and fresh powder providing the perfect recreational break between hitting the books. Don’t let the opportunity to experience the ski adventures of a lifetime slip away. Begin here by exploring the best Education Abroad dream ski destinations.
Austria
While in Vienna soaking up this famous city’s rich arts and culture scene, don’t forget about the world-famous ski towns in Austria. Kitzbühel, St. Anton, Lech, Innsbruck, Saalbach, Sölden, and Alpbach are all just a quick flight away. Elite ski race lovers will want to attend the annual Hahnenkamm downhill race in Kitzbühel held Jan. 19–27.
Strasbourg, France
The delightful French town of Strasbourg is near some remote ski resorts to explore and is accessible to the Alps. Just under 90 minutes away, the Vosges Mountains feature 25 ski destinations. For half the cost consider the Black Forest in Germany for thrilling, scenic skiing a two-hour train ride away.
Uppsala, Sweden
Uppsala has a small town university setting along with 90 ski runs, snow parks, and night skiing. They are the host for several World cup events. It’s a bit of a journey to Are, about six or seven hours, but well worth the trek to Sweden’s largest ski resort.
Santiago, Chile
Santiago isn’t a location usually associated with winter sports, but it has proximity to some unique and adventurous skiing. El Colorado is a 90-minute journey away and features slopes from beginner to expert. Chili also has several active volcanoes to ski including Llaima, Villarrica, Lonquimay, Choshuenco, and Mocho.
Geneva, Switzerland
With 37 percent of its population as skiers, Switzerland is definitely the Ski Capital of the World. International students in Geneva will have plenty of chances to take advantage of alpine skiing with slopes under 90 minutes away. With a little extra travel time, the Swiss ski towns of Zermatt, Gstaad, Verbier, Chamonix, and Val d’isère are accessible by train.
Tokyo, Japan
Students in Tokyo enjoy a lively metropolis and are four hours away from excellent skiing at the famous Hakuba Valley with nine resorts full of miles of runs. After hosting the Winter Olympics in 1998, the facilities are now state-of-the-art. Japan is quite well-known for hosting International skiers with light powder and excellent slopes. Make the trip to Niseko in Hokkaido for a traditional Japanese experience with warm bathing facilities called onsens.