Frequently Asked Questions

All you need to know…

A. All our prices include accommodation, electricity, heating, water, gas and VAT.

A. Additional supplements may apply for Ferry and Eurotunnel (as detailed on the Self-Drive Package page); personal insurance (as detailed on the Ski Insurance page); Charges for facilities such as use of sauna (unless otherwise stated); Linen and end of stay cleaning for self-catering (unless otherwise stated); Parking costs; Equipment hire (as detailed on the Ski Hire page), Lift passes (as detailed on the Ski Lift Pass page) and Ski school (as detailed on the Ski School page); Spa Treatments (as detailed on the Ski & Spa page); Deposits requested on arrival at self-catering locations (refundable if no damage); Local tourist tax (€1-€2/pers/day, see detailed description below); Credit card handling fees (1.85%) on both balance and deposit payments.

Q. What is Local Tourist Tax?

A. The French Government charges a tax for tourists called Taxe de Séjour. The cost varies from place to place but is usually €1 to €2 per person per night. This money is then put back into the resort to help with the running of the tourist office and all local activities, the up-keep of the resort in general and the improvement of facilities. As this is payable directly to the accommodation owner, you will be asked to pay this at the reception desk of your chosen residence or hotel at either check-in or upon departure, so please ensure that you have sufficient funds.

Q. Are there any under-occupancy charges or additional supplements for guests?

A. As our prices are based on a 'per property' basis you can enjoy the comfort of a larger property with no extra charge for the accommodation.

It is also acceptable for friends to come and stay with you provided the stated maximum number of occupants is not exceeded as each house is furnished, equipped and insured for a stipulated number.

Q. Does the number of people affect the price?

A. All our apartment prices are for the accommodation. Provided you don’t exceed the capacity of the apartment the price will not increase if you have more people. We could have priced our holidays on the basis of the first 2 adults (ie. apartment package price divided by 2) and then said all children and additional adults FREE but we don’t subscribe to this kind of marketing ploy!

Q. Should I avoid peak dates?

A. If you are tied to school holidays, we recommend that you book as early as you can to avoid the disappointment of your chosen accommodation being fully booked. If you are free to travel at any time, we recommend that you avoid peak dates such as half term holidays (we can advise you of when these are if you are unsure) as the resorts will be busy.

Q. How can you be so much cheaper than the big operators?

A. We are so confident in our provision of affordable quality accommodation that we offer a Price Guarantee on all holidays that you book with us. If you are able to find the same holiday, at a cheaper rate within 24 hours we will refund the difference (this offer is subject to our Terms and Conditions). Select here for more details.

TRAVEL & TRANSPORT QUESTIONS

Q. Can I book transport with you?

A. Yes, we can arrange Eurotunnel or ferry transport for you. Because we have negotiated great prices with Eurotunnel and the ferry companies we are able to offer the best value for money possible.

Our self-drive packages all include a return Eurotunnel crossing from Folkestone - Calais with a car and up to 8 passengers with a FREE FlexiPlus upgrade (£20/crossing/car supplement applies to certain peak date crossings). Ferry routes by various operators are also available.Select here for more details.

Q. When can I travel?

A. We can arrange travel for you on any specified date depending on availability. Crossings are frequent, so notify us of your preferred travel dates and times and we will book you on the nearest one. Supplements for P&O and Brittany Ferries may vary depending on the time and date you wish to travel. Select here for more details.

Q. Can I travel whilst pregnant?

A. Should a member of your party become pregnant prior to your date of departure, please inform us immediately. We will not be held responsible if you do not inform us and the ferry operator then refuses your carriage.

- At present the following operators have no restrictions on the carriage of pregnant women but a certificate of fitness to travel will be required from your Doctor:

EUROTUNNEL, IRISH FERRIES, NORFOLKLINE, STENA LINE, SWANSEA CORK, DFDS, NORTH IRISH RED FUNNEL & STEAM PACKET.

Please ensure that you obtain from your doctor the necessary certificate before you travel and remember to take it with you. Failure to do so may result in the operator refusing your carriage at the port.

- If you are planning to travel with one of the following operators, please call our reservations team on 0844 576 0175 for details of their current restrictions as they each have their own conditions on the carriage of pregnant women:

BRITTANY FERRIES, SEAFRANCE, P&O FERRIES, CONDOR FERRIES & HOVERSPEED.

Airlines and rail companies may also have restrictions on carrying women who are pregnant. We therefore strongly advise you to contact your transport provider prior to making a booking with us or if you have already booked, as soon as you discover that you are pregnant. We also recommend that you discuss your travel plans with your doctor or midwife.

Q. Do you have any en-route accommodation, if I don’t want to do the whole journey in one day?

A. Yes, we can arrange over-night stops for you in quality 2 and 3 star hotels. We have selected InterHotel and Novotel which both offer en-route accommodation in many convenient locations across France. Select herefor more details.

Q. Do you organise car hire?

A. Yes, we can arrange very competitive car hire at all airports, train stations and other town locations. Hiring a car means greater freedom, flexibility, allows you to ski in different resorts, enjoy excursions and can often be cheaper than using taxis. Select herefor more details.

Q. Can you arrange a transfer from the airport or train station?

A. Yes, we can arrange private taxi transfers from a number of airports and train stations. Door to door service in comfortable vehicles with baby seats supplied, ski equipment carried free of charge and all group sizes catered for. Select herefor more details.

SKI EXTRA QUESTIONS

Q. Do I need travel insurance?

A.We insist that every person travelling on our arrangements takes adequate insurance and while we do not insist you arrange cover through our company, we do require proof that adequate insurance is in place. Select herefor more details on the ski insurance that we can offer.

Q. Can I pre-book Ski School?

A. Yes, we can pre-book ski school at many resorts (subject to availability) and we would particularly recommend that you do so, especially at peak times, in order to avoid possible disappointment. Select here for more details.

Q. What are the facilities for children?

A. Each ski resort has dedicated facilities for children, such as ski kindergartens (usually 4-6 years old) and crèches (usually from 6 months) and these can be booked through the resort tourist website. Please see the individual resort pages for more information.

Q. Can I pre-book Ski Lift Passes?

A. Yes, we can pre-book ski lift passes in most resorts. By pre-booking you can take advantage of our reduced rates and not have to worry about the expense or fluctuation in exchange rates once you are in the resort. Select here for more details.

Q. Can I pre-book Ski Equipment?

A. Yes, we can pre-book ski and snowboard hire for any level in all our resorts. Any duration over 3 days is possible and by pre-booking not only will you benefit from our reduced prices but you won't have to worry about paying once you arrive and your equipment will be ready and waiting for you. Select here for more details.

Q. Can I pre-book Spa Treatments?

A. Yes, we can pre-book spa treatments at any of our ‘Spas & Beauté Montagne’ Residences. Everyone likes to be pampered at some point, so whether it's for a loved-ones early Birthday surprise, a belated Christmas present or just a well-deserved treat for yourself, select here for more details and book today!

ACCOMMODATION QUESTIONS

Q. What does ‘Our Rating’ mean?

A. All ski accommodation featured on our website is sourced from only well-known leading suppliers. However, we still feel that it is very important that all our ski residences are inspected and personally handpicked by ourselves. We also believe that educational trips for all staff are an essential part of training. The experienced team at Ski Collection all therefore have very good knowledge and understanding of our whole range of ski resorts and ski accommodation. As a result this then allows us to share our first hand experiences with our clients, giving you a much better service and allowing us to help you choose the perfect ski holiday for your individual or group needs.

We have rated our ski accommodation according to cost, quality of facilities and location. We also ensure that all our featured ski accommodation meets the French Health and Safety Regulations. Our rating does not always meet the official rating.

Q. Why is there a computer generated picture of the residence?

A. In some cases, normally when a residence/hotel is under construction, we may have to use artist impression or computer generated images. These will always be based upon accurate information we have at the time and will provide you with a good representation of the accommodation. These images will then be replaced with new photos at the earliest opportunity.

Q. What does “Ski in/Ski out” mean?

A. This indicates that you can ski to or from the residence. This is subject to normal snow conditions in the resort at that time and to the individual skier's ability.

Q. What does “Door-step skiing” mean?

A. This indicates that you can access to or from the slopes with ease (within 100m of the residence). This is subject to normal snow conditions in the resort at that time and to the individual skier's ability.

Q. What is a mezzanine?

A. A mezzanine is an open plan (sometimes closed off) bedroom above the lounge, usually accessed by means of a loft ladder or steep staircase. These bedrooms are generally not recommended for young children or the elderly.

Q. What is an alcove/cabin?

A. This is a broad description used for a sleeping area that cannot be classed as a proper bedroom; it ranges from being an alcove in the entrance hall (usually with bunk beds) or it may be partitioned by a sliding door, but may not have a window.

Q. Can I take my pet?

A. Dogs and other pets are only allowed in certain accommodation (generally apartments). It is essential that you check with us beforehand in any case. Otherwise please assume that dogs and other pets are not allowed in the accommodation and cannot be brought under any circumstances. When animals are allowed in the accommodation there is normally a charge for this and supplements also apply for Eurotunnel and ferry crossings.

Q. When can we get into the apartment and when do we have to leave?

A. Arrival day is Saturday unless otherwise arranged. Your accommodation will generally be ready for you to arrive between 5pm and 7pm and you are requested to leave by 10am. In case of planned later arrival you need to let us know in advance. If delayed on route, you must call the accommodation reception or the owner directly and as soon as possible to inform them in advance, so that if needs be, alternative key collection arrangements can be made.

Q. Are bed linen and towels included?

A.Bed linen and towels are usually provided for apartment residences but this is specified within each apartment description. Some may be charged at a supplement.

Q. What will be in the apartments when we arrive?

A.Most of our residences were built within the last four years and the apartments are all fitted and furnished to a very good standard of comfort and convenience and are fully equipped for basic holiday needs. However, we do recommend that you take some basics with you such as tea towels, salt & pepper, coffee, tea bags and toilet roll. You will be able to buy all these things in resort but the local supermarkets are more expensive than those in the valley so it’s a good idea to stop on the way.

Q. Do all apartments have comfy sofas?

A. In all our apartments, and even those in our 4-star luxury selection, the living areas are generally designed to be used as additional sleeping areas. As a result there is likely to be a maximum of one or two sofas in even the largest apartments and these will be convertible sofa beds rather than the types of sofas you would usually have at home. However, they will certainly not be uncomfortable and will be more than sufficient for you to relax and enjoy your ski holiday.

Q. Do all apartments offer full home comforts?

A. Apartments in residences are designed for the rental market so they will be functional but they will not offer full home comforts. The kitchenettes for instance will generally be compact and may only have equipment suitable for basic cooking rather the full range that you may have at home. However, all apartment equipment, furnishings and fittings will be more than sufficient for you to relax and enjoy your ski holiday. Please note that TV (when listed) generally means a television with only French terrestrial channels unless ‘satellite TV’ is indicated. In this later case the number of English language channels may be limited to news channels and other freely available international channels. Most TVs will allow connection to a DVD via SCART socket but please bare in mind that the French standard is SECAM whereas it is normally PAL in the UK. Unless one of the apparatus has dual PAL/SECAM capability you will normally only get a black & white picture. Unfortunately we are unable to check TV specs for any of our accommodation.

BOOKING PROCESS QUESTIONS

Q. How long can I take out an option on an apartment for?

A. You can hold options for up to 24 hours on selected accommodation. The option will expire if we do not receive confirmation from you within this time.

Q. Do you charge extra for booking by telephone?

A. No, unlike some well-known holiday companies we do not charge you extra for making telephone bookings. We actually feel it is important we talk to you to fully understand your requirements and to advise you of the most suited options.

Q. What telephone number can I use if I am calling from abroad?

A. As 0844 telephone numbers do not work when calling from outside the UK, please use + 44 23 9289 0960 if you are calling from abroad.

Q. Do I have to fill out a booking form?

A. In order to complete your booking, we do require that you return a copy of the holiday confirmation document duly signed. Once you have made a reservation, we will send you a confirmation document for you to sign and return.

Q. Can I make any special requests?

A. Please advise us at time of booking of any special requests, which will be communicated to our French partners. All special requests will be noted, but cannot be guaranteed. Cots, TVs, telephone lines, bath towel hire, cleaning kits and end of stay cleaning are some of the options which can be arranged at certain accommodation (when not included in the basic package). Please enquire for the availability of these for your chosen accommodation.

Q. Do you need to be advised of any special needs within the party?

A. We are happy to advise and assist elderly, special needs or disabled customers to choose a suitable holiday. Clients with mobility problems are strongly advised to enquire about the apartments before booking, as many have steps, steep stairs, narrow doors and awkward corners.

Q. When will I receive an invoice?

A. Once you have made your booking and paid a 25% deposit, a confirmation invoice will follow within 48 hours. It details what has been reserved, the cost of your holiday and the date by which the balance is payable. Please check the details on the confirmation carefully and contact us immediately if you have any queries, as a binding contract will come in force between us when we issue a confirmation invoice. Should you make any amendments to your booking, a new invoice will be issued.

Q. Can I change my booking?

A. If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking. Minor amendments (i.e. change of car or addition of passengers) can be made free of charge up to 4 weeks before departure. For other amendments you will be asked to pay an administration fee of £25, and any further cost we incur in making the alteration. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date the changes are made, so you should contact us as soon as possible. The above costs will NOT apply if you wish to upgrade the service you have booked. Please note: Certain travel arrangements (i.e. Train Tickets) and ski extras (i.e. Ski School) may not be amendable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of 100% of that part of the arrangements. Select here for our Booking Conditions and Fair Trading Terms.

Q. Can I transfer my booking to another person?

A. Yes, subject to a £25 charge. However, the personal insurance premiums are not refundable or transferable and the new party will also be required to have adequate insurance. Select here for our Booking Conditions and Fair Trading Terms.

Q. When is the balance for my holiday due?

A. The balance of your holiday is due no later than 8 weeks prior to departure. If the booking is made less than 8 weeks prior to departure, the total cost of the holiday is payable immediately. If the balance is not paid in time, we will charge a late payment fee of £10 per day per booking, from the date the balance is due. If we do not receive payment, we will cancel your travel/accommodation arrangements, retain your deposit and apply cancellation charges as per our booking conditions and fair trading terms. Select here for more details.

Q. How can I pay the balance?

A. The balance can be paid by cheque, Visa, Mastercard or any debit card such as Maestro or Delta. In the case of credit cards, we make a 1.85% charge on balances paid in this way in order to cover the higher banking charges. Unfortunately we are unable to accept payment via American Express (AMEX) at this time.

Q. Is my money safe when booking with you?

A. When booking with Peak Retreats’ Ski Collection you can rest assured that you are arranging your holiday with an ABTA bonded company (ABTA No. W5537). This is your best guarantee of complete financial security, a guarantee you do not receive when booking your accommodation and transport independently.

Q. Is Peak Retreats/Ski Collection ATOL protected?

A. No and the simple reason for this is that ATOL protection from the CAA only covers flight/air based holiday packages. Peak Retreats does not organise flights and therefore it simply cannot be covered by an ATOL. It is for this reason that we are fully bonded with ABTA instead.

If you ever decide to buy a package holiday including a flight do however ensure that you are buying from a company that has an ATOL and that you are issued with a dedicated ATOL receipt with your holiday invoice confirming the name and ATOL number of the company. More details on www.caa.co.uk

TICKET & VOUCHER QUESTIONS

Q. When will I receive my tickets?

A. Your travel documents will be sent to you two weeks prior to your departure (by Royal Mail post). These will include suggested route itinerary, accommodation vouchers with directions and where applicable Ferry or Eurotunnel tickets, Insurance details and any ski extra vouchers (i.e. ski hire, lift passes and ski school).

Q. What happens if I lose or mislay a voucher before departure?

A. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of £10 (per voucher). Select here for our Booking Conditions and Fair Trading Terms.

SKI RESORT QUESTIONS

Q. Do you have reps in the resorts?

A. We don’t employ local representatives, as we do not feel that you will find them necessary. Instead we rely on our French partners to ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as it should be. We also provide all clients with an emergency out of office-hours telephone number.

Q. Will everything be open during early and late season dates?

A. This will vary from resort to resort. You may find that certain facilities such as restaurants, night-clubs etc are closed for refurbishment or have reduced opening hours. Some ski lifts may be closed. Bus services (ski and public) may not be operating their full schedule. If you have planned to take part in a certain activity or visit a certain place, we recommend that you contact the local tourist office for more information. These details can be found on each resort page.

Q. Will everything be open on bank holidays?

A. Facilities such as Ski Schools and shops may be closed or have limited opening hours. Ski lifts should operate as normal, as should your accommodation reception. For more information about the facilities within the resort please contact the local tourist office, details of which can be found on each resort page.

Q. Is diesel cheaper in France?

A. Yes, despite the exchange rate it is still generally cheaper in France. For the lowest prices, buy fuel from hypermarkets such as Carrefour, Leclerc, Super/HyperU, Auchan, Geant. To locate a hypermarket in France please visit www.supermarche.com

Q. Are the resort supermarkets cheap?

A. You should find everything you need in the resort supermarkets but it will be cheaper to buy the main bulk of your food shopping from a hypermarket on your way to the resort. To locate a hypermarket in France please visit www.supermarche.com

Q. Can I get live traffic updates in France?

A. Yes, if you have decent internet access during your trip, live traffic conditions on French motorways are available from www.v-trafic.com

Q. What clothing do you recommend I should pack for skiing/snowboarding?

A. Tops – A heavyweight fleece or wool sweater and a light/medium-weight, synthetic long underwear shirt. A down or synthetic fill jacket with hood (waterproof/breathable), must fit comfortably over your sweater.

Bottoms – Waterproof / breathable lined ski trousers.

Footwear – Wool or poly socks (medium-heavy thickness). Walking boots (waterproof) to

be able to walk in snow.

Hand wear – Wool or fleece mittens. Ski over-mitts or gloves.

Head gear – A wool or fleece hat. A pair of good sunglasses.

Call us on 0844 576 0175 or email us at reservations@skicollection.co.uk if you have not found the information you are looking for.

Updated 09/02/12