Italy Ski Tours 10 Top 10 best tips

1. Rent new style Skis, leave yours at home
Skiing has a reputation for being hugely expensive. I'd suggest renting skis rather than forking out on a pair, as most top resorts stock the latest and greatest. Boots are more of a personal thing so I'd suggest buying those before you fly. Break them in by sporting them in front of your favourite TV show before jetting off to the snow.

2. Practise confortably and safely
If you've never skied before or feel a little rusty, head to one of your local artificial ski centres or one of the three indoor snow domes in the UK. This will help get your muscles used to the strains of skiing so you can ski harder for longer on your first day.

3. Train your mussels in advance
Start preparing for your holiday a few weeks before you leave to avoid muscle soreness. A few daily leg squats and core exercises (Fit Balls are great) will improve balance and strength. Try standing with your back against the wall and sinking down so your thighs are parallel to the ground. Hold that position until it burns. Then hold some more. But if the mere thought of going to the gym brings you out in a cold sweat, just do some running or hill walking.

4. Get information on your Italian destination
Check out your resort online before hand. It makes choosing a bit easier. I'd also recommend finding somewhere with a spa. There's nothing better than recovering in a pool, sauna or steam room.

5. Pack all warm suits
When it comes to packing, remember to bring lots of layers for when it's chilly. This helps trap the warm air closer to your body. You'd be surprised how many thermals I squeeze under my skin tight lycra race suit.

6. Protect your eyes from the sun
As a patron for Cancer Research, I'm often surprised by how many people think you can't get skin damage while skiing simply because the air is cold. My skin is constantly red from sun and wind abuse. It only takes a second to apply sunscreen – so don't be lazy.

7. Water must be always with you
If you want noise, energy and fancy ski-boot bopping to some seriously cheesy Euro songs then do not miss the Italian apers-ski. Usually the best sposts are loccated at the end of the slopes in nice lounges. If you want to know more do not hesitate to ask our staff about apers ski. We are really good experts of partying!

9. Local Ski slang
There are a lot of phrases in skiing which can flummox the beginner.

• ‘fresh tracks’ – when you make your own line down the mountain.
• ‘pinning it’ – when you straight run down the hill.
• ‘riding the tails’ – when you basically only use the very back end of your skis.
• ‘benz ze knees’ – I hear ski instructors saying this all the time and it infuriates me. What they mean is feel shin pressure, which is done by bending your knees – but not sitting down.

10. Ski with new friends
Cortina, Bormio and Val Gardena are really friendly mountain resorts. People are warm and open to meet new "friends". Do not miss the chance to ski with the locals... They might take you to the hidden secrets slopes and in the night time they can show you the most interesting venues you would never know they exist.