Thinking about chartering a private jet to go skiing this winter?  Don’t let the lack of snow in the U.S. ruin your plans.  Instead, consider skiing somewhere magical like the French Alps!  France’s Rhone Alps offer some of the best skiing in Europe, not to mention a scenery that is unparalleled.  May I suggest a trip to Chamonix….

Chamonix France is home of the very first winter olympics.  At the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak, is a town so magical that I once called it home.  Chamonix offers world class skiing, dining and lodging.  For beginner skiers and boarders Chamonix has Les Houches, Les Planards, Le Tour and Les Bossons, while even the most expert sportsman will enjoy himself on the slopes of Flegere, Le Brevent or Les Grands Montets.  If you’re feeling extra adventurous, hire a guide and do the Vallee Blanche, which is a 4 hour decent down the Mont Blanc starting at the Aiguille du Midi.

There are many options as far as lodging in Chamonix.  If you choose to stay in a hotel, I would suggest the Hameau Albert Premier home to the Albert 1er restaurant, which is exquisite.  You can also rent a chalet in Chamonix through one of the websites such as Homeaway.com or vrbo.com which offer a variety of sizes and prices.

For your dining experience, a must try is Munchies restaurant on the rue des moulins.  Munchies is tiny restaurant with limited seating, so reservations are a must.  Their magret de canard (duck breast) is the best I have ever had.  For apres ski, enjoy a kir at the Irish coffee on the main drag in Chamonix.  It is so much fun to watch everyone walk by while you sip your apperitif and take in the magical mountain sunset that the alps have to offer .