Managing Director of Ski Independence, Michael, is the third generation to run his family business, Osprey Holidays. Originally named Bennett's Travel, and started in in the 1950's by Michael's grandfather, the family travel agency grew and evolved into Osprey Holidays. In 1994 Ski Independence became an integral part of the business.

Michael has skied all over Europe and North America, starting when he was just 4 years old. In the late 80's Michael completed a season in the Alps and he's been hooked ever since. Read on for Michael's Ski Bucket List.

Ski Bucket List; Michael

My Top Ski Resorts:

  • In the USA, what’s not to love about Aspen? There’s glitz there if you want it, but behind the much hyped reputation is a charming traditional ski town with bags of character and style.
  • Also Vail keeps getting better and better with a huge mountain, super fast lift system and a buzzing village.

Ski Bucket List; Michael

Aspen, Colorado - bags of character! Image: Jesse Hoffman

  • Over in Canada, Whistler gets me every time with incredible terrain, never ending snow and a huge mountain village.
  • In Europe, the Three Valleys (Meribel, Courchevel, Val Thorens and Les Menuires) is hard to beat with endless skiing, great mountain restaurants and memorable après-ski.

Ski Bucket List; Michael

Val Thorens: huge skiing, great après-ski. Image: P Lebeau

Most memorable skiing experience:

Our first holiday as a family and skiing with our 4 year old on snow for the first time. Much better than any powder day!

My Favourite Places to stay:

With our kids it has to be either Residence L’Amara in Avoriaz or Le Village Arc 1950, both are brilliant for families with everything you need on-site including bars, children’s play areas, nurseries, swimming pools and spa areas, and not forgetting the pistes right outside your door.

>> Read Michael's Residence L'Amara review here

Otherwise the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, The St Regis in Aspen or Le Blizzard in Val D’Isère are all fantastic luxury hotels in some of the world's best ski resorts.

Ski Bucket List; Michael

Benchmark for luxury, the St Regis in Aspen

For couples I would recommend:

  • In France, Megève is stylish, understated and exclusive and perfect for couples.
  • In Switzerland, Verbier or Zermatt fit the bill.
  • In North America, I’d vote Aspen and Whistler.

Ski Bucket List; Michael

A romantic stay in Verbier? Try the fantastic new Hotel Le W

For families I would recommend:

It has to be either Les Arcs 1950 or Avoriaz. I can personally recommend both and we’re torn which one to head back to next season!

Get in touch with our reservations team by calling 0131 243 8097 for more expert help and advice with your ski holiday plans this winter. We have a huge number of Early Booking offers that you can benefit from. Click here to request a tailor-made quotation online.

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