Rent ALpenHouse holiday home near one of Europe’s largest lakes, home to picturesque lakeside towns and cities, excellent ski resorts, some superb hiking routes, and the wine-growing region of snow. Visit Aigle, a popular entry point for the Vaud Alps, with its own castle; explore Chateau d’Oex and scenic Chateau de Chillon; go skiing in Les Diablerets or Villars; and wander around the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town in Lausanne.

Find group accommodation in the Jura Mountains and Fribourg near Lake Geneva to explore some of Switzerland’s most fascinating and historic towns and cities. Stay at a holiday rental in Nyon, or a hostel in Fribourg, with its lovely architecture and Old Town sights — including Switzerland’s best-preserved fortifications.

Every ski resort usually offers beginner terrain and lesson programs to help get you started. More than 10% of terrain at Verbier is rated green for beginners, but there are also many more great options out there. And remember, bigger does not always mean better; smaller resorts like our Gems Resorts often feature no crowds, cheaper pricing and a family-friendly feel.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a mountain for beginners:

1. If skiing for the first time, check out nearby resorts. There is no need to travel to the farthest reaches of the state just to try something new. Resorts like Verbier Winter Park and some other offer great beginner terrain and are just a short drive from the Alps.

2. Ask your friends. Have any friends or family that ski? Ask for advice on where to go. If they are really a good friend, they might even offer to take you with them! Skiing for the first time alone or with other beginners can be intimidating, so don’t be afraid to ask for help!

3. Price. Plan ahead to stay within budget; no one wants to be greeted with sticker-shock at the ticket window. Lift ticket and rental prices from resort to resort and can fluctuate depending on the time of year.

To many business travelers, the idea of not staying at a hotel could be considered heretical. The predictability of hotels makes them look solid.

However, in the last few years, one of the fastest growing segments of business travel is home and apartment rentals. Data shows that while the total volume of short-term apartment rentals is still small, it’s growing exponentially.

Home and apartment rentals from companies like Airbnb and Homeaway offer millions of listings around the world.

Traditionally, these companies have focused on vacationers, but you can also use home rental on business trips. It will get your business trip a homey comfort, less variability in pricing, and more relaxation.