Eliana Willis

As tourists have started to return to Afghanistan over the past 18 months, some have helped to arrange the country’s only ski race.Now a new ski club has launched in Bamyan Province, with a helping hand from international visitors, and there is a plea for more support from the international community.
Bamyan is one of the least developed provinces in Afghanistan, which is one of the least developed countries in Asia.
The aim of the Bamyan Alpine Ski Club is to support the local community by training Afghan children in sports, arranging competitions in the region and managing the equipment that has been donated over the years by tourists, including from Untamed Borders’ guests.
A former local club stopped operating when the Taliban retook control of the country, but the new organisation has risen from the ashes.
International skiers will return to the region’s Koh e Baba Mountain Range in February with Untamed Borders, where guests will meet the team from the Bamyan Alpine Ski Club and support it personally. Guests will take part in the nation’s only ski competition – the Afghan Peaks Ski Race – which brings together international tourists and the fledgling Afghan ski community.ADVERTISEMENTHowever, for those who can’t join the trip, the club has launched an international membership scheme, so people can support the organisation from afar.
Untamed Borders were the first company to organise ski tourism to the country back in 2011 and it’s organised annual group trips ever since.
During that time the company has ensured guests understand the difficulties faced by Afghan skiers and the benefits there are for its mountain communities by there being a well organised sporting club in the region.
Many Afghan skiers currently use homemade wooden skis to be able to take part in the sport, which provides a vital outlet from the hardships in the region and an opportunity to mix with people from other nations.
On the trips guests often donate equipment and funds to support local grassroots skiing, which is a valuable source of tourism and income for people who live in Bamyan Province.
Visitors have also played an important role on ski trips to Afghanistan by offering ski training advice for locals and helping to improve the local infrastructure.
Although international visitor numbers are on the rise again, many of Bamyan Province’s potential ski slopes remain undiscovered and it’s this unique opportunity to ski virgin slopes, which is an exciting prospect for adventurous ski tourists.
Continued visits to the region and support from foreign tourists has the potential to make lasting change in the area, as Untamed Borders’ Founder, James Willcox, explains…
“We only consider a trip to be a true success if there are benefits for the communities we visit, along with our international guests.
The ski trips have always fitted the bill because our guests not only get an extraordinary insight into rural Afghanistan in winter, but they also support the Afghans living in the area by providing equipment, ski training and take part in other schemes.
Now we also support the new local ski club, which is a long-term initiative to provide lasting change for the youth in the region and the wider community.”
It’s part of a growing trend of ski tourists visiting more adventurous destinations and locations – Untamed Borders reported last year that there is a growing number of people seeking skiing tours in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq, among many other unconventional skiing destinations.
To become an international member of the Bamyan Alpine Ski Club please visit the Afghan Peaks website, or even better, join Untamed Borders on the February Afghan Ski trip, which is bookable now on our website. https://untamedborders.com/itinerary/ski-afghanistan/#tab01

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For those seeking reliable snow, value for money, and fewer crowds this February half term, the leading Italian-French international ski region, Vialattea provides a perfect setting to enjoy family-fun on the slopes.  Home to more than 400km of perfectly groomed pistes, families can explore over 250 slopes, and a wide range of runs – including various beginner and intermediate – catering to both first-timers and budding skiers alike. Spanning two countries, the eight resorts include Italian Sestriere, Sauze d’Oulx as well as Montgenevre in France, with 80% of skiable area above 1,900m – ensuring exceptional snow conditions this half-term. 
For the little ones, the ski area offers a number of exciting attractions and activities, designed to keep busy minds occupied this half-term. Children can enjoy the baby fun parks in Sansicario and Sauze d’Oulx – designed to provide an interactive and fun learning environment – or alternatively, book in for private or group lessons from expect ski and snowboard instructors, providing the perfect introduction to the slopes. 
Vialattea’s relative affordability and ease of access makes it the perfect half-term destination for younger skiers, allowing the whole family to enjoy time on the slopes. Whether staying in the beautiful tree lined slopes of Sansicario, the quintessential alpine village of Claviere, or enjoying the Olympic heritage of Sestriere, there are a range of options to suit all requirements. 
For non-skiers, Vialattea also offers a plethora of unique experiences, including Husky sledding, mountain snowmobile tours – and for those more daring – paragliding. Once an appetite has been worked up on the slopes, there are also a range of charming mountain restaurant scattered across the valley to be explored. 
Ski passes for the 2023/24 season, including daily, multi-day, and season passes, are now available for purchase for the whole family on the Vialattea website, alongside discounted Hotel and Ski Pass packages. ADVERTISEMENT

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Visit Portugal celebrated the New Year launching a new campaign that was presented in Lisbon. #It’s not tourism. It’s futourism, is the motto for this campaign that sets 12 New Year’s resolutions for the tourist of the future.
There are 12 commitments to inspire people to take an active role in the changes that tourism needs, in Portugal and around the world. More than just a campaign, it aims to mobilize people to change the way they travel.
This campaign is aligned with the 2027 Tourism Strategy, the strategic guideline for tourism in Portugal, and with its ambition: to lead the tourism of the future. It calls on everyone to join Visit Portugal on this transformative journey towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and responsible tourism. Portugal’s Tourism Strategy 2027 sets a new milestone in tourism policy, placing sustainability at the core of the country’s strategic options. This campaign reinforces and reflects this vision.
On the very last day of 2023, Visit Portugal presented this #Futourism “movement”, which invites future tourists to turn their trips into more authentic and sustainable experiences, resulting in a positive impact for territories, the environment, and the communities.
During the first twelve days of 2024, VisitPortugal will be showcasing 12 short videos with the following New Year’s Resolutions (one per day):ADVERTISEMENTIt’s not unengaged. It’s committed.It’s not virtual. It’s real.It’s not ours. It’s yours.It’s not standard. It’s unique.It’s not glocal. It’s local.It’s not a wave. It’s an ocean.It’s not grey. It’s green.It’s not brash. It’s humble.It’s not trendy. It’s trendsetting.It’s not negligent. It’s conscientious.It’s not rushed. It’s immersive.It’s not artificial. It’s human.#It’s not tourism. It’s futourism targets Portugal’s top priority markets, namely United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, United States, and Brazil.
According to data collected from January to October, Portugal achieved record levels of guests 26,3M (+13,7%), overnight stays 68,5M (+11%) and revenue 22,3€ billion (+19,8%) compared to 2022. To sustain this growth VisitPortugal is working to bring tourism activities to the interior of the country to reduce seasonality and, at the same time, to accelerate the sector’s environmental and digital transition.
Traveling consciously is not just a choice, it’s a legacy we build together. Join us on this transformative journey. #It’s not (just) tourism, it’s Futourism.
Youtube Links
Film: https://youtu.be/pH_ex7KTplE
Resolution # 1: https://youtube.com/shorts/20TQahfaYyk
Resolution # 2: https://youtube.com/shorts/jvTm331X3cI
Resolution # 3: https://youtube.com/shorts/kSupGmHqMys

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When Verbier decided to find a new partner, the Valais ski resort thought long and hard about it. And when they heard that a certain HUGO was looking for a holiday destination, they didn’t hesitate proposing Verbier and the Val de Bagnes as the perfect destination. HUGO? It is the real Swiss pickle marriage made in heaven.But why did Hugo, the Swiss emblem of pickle, agree to partner with an international ski resort? Despite all that may seem to separate them, he is a gherin and Verbier is a ski resort, HUGO and Verbier have one thing in common: raclette! That’s right! If Bagnes raclette has an international reputation, it would not be complete without local and crunchy gherkins. With a little hindsight, we can say to ourselves that it is logical that these two products of the Swiss nation should be combined, because tasting a 100% Swiss raclette is a la mode.
“With HUGO, the true Swiss pickle, the spotlight is MADE IN SWITZERLAND. Because a successful raclette is Bagnes cheese, Valais wine and now Swiss gherkins and onions. ‘We are very proud to associate our HUGO pickle with a destination such as Verbier, which represents so well the Swiss culture, being both known for gastronomy and sporty’;  according to Olivier Camille, CEO of Reitzel, HUGO’s parent company located in Aigle in the canton of Vaud.
A new ambassador : To emphasise the importance of gherkins in any good raclette, Verbier asked Hugo if the gherkin wanted to become its first ambassador for gastronomy; a position immediatley accepted, of course. Simon Wiget, director of Verbier Tourism, is excited for this holiday destination: “Are you seriously asking me if a gherkin can become an official ambassador for Verbier-Val de Bagnes-La Tzoumaz? Listen, here, raclette is sacred. So everything that touches her in any way is also touching. Obviously, HUGO will be an excellent ambassador: it has everything it takes to become an exceptional accompaniment ‘.
Local and raclette ambassador Eddy Baillifard has already adopted HUGO: “You see, at first, I thought it wasn’t going to be easy to learn how to live with a pickle. But the contact was easy and it must be said that it tastes good, when it comes to raclette too. That’s why I decided to take him under my wing, until he could fly alone’.
Plenty of opportunities to see him again in VerbierADVERTISEMENTTo launch this partnership between the “Capital of Raclette” and the “King of the Swiss Pickle”, it will be possible to follow HUGO on Verbier’s Inatagram, on the slopes of the ski area.  And what will he do about it? Hugo will accompany of course.
As an ambassador, HUGO will be present regularly in Verbier and the Val de Bagnes for all kinds of activities in the coming months. He has already left a small gift on the Verbier site: a raclette calculator to know the quantities of each product to be taken according to the number of guests and their appetite. HUGO is already making a name for itself on Verbier’s communication networks and on less orthodox channels… Who says a pickle can’t love?

HUGO: HUGO, the real Swiss pickle! Since 1909, the Reitzel company, named after its founder, has preciously preserved its know-how in Aigle. The HUGO brand has helped revive the gherkin industry in Switzerland and works closely with its producers to ensure local and sustainable agriculture. And finally put in a locally made jar! HUGO products include a wide range of condiments made with ingredients of Swiss origin; pickles, mayonnaise, mustards, chilli sauces and salad dressings.
Verbier: The Verbier-Val de Bagnes-La Tzoumaz destination offers more than 300 km² of pistes to its visitors with six diverse and varied villages. Verbier the cosmopolitan, Le Châble the accessible, Haut Val de Bagnes the wild, Bruson the authentic, Vollèges the discreet or La Tzoumaz the family, everyone has their own base camp to then enjoy a total immersion in Bagnard land! Here, skiing in all its forms has found its footing with the 4 Valleys, the largest ski area in Switzerland and a plethora of mythical slopes and peaks to climb and descend. The art of living, whether it is tinged with authenticity or on trend eateries, is gaining notority with fabulous gastronomy.

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As we start the new year, your thoughts might be turning towards what goals you’d like to achieve…
If adventure, travel and life-changing experiences are on your lust list but you don’t know where to start, maybe all you need to do is follow the stars…
With a whole world to explore it can be tough to narrow down the best travel destination to suit your heart’s desire.
So to save you spending hours online researching, WeRoad a group travel operator for millennials, have partnered with renowned psychic and astrologer Inbaal Honigman to match you with the best destinations based on your star sign’s personality traits.
Inbaal, who has starred on TV’s Big Brother’s Little Brother and worked as Elle magazine’s resident astrologer for X years says: “We all look for different things when we travel. WeRoad have over 200 bespoke itineraries to choose from, helping would-be travellers to pick an adventure that best suits their personality.ADVERTISEMENT“Using astrology is one fun way to streamline your choice. “Every star sign has unique traits, and with one in three Brits now turning to horoscopes for advice, there’s no better way to match personalities with destinations than by using horoscopes.
“To help you plan your next getaway, I’ve worked with WeRoad, to find the best destinations for the earth, water, fire and air signs alongside 12 bespoke destinations that pair brilliantly with each of the 12 star signs.”
WeRoad organises on-the-road, group trips to over 200 destinations across the world. All trips are led by a Travel Coordinator, depart all year round and are made up of a small group of travellers, who are all of a similar age range and share the same interests and passions, with the brand’s new astrology-based recommendations add another fun way of choosing your next adventure.
WeRoad UK’s Marketing Manager, Justyna Chlopecka, said: “At WeRoad, we’re all about creating bespoke connections between people and cultures, whether that’s a bracing icy climb, a desert stay or finding yourself in Bali, we’ve got different destinations for different personalities.
“It’s crucial for solo travellers that their trip aligns with their preferences, personality and traits. Horoscopes can be a fun and interesting tool to help determine the ideal location for solo travellers – who knows, your next trip may be written in the stars.”
Inbaal says typically Fire signs like Aries, Leo and Sagittarius love to overcome physical challenges when they travel.
Climbing a gravelly mountain or exploring an ancient cobbled route would be best. They love moving fast and need a lot of stimulation.
Whereas water signs like Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces are happy so long as there is a lake, an ocean or a waterfall as a backdrop for their travels.
Air signs like Gemini, Libra and Aquarius will just get an idea for a destination and go for it, their favourite trips can be anywhere, the thought just has to occur to them and then they’ll set about making it happen. Individualistic and sociable, they love meeting new people on their travels.
Earth signs like Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn love the dry heat of the desert. Rocks, sand, cliffs, they enjoy views that remind them of how small we all are on this planet. They’re happy to go solo so that they can choose each little twist and turn off their trip.
Inbaal’s travel tips by star sign if you want to explore the world in 2024:
Aries Life is non-stop for those born under the sign of the Ram. There isn’t much that they haven’t explored, but they’d like to see so much more yet. Aries say yes to any physical challenges, and are bouncy and active every hour of the day or night. Their perfect destination will have many sporting activities to choose from, vast spaces to explore, and hopefully loud music. Mexico, with its vibrant culture and versatile landscape, is the ideal destination for Aries.
Taurus The ultimate foodies of the zodiac, only the finest will do for those born under the sign of the Bull. They are open to innovations, but they also know what they like, in a posh restaurant or a street stall. Taurus likes to feel comfortable and appreciate five-star travels, making use of any spa or games room on the premises.  They understand that the best beauty spots require effort, so they’ll go on a four-hour hilltop track to get to a stunning view, but there better be a good coffee shop when they get there. Vietnam, with its delicious cuisine and affordable luxury, is the ideal destination for Taurus. They’ll love the hospitality of the locals, the breathtaking views and competitive prices for wellness treatments.
Gemini The party never stops for those born under the sign of the Twins. Sociable and friendly, the thing they value most when they travel is an opportunity to meet new people. They appreciate any interactive pastime – games, sports, dancing and organised challenges. Miami, with its busy nightlife and rainbow of nationalities, is the ideal destination for Gemini. They’ll enjoy the full and busy party vibe and the water parks and marketplaces, not to mention reclining on a sun lounger and chatting with strangers all day long.
Cancer Shared experiences are the essence of life for those born under the sign of the Crab, and they’ll take someone special with them even on a solo trip. Sensitive and caring, their happiest moments are with the people they love, no matter the climate. Whether they’re relaxing at a spa or sharing a cocktail together for hours, Cancer cares about the memories made together, and not about where or what. Their perfect destination will not be too busy so that they can focus on the people that matter, and give their full attention to them. That’s why Slovenia, with its rolling hills and peaceful views, is the ideal destination for Cancer. They’ll adore the picturesque views, where the atmosphere will allow them to truly relax.
Leo Finding new ways to shine is the never-ending goal of those born under the sign of the Lion. Proud and capable, they’re willing to experiment with all sorts of ideas for having fun. Before Leo tries a new skill, they’re almost certain they’ll ace it, but they’re not disheartened if they don’t. They could be riding a camel through the desert or abseiling into a cave, and they’ll feel exhilarated by getting out of their comfort zone. Their perfect destination will allow them to combine those moments of personal greatness, with some downtime that’s pure luxury, like a personal chef or a couple’s massage. Western Australia, with its combination of adrenaline-rush activities and top-level hospitality, is the ideal destination for Leo. They can’t get enough of the dreamy locations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Virgo Organised and neat, the Virgo traveller will want to visit places of culture and history and will try and find little-known facts about the area. Virgo has a love of exploring, and they’ll peek behind the tourist streets, finding side roads and markets visited only by those in the know. Their perfect destination is one that allows them to explore uninterrupted and has an abundance of crumbling temples and ancient features. Italy, with its adorable side streets and characterful markets, gives Virgo plenty of cobbled miles to walk. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to see the link between history, culture and architecture.
Libra Travellers born under the sign of the Scales need a destination that’s graceful and pleasant to explore. Elegant and quiet, Libras go on holiday to find peace, not to train for a triathlon, and want to feel like every day is a creative and joyous haven of happiness. Stunning sightseeing and gorgeous architecture – Libra doesn’t ask for more than that. Bali’s temples, corals and resorts make the island the ideal destination for Libra. Every view is attractive, and every beach is suited for peaceful meditation.
Scorpio Travels off the beaten track are the only way to go for those born under the sign of the Scorpion. Intense and mysterious, Scorpios tread the fine line between fire and water. A passionate sign, ruled by the red planet Mars, Scorpio is nonetheless a watery creature. Their fiery aspect is looking for a holiday in the desert, hiking through canyons and sweating on safari. Their perfect destination will offer both. An oasis, a sea in the desert, a waterfall on the edge of a red-hot cliff. Jordan’s desert tracks leading to the Dead Sea are a Scorpio’s dream. Fire and water, ancient and modern; a unique destination for avid explorers.
Sagittarius Any trip is a welcome holiday when it comes to those born under the sign of the Archer. Free-spirited and curious, Sagittarians are never caught without a passport in their back pocket, just in case the opportunity to board a plane should arise. They love to go away, and sometimes forget to come back. Sagittarians enjoy anything and everything on vacation, from cheesy cocktails to sophisticated dinners with royalty. From splashing in the pool to hiking in fields. They’re not choosy, as long as it’s fun, friendly and filled with experiences. Brazil is a country as free-spirited as they are. Sagittarians will feel right at home mingling with locals in charming neighbourhoods and the main attractions of the capital, Rio de Janeiro.
Capricorn Luxury is the name of the game for those born under the sign of the sea goat. Magnanimous and hard-working, Capricorns like to work hard and play hard. They don’t want to work on vacation, they want their vacation to work for them. Capricorns get on that plane and want to completely switch off, so anything and anyone who can help them relax is required on board – a beautician, a wellness coach, some tour guides offering champagne. The focus is on having an amazing time while making no effort at all. Their perfect destination will have a 24-hour concierge service and cuisine from any continent on earth. Japan can provide a holiday that’s pure luxury, while still being an extremely unique experience. Capricorns will love trying something new, preferably in the most modern of luxe settings.
Aquarius Learning and growing is an Aquarian’s lifetime quest, and when they travel, the learning doesn’t stop. Intellectual pursuits are at the heart of travel for those born under the sign of the Water-bearer, and they want their brains engaged while their eyes enjoy the sights. For an Aquarius, a new experience is not limited to just enjoyment, there are new things to learn behind every interaction. Their thirst for knowledge is second-to-none and their passion to experience all about a new culture can drive them, map in hand, to the ends of the earth. Their perfect destination will be very unlike anything they know, with vegetation, culture and religion different to their own. Sri Lanka may be the ideal holiday spot for an Aquarian. Much to learn, much to explore, and everything is different to anywhere else.
Pisces Romantic Pisces is a water sign and therefore loves anything to do with water. A cruise, a canal-side walk, an underwater observatory or white water rafting are all favourite options for those born under the sign of the Fish. Pisces enjoy getting to know people and learning their language, so they’ll find their way to the grittiest of local bars. Their perfect destination will be easy-going and warm, with waterways and wet options that they can explore multiple times a day. Amalfi Coast is a setting that’s more water than land. Pisces will feel absolutely catered for.
Justyna added: “WeRoad has been reinventing group travel for millennials since 2017 and is one of the fastest-growing travel operators in Europe, we have offices in Italy, Spain, the UK, France and Germany. “With the strength of over 2,000 coordinators, WeRoad has helped over 100,000 travellers discover the world and make new friends, whatever their star sign!”
To learn more about WeRoad visit https://www.weroad.co.uk/

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