Veteran travel advisors provide tips and strategies on how to tap into this thriving market. 
TRAVEL AGENT  CLAUDETTE COVEY











Multi-generational family group playing in the surf. (Photo via iStock / Getty Images Plus / Wavebreakmedia) The multigenerational family market is – without a doubt – thriving, and in large part thanks to the pandemic.
“Multigenerational family travel was popular before the pandemic, and now it is booming,” said JoAnne Weeks, vacation division manager at Acendas Travel. “Families who are stretched all over the country haven’t seen one another much in the last two years, and this is evident with the flooding of new travel requests.”
“I am seeing demand starting to increase as families want and need to get away after the last two years,” said Chris Caulfield, owner of a CruiseOne franchise. “As protocols are eliminated, it will make travel easier, and the demand for multigenerational family groups will skyrocket.”
“The crazy thing we are experiencing is an availability issue,” said VIP Vacations President Jennifer Doncsecz. “Many resorts and hotels are full or approaching being sold out. If there is availability, we are finding that rates are higher than most expect.”
Here are some tips to help you boost your multigenerational family group business.
Targeting Decision Makers
“Always make sure you are working with the person in charge,” Weeks said. “You may think you are, but be sure, and don’t be afraid to ask. This will be a time saver and will hopefully help avoid a lot of confusion.”
In some cases, it’s one of the adult children who begins the research process, “but you need to find out who is the driving force, and who is paying for everything,” Weeks said.
“It’s usually Grandma or Grandpa. They are the ones you need to be qualifying,” she added. “Then find out how much they are funding, and what else is left ‘a la carte’ for the kids to pay for.”
 
 
Collecting Fees
“While these groups are quite lucrative, they are also a lot of work,” Weeks said. “I usually require a flat custom service fee based on how many travelers, and how in-depth their itinerary is. Collect it towards the end of your initial consultation once you have established your knowledge and expertise, and definitely before any information is given out freely.”
Doncsecz begins the qualifying process by ascertaining how many rooms the group believes it needs and what price point they are aiming for.
“Many tour operators offer promotions for rooms that are linked together so we share the type of perks certain hotels/resorts will provide if they have ‘x’ amount of rooms booked and explain how this is a great way to link people together and earn fun perks,” she said.
“I ask my clients what types of experiences they want on their cruise,” Caulfield said. “Destination is also key in selecting options.”
He recommended that advisors keep up to date on promotions like Kids Sail Free, which are advantageous to multigenerational groups. “In addition, whether cruise or land, make sure you are familiar with the options that cater to families.”
Setting Expectations
“I am on a mission to get rid of the perception that ‘deals’ are out there. Deals were out there in January of 2021, but consumers should not be on the hunt for them,” Doncsecz said. “As travel advisors, we should be setting the expectation of pricing upfront before a quote is even prepared.
“Demand plus supply chain issues plus higher gas prices equals higher costs to travel!
“After setting the tone for costs and going over their budget requests, I ask if everyone traveling has a passport, reminding adults that childrens’ passports are only valid for five years.
“I ask about the makeup of each family and the room configurations – families of five many times need to split into two rooms, which can be pricey,” she said.
“I also ask for the contact information for each of the families that have expressed interest so that the lead person doesn’t have to be the go-between.
“Finally, I include travel insurance with each quote so they can travel with peace of mind!”
Knowing Your Stuff
“Familiarize yourself with the more mainstream family-friendly destinations, resorts and or cruise lines,” Weeks said. “You need to know more than the consumer does going into it.”
She added, “Think outside the box. Don’t forget there are river cruise lines out there promoting to families now. There are villas in Costa Rica, African safaris and luxury small-group family tours offered all over the globe.”
What's Booking
Multigenerational family groups are setting their sights on cruise vacations, all-inclusive resorts and such destinations as Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Hawaii.
“Families want a trip where there is something for everyone to do individually and as a group,” said Chris Caulfield of CruiseOne. “Ships today have so many activities and features that are ideal for multigenerational vacations.”
JoAnne Weeks of Acendas Travel is also finding that multigenerational groups are interested in cruise vacations, with Alaska sailings and cruise tours gaining in popularity.
“There are families that still want to stay closer to home but are finding out once they figure in hotel cost, resort fees, rental cars, gas pricing, parking fees, food and activities, it’s a better value to head to Mexico,” she said, adding that all-inclusive resorts and Hawaii are also proving popular.
“Disney is a big seller and Florida in general is hot,” said VIP Vacations’ Doncsecz. “Cancun and Punta Cana are also destinations that we are booking for families.”

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by Daniel McCarthy / July 26, 2022
Princess Cruises on Tuesday announced that it was making a number of adjustments to some scheduled Alaska itineraries because of the recent decision to close a berth at Skagway, Alaska by the White Pass Rail Road. 
The berth, which is the busiest cruise ship dock in Skagway, is reportedly at risk of a disastrous rockslide. A report by a geotechnical and environmental consulting firm, which took the research at the request of the municipality of Skagway, confirmed that risk.
The report, concludes that there is a “significant risk associated with complete failure” for the North Slide of the railroad dock in Skagway, which could produce catastrophic results for ships docked at the berth in Skagway. 
In light of the risk, White Pass Rail Road, the owner of one of the docks, made the decision to close the forward berth at the Railroad Dock, the main location where Princes Cruises’ Royal Class ships dock. In response, Princess is making a number of changes.
“The health and safety of our guests and crew are always our top priority and we appreciate and support this decision,” Princess said in a statement on Tuesday.
Here are the changes from Princess:

• Majestic Princess will now instead call on Icy Strait Point on Tuesday, July 26.
• Crown Princess will continue with its scheduled call in Skagway as it docks at a different Skagway pier, also on Tuesday, July 26.
• Royal Princess’ July 27 call, Discovery Princess’ July 28 call, and Grand Princess’ July 30 call will all be changed from Skagway to another port. Those details, Princes said, “are still being coordinated.”

“Princess will continue to work with officials from Skagway and the White Pass Rail Road to determine when scheduled calls can return,” it said.

​​More than 16,000 acres of pristine white sand beach and ocean bay area are now protected thanks to a deal made with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This area is home to endangered and endemic species as well as rare, culturally significant Native Hawaiian artifacts. Trust for Public land, a national non-profit land preservation group, purchased Pōhue Bay for more than $9.4 million funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and an important donation by the Wyss Foundation. It then transferred its ownership and surrounding land — from Māmalahoa Highway to the shoreline — to the National Park Service so it will be preserved.
“Aloha ʻāina begins with our commitment to preserving our islands’ precious natural and cultural systems,” said Lea Hong, associate vice president and Hawaiian Islands state director for Trust for Public Land. “We are grateful the National Park Service will steward the area with the community, ensuring the history, culture, and natural beauty of this place are protected for future generations.” 

More than 16,000 acres of pristine white sand beach and ocean bay area are now protected thanks to a deal made with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This area is home to endangered and endemic species as well as rare, culturally significant Native Hawaiian artifacts. Trust for Public land, a national non-profit land preservation group, purchased Pōhue Bay for more than $9.4 million funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and an important donation by the Wyss Foundation. It then transferred its ownership and surrounding land — from Māmalahoa Highway to the shoreline — to the National Park Service so it will be preserved.
“Aloha ʻāina begins with our commitment to preserving our islands’ precious natural and cultural systems,” said Lea Hong, associate vice president and Hawaiian Islands state director for Trust for Public Land. “We are grateful the National Park Service will steward the area with the community, ensuring the history, culture, and natural beauty of this place are protected for future generations.” 
Pohue Bay Project plan
PHOTO CREDIT: TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND
Pōhue BayPōhue Bay is a rare, idyllic oasis in a rugged landscape. It’s the only white sand beach for many tens of miles in the rugged district of Kaʻū on Hawaii Island. Generations of local residents visit to surf, fish, dive, and reconnect with nature and culture. It’s home to endangered hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other species found only in Hawaii. The area houses anchialine ponds — landlocked pools with a mix of fresh and salt water — where rare Hawaiian red shrimp called ʻōpaeʻula live.
The area is also culturally significant because it holds remains of ancient Hawaiian villages, petroglyphs dating from ancient times to the 19th century, a burial site, and the largest known abrader tool quarry in the state, according to the Trust for Public Land. Abraders are ancient tools used for sanding, smoothing, and grinding. A well-preserved portion of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, or Ala Loa, an ancient coastal trail system, hugs the coastline. All of these historic and invaluable cultural resources are now protected for future generations.
“Pōhue is an incredibly precious and culturally significant landscape that needs to be protected,” said Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. We are actively seeking community feedback to get a better understanding of the natural and cultural resources in the area. The park is working to develop an interim operating plan for Pōhue that explores opportunities for public use compatible with resource protection. We thank the community for your patience and for the manaʻo shared so far.”  
About Trust For Public LandSince 1979, Trust for Public Land has conserved more than 59,000 acres in Hawaii. The immediate priority is conserving lands that enhance trails and parks, protect food, forests, and water, and create opportunities for Hawaiian land stewardship. It works with local residents in safeguarding resources that are special and significant to their communities.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes. Both are located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most of the coastline where the bay is located is made of ancient lava flows, black rock, and sea cliffs that dart out into the ocean.
Credit: ALLISON GODLOVe – Travel News
Allison loves learning about new people and places and always jumps at the chance to take a trip. Whether it's visiting a town in her area or traveling across the country, she's up to explore!


​
Pohue Bay Project plan
PHOTO CREDIT: TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND
Pōhue BayPōhue Bay is a rare, idyllic oasis in a rugged landscape. It’s the only white sand beach for many tens of miles in the rugged district of Kaʻū on Hawaii Island. Generations of local residents visit to surf, fish, dive, and reconnect with nature and culture. It’s home to endangered hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other species found only in Hawaii. The area houses anchialine ponds — landlocked pools with a mix of fresh and salt water — where rare Hawaiian red shrimp called ʻōpaeʻula live.
The area is also culturally significant because it holds remains of ancient Hawaiian villages, petroglyphs dating from ancient times to the 19th century, a burial site, and the largest known abrader tool quarry in the state, according to the Trust for Public Land. Abraders are ancient tools used for sanding, smoothing, and grinding. A well-preserved portion of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, or Ala Loa, an ancient coastal trail system, hugs the coastline. All of these historic and invaluable cultural resources are now protected for future generations.
“Pōhue is an incredibly precious and culturally significant landscape that needs to be protected,” said Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. We are actively seeking community feedback to get a better understanding of the natural and cultural resources in the area. The park is working to develop an interim operating plan for Pōhue that explores opportunities for public use compatible with resource protection. We thank the community for your patience and for the manaʻo shared so far.”  
About Trust For Public LandSince 1979, Trust for Public Land has conserved more than 59,000 acres in Hawaii. The immediate priority is conserving lands that enhance trails and parks, protect food, forests, and water, and create opportunities for Hawaiian land stewardship. It works with local residents in safeguarding resources that are special and significant to their communities.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes. Both are located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most of the coastline where the bay is located is made of ancient lava flows, black rock, and sea cliffs that dart out into the ocean.
Credit: ALLISON GODLOVe – Travel News
Allison loves learning about new people and places and always jumps at the chance to take a trip. Whether it's visiting a town in her area or traveling across the country, she's up to explore!

​​More than 16,000 acres of pristine white sand beach and ocean bay area are now protected thanks to a deal made with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. This area is home to endangered and endemic species as well as rare, culturally significant Native Hawaiian artifacts. Trust for Public land, a national non-profit land preservation group, purchased Pōhue Bay for more than $9.4 million funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and an important donation by the Wyss Foundation. It then transferred its ownership and surrounding land — from Māmalahoa Highway to the shoreline — to the National Park Service so it will be preserved.
“Aloha ʻāina begins with our commitment to preserving our islands’ precious natural and cultural systems,” said Lea Hong, associate vice president and Hawaiian Islands state director for Trust for Public Land. “We are grateful the National Park Service will steward the area with the community, ensuring the history, culture and , and natural beauty of this place are protected for future generations.” 


Pohue Bay Project plan
PHOTO CREDIT: TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND
Pōhue BayPōhue Bay is a rare, idyllic oasis in a rugged landscape. It’s the only white sand beach for many tens of miles in the rugged district of Kaʻū on Hawaii Island. Generations of local residents visit to surf, fish, dive, and reconnect with nature and culture. It’s home to endangered hawksbill sea turtles, green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and other species found only in Hawaii. The area houses anchialine ponds — landlocked pools with a mix of fresh and salt water — where rare Hawaiian red shrimp called ʻōpaeʻula live.
The area is also culturally significant because it holds remains of ancient Hawaiian villages, petroglyphs dating from ancient times to the 19th century, a burial site, and the largest known abrader tool quarry in the state, according to the Trust for Public Land. Abraders are ancient tools used for sanding, smoothing, and grinding. A well-preserved portion of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, or Ala Loa, an ancient coastal trail system, hugs the coastline. All of these historic and invaluable cultural resources are now protected for future generations.
“Pōhue is an incredibly precious and culturally significant landscape that needs to be protected,” said Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh. We are actively seeking community feedback to get a better understanding of the natural and cultural resources in the area. The park is working to develop an interim operating plan for Pōhue that explores opportunities for public use compatible with resource protection. We thank the community for your patience and for the manaʻo shared so far.”  
About Trust For Public LandSince 1979, Trust for Public Land has conserved more than 59,000 acres in Hawaii. The immediate priority is conserving lands that enhance trails and parks, protect food, forests, and water, and create opportunities for Hawaiian land stewardship. It works with local residents in safeguarding resources that are special and significant to their communities.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two of the world’s largest and most active volcanoes. Both are located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Most of the coastline where the bay is located is made of ancient lava flows, black rock, and sea cliffs that dart out into the ocean.
​
Credit: ALLISON GODLOVe – Travel News
Allison loves learning about new people and places and always jumps at the chance to take a trip. Whether it's visiting a town in her area or traveling across the country, she's up to explore!

Vasco Cotovio and Alex Hardie, CNN • Updated 18th July 2022




​
​(CNN) — One of the United Kingdom's largest airports suspended flights on Monday after high temperatures damaged a runway. Temperatures soared up to 37 degrees Celsius (about 99 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country.
London Luton Airport announced the situation via Twitter and updated its status when the airport resumed operations on Monday evening.
An "essential runway repair" was required "after high surface temperatures caused a small section to lift," the airport said on Twitter.
Full operations resumed just after 6 p.m. in London.
Luton Airport's announcement came hours after the Royal Air Force (RAF) paused all flights to and from Brize Norton, its biggest air base, in Oxfordshire after a report from Sky News suggested that the runway had "melted"
The UK Ministry of Defence tweeted a statement on flights at Brize Norton on Monday afternoon.
"During this period of extreme temperature flight safety remains the RAF's top priority, so aircraft are using alternative airfields in line with a long-established plan. This means there is no impact on RAF operations," the statement said.
Meanwhile, both Network Rail and Transport for London (TfL) have advised passengers against travel on Monday and Tuesday, unless for "essential journeys," because of the hot weather. Train speed restrictions have also been introduced to protect railway tracks.
On Friday, the UK's Met Office issued its first ever "red" warning for extreme heat for Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures predicted to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country.
The Luton Airport shutdown is the latest incident in a turbulent summer for UK travel that's seen thousands of flights canceled, huge security queues and countless reports of delayed or lost baggage.
Last week, Heathrow Airport announced a 100,000 a day passenger cap until September 11 and asked airlines to stop selling tickets for travel this summer as it struggles to deal with high demand and staffing shortages.
Top image: Empty check-in desks at London Luton Airport. (Dinendra Haria/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Images)

Whether Japan is brand new to your ski-trip radar or it’s been on your vacation bucket list for a while, traveling to a completely new part of the world can feel a little daunting, no matter how adventurous you consider yourself. A ski vacation to Japan is a markedly different experience than just about anywhere else in the world, and that’s a huge part of the draw—in addition to the epic amount of snowfall the region receives. Couple that with Ski.com’s extensive experience both booking trips, and guiding our own trip to Hokkaido each year, and we can almost assure an unforgettable trip that is definitely a far cry from anything you’ve seen or skied before.
To clear the air on what it takes to make your Japan ski dreams a reality, we’ve compiled 7 things to focus on as you book your ski or snowboard vacation to the mountains of Hokkaido or Hakuba.

The powder is often just as deep in Hakuba as it is in Hokkaido | Photo Credit: Jackson Lebsack1) IMPORTANT PRE-TRIP DETAILS

• • Conveniently, U.S. travelers do not have to worry about acquiring a visa nor paying an entry or departure tax.
  • To ensure the utmost in comfort, we recommend packing your own ski boots. However, if you’d prefer to leave your gear behind you can expect new and adequate ski and snowboard rental equipment at most ski resorts in Japan.
  • Japanese electrical outlets are the same as in the U.S. (110 voltage), but an adapter is always a good thing to pack in case of older plugs.
  • Be sure to bring a lot of cash with you, as many businesses and restaurants do not accept credit cards. To save yourself some money, order Yen from your local bank at least 24 hours in advance. Often, there’s no charge or the exchange fee is less than what you would pay in the airport. If you’re in need of cash once you’re there, all Japanese 7-11’s have ATMs.
  • Wi-Fi access and connectivity varies from hotel to hotel, so we recommend renting a local hot spot device from Japan Wireless. You can have it delivered to your hotel, so it’s waiting upon arrival. When it’s time to leave, simply drop the hot spot in the mail box at the airport.
  • You’re going to need a AAA international driver’s license if you intend on driving in Japan. The Japanese drive on the left side and are generally slow drivers. Mountain driving conditions do exist in both Hokkaido and Hakuba.

2) WHEN TO VISIT
A Hokkaido ski vacation in January is perfect for powder hounds | Photo Credit: Alex Broadstock
A quiet January morning in Hakuba Valley | Photo Credit: Jackson Lebsack
Making turns beneath Mt Yotei | Photo Credit: Alex Broadstock
Overlooking the Hakuba Valley ski complex | Photo Credit: Jackson LebsackThe most popular time to visit Japan—especially for powderhounds—is January thanks to its proclivity to be extremely snowy. In fact, the month has been playfully coined “Japanuary” by the many hardcore skiers and snowboarders who have enjoyed its snowy bounty.
Related: Why Is There So Much Snow In Japan?
In addition, mid-December through the New Year can see a lot of holiday visitors from Australia, making lodging availability hard-pressed and more expensive. The time around the Chinese New Year also sees lots of crowds.
For quieter slopes and less expensive accommodations, we recommend visiting Japan in either early December, mid to late February, or March. The ski season in Japan is generally shorter than in the Western U.S., so you don’t want to go much later than late March
3) WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN TRAVELING
Those traveling business class on the Japanese Airline, ANA can enjoy a fresh Bento Box to shake off the jet lag. | Photo Credit: Karl BaronGetting to Japan may seem daunting since you’re traveling halfway around the world, but it’s much easier than you might think, especially lately. In fact, 11 major U.S. cities offer flights to Tokyo, and then it’s easy to hop on a bullet train to the Japanese Alps. If you’re skiing on the northern island of Hokkaido (which generally receives more snow), you’ll take another flight (just 1.5 hours) to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport. From there, the ski resorts are anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours away by bus, shuttle, or rental car. It’s also possible to fly into Asahikawa Airport for easier access to Furano.
4) WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE SLOPES
Looking across Rusutsu Resort at nearby Mt. Shiribetsu | Photo Credit: Jordan CuretMost resort base areas are located between 800 and 1,800 feet above sea level and rise to a top elevation of about 4,000 feet, so you won’t have to worry about elevation sickness in Japan. In fact, you can see the Sea of Japan from Rusutsu. Japan has some of the snowiest winters on the planet due to icy blasts of cold air converging over the Sea of Japan. If you’re not powder hungry, don’t fret. You can also enjoy plenty of green and blue slopes that are regularly groomed.
Most of the resort terrain and even much of the sidecountry and backcountry terrain is actually quite gentle. You won’t find steeps or couloirs like that of Jackson Hole, but you will find breathtaking birch glades bedecked in a blanket of powder that is often chest deep. Be sure to bring or rent fat skis.
If tree skiing in Japan is high on your list, make sure you check beforehand that the resort allows it. A couple resorts, like Furano, don’t allow tree skiing.

Skiing the trees at Niseko, Moiwa | Photo: Jordan CuretMogul skiing or “zipperlines” as they’re referred to in Japan are immensely popular among Japanese skiers so there’s no shortage of runs to rip bumps. It’s actually an excellent place to try out moguls for the first time or perfect your technique, as most zipperlines are narrow and flanked by groomed terrain. Unlike many mogul runs in North America, you almost always have the option to bail out if you get tired.
In Japan, chairlifts with hoods are plentiful and a much-appreciated feature on a snowy day—of which there are many. However, there aren’t too many high-speed quads.
Backcountry and sidecountry skiing in Japan are very prominent and accessible. Most resorts have designated gates where adventurous skiers and snowboarders can leave the resort boundary to enjoy untracked powder stashes. If your Japan powder pursuits lay out-of-bounds, we highly recommend asking your Ski.com Mountain Vacation Specialist about hiring a professional guide to ensure safety, prevent getting lost, and quickly and easily locate the best terrain and snow. Some top excursions include exploring the stunning Mount Yōtei, the inactive stratovolcano that looms above Niseko and Rusutsu.

Night skiing at Niseko’s Grand Hirafu | Photo Credit: Jordan CuretAnother atypical ski experience possible in Japan is night skiing. Most Japanese ski resorts keep the bull wheel running after the sun sets and it’s something not to be missed. Big fluorescent lights illuminate the slopes and allow you to see where you’re going. The bright lights combined with a snowstorm provide an even more stunning effect. Often, you’ll see festive Japanese locals donning glow-in-the-dark duds.
5) WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE VILLAGES
Ramen doesn’t get much more authentic than this | Photo Credit: Jackson LebsackJapan offers a range of ski-resort experiences from traditional to Westernized and everything in between. At Niseko you can expect a world-class resort experience akin to some of North America’s best, while at Rusutsu and Kiroro you’re treated to no-frills base areas and an authentic Japanese atmosphere. For a quiet escape that puts you near 100-plus restaurants in an authentic Japanese town, Furano is a great choice. Across the board, the nightlife is generally non-existent or subdued, however, Niseko’s Gran Hirafu village is renowned for its excellent dining scene, which features traditional and international cuisine.
When it comes to international and fusion-style dining, particularly in Niseko, you can expect similarities to what you might experience in the U.S. and Europe. If you’re looking to eat like a local, you’re going to be slurping a lot of ramen. And when we say “slurp” we mean it. Slurping is, in fact, the proper way to eat ramen. The noodles will become mushy if left in the hot broth for more than five minutes, so you’re supposed to eat the bowl as soon as it’s delivered and not stop until you’re finished.

A stop at one of the nearby temples is mandatory for those looking for some culture wedged between skiing deep powder | Photo Credit: Alex BroadstockMiso ramen is native to Hokkaido–each region of Japan has its own style of ramen—and includes wheat noodles in a meat- or fish-based soup broth with toppings such as pork, dried seaweed, green onions, bean sprouts, and cabbage. Many other types of ramen are available, but this is the most prevalent option in Hokkaido. Most travelers find that the hearty, delicious soup-like meal is perfect after a day on the slopes. Pair it with a cold, locally made Sapporo Classic beer and you’re in Japanese dining heaven. Sushi, is of course, also available at most restaurants and out-of-this-world thanks to the proximity to the ocean.
6) WHAT TO EXPECT IN TERMS OF PRICEEveryone from ski bums on a shoestring to those seeking high-end digs and fine dining has options on a Japan ski trip. Due to popularity and an influx of new, luxury accommodations, Niseko is considered to be the most high-end destination in Japan. On the whole, the other ski-trip components are quite reasonably priced. Lift tickets are around ¥5,000 or $48 USD and equipment rental packages are also in that ballpark. On-mountain dining in Japan will feel like a steal when compared to Europe and North American. You can enjoy a delicious lunch for ¥600 to ¥1,500 or $5 to $14 USD. Dining out in the villages is also quite affordable. A bowl of ramen is around $9.50 USD.
7) WHAT TO EXPECT AT AN ONSEN
Jozankei Onsen. Photo: David McKelvey/FlickrPost-skiing hot tub sessions are a classic and beloved way for skiers and snowboarders to unwind at the end of the day. In Japan, onsens (hot-spring fed pools) serve that purpose, but like almost everything in the Land of the Rising Sun, they are steeped in tradition and ceremony.
The mineral-rich water is not only soothing on ski-weary muscles, but it also provides incredible health benefits. In fact, Hokkaido has long been a wellness destination for the Japanese. Some onsens in Hokkaido have been in operation since the 1860s. Now, even the modern hotels have their own onsens and provide their own onsen kits, which include a towel, comb, soap, and toiletries (in some cases).

There is no better post ski ritual than taking a daily dip in the onsen | Photo: Green Leaf Hotel
ONSEN ETIQUETTEIf you’re planning on visiting an onsen, which we highly recommend, here are some rules that must be followed:

• • Leave your bathing suit at home. Onsens are divided into male and female pools, which are separated by a wall. Note: some onsens are outdoors and those are called rotenboro.
  • Wash thoroughly in the washing area before entering the bath or pool. Be sure to use lots of soap and scrub with the wash towel.
  • When walking to the bath or pool you can use a towel for modesty, but before entering the pool, it must be set aside or on your head.
  • Be sure to ease into the water. Never splash or dive and never wring or wash the towel in the pool. Do not try to swim. The onsens are for quiet soaking and contemplation.
  • If you have tattoos, even small ones, you may be refused entry entirely. Tattoos are uncommon in Japan and indicate gangster ties. If possible, cover up your tattoos with waterproof bandages.