Where to actually BUY lift passes?

Hello,

I%26#39;ve in the process of booking a trip for some friends and myself and have just booked flights and accomodation.

Its only going to be a short trip from 28/01/09 to 01/02/09. I will be using worldski.com to book boards and boots, but I cannot find anywhere to actually buy the lift passes online.

I seem to find many references to the prices, but no indication of where to buy. Can you just buy when you are there? And will that be more expensive?

If anyone can help I would be most grateful!

Cheers

Jonny

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You can find out all about Pas on this great website:

http://www.grandvalira.com/

copied from the website, there are 3 areas you can by lift passes as follows:

TICKET OFFICES; Three sales points. One in the Costa Rodona building, on the road that comes down from the Envalira pass; recommended for those who don%26#39;t want to go into the town. Another in Font Negre, next to the TSD6 Font Negre, and the last in the services building, at the foot of the resort, where there is also the medical centre, information point and shops.

The services building is really obvious!

It also looks as though you can buy some lift passes from this site:

worldski.com/Pas-de-la-Casa-introduction.aspx

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Thanks - I have been to that site before, and have seen prices there, but never where to buy. Do you think that you could post a direct link, or maybe a description of how you navigated to the info.

I will be using worldski for equipment, and tried to book passes for the trip (End of Jan 09 for a few days) but I guess they only do a minimum of so many nights.

None of us have ever been before, so we dont know the normal procedure, is it okay to just turn up and get passes there on the day? Its not something that they will run out of right? And I guess you just have to pay - or do you usually need to bring any documents or anything before getting them.

I%26#39;d rather pre-book, as with 9 of us, its going to a hassle to co-ordintate everyone!

If you could send that link, that would be awesome.

Thanks in advance

Jonny

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Of COURSE you can just buy passes each day, in resort, from the lift stations. These days they will take a card, so you can pay direct out of your own account at home with Debit Card, or, if you want a bit more reassurance, Credit card. Like anywhere else in the world, CASH is always acceptable!!

You MIGHT need passport sized photo%26#39;s, it makes sense to have some with you just-in-case.

I HAVE experimented with both the sites I posted (as you can also buy passes on the Grandvalira site) but like you, can%26#39;t seem to be able to purchase any. Don%26#39;t panic though, it may just be that they have not set up to sell passes for this season so early, so it might pay you to keep trying.

Here%26#39;s the link to the pass buying page on Workdski, anyway:

worldski.com/Pas-de-la-Casa-lift-passes.aspx

I%26#39;m going to give a bit of a WARNING though:

The past few years, snow conditions in the Pyrenees have been quite variable, you might get to resort, and find that there%26#39;s no snow, so you can%26#39;t ski anyway!! (Although it has usually improved after Christmas!). IF you have already bought you passes %26amp; paid for ski hire etc, you will be well out of pocket, as it%26#39;s a good bet that none of this will be refundable. SO I suggest that you wait for a while anyway, and see what snow conditions are like in Pas over Christmas, before you wade in and buy a load of stuff. Alternatively, you could just buy in resort, there%26#39;s not a massive deal of difference in price anyway. (Unlike the Alpine resorts, where you can get massive discounts on ski hire %26amp; lift prices on-line)

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I%26#39;m pretty sure you don%26#39;t need photo%26#39;s for Pas ski passes any more because they%26#39;re RF ones i.e. you stick them in your pocket (left side!) and get through the gates to the lifts that way.

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weeangel, you are right, I remember now!!

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Removed on: 7:16 pm, October 10, 2009

Weather in Soldeu

I am planning a walking holiday in Soldeu in the last two weeks of July this year. Can anyone tell me what sort of weather to expect? Average temperatures would be helpful.

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We%26#39;ve had 2 summer hols in Soldeu (%26amp; 1 ski trip) and you can get quite a range of weather in Summer. We%26#39;ve had lovely warm days with a gentle breeze in the village and then up higher it will be cooler %26amp; breezier. We%26#39;ve had boiling hot days on the tops too. My advice pack a mix of short sleeve, long sleeve, shorts %26amp; trousers, fleeces/jumpers for cooler days walking %26amp; evenings. Don%26#39;t forget high factor sun cream (yes, really) %26amp; waterproofs (when it rains... it rains!). Probably not much help but mountain weather is hard to predict! We absolutely loved it (we rarely go anywhere twice!)

If you want to know about the place or where to go feel free to email me.

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Removed on: 1:26 am, September 01, 2009

Walking in Andorra

I am thinking of going to Andorra in 2007 I am not a great walker but love strolling around and looking at the wild flowers. Has anyone got any suggestions as to the best resort and time for this sort of holiday.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions

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We had two weeks in Andorra in June this year. If you love wild flowers, you will love Andorra in June. There are also many butterflies.

We had a week in Arinsal (Xalet Verdu hotel) and a week in Soldeu (Soldeu Maistre hotel). We booked a package through Inghams Lakes and Mountains, and would thoroughly recommend them. I would recommend the Xalet Verdu without hesitation, but we weren%26#39;t so keen on the Soldeu Maistre.

Walking in Arinsal area was more strenuous than in Soldeu. There are more opportunities for strolls, and more level walks in Soldeu, such as the nature walk along the valley edge, and walks along the Incles valley, but we loved the dramatic mountain scenery in Arinsal. If you go with Inghams, an English lady called Carol, who lives in Soldeu, operates a mini bus shuttle to various places during the week. This is great if you want lighter rambles or strolls. She will drop you off and pick you up at your choice of time.

Weather in Arinsal

Hi, we are going to Arinsal 25th March for a week.

Is there much snow yet?

We recently went for the Newyear, but there was very little snow.

Fingers crossed.

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Removed on: 6:19 pm, August 21, 2009

Lift passes

Good news for families!

Andorra is offering free lift passes to Under 14s booking a family holiday through the main tour operators.

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Is this true?

If so what does this mean to people that have already booked and paid for their holiday is there any chance of a refund from the tour operator? We have booked for Andorra in December 08 and have booked ski pack wich include a lift pass. There are three members of our group who are under 14, which would mean a sizeable saving. Does anyone have any more info on this?

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Yes it is true!

After reading an article about free lift passess in a magazine from my local dry slope and the post on this forum I contacted the travel company I had booked my trip with. They have refunded the money for the childrens lift passes, which included the 14 year olds pass. They split up the ski packs and took the cost of the pass off. It hasn%26#39;t saved us a great deal of money as directski.com offer a good deal on kids ski packs anyway but its £36 we wouldn%26#39;t have had if we hadn%26#39;t asked. Just make sure you contact your tour operator if you have already paid - I don%26#39;t think they would automatically give you a refund unless you ask them!

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Removed on: 10:17 am, October 08, 2009

skiing condition in Arinsal&pal

Hi

I am thinking about booking 1 week holiday in Arinsal %26amp;Pal in March 2009.

The prices for hotel+ flight +transfer are quite cheap.

Can you tell me if the skiing conditions are much worse than in Austria or Switzerland?or less possiblity of good quality ski route and ski lift?

Are there any hidden hints behind cheap price?

I would like to try sth new but prefer to spend few pounds more and to be sure of good quality skiing conditions rather than spending more days in Andorra pubs.

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Hi, snow reliability is some of the best in Andorra as most of the slopes are above 1900 m and is supplemented by plenty of snow cannons. But try to go as soon as you can in March (try to go before mid March).

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We went this year at the beginning of March, the first day was really hot and the snow a bit slushy. but then there was a huge dump of snow, which meant we couldn%26#39;t ski for a day because the weather was so bad, followed by two days of high winds and more snow, we lost two days to piste closure. However, as Arinsal is linked to Pal and Arcalis on your ski pass you can always get the ski bus or a taxi to either of these resorts on bad weather days. We did this one day and were pleasantly suprised that up in Pal the weather was glorious and had benefited from a fresh powder. Arcalis was the best skiing I have ever experienced and not to be missed, this was also great because of the fresh snow. So all in all Arinsal this year seemed to suffer from more snow than a lack of it! Just make sure you get good use of you Val Nord Lift pass.

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What was said about Arcalis is true, definately the best skiing in the region, but you would be better booking your own flights and car hire. Andorra is easy to dirve to from Barcelona, Girona or Reus in Spain or Toulouse or Perpignan in France. Each take around 3 hours.

If hiring a car I would suggest a station wagon or similar as it allows you to transport skis and boards. We leave ours in the car overnight as the crime rate is low in Andorra.

Eating and especially driking out is cheap, some of the hotels charge more than the bars.

If you want half board, the Palarine is great and an ideal location for all 3 parts of the vallnord area.

A bit of a walk into town (10 mins uphill) but no problem on the way back, especially after a few drinks.

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Removed on: 6:27 pm, October 11, 2009

Snow in 3 year Cycles?

Hi, we are planning a trip to Arinsal towards the end of next jan (09). Theres loads of comments about the snow and at that time of year it seems that the consensus view is that it will be so-so.

I was interested by the comments about 3 year snow cycles though. If these are true will next year be the last of the poor years or the first of the good ones?

Thanks

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if its true what they say then it should be a good year. I normally go in february and most runs are open. In the last two years march/april has been best for depth of snow

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Removed on: 6:29 pm, October 17, 2008


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Removed on: 9:19 pm, October 09, 2009

how much to take?!?!?!?!?

Hey guys

just in middle of moving flats and having to fork out for rent upfront,. admin charges etc and money has become really tight!!!!

how much do you think will be suitable for a holiday for the two of us. we are going for 7 days. should 500 pound be ok? we had planned for 750 pound EACH but due to having to fork out £1050.00 for rent and deposits and everything we are not left with much at all....gutted!

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Removed on: 6:18 pm, October 12, 2009

arinsal

just back from arinsal, snow is starting to thaw out there but still great fun to be had. snow boarding and the helicopter ride is must. best pub by far the irish bar called el derby which is run by twins darin and dean and they really made our holiday. big shout out to them from the waterford gang should anyone go in there

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Removed on: 12:20 pm, September 14, 2009

Something special

Hi,

My brother will be in Arinsal for his 1st wedding anniversay and I was hoping to arrange something special for them. I would love some suggestions.

Possibly a very romantic restaurant / helecopter ride / special excursion.

Thanks

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This is the official website for the area:

en.vallnord.com/actividades-activities.aspx

They list - Helicopter flights, mushing, snowmobiles amongst the available activities.

They also have a list of Restaurants under their %26#39;services%26#39; section.

I have been to Pas, but not to Arinsal myself, so can%26#39;t recommend any restaurants as such, but hope this link helps a bit.

Another suggestion, perhaps, is to send them to one of the Spas at Escaldes-Engordanay for a day of pampering??

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Removed on: 4:17 am, September 23, 2009

Spain to Andorra la Vella

Can anyone tell me how to get to Andorra from Santa Susanna in the Costa Brava by bus

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Removed on: 11:46 am, October 08, 2009

Which goggles?

Hi,

I have booked to go snow boarding next March and need some advice about eye protection/goggles.

I have never been snowboarding before and I thought it would be good to get some advice from %26#39;real%26#39; people, rather than possibly being ripped off by sales people in shops.

Any advice would be appreciated.

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I have just %26#39;retired%26#39; my much loved, much repaired 40 year old pair of Cebe goggles. With that track record, I have replaced them with a brand new, funky looking, mirrored lens set of..... Cebe goggles!

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Removed on: 10:39 am, November 13, 2008


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Removed on: 9:19 am, October 05, 2009

New Year in Arinsal

Hi, Could anybody recommend a really nice place to celebrate the new year in arinsal. We are a coming out on the 28th December 08 for 1 week there will be six of us and would like a nice meal on new years eve. Also do children need to wear helmets when they are skiing in the area. Thanks

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Hi skiriderexp and SkiddyA1,

I%26#39;d like to welcome you both to the TripAdvisor forums.

SkiddyA1, glad to see that you%26#39;ve already gotten some good advice about your upcoming ski trip.

And skiriderexp, thanks for taking the time to share this information. We appreciate your help.

I hope that you both enjoy using this forum, and that you find it to be a valuable resource for your travels.

Best regards,

TA_MikeW

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Removed on: 2:17 am, October 14, 2009

snowboarding

can snowboarders use the same slopes as skiers, or are they separated?

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Unfortunately there is nowhere in Europe, that I know of, where snowboarders are kept off the slopes !

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i%26#39;v just got back from Arinsal skiing %26amp; my husband snowboards, we were together the whole time. There is a few freestyle parks which was mainly snowboarders.

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Yes they can. Unfortunately there is nowhere in Europe that I know of where skiers are kept off the slopes.

Just a little tongue-in-cheek riposte to the earlier comment regarding boarders.

I ski and board, I don%26#39;t understand this animosity from one %26#39;camp%26#39; towards the %26#39;other%26#39;. I%26#39;ve seen just as many newbie skiers sitting in the middle of the slope as I have boarders.

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Removed on: 8:20 am, October 14, 2009

skiing in andorra xmas and new year

Any tips for newbies to skiing? Looking at Arsinal as it seems more child friendly. But does anyone know where you can check weather from previous yrs? I dont fancy going and there is no snow! We are a married couple with a 2 1/2 yr old son. Any tips or other suggestions gratefully received.

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Check out www.igluski.com

The site has useful info on all of the popular ski resorts and provides details of snowfall throughout the last few winter seasons.

The site shows that Soldeu had good snowfall last year but the year before was quite poor in comparison.

Soldeu has lots of snow making machines now so you should be able to ski regardless of the amount of natural snowfall.

Hope this helps

Jay

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Removed on: 12:28 pm, November 06, 2008


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Also check ou t the skiclub uk site, they have historic data for most of the popular resorts.

I%26#39;ve not been to Arinsal recently but have I have been to Soldeu/El Tarter twice each winter for 4 out of the last 5 years with a young child.

I would not hestiate to recomend these resorts to you, we first took our son when he was 2. Each area has a creche/ kiddy ski school just near to the gondala exit points half was up the mountain. Child care is 1st class and the children can play indoors, outdoors in a safe snow garden or take ski lessons in a secure area ( from age 3 I think ). We have used the facilities several times.

The Adult Ski School is also excellent with many native English speaking instructors.

Full information on all the facilities can be found on Grandvalira.com.

If you need anything else please ask, there are several people who visit this site who have excellent knowledge of the area.

cheers.

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www.grandvalira.com/gv/main.aspx…

Will give details of prices etc.

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Removed on: 12:19 pm, November 11, 2008


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Removed on: 1:18 pm, October 07, 2009

From Nice to Andorra la Vella

Hello,

We will be going to Nice. From there we want to go to Andorra de Vella. We want to go by train and bus. Can you go from Marseille to Andorra to some train station and than continue by bus ?(would last 10 hours (www.bahn.de). Or is it better to go to Toulouse and than take the bus or train and bus ?

Any suggestions ?

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Train to Toulouse then bus to Andorra.

We did Nice to Andorra via Perpignan

in about 8 hours by car.

Rob

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Removed on: 5:17 pm, October 14, 2009

Andorra - Encamp

I am staying in a rented apartment in Encamp 27th Dec 08 - 1st Jan 09, for 4 days of sking, 4 of us all of a intermediate standard. I have skied at Pals, Acralis, and Arinsal previously, but this will be the 1st time in the Grandvalira region.

Is it best to get the gondala from Encamp and then ski to the various resorts of Soldeu/Pas de la Casa (can you ski into El Tarter/Canillo ?)enjoy some apre ski and get the ski bus back to Encamp, is there any apre ski life in Encamp ?

Has Encamp any good bars with music, or do we need to travel into Soldeu ? Does anyone know approx cost of a cab.

Also looking for good venue bar/restuarant to go on New Years Eve, any reccomendations, will we need to book.

Are the lifts all working on New Year Eve/Day.

Thanks

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www.grandvalira.com/gv/main.aspx…

The fab Grandvalira website tells all, and has an interactive piste map.

On there, you will see that the ONLY way to get from Encamp to the ski areas is to take the Gondola, there are no other lifts at Encamp. However, once at the top of the Gondola, the whole Grandvalira area opens up for you. There are buses that go around the resorts, but you need to check up on that for certain when you get there. You don%26#39;t want to get trapped, miles away from Encamp at the end of the day as taxis can be notoriously expensive in ski resort areas!

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Stayed in Encamp last year for 4 days skiing. The funicamp is excellent but we found going to El Tartar or Soldeu a one way ski experience as the return lift CORTALS was closed .

We ended up skiing to Canillo and waiting for a bus that never came. After 1 1/2 hours wait until 7pm 4 of our party of 12 ( which had 6 children) forced our way onto a bus, returned to Encamp and drove back for the others.

Going towards Grau Roig seems a better option.

Plan your skiing well before hand. Do not rely on taxis (non existant) or Buses ( none available for skiers only workers).

Going back to Encamp this year on 31st so skiing good.

No experience of night life as we stayed in our accomodation.

DO NOT RELY ON BUBLIC TRANSPORT OR TAXIS.

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Removed on: 2:17 pm, October 10, 2009

learn to ski pack

if you book a learn to ski pack in arinsal do you get a full lift pass or just a local one? i have been told that as the vallnord ski area is not exactly the biggest ski area in the world, even learners get the full lift pass were as in other resorts most learn to ski packs only include a local lift pass.

there are four of us going away, two of which are intermediates and the other two are total begginers. it would be a shame at the end of the week if only two of us could explore the whole mountain and the other two had to turn back.

thanks

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Who are you booking these %26#39;learn to ski%26#39; packages with?? If it is a specific holiday provider, eg, Thompson, Crystal, Inghams etc, you would be better off asking them direct for a definition of what they provide.

However, looking at the Vallnord Website, I can only see passes that cover all areas anyway.

http://en.vallnord.com/index.asp

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with regards to ski information in Arinsal a beginner will be able to cover most of the resot by the end of the week with regards to an intermediate they will be able to ski arinsal pal and also Arcalis all und the same ski pass there is no local pass you all get a ski pass that will covers all these areas, more info have a look at skiriderexp.com

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Removed on: 12:29 am, October 13, 2009

Hotel Micolau - what is this hotel really like?!?

My boyf and his son are going Skiing for the first time ever to this Resort - has enyone been within the last few weeks for an Honest opinion of the Hotel Micolau? Any feedback at all would be appreciated. ASAP as they are going Sunday! Thanks K x

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Did you get a response to your question? I%26#39;m going there next week and would like an honest opinion too. Also, how was the snow there and the skiing?

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Did you get a response to your question? I%26#39;m going there next week and would like an honest opinion too. Also, how was the snow there and the skiing?

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Did you get a response to your question? I%26#39;m going there next week and would like an honest opinion too. Also, how was the snow there and the skiing?

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Hotel ok apparently - food ok rooms very smal lbut the Hotel is a 1*!

There was no snow - they had machines which sprayed up fine water and it was -2 therefore it turned to snow!

It is a 1* hotel so you do get what you pay for!

Despite alla this they did have a nice time.

I hope this helps

K x

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stayed at the micolau in febraury this year and found it to be a dump.we had a room for 3 people but was only the size for one.the door hit the single bed when opened,with no room for you cases and boards.the bathroom was seperate from the bedroom with your own key,but it is a tiny bath not suitable for relaxing in after a day on the slopes and the shower was hanging off the wall.all in all this was more suited to be an hostel rather than a hotel.woul never stay there again or recommend it.

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In regards to the micolau they have riped the whole inside out and are redoing it during the summer but how much better it will be i don%26#39;t know more info on arinsal skiriderexp.com

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Removed on: 2:20 am, October 13, 2009

Complete Beginner!

Currently thinking of going to Andorra with my hubby and a couple of mates next year to learn to ski/board. Have heard great things about Andorra but not sure which is the best place to stay with the best ski school? Any tips would be really appreciated.

Is it better to do a package with lift passes, boot/ski hire all in one or is it cheaper just to book a hotel and do all the other stuff once you are there?

Any honest opinions would be great, also as a complete novice what kind of training should we do for skiing and boarding, I appreciate we should choose to do one or the other!

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was in pas de la casa last year with my partner and our son last year,42,39 and 17 respectively.

we booked a full package as it takes a lot of the hassle away on your first day.also it is about 2 1/2 to 3 hours from nearest airport (toulouse).

although we were not first time skiers ,people who were said they were really good and very attentive.

pas,as it is generally known, is considered to be a bit of a party town,which it can be,but we found there was something for all.

alternatively any resort in andorra would be adequate for 1st timers as they are linked into 2 large ski areas these are called grandvalera nearer the french border and vallnord nearer to the spanish.

your main dilemna is just choosing a resort that is more in line with your nighttime requirements.

as far as training is concerned if you are reasonably fit then you should be okay but you cant do any harm by doing some exercises to help tone and strengthen the leg and butt,even so be prepared to dicover muscles you didnt know you had.

i took up sking only 3 years ago and only wish i had tried 20 years ago.

p.s. dont give up after a couple of days if you think you just cant get it because all of a sudden it just seems to click and you will have the time of your life....enjoy.

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Thanks Hoopsman really good advice! - Best get down the gym!

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In the Grand Vallira Ski Region, I%26#39;d recommend staying in Soldeu for Beginners, there is a much wider - selection of %26#39;easy%26#39; runs ie Greens and Blues, whereas Pas is more Reds and Blacks. Pas is still fine, but in Soldeu you will have a much wider range of slopes to practice on!

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hi we went to Soldeu last year and it was my first time, %26quot;Fantastic%26quot; some great blue runs that go for miles.

We stayed at the Sport hotel and they really looked after you...

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Hi, Been going to Andorra for the last 3 years. we have been to all the resorts and for us Pas De La Casa is by far the best. It has something for everyone. When we go we book all the lift passes and ski hire through pasdelacasainfo.com They offer the best prices by far and all the gear is an excellent standard. If you go to Pas you will have a fab time.

The best place at night has to be Paddys Irish Bar.

We will be in Pas mid January.

Take Care

Ian

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Removed on: 6:21 pm, September 29, 2009

Transfer from Barcelona

Hi, I%26#39;m heading out to Pas in the first week of March with a few mates. Never been before and have been looking into transfers from Barcelona.

It looks as though the bus is going to take about 4 hours and they say they don%26#39;t go all the way to Pas. Will we be better hiring a car or does anyone know any other options??

Any help much appreciated!

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www.grandvalira.com/gv/main.aspx…

This link to the Grandvalira website at least gives you some information about buses, but it is scanty.

IF you find buses going from Barcelona to Andorra La Vella, it is fairly certain that local buses will go from there to Pas.

For convenience, you may be better off hiring a car - it can make the journey a lot quicker.

Who have you booked with?? do they do resort transfers??

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Removed on: 12:08 pm, October 10, 2008


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Thanks for the help guy%26#39;s.

Looks like the car may be the easiest option, unless of course it snows then I think I might switch back to the safety (?) of the bus!

Cheers

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Hi, If you are heading up to Pas in March, check out pasdelacasainfo.com they offer loads of services from transfers through to ski packs. We always book lift passes and equipment Hire through them as they offer quality gear at excellent prices. The lift passes from them are the cheapest around.

Hope this helps

Ian

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Removed on: 2:16 am, September 20, 2009

re-apt.htl alaska

we are staying at the apartments Alaska next Feb 2009 we understand there are no kettles-can we take our own and will there be somewhere to plug it in -hope someone can help me with this

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...I%26#39;m pretty sure there was a kettle there when I stayed because the kitchen is reasonably well equipped. If you want to play safe then take your own and yes, there%26#39;s definitely places to plug it in!

Tip for you if you%26#39;re skiers - walk down to the ski lift in the morning when you%26#39;re setting off but when you come back get off the piste at the Olympic hotel and walk down to Alaska. That way there%26#39;s no uphill walking!

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many thanks for your reply also thankyou for the tip

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Hi, I am sure you will have kettles in the Alaska as it is a new aparthotel. If not you can buy them in the resort for 15€. If you have not prebooked any of your ski packs check out pasdelacasainfo.com they have alot of excellent offers, booking through them can save your group 40€/50€ per person. Its an excellent site.

If you have any questions e-mail pasdelacasa@hotmail.com

Ian

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Removed on: 5:17 am, September 24, 2009

Length of Journey from Barcelona Airport to Pas De La Casa

A friend booked a skiing holiday to Andorra for us In January and Ive only found out that its a 4hr bus journey from Barcelona Airport and Im not a great traveller on a bus unless I get a front seat! Can anyone advise me that this is correct and is it as bad as it seems???

Many thanks

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alex

we flew to toulouse (france) roughly same transfer time as barcelona. But dont worry it aint that bad you stop off for a break half way and there are some great views....I%26#39;m also hoping to go to pas in january as we went to arinsal last time.

hope you have a good %26#39;n%26#39;

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Many thanks.

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Hi Alex, the journey time to Pas from Barcelona really depends on what way you go. If you are with a tour operator then about 4hours where as direct 2hrs 30mins. check out pasdelacasainfo.com for information. They also offer the cheapest Lift Passes ans equipment rental in this resort. pasdelacasainfo.com there prices can not be beaten.

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Hey. Thats great thanks for ur reply. Yeah unfort we are going on a package hol (1st timers) so we are a bit blind so to say! Not really luking forward to bus journey but think the rest of the hol will make up for it. Will have to run for a front seat...hopefully they take the quickest route! Many Thanks.x

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Hi Alex, good luck with your journey!! If you have not already pre-booked all your gear, make sure you check out pasdelacasainfo.com, this site can save you and your group about 40€/50€ each person. How many is in your group? The tour operators take the mickey, they offer you equipment that is rubbish and really expensive.

Check it out

Ian

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Hi Ian,

Well we got a package from A Ski Company in N.I for £714 pp and there is 4 of us travelling. This includes transfers, 4* hotel, insurance and ski pack (lessons, boots, pole hire) so we are stuck with that now.

Cheers :)

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Removed on: 8:16 am, October 13, 2009

what to take

were off to soldeu in feb any clues what to take with us clothes etc

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Are you planning to ski or board (daft question?? - some people don%26#39;t!) and how long will you be staying for, 1 week? 2 weeks?

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sorry i was a bit vague we are going for 1 wk at the end of feb.we will be ski ing well trying to as it is our first time also hope to do some dog sledging as well..

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Hello NorthwalesR

for 1 week skiing I would take (as well as normal underwear etc)

3 pair thick ski socks

1 (or 2) sets thermal underwear

Assortment of T shirts (wear %26#39;clean%26#39; at night and then wear next day for skiing)(short and long sleeved options)

3 fleeces or thick jumpers

Ski Jacket %26amp; Trousers

Ski gloves (2 pair)

Inner thermal gloves (if wish)

Ski hat and possibly headband

Snowproof sunglasses (hi sun protection)

Ski Goggles

Scarf/s or neck protector (eg %26#39;Buff%26#39;)

Grippy walking shoes - eg - walking boots, %26#39;moon boots%26#39;

1 pair indoor shoes.

small %26#39;daypack%26#39; for carrying your on-snow essentials such as - good sun protecting sun lotion, hats, gloves, sunglasses/goggles, bottle of water, hi energy snack bars etc.

Comfortable %26#39;evening%26#39; clothes, ski resorts are usually fairly casual, jeans/chinos type of thing, the sort of stuff you would wear to the %26#39;pub%26#39; rather than more dressy clothes. HOWEVER I also take one easily packable %26#39;dressy%26#39; outfit in-case!

You won%26#39;t use everything, but if you pack for COLD with plenty of layering options, you can always wear less if it%26#39;s warmer. Also the number of jumpers, T shirts etc you take might vary depending on washing facilities available or your inclination to do any!!

Hope this helps!!

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Hi Essexwanderer, thanks foe allyour info will make anote of everything you have mentioned where did you stay when u were there thxs again san.

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Sorry NWR

stayed in Pas, not Arinsal so can%26#39;t help you there, the Valnord website is good for Arinsal information though. The kit you will need for skiing is much the same world-over, and most ski resorts tend to be pretty informal, unless you are swanking at somewhere like Gstaad!!

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Rossi,

The resort has got off to a fantastic start, loads of snow, snowing and snow cannons are working.

It%26#39;s a great ski resort, where are you staying ?

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Hi stockport breaker thks for the info all sounds good we are staying at sport hotel have you been there and where did u stay

.san

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Stayed in the Sport several years ago. It%26#39;s a v.nice hotel and is well siuated, access to the Soldeu gondola is about 100mts down and across the road.

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Removed on: 3:17 am, October 14, 2009

lift pass query

Can someone help me please!?!

A group of mixed ability skiers and boarders are going to Arinsal in January. Which lift pass do we need please and what areas does it cover?? We%26#39;re confused between Vallnord and GrandValira.

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if you are are going to arinsal then that is part of the vallnord ski area so that is the pass you require. grandvalira is a larger and more diverse ski area which includeds resorts such as slodeu and pas de la casa. if you are staying in arinsal you will not be skiing granvalira.

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If you are a %26#39;mixed-ability%26#39; group I would recommend any intermediate skiers/snowboarders to head over to Arcalis. You can get the ski-bus from Arinsal. Having skied and snowboarded both Vall Nord and Grand Valira I can honestly say, that you will LOVE Arcalis. Make sure you take just one day out of your stay to visit (and make it midweek). The slopes will be virtually empty, the views amazing and the off-piste potential on a par with the best France and Austria have to offer !

Check out the photo%26#39;s and webcams here:

…andorramania.com/mapaandorra.php

Enjoy !

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Removed on: 9:19 pm, October 12, 2009

Restaurants recommendation

Can you recommend some restaurants in Soldeu, Andorra?

Thanks.

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Removed on: 12:26 am, October 17, 2009

Car hire / Snow chains / Soldeu / Girona

Going to Soldeu in Feb half term 2009.

We are renting a car from doyouspain.com (cheap rent for Ford Focus at £50 for 8 days) from Girona airport (flights were £2.89 each with Ryanair).

However, not sure what to do about snow chains.

Any ideas about where to buy/rent. Dont want to rely on car hire firm as they never have them!

Cheers

Alex

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Removed on: 4:21 am, October 17, 2009

Car hire / Snow chains / Soldeu / Girona

Going to Soldeu in Feb half term 2009.

We are renting a car from doyouspain.com (cheap rent for Ford Focus at £50 for 8 days) from Girona airport (flights were £2.89 each with Ryanair).

However, not sure what to do about snow chains.

Any ideas about where to buy/rent. Dont want to rely on car hire firm as they never have them!

Cheers

Alex

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I have got all that; £2.89 flight from Luton and a Scenic for £49.99 from DoYouSpain.

I have my own chains which I bring in my carry on - can hardly lift the bag, but Ryanair have never asked to weigh it ;-). If they did I would just bin them as there is no real guarantee they will fit the car I am given. You can buy chains in most supermarkets as you near the mountains. They cost about £10 for a set. Try putting them on as soon as you get them as (trust me) you don%26#39;t want to do it for the first time in freezing, driving snow.

Subscribe to the e-mails from http://www.skiinfo.com they also give road reports and advise if chains are mandatory.

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Not going to Andorra. We stay the other side of the mountains in France.

Don%26#39;t forget you will probably need the extra insurance to take the car out of Spain. Ours is €7 per day.

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Removed on: 4:21 am, October 17, 2009

Soldeu restaurants

Could you recommend some restaurants in Soldeu, Andorra?

Thank you in advance.

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Removed on: 12:25 am, August 22, 2009

arinsal in december????? HELP!!

Hi.

I last went skiing around 6 years ago when I was 16 with my school to Sunday River in boston, USA. The snow was fresh there, altho I cant remember much.

I have read a few posts regarding the snow in December and Im a little apprehensive.

This is a nice, romantic week away with my partner and I have worked hard to pay for this and worried that it wont be good for snow etc.

I picutred waking up on xmas with alot of snow like on the films lol....but it seems this wont be the case????

Any help I would really appreciate it. Will there just be now on the hills or will the whole resort be covered?

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Sorry albusstubbs, it%26#39;s just impossible to predict WHAT the snow will be doing at any point in time these days (especially this far ahead of time)!! (Global warming has seen it arrive later %26amp; later in the season!!)

You might be lucky, and get a massive dump, or you might be unlucky and get none.

IME, Snow in Europe these days, tends to appear AFTER Christmas. You may fare better in the Alps, especially in a Glacier based resort.

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hi. thanks for the reply.

the holiday is already booked unfortunately.

if there is no snow will there be plenty supplied via the snow cannons?

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Well, if Arinsal is as well-supplied with snow cannons as Pas, you should be OK. However, be aware that they can only use the snow cannons once the ambient temperature has dropped to a certain level, so as long as it is cold enough, you should get some skiing.

I HOPE you get fantastic snow, but sadly, in the Pyrenees, Christmas time can be a bit hit %26amp; miss these days.

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The snow in resort at the moment should last through till Xmas. There is snow all the way down to 1200m at the mo. As long as the temps stay low, you should have a great time. I was there in March this year and am going back in Feb %26#39;09, the snow in resort as of today 2nd December %26#39;08 is encouraging ! Hope you have a great time. Check out the link for webcams:

…andorramania.com/mapaandorra.php

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If your comming to Arinsal check out this page this is a up to date page on what the snow is looking like in Arinsal on the 8th of december

skiriderexp.com/html/webcam_arinsal08_09.html

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Removed on: 3:17 am, October 02, 2009

Driving safely to Canillo, Andorra

I%26#39;m going to Canillo the 27th December and I%26#39;d like to know if tire chaines are necessary to drive there.

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If you subscribe to the e-mails on http://www.skiinfo.com they include reports on road conditions.

Be warned that the police will turn round cars which don%26#39;t have chains it they think road conditions in the mountains require them.

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Thank you ! I%26#39;ll buy a set before I go.

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Removed on: 11:18 pm, September 09, 2009

which hotel

HELP which is the best hotel! hotel sport or himalaia soldeu

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Hi,

I%26#39;ve stayed in both and would say that the Sport is considerably better than the Himalaia, better restaurant, bigger and better public areas and a similar distance from the main gondola.

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THANKS but is it worth the extra £110

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Hi,

There was no pool at the Sport when I stayed. There are a couple of Hotels in Soldeu in the Sport group, the Original sport which is across the road from the Gondala and the newer Sport Hotel Village which is in the same complex as the Gondola. I know that the village has a pool.

If you%26#39;re looking at paying an extra £110 per person to stay at the Village over the Himalaia then snap their hands off, it%26#39;s easily the best hotel in the town.

If its the older Sport hotel then I personally would pay an extra £100 or so to stay there over the Himalaia, but having siad that I found the Himalaia perfectly fine.

( tried to PM you but it wouldn%26#39;t send )

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It works out at £497 inc lift pass for the himalaia

and £602 for the sport inc lift pass as were gettin 2-4-1 lift passes. The sport is the older one across the road from the gondela.

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hi there when u thinkin of goin were goin in feb

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probably 11th jan seen some good deals and the snow looks good

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i have been having the same problem of where to stay. this will be my first time going. i would like some info on best hotel, for example best ski schools.

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Hi,

I%26#39;ve been to soldeu many times and know quite a few of the Hotels.

The best Hotels in Soldeu are the Sport Village and Sport hermitige, followed by the Sport. The Himaliai is good and is well located, the Piolets is well situated but has received some bed feedback on here, the Bruxells is cheaper, still well situated and has great food.

Half way between Soldeu and El Tarter is the Euroski, which is excellent, it has a small privatly run ski/sledging slope next to the hotel and runs efficient mini buses to El Tarter most of the day.

In El Tarter itself the best Hotel is the Nordic, which includes the Del Clos appartments, it%26#39;s the only Hotel that you can ski from/to. Nearby is the Llop Gris and the del tarter ( small privatley run, v.good ) and a short walk away is the Del Clos hotel, which is well reviewed.

Nightlife wise there%26#39;s not much doing in El tarter, but plenty of bars etc in Soldeu, there%26#39;s lots going on but never too rowdy.

There%26#39;s only the one ski school in the resort with offices at El Tarter and Soldeu, near to the gondola exits. Check out Grandvalira.com, it has loads of info on the resort and ski schools, it has live webcams and an interactive piste map.

Many people visit the resorts again and again, the ski area is huge and excellent. There%26#39;s been a great start to the season and there%26#39;s already loads of snow, check out the webcams. If you book to go I%26#39;d be very surprised if you didn%26#39;t enjoy.

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If you need this kind of opinion, I have only stayed in Himalaia. I didn%26#39;t have any problem and it was everything all right. I can%26#39;t remember how much I paid, but I didn%26#39;t regret the money spent.

EuropeWord

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Removed on: 5:20 am, August 30, 2009

Transport - Taxi - Bus

I am staying in Encamp between 27th December and 1st January, I understand that there is plenty of good nightlife in Soldeu which is approx 5 miles away.

It appears that it would be reasonably straight forward to get a public bus into Soldeu in the evening, but last bus is very early.

Has anyone any previous experience in obtaining a taxi in Soldeu (which I understand are very few !)and any contact details, I am worried that I could find myself stuck in Soldeu in the early hours of New Years Day, unless I can pre-book.

Any help would be appreciated.

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Hi

The problem with taxis in Andorra is that they will charge you from when the taxi leaves la vella (so it will be costly). You can try and pre-book (when I was in El tarter 2 seasons ago, this wasn%26#39;t possible).

Try the link %26amp; good luck and have a great holiday ;-)

www.andorra.com/portal/comunica/comunica.asp

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Removed on: 5:19 pm, October 17, 2009

Snow in the Pyrenees (Dec 08)

OK, so a few miles up from PDLC but this shows how much snow some parts of the Pyrenees have this year.

…photobucket.com/albums/…DSC01489.jpg

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Where was that shot taken then ?

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Removed on: 6:16 pm, October 17, 2009

Where to go in Andorra for the night life

Me and a friend are looking to book to go to Andorra at the beginning of next year some time. On the internet it recons that a good time of year to go is march weather this is true or not is a different question all together.

I am a complete beginner and are stating lessons this week, however my mate is supposter be really good, is it a good idea going with someone better than me as wont I drag him down?

We are wanting to somewhere with some good night life and some nice ladies?

Any suggestions?

Efna

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Hi mate, In Andorra the best resort for night life is Pas De La Casa. There%26#39;s many Bars and clubs. The best place in Pas De La Casa is Paddys Irish Bar. Its an excellent Bar with normally quite a few females knocking about.

Hope this helps. Check out pasdelacasainfo.com for info, plus cheap Lift Passes, and equipment hire.

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I%26#39;ve been in Paddys Irish Bar once. It was quite ok, the ladies were nice (I can see that this is a must :P) and I had a good time. However, I didn%26#39;t stay too long, I had to continue my trip. Have fun!

EuropeWord

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underground is a fantastic club run by some very nice dutch people and mulligans bar next door is always god as well! Then billboard is proper good sized nightclub but beware of the metal stairs! they are slippy when wet :)! Pas de La Casa is definitely the place to go although T-Bar in soldeu is also good!

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Removed on: 11:28 am, October 14, 2009

Nightlife in Soldeu

Hi guys and gals...

What is the nightlife like in Soldeu? My mate and I are going for the first time in January and have heard that it%26#39;s a bit of a manfest!

We%26#39;re both single lads in our late 20s, and although we%26#39;re not particularly on the pull, it would be nice to have some female company over there in the evenings.

Are the bars lively at that time of year? Any recommendations?

On another note, it looks like it%26#39;s gonna be a good season for snowfall. Fingers crossed it continues into the new year.

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It has been known to be called Mandorra :P! But the last time i was in soldeu i remember t-bar being a great night out and a good mix of people, pas de a casa is close enough to soldeu and has a very good nightlife but can there was a lot more men then women when i was there, lucky for us girls :P!

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Removed on: 4:15 pm, August 22, 2009

ski soldeu to pas

can anyone tell me if it is easy enough to ski from soldeu to pas de la cas and return as my partner lacks in confidence (usually finds it on the last day). thanks

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It%26#39;s an easy ski if you%26#39;re confident. If your partner is unsure why not consider using one of the resorts instructors as a guide.

There%26#39;s nothing particularly tricky about the route but only you and your partner are really in a position to decide if they%26#39;re up to it.

I%26#39;d say give it a go as you can turn back from several points en route.

There%26#39;s an interactive pistemap on grandvalira.com which may be of help to you.

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thanks. i%26#39;ll probably do it myself first

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the only tricky part of that ski(where theres not a blue run) is heading down into grau roig, but it%26#39;s definitely skiable once you have a little experience, the ski from soldeu over doesn%26#39;t take too long either!

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Removed on: 10:16 pm, August 22, 2009

Where to stay and ski in Andorra

Looking for a quieter resort with mainly intermediate slopes, lively apres ski but not loud sports bars with tv, cheaper accomodation but like to spend more on food so good restaurants. Have own transport but want the convenience of a lift within 200 metres.

Any ideas please?

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Removed on: 1:23 am, August 11, 2009

Border Crossing

Is any documentation required to enter Andorra? (I am not sure of it%26#39;s political status within the EU.)

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you only need a normal passport same as visiting the u.k. hope this helps

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Do I need now a passport, or can I use my i.d.? I am a greek citizen.

Thanks

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Necessary documents for entering or leaving the country are:

For European Union citizens, national identification document.

For non-E.U. visitors, current passport or equivalent.

www.grandvalira.com/gv/main.aspx…

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Removed on: 6:19 pm, August 11, 2009

Day time/night time temp for Jan?

Hi, 1st time to Pas, flying out Jan 18th, whats the average day/night temp for that time of yr?

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Hi, The temperature in January is normally around 4/5 degrees. At night it normally drops to just below zero. We booked all our ski packs through pasdelacasainfo.com and we paid less than if we had of waited until we arrived. Our tour company tried to sell us the ski pack when we arrived, their price was about 70€ more than off pasdelacasainfo.com. Pre-book in advance with them and it will save you alot of hassle.

John

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Thanks for your reply, have sent an e-mail to pasdelacasainfo.com asking for a price on ski hire.

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Removed on: 5:18 pm, October 17, 2009

Creche

Can anyone tell me whether there is a creche in Pas?

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www.grandvalira.com/gv/main.aspx…

Doesn%26#39;t look like there%26#39;s one at Pas, unless anyone knows of any private/tour operator ones ?

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Sorry, just looked again, there is a snow garden for children 3 and over, but no nursery for younger children.

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Many thanks for that. Looks like I%26#39;ll be in the warm some of the time!!!!!

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how old is your child? The snowgarden facilities in pas are fantastic, our 5 and 6 year olds loved it and couldnt wait to go the next day, which is always a good sign. Cost £143 5 days, starts at 10am send them with a packed lunch and pick them up at 5. They taught them to ski as well, by the end of the week they were both snowplough turning and stopping. We did take them out as well to ski with us and go sledging but thats by choice.

It is 3-6 though, there is a nursery in grau Roig, age 12 mths on. you could see if theres a bus to get to it (the only way to ski to it is by a red run, so not possible with a tiny tot)

good luck

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Removed on: 6:18 am, August 11, 2009

soldeu ski package

party of 6 arriving on the 3rd Jan. My question is, as this is our first time on the slopes. Does anyone provide ski hire, lift pass and lessons as a single package?

Many Thanks

Neil

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all tour operators privide learn to ski pakages, these are well worth the money as you get your lift pass, ski and boot hire, and five days of lessons. ( 3 hours every morning) i think its about £170 but if you were to book this stuff in resort you are probably talking £300 per person so do it with your holiday company and it is well worth it.

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Thanks for that, we organised the holiday privately, could one of the tour reps in resort provide that kind of deal?

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im not sure about that but im sure they could point you in the right direction, unfortunately once you are in the resort you ithink you will be paying a lot more than if arranged through a tour operator but as you have arranged your holiday privately you will just have to see what you can do when you get there, maybe even try an call a holday company ie/ first choice, crystal, neilson etc and see if you can but a learn to ski package even though your holiday is not with them. if this isnt an option you will want to sort everything out as soon as you get there so the next morning you already have your skis, lift pass ect, so you can go straight up the mountain for you lessons.

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Removed on: 5:24 am, August 11, 2009

Mandorra??

Myself and 7 other Irish lads heading out to Pas on the 9th March, Any nice ladys going the same time as us???

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I was in Andorra in January 2008, and it was a sausage-fest!

I could have sworn there was a male cloning facility at the top of the mountain!

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Great ewre a group of 5 girls :)

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Hi, Pas De La Casa is a top resort, when we where in Pas there was not lots of women but there was some. Check out Paddys Irish Bar that had more women than any where, they have 2/3 hot Bar maids. If you have not already booked your ski packs, we booked ours through pasdelacasainfo.com and it worked out much cheaper than any where else. Have a good time

JonnyBOY

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Removed on: 1:24 am, September 21, 2009

hotel himalaia

hi could anyone tell me what amneties the hotel rooms have in the himalaia? ie/ hair dryer for the mrs.... thanks

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www.hotansa.com/eng/himalaiasoldeu_eng.html

Can%26#39;t see anything about hairdryers, but you might find a direct contact e-mail for the hotel here, and be able to ask them direct.

Stayed in Himalaia Pas a couple of years ago, very nice Hotel indeed, but I don%26#39;t remember anything about hairdryers, sorry!

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himalaiasoldeu.com/en/introduction-rooms.php

this site mentions hairdryers in rooms tho!

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Hi,

Stayed there last March, room was very nice, large studio type.

There was a hairdryer in the bathroom of our room.

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Removed on: 3:20 pm, September 09, 2009

Anyone Snowboarding at Pas de La Casa on the 1st March 2009?

Me and the missus are flying from Manchester to Pas, and staying at the Hotel Magic Pas on 1st of March 2009. We have never been, and wanted to know of other boarders who are going to see if we can get a group together for days on the slope and nights out, for when we are all their!!!

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Removed on: 9:20 am, October 04, 2009

Bus from Barcelona Airport to Andorra?

Hi,

Has anyone got any up-to-date information on buses and/or trains from Barcelona Airport to Andorra please?

And will I need to pre-book?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Martini4

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Removed on: 7:20 am, October 11, 2009

Pas de la casa 11-1-09

Any one else heading out to pas on sunday?

I%26#39;m going with 6 mates we%26#39;re all lads and we%26#39;ll be all wearing orange hoodies.

charles

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Removed on: 7:18 pm, August 11, 2009

pasa de la casa

ive just booked to go skiing here on the 1/2/09-08/2/09 with 2 mates whats the cheapest way to get equipment hire and lift pass and how much thanks.

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check out pasdelacasainfo.com

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hi thanks yeh i just looked there 213 euros. is every where the same price

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Hi, Check out pasdelacasainfo.com we boought ours for 200€ and the equipment for 45€. In the resort the pass cost 213.5€ and the equipment 75€ minimum. While your there go to Paddys Irish Bar its a excellent night out.

John

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ok great so its cheaper to book equipment before you go.

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Removed on: 2:19 pm, October 11, 2009

Warning: Dont take shopping bags into shops

Just returned after a terrific week in Pas. My only gripe was their shopping bag policy in some stores. You cannot take shopping with you into a shop. Some places had a little locker to put your previous purchases in which was good.

I went to the SPAR %26amp; got some bits, paid %26amp; was about to walk out when realised I%26#39;d forgotten something. I hadn%26#39;t even left the shop, so went back to the shelf, got the packet I needed %26amp; went back to the same lady that had served me minutes before.

As I was paying for my packet, she grabbed my other bag %26amp; searched through it, then took my partners bag (who hadnt even been in the shop %26amp; was simply packing the bags!) %26amp; searched through his. She yelled at me, then called over a collegue %26amp; they both yelled. I had no idea what they were saying, despite me trying to converse in my limited French %26amp; Spanish. Luckily, we had the reciept from my partners butcher purchases, but she hadn%26#39;t given me a receipt the 1st time through her shop. I thought she was going to keep the bag of shopping, despite having paid only minutes before for it.

After a very long %26amp; embarrassing argument in several languages, she let go of my original bag, letting us through with a huff.

Make sure you get a reciept for every purchase, no matter how small %26amp; if you can, leave any shopping with a friend outside. It saves lots of embarrassment %26amp; the risk of losing the shopping you have already paid for.

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Removed on: 8:17 pm, October 14, 2009