Beccy Mersh

Skis please!

Most recently, in February 2025, I spent a week in Geilo and Norefjell on the Ski & Spa Safari - an amazing Norwegian adventure that included sightseeing in Oslo. It was just what the doctor ordered! Amazing terrain, quiet slopes, incredible facilities and top-notch food. What more can you want?

Being a beginner-intermediate level skier, I am yet to show off an extensive ski history, but I'm working on it! I first took to skiing as an adult, in Finnish Lapland in 2014, where I had an incredible time cross-country skiing (and snowshoeing). Whilst there, I was fortunate enough to try husky mushing. I even caught a glimpse of the northern lights. Lapland was an unforgettable experience and one I highly recommend.

In more recent years, I've skied in Austria at the Stubai Glacier and a handful of smaller resorts near Innsbruck. I had some half-day ski tasters in Gausta and Myrkdalen, then in December 2024, in Whistler, I spent a few days with the amazing Whistler Blackcomb ski instructors, improving my skiing tenfold.

Recently in Norefjell, the skiing felt really smooth and comfortable for me. I had no hesitation skiing continually from the highest point on the mountain to the bottom, building up a cheeky bit of speed along the way. It was so much fun, and was the first time since I began skiing where everything felt like it properly clicked. That's what it's all about!

Having been on the Ski & Spa Ski Safari, I can tell you that was a special treat if you want to take the slow lane and enjoy a pampering from head to toe. As someone who has visited Norway and Sweden multiple times, all the Scandinavian Ski Safaris look incredible to me.

But the Taste of Japan Ski Safari takes things up a notch, and I would love to go! It introduces you to a little bit of everything that makes Japan Japan - the food, the culture, the history, amazing powder in winter and stunning cherry blossoms in spring. It's proper bucket list stuff!

I haven't decided yet. I loved Canada and would love to return. Panorama or Banff both have a lot to offer skiers like me who are still exploring and pushing the boundaries of their ski abilities. But I keep reading about Sun Peaks, which sounds like a winner too. With all of these, there's so much to do off the slopes as well, which will make it a rich and exciting holiday opportunity.

I play piano but I can’t read sheet music – I pick up the score by ear.

As a reassurance for anyone starting on skis... Trust the forward lean! Leaning on your shins downhill goes against all your instincts, but you will likely fall backwards if you fight it. It feels right eventually - I promise! (Coming from a late adopter to skiing).