64: Richard Branson in Verbier, Graham Bell 'Dancing on Ice' & Yoda's onesie

In Episode 64, Iain was joined by Jane Peel (Chief Reporter, Planetski.eu) and Alf Alderson (author and freelance journalist).

We discuss the latest on resort openings, have snow reports from Courchevel and Engelberg, and we talk favourite ski areas.

Graham Bell updates us on his preparations for 'Dancing on Ice', while the Chalet Shop team tell us what it was like working for Richard Branson. Plus we have Xmas pressie recommendations and there's even more in this episode of The Ski Podcast.

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SHOW NOTES

• Jane last skied in Les Menuires (before injuring her ACL)
• Alf last skied at Castle Mountain in Alberta
• It was suggested today that Brits might not be able to travel to the EU
• The town hall in Chatel has added Swiss flags
• There have been demonstrations across French ski resorts against the lift closures
• It's been suggested that the Chamonix border could move slightly to allow lifts to open
• There are limits on the French going to ski in other countries (but will it be enforceable?)
• Switzerland is currently open but are there restrictions on the way?  
• Social distancing was not being observed on Verbier's first day
• Austria skiing will open from 24 Dec, but for locals only 
• Jasna in Slovakia is planning to open
• Ski Amis ceased trading (adding to VIPSki, overed in Episode 63)
• Alpine Elements have gone into pre-pack administration
• You can read Jane's interview with James Hardiman here
• 'Test & Release' starts on 15 Dec, reducing quarantine on return to UK to 5 days
• Alex Irwin reported on ski touring in Courchevel
• Alex previously appeared in Episode 61
• Ch