Les Deux Alpes

Off the slopes and at the base of the runs, Les Deux Alpes sits conveniently for most local services, but being a large town, not everything is within walking distance. The resort is a mix of old school and purpose-building, which means things arent particularly subtle.

There are loads of off-slope services, including a cinema, bowling alley, sports complex and an outdoor climbing wall. It is a busy package tour destination so expect a lot of tourist junk shops, however there are a couple of decent boarders shops, too.

Food-wise, this place caters well for people on a budget, as well as those who want to splash out. There are some reasonably-priced pizza and burger bars that are very good indeed. The Thai takeaway is much better than the disappointing Chinese.

For Tex-Mex, visit Smokey Joes or Saxo - also home to some of France's loveliest bar staff (Top French Tottie).

Accommodation: Theres something like 30,000 beds available, from standard-grade apartment blocks to modern hotels, with only a couple of traditional-style chalets. Prices are pretty reasonable and theres a hostel in town if your budget's real tight.

Nightlife goes off seven nights a week, things start early and finish late. Smokey Joes, near the main gondola station, is good for a beer after a long day, and has a big screen for the football games. Theres the obligatory Yeti bar, Smithys gets messy late on, the Red Frog is a friendly Brit haunt, and Pub Le Windsor is a great little bar with a massive Whiskey menu. LAvalanche and LOpéra are the places to head later - if you can still stand.