Hit the slopes this winter with total peace of mind

23 Nov 2022

In place like Hong Kong, with its steamy subtropical climate, you might not think that winter sports are a particularly big hit with the city’s residents. However, it is for this very reason that many of us like to escape to the snowy heights so we can sample an exhilarating taste of what the slopes have to offer.

In particular, skiing is the sport of choice for many. It can be enjoyed as a fun activity for the family – regardless of ability level. Or, if you have more experience, it can be the ultimate thrill for winter sports enthusiasts.

Traditionally, the classic centres for skiing include the French and Italian Alps, as well as the western United States and Canada. However, the 1998 Winter Olympics put Japan firmly on the mapⁱas a skiers’ paradise, and South Korea has followed suit. The best thing is both of these countries are much closer to home for those of us in Asia Pacific than Europe or North America.

And now, with Japan and South Korea doing away with quarantine restrictions, the two countries are once again attracting a lot of interest from adventurous Hongkongers who want to test their mettle on the slopes this winter.

Two of Asia’s best skiing destinations

Japan is a firm favourite for winter sports lovers – whether that’s skiers or snowboarders, or simply people who like to get out into nature during one of the most stunning seasons of the year. In particular, Niseko and Sapporo, Hokkaido, are the centre for winter sports enthusiasts and families alike.

As well as hosting numerous resorts near the city that cater to skiing, snowboarding, dog-sledding, snowmobile rides, ice fishing, nature tours and more, ⁱⁱSapporo is also home to the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival ⁱⁱⁱ, which showcases incredible snow and ice sculptures.

South Korea is another top skiing destination which, happily, is just a relatively short hop from Hong Kong. Not far from the country’s capital, Seoul, can be found numerous ski resorts, built largely because the country wanted to host the Winter Olympics – which it did in 2018^iv.

Today, tourists only need to drive a couple of hours out of the capital to access some wonderful skiing, as well as high-quality resorts offering everything from musical performances, local and international cuisine and sledding rinks ^v.

What you need to know before you go

Skiing, like any sport, requires a good level of fitness and overall sound health. Even if you are a beginner who is sticking to the baby slopes, you need to remember you are in the midst of nature. These mountain slopes are harsh environments and, coupled with changeable winter weather, can present a risk. So make sure you are in reasonable shape before you go, and you’ll find the experience all the more enjoyable.

It’s also a smart idea to get comprehensive travel insurance before your departure. MSIG’s travel insurance plans provide cover for alpine skiing and snowboarding, as well as tobogganing and sledding – which is ideal for a winter trip to Japan or South Korea.

Importantly, the plan will protect you financially from serious injuries sustained on the slopes, such as breaking your leg or damaging your spine in a bad fall, or if the worst should happen and you die in an accident. Furthermore if you lose your bags or your equipment is damaged, the plan will also cover your costs.

Wherever you decide to go this winter, make sure you are prepared so you only have wonderful memories of your skiing holiday.

To find out more about MSIG’s Travel Insurance, please feel free to contact us or find out more about our insurance plans: