HES | COURCHEVEL | SKI | Twedex - Trans World Education Experiences

DAY 1

HES ARRIVES IN COURCHEVEL!

The journey has officially begun, and the excitement was already in the air from the very first moment. The HES group gathered at Dubai Airport, sharing hugs, smiles and last goodbyes with their families, before setting off together on a 7-hour flight towards France.

After landing in Lyon, the group met our tour leader, Amaia, who gave everyone a warm welcome before we continued our journey up into the mountains. As the landscape began to change and the incredible white blanket of snow appeared outside the windows, the excitement only grew — for some, it was the very first time seeing real snow.

Once we arrived in Courchevel, it was straight into ski fitting to make sure everyone was fully prepared for tomorrow’s first lessons. While the group was divided in two — one settling into rooms and organising luggage, the other heading to the ski shop — everything ran smoothly, with everyone helping each other get sorted.

With boots buckled and skis ready, we finally came together for our first evening meal. A well-earned moment to relax, share impressions from the day, and settle into mountain life after a long travel day. The adventure has officially begun!

Day 2

First tracks & snowy smiles

The first ski day is here!

For some, the day started nice and early thanks to a bit of jet lag. Even so, everyone made it down to breakfast with good energy and well-rested bodies, ready for the first full day on the mountain.

With full stomachs and a clear plan ahead, we headed into our first adventure of the day: squeezing into ski boots, clipping goggles onto helmets, and somehow managing to carry skis, poles, gloves — and everything else — all at once.

As the group got ready, the first snowballs of the trip started flying. Most of the group couldn’t resist, rolling around in the snow as if they were at the beach, laughter echoing through the mountains.

Luckily, the shuttle bus made things easy, taking us straight to the gondola. From there, it was time to warm up and get into the flow — for some, learning the basics for the very first time; for others, reconnecting with skills they already had. A perfect first session to build confidence and get comfortable on the slopes.

After a full morning on the snow, it was time for a well-earned break. We recharged with our packed lunches, took a moment to rest, and soaked in the alpine surroundings before heading into the second lesson of the day.

Cozy evening

.After the second session on the slopes, we headed back to the chalet to warm up with a well-earned hot chocolate. Showers, cosy clothes and a relaxed game night followed — the perfect way to wind down after a full day on the mountain.

Time to play & relax

DAY 3

Finding our flow on the mountain...

The second day on the slopes began with energy still running high across the group. We wrapped up the previous evening with games and time to relax before heading to bed, which meant everyone woke up well-rested and ready for a good breakfast and the day ahead.

Everything started to flow more naturally this morning — ski boots on, helmets and goggles ready, and the familiar routine slowly settling in. While some groups headed down to the slopes by bus, others took the opportunity to warm up and have some fun in the snow, laughing, playing and enjoying the moment under clear blue skies.

On the mountain, instructors were already noticing great progress within their groups.

Confidence grew with every run, and the mountain rhythm continued to settle in.

The day continued with a second ski session, followed by snacks and some well-earned rest back at the chalet before dinner.

With energy recharged, it was time to get ready for a special evening — the ice hockey match.

Despite the tiredness, excitement was high. The atmosphere at the rink was fantastic, and everyone enjoyed the experience to the fullest while still making it back to the chalet in good time for a very well-deserved rest.

DAY 4

Halfway through & fully in sync

Day four marked the halfway point of the trip and the ski sessions. By now, the time spent together really showed — everything flowed naturally, often without needing many words, just shared looks and understanding.

After a good breakfast, we headed straight to the slopes to enjoy beautiful conditions: blue skies, sunshine and great snow. Another solid day of skiing before heading back to the chalet, where games and laughter filled the afternoon — so much fun that I couldn’t miss it, which is why I’m updating you here a day later 😉

After dinner, we headed out for a bowling night. Lots of laughs, great team spirit and really positive energy all around.

Then, straight to bed to rest up. This morning, some of us may have stayed in bed a little longer… let’s say we were waiting for the sun to come out 😄

Day 5

Progress, support & snowy hopes.

For me, one of the best days of the trip — I finally joined the ski group on the slopes. It was amazing to see how much the group has improved since day one; beginners no more. Beyond their skiing skills, the support they show each other (and me!) has been incredibly heartwarming — “Don’t worry miss, I’ll cover your back and check on you” — couldn’t be lovelier.

Today has been flowing smoothly, allowing for a calmer evening and good rest after dinner. The group is currently out for their second ski session of the day after a relaxed picnic and break. Soon, we’ll be heading out to meet them and enjoy some sledging.

For now, the sun is hiding, but gentle snowflakes are falling — fingers crossed for some fresh powder over the next runs.