Travel Notes

What's new and how to get the best from your holiday

SKI EASY

IF YOU’RE heading to the slopes this ski season, book a transfer with Ski-Lifts ( ski-lifts.com) to save the hassle of snow chains and driving in dangerous conditions. The company operates from airports in 14 countries across Europe, Canada and the U.S. to more than 200 resorts. In Switzerland, France, Italy and Austria, cars from train stations can also be booked. A transfer from Geneva Airport to Chamonix is £48 pp, based on four sharing.

ROYAL TREAT

THE first hotel in the grounds of Versailles Palace (pictured) is opening in spring 2020. The Airelles Chateau de Versailles, Le Grand Controle offers exclusive experiences at the palace, which is on the outskirts of Paris. The 14 rooms, restaurant, spa and indoor pool will be in previously abandoned buildings on the grounds. Prices will be released in December ; more details at airelles.com.

WINTER WONDER

TO CELEBRATE the return of UK flights to Sharm El-Sheikh, Four Seasons has launched a three-day winter break. Included in the itinerary at the Egyptian coastal resort is a horseback adventure in the Sinai Mountains, a day of diving or snorkelling, visits to biblical locations such as St Catherine, and a Bedouin dinner. Book at four seasons.com — three nights’ room-only from £320 pp.

TAKE COVER

BOOKING websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com aren’t covered by regular travel insurance. So, even though Airbnb announced this week it would verify all its listings by 2020, pay-perstay insurance provider Guardhog ( guardhog.com) might come in handy. The firm recently launched Guestcover, which, for £15 to £20 per booking, protects users from issues including fraud and home misrepresentation.