The London Ski Show opens this Wednesday, 22nd October, and for many seasoned skiers and boarders this means that winter is not far behind.
Years ago the Ski Show was spread over 10 days, finishing at the beginning of November, and it was the sign that you would soon be packing up and shipping out. The army of ski show workers would spend these ten days bumping into last season's ski buddies, getting freebies at the various stands, swapping details of their forthcoming jobs and reminiscing at the Krazy Kanguruh. The excitement and anticipation that hung over the great hall in Olympia was almost tangible.
If you still hadn't found your job it was a great place to network, and you could be sure of having a job in the Alps by the end of the show.
It was a great arena for the public, to come and find out about ski holidays, resorts, and buy clothing and equipment, but the Show was also an important landmark for hundreds of ski and snowboard junkies. It was the herald - it meant that just a few short weeks later they would be in the snow!
And whilst it's not quite the same as yesteryear - it's now just five days - the buzz and excitement can still be found. This year's London show promises to be the "largest ski and snowboard show in the world"! Amongst the attractions this year are the Land Rover Alpine Climb - where you can take a ride in their newest hardcore 4x4 up a 36 degree slope, the 40ft Spine Jump - with demonstrations on how it's done by top British and international athletes, and the Trespass Ice Kingdom, complete with ice rink and ice bar.
The Metro Ski and Snowboard Show runs from 22nd - 26th October at Olympia. Adult entrance starts from £9.00 for a weekday ticket, (bought in advance).
