September 2025
www.nitravelnews.com
Crystal Ski Holidays Launches 2026/27 Programme with Exclusive Lift Pass Deal for European Getaways
CRYSTAL Ski Holidays has officially launched its winter 2026/27 programme, offering Northern Ireland travellers early access to top European ski destinations. To celebrate the release, the company has unveiled a limited-time offer that gives customers a free lift pass when booking another, a potential saving on one of the most essential elements of a ski trip. This exclusive Buy One Lift Pass, Get One Free offer applies to all ski holidays to Europe departing before April 2027, giving skiers and snowboarders ample opportunity to lock in big savings while securing their preferred resort and accommodation. With two direct flights operating from Belfast International Airport, to Salzburg, Austria and Turin, Italy, Crystal Ski Holidays makes hitting the slopes even easier for Northern Ireland residents. Weekly departures begin in December 2026, perfectly timed for the start of ski season. Whether you’re a first-time skier looking for a snowy adventure or a seasoned pro planning your next alpine escape, Crystal Ski’s packages offer convenience and peace of mind.
provides value for money in its use of local meat and produce from the region in which you are sailing, guaranteeing a restaurant- standard meal every time! The main reason I have chosen this brand for value for money comes in the form of its shore excursions. With excursions happening almost every single day, I found the depth of knowledge from local tour guides, and the wealth of shore excursions to choose from incredible. There is an included shore excursion at each stop, which normally involves a walking tour with local tourguide, or you can upgrade to a more premium excursion; What’s great about that? These excursions are incredibly affordable, especially in comparison to ocean liners which can range much higher in price. This became a highlight of my time on board where we ventured to a nearby vineyard and sampled port produced only in this region; a rich memory derived from a valued excursion. This is one I recommend to all not sure on what to look for in terms of cruising. Here, you’ll find a slightly older demographic on board, but I believe this to be due to its simplistic style and features on board as outer exploration is at its heart. A Refined sense of luxury. PERFECT FOR COUPLES I’ve chosen Celebrity Cruises as
my couples pick as I have actually experienced sailing on board as a couple; it produces an enchanting yet exciting newness to cruising. Its floating ‘magic carpet’ on board its Edge class ships (a floating bar which moves up and down throughout the entire at the side of the ship), extravagant suites, elevated dining - Celebrity have modern luxury down to a fine art. The feel I get from a Celebrity ship is one of intrigue, yet familiarity. It displays a known luxury like many of its competitor ships, but I find the brand has really intertwined the new, modern understanding of luxury with this. Its Eden garden, where the walls are lined with greenery and dark, earthy tones, mixed with its martini bar set in the very centre of its atrium. Lights bounce off its glassy interior and
it transports you to that feeling you get on holiday; that familiar luxury. Currently in my bridal era, along with many of my friends it seems, when asked my opinion on the ideal honeymoon trip, I tend to recommend Celebrity for this very reason. The newness symbolising a new unity between two, a younger demographic looking for an elevated experience to their traditional land holiday. Celebrity have really homed in on this type of customer and I think they have executed it beautifully. Not to mention how crisp and inviting its outdoor pool areas are, too. I love that on board you decide what kind of night you want- have a chilled, relaxed evening sipping on a martini, catch a high energy show at Eden or maybe kick back with a movie night on the top deck under the stars. Think Dubai, Ibiza, Marbella- style luxury.
Enjoy each other’s company and the excitement of a new beginning whilst sailing with Celebrity Cruises.
Five New Mountains To Explore Across Valle d-Aosta this Winter with Ikon Pass
French Ikon Pass destinations. “We are proud and excited to join the Ikon Pass community,” said Danilo Chatrian, Courmayeur Mont Blanc Funivie General Director and project representative
in
Valle d’Aosta. “This partnership opens the door to U.S. skiers and riders, offering the
opportunity
IKON Pass will offer five new mountains within the stunning Valle d’Aosta region of the Italian Alps for winter 25/26, unlocking even more of Europe for Ikon Pass holders. Nestled among some of Europe’s most
iconic and highest peaks, including the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, Valle d’Aosta offers spectacular scenery and high-altitude culture where Italian elegance meets mountain adventure. Ikon Pass offers access to five of the region’s mountains - Courmayeur Mont Blanc, Cervino Ski Paradise, La Thuile Espace San Bernardo, Monterosa Ski, and Pila - with charming alpine villages, refined hospitality, and Michelin- starred cuisine. From Valle d’Aosta, Ikon Pass holders can even cross borders, with direct access from Cervino Ski Paradise to Zermatt Matterhorn and a short trip from Courmayeur to Chamonix through the Mont Blanc tunnel, all Swiss and
to discover the breathtaking scenery and exceptional winter experiences that make Valle d’Aosta a true hidden gem of the Alps. From iconic peaks and world-class skiing, to gourmet cuisine and authentic alpine charm, we are
thrilled to share the unique spirit of our special region in Italy with a wider global audience.” For the 25/26 season, Ikon Pass holders
will have access to seven days combined among Courmayeur Mont Blanc, Cervino Ski Paradise, La Thuile Espace San Bernardo, Monterosa Ski, and Pila at Valle d’Aosta with no blackout dates, and Ikon Base Pass holders will have access to five days combined, also with no blackout dates. Valle d’Aosta is not available on the Ikon Session Pass. “Endless joy abounds when exploring
the special mountain culture of the Alps, and Valle d’Aosta serves it up among five distinct mountains,” said Erik Forsell, Chief Marketing Officer, Alterra Mountain Company. “We are excited to expand Ikon Pass access in Europe by offering even more Italy for winter 25/26.”
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