Austria vs France

Far Queue wrote:stupid Englishman

Too hard on yourself FQ!!

Both have some amazing ski areas, both have many more plus points than negative ones.

So many resorts in both countries, some of which I prefer to others in other countries so I do not think you can make a direct comparison. You have to consider a specific resort in each and then compare.

However, my input on this:

France is nearer and easier for driving, but bus transfers from airports can be irritatingly long and winding
Austria offers better wholesome food, France is either fast food or ridiculously expensive and fussy. Depends on your pallet.
French resorts have much less atmosphere than Austrian ones in the main, apres ski is a no brainer.
France tends to be purpose built and therefore in the snow whereas Austrian resorts are often low in the valleys. Pros and cons for each of course.
Austria can struggle with the snow as resorts are often lower.
France has a different attitude on the slopes, more aggressive.
Austria can suffer in certain resorts with all male drinking parties.
On slope prices are, in the main, much lower in Austria. Exceptions would be St Anton/Lech which are high for Austria, and Serre Che and ADH which are lower than normal in france.

If I was driving I would go to France. Given the choice and guaranteed snow, I would go to Austria every time.

Austria by a mile!

The top 4 resorts with the highest average snowfall in Europe are in Austria. 5 of the top 10 snowsure (the snow keeps longer) resorts in Europe are in Austria. BUT, these are not my reasons to choose Austria - ambience, character, standard of accommodation, value for money, aesthetics, efficiency, ski schools are all generally better in Austria versus any other European nation in my humble view.

Italy.

For personal preference, I put Austria and Italy above France these days. I think it's down to the feeling that my presence in Aut and Ita is welcomed whereas in France, particularly the 'mega-ski' stations, it's all about my money.
Wonderful ski areas in France but the Austrian holiday experience nicks it for me!

PS - I prefer Switzerland of all alpine destinations, but there's the small matter of cost to consider! -)

Austrians are a "light" version of the Germans.....I always feel the French are sneering a bit too much at us.

Everywhere is awesome with new powder snow and everywhere is crap without. Thus endeth the lesson.

(on which basis I need to be in Canada or Japan or someplace)

Skied at resorts in both countries but IMHO Austria wins, Regularly go back to St Anton as it's friendly, good apres ski (love that Tapas bar) and it's Ski in Ski Out.

Val D'Isere was nice but lordy there was some attitude! Can only speak from my own experience but warm and welcoming wasn't on the menu.

:)