Sunday 25 September 2022

10+1 family tips for the 2022-23 holiday season/Merinannies

 Discover what you need to know before hitting the slopes this year. Take your family on holiday in the Alps and have the time of your life.

As the holiday season is drawing near, most of us are planning our new holiday adventure. When travelling with family, preparing in advance is not only necessary but crucial. With the pandemic in our lives for a while now, we must consider COVID-19 health guidelines, so there is that. 

For families with children, though, there’s more to it. If you cherish gorgeous winter settings and snowy slopes but feel deep down that there is a lot of effort to it, you have come to the right place. Our team has put together the most essential tips for the 2022-2023 winter holiday season. Here is what you need to know for a smooth, hassle-free holiday.

      1.   MAKE ACCOMMODATION PLANS EARLY

Booking early is the oldest trick in the book when it comes to finding accommodation at reasonable prices. Even if you are not travelling on a tight budget, booking a hotel or chalet before you travel can ensure that you find the accommodation of your choice. Hotel rooms tend to get quite pricey last minute if you are going to a popular holiday destination. 

      2.   RESERVE SKI LESSONS IN ADVANCE

When you reserve ski and snowboard lessons in advance, the cost is usually less expensive than on-site. For a variety of locations, you can also book lessons for your little skiers. In that case, make sure you have reviewed the age limitations as refunds might not be a choice. Also, pre-booking your lift passes and ski equipment can result in saving lots of time in the first few days. 

      3.   BE AWARE OF YOUR ACCOMMODATON'S PROXIMITY TO THE SLOPES

If you are serious about skiing, you already know that finding the right instructor or ski school is important. What you also need to keep in mind is where the ski school is located compared to your accommodation. This will help you get organised to be on time for pick-ups.

Staying near the slopes is key to stress-free skiing holidays. Even if you are staying a bit further, check the distances beforehand and make transportation plans. 

Merinannies Tip: As much as you would like to teach your kid to ski, it is always best to trust the    professionals. 

      4.   CHOOSE A FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESORT

We believe it is extremely rewarding to spend any holidays with the kids. But there is something truly magical about family holidays in ski resorts - the colder the climate, the warmer the feelings. Our team has selected the most exceptional family-friendly resorts in the Alps that you’ll absolutely adore; Chamonix, Courchevel, Megeve, Meribel, St Anton, La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand are our top choices. 

5.  STAY FIT BEFORE TRAVELLING

Preparing for a holiday can be challenging enough, so why add another burden? Well, that may be true, but if you want to enjoy your skiing holidays to the fullest, then maintaining healthy habits right before can do wonders for your trip. There is no doubt that you need a healthy body if you’re going to ski, hike or stay active in the snow. For the upcoming months, weeks or even days, drink water, catch a lot of sleep and skip unnecessary treats (trust us, you will enjoy that fondue on the Alps even more!) 

      6.   BOOK YOUR NANNY/NANNIES EARLY

Whether you are planning to hire a nanny for the first time or have your heart set on a professional that you love, you must hurry. There are only so many excellent nannies waiting to spend time with your children. Our nannies know all about the most beloved family-friendly destinations and can help out a great deal when you most need it. Book one now.

7.   KEEP YOUR BABIES AND TODDLERS ENTERTAINED

How many of you have been told by friends and family that you shouldn’t take your babies and toddlers on holiday? Many parents though can’t imagine having fun without the little ones. Luckily, there are several baby-friendly activities in most resorts. And if you want to take the older kids skiing, you can always find a nanny to stay back with them. 

Merinannies Tip: Pre-order necessary foods and nappies for your baby as many parents have difficulty finding specific items on location. 

      8.   START WITH AN INDOOR SKIING CENTRE

Rather sceptical about taking the kids skiing? Why not try it in a controlled environment like an indoor skiing centre? This way you can benefit from all the perks (like one-on-one lessons and lots of training) without the risks of skiing on a mountain. Most of the indoor skiing centres are open year-round, so you can start practising today. 

      9.   ARRANGE SKI-SCHOOL PICK UPS AND DROP OFFS

As we mentioned earlier, the ski school’s proximity to your accommodation isn’t an issue to be ignored. But arranging pick-ups and drop-offs isn’t always a piece of cake, even if it’s quite close. It can feel exhausting to stay on schedule when on holiday. Nannies can prove extremely useful with getting the kids ready in the morning, dropping them off at ski school and picking them up in the afternoon. 

      10.  MAKE A PACKING CHECKLIST

You don’t need to be a “Monica” to appreciate a comprehensive checklist. A packing list should be the number one priority for the 2022-2023 holiday season, as people forget necessities like face masks more often than you might think. It’s particularly important to add things that are difficult to find on location if forgotten. 

      11.  ARRANGE SOME APRES DRINK TIME FOR YOU

While we adore our kids, a little grown-up time is always a good idea. Whether you’re keen on a mug of hot cocoa or a glass of wine, you deserve to delight in your favourite drink before the children arrive home from ski school. Why not get a night out too?

Relaxing with that famous Glühwein in a beautiful setting can elevate most parents’ moods in a flash. And if you need a reliable nanny to take over, we are here to help.



 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday 18 November 2021

Outstanding Nanny Services In Winter Resorts

Find out how Merinannies can elevate your holiday experience at your favourite winter resorts. Have fun and feel safe with qualified nannies.

With winter being just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your holidays in dreamy snowy resorts with the whole family. If you are keen on leaving tracks on fresh snow or simply looking forward to relaxing in a wooden chalet, make sure you book the perfect nanny for your little ones to benefit from the season’s finest opportunities with the best professionals by your side.

Winter Sport Resorts In the Alps

The winter sports resorts in Europe are truly majestic. Ski fans, nature lovers, and mountain explorers all find meaning among the Alpine slopes, stunning villages, and cosy chalets.

Most resorts offer amazing lodging options and many activities to choose from, so there are plenty of opportunities to try something different. Skiing or snowboarding at high altitudes, riding in a cable car or skating are just a few of these activities.

Family Holidays in the Alps with your Winter Nanny 

Discover all the new features in the alpine resorts like lifts and gondolas and take scenic walks among snow-covered pine trees with or without the little ones. Start the day skiing or snowboarding followed by your favourite apres-ski bar by the smoking fireplace along with mulled wine or hot chocolate. 

That’s where our childcare services come in. Babies can’t ski and small children can rarely ski for hours on end like you, even if they’ve started going to ski school. Hiring a nanny is a great way for you to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the ski slopes with your family. Merinannies has been one of the leading nanny agencies in iconic European ski areas such as 3 Valleys (Meribel, Courchevel, La Tania), Chamonix, St Anton, Megeve, and La Clusaz. After a difficult year of pandemic related closures, your favourite resorts are now ready to welcome guests with open arms. Whether you’re travelling with babies and toddlers, school age children or pre-teens, our experienced nannies provide tailored activities and undivided attention to your children, so they can delight in the snow without you having to look after them all the time. 

This year, remember to book your nanny early enough to enjoy hassle-free winter holidays. Contact us and let us know what you’re looking for. Our Merinannies team of dynamic and enthusiastic professionals is here for you. https://merinannies.com/our-staff/

This winter season 2021/22 Merinannies operate in the 3 Valleys, Chamonix, Megeve, La Clusaz, St Anton.





 

 

 

 

 

 


Saturday 7 December 2019

Your Christmas list sorted


The Perfect Family Christmas Present 
 Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way….

If this is ringing in your head and you are trying hard to tick off each pressie on Santa’s list, why don’t you go for a BIG surprise this year!
This is the time to snuggle up by a crackling log fire, indulge in as many cheeseboards as you possibly can, and sip mulled wine and hot chocolates all day long. Christmas is a special time for all the family, packed with quality time, love and festive cheer. For the perfect gift for the whole family this year, why not whisk them away to their very own magical winter wonderland?
Oh yes! We’re talking about a family ski holiday. The little ones will be open-mouthed from the moment they set eyes on the glistening, snow-topped mountains. You’ll leave all your work worries on the plane and get lost in a world of winding forest runs, cheese fondue and never-ending apres-ski. We know, we know. You’re wondering how you could possibly relax for a week away WITH your very young, very high-energy children? Well, that’s where we come in.

Here at MeriNannies, your wish is our command. We provide services to help you to get as much as you can from the mountains; resting easy knowing that your children are in great hands. While you’re off trying your first red run, your children will be excitedly riding toboggans, checking out the local ice rink or even meeting Santa Claus with our experienced nannies.


 Lucky for you, we operate only in the most picturesque and family-friendly resorts in the French Alps, including Meribel, Chamonix, St Anton, Megeve and Courchevel. With record-breaking November snowfall, we are in for an incredibly white Christmas this year indeed. Ski lifts have been opened up early in many resorts, and will be fully open everywhere within the next week.

Fancy holidaying in a resort that isn’t on our list? No problem, we’re still here to lend a helping hand. Our tried and tested Travel Ski Nanny service means we’ll send a qualified, experienced nanny (of your choice) to meet you in your chosen resort on arrival. Our nanny will be flexible to your holiday requirements including ski time during the day and evenings out, so you can make the most of your time away.
For a picture-perfect family Christmas, consider treating yourself and your loved ones to a week in the Alps. Discover more about us and find out how to book here.

www.merinannies.com
info@merinannies.com
+44 7860925055

Saturday 30 November 2019

Chamonix adventures with kids



Fun For The Whole Family: Our Top 10 Picks Of Things To Do In Chamonix

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-famous ski resort area nestled in the foothills of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. Aside from the obvious ski slopes, this lovely little picturesque town is packed with family-friendly indoor and outdoor activities to pass the time if your little ones haven’t quite got their ski legs! Children’s activities are spread throughout the whole of the Chamonix Valley, but Les Houches has actually been awarded the “Famille Plus” label, for its outstanding facilities for children. Here at MeriNannies, we consider ourselves somewhat experts when it comes to family-friendly things to do in the valley. So here’s our top pick of activities to keep you entertained throughout your whole stay:

1.     Luge Alpine Coaster of Chamonix
Speed through the breath-taking scenery of the Parc de Loisirs on this hold-on-to-your-hats toboggan run; perfect for adrenaline junkies big and small. With space for two on each sled, it’s ideal for the whole family. Children aged 3-7 just need to ride with an adult, but ages 8 plus can tear up the track all on their own. https://www.chamonix.com/luge-alpine-coaster-de-chamonix,48-163228,en.html

2.     Parc de Merlet
This is one of the most-recommended days out, year-round, for children of all ages. Perched high above les Houches, the Parc de Merlet is particularly exciting for those nature-curious kids; encourage them to follow tracks, spot animals and identify species like the little scientists they are. The park is pushchair-friendly and one of our favourite activities here at MeriNannies. http://www.parcdemerlet.com/en/

3.     Soft Play
La Petite Folie, located in Chamonix Sud, is a colourful and exciting soft play area that’s open 7 days a week and is even available for party bookings. For the tired parents who just want to put their feet up for a bit – you’re in luck! A café overlooks the soft play area so you can sink your teeth into a buttery croissant or indulge in a classic chocolat chaud…you’ve earned it.
http://www.lapetitefoliechamonix.com/wp_lapetitefolie/

4.     Husky Sledding
Let your children’s imaginations run wild with the magical world of husky sledding. Enjoy a ride over the ultimate wintery landscapes, being pulled at just more than a walking pace, so you can really soak up the views. Ideal for dog lovers in particular, the little ones will even get to interact with affectionate Alaskan and Greenland Huskies up close. 
https://www.chamonix.net/english/winter-activities/dog-sledding

5.     Montenvers Train & Mer de Glace
Wind your way up and around the mountainside with the Montenvers Train; it never fails to get the little ones excited about their great adventure. After just 20 minutes, you’ll reach the Mer de Glace (or “sea of ice”), one of the most stunningly beautiful glaciers around. Grab a bite to eat in the café or restaurant at the top. https://www.chamonix.com/mer-de-glace-et-train-du-montenvers,48-179002,en.html

6.     Grotto de glace 
At the top of the Montenvers Train, you can hop on a lift to the Grotto de Glace (ice tunnels) for an experience that feels like a movie scene. Trust us, it will take away your breath as well as the childrens’. Bear in mind that there are 430 steps to reach the ice caves, so it might be best suited for slightly older and more adventurous kids. 
https://www.chamonix.net/english/leisure/sightseeing/mer-de-glace

7.     Take a dip at the Centre Sportif 
Make a splash in Chamonix’s indoor heated swimming pool. Suitable for all ages, the complex provides non-stop fun for the whole family with a kid’s playing pool, a paddling pool and even a big hydro slide for all ages.  https://www.chamonix.net/english/leisure/sport-centers/richard-bozon

8.     Get your skates on
Open all year round, Chamonix’s 60 x 30 metre indoor Olympic ice rink is a great bad weather day option. You can just help your kids practice their professional “ice skater twirls” or even come along and watch the local ice hockey team, Les Chamois, playing home matches. https://www.chamonix.com/ice-rink,28,en.html

9.     Explore! 
We know it sounds obvious, but there’s nothing that fails to get children up and outside like a fresh snowfall. And luckily, we’ve got lots of that here in Chamonix. Head out for some serious exploring, and then dine at altitude – take your kids for their first ever fondue! They’ll be so full; we guarantee they’ll sleep well after. 


 10.  Helicopter rides around the valley 
For an extra special occasion, you can absolutely wow your children with a surprise helicopter ride around the Chamonix Valley. Whether you just want 10 minutes or a full 30 minutes, the panoramic views are always mind-blowing.  https://chamonix-helico.fr/en/vols-panoramiques

And, of course, if you fancy a few hours – or days – relaxing without the kids, that’s where our services come in. You can just grab yourself a vin chaud, snuggle up by the fire, and let us do all the entertaining. 
https://merinannies.com/book-page/
www.merinannies.com






Sunday 27 January 2019

A holiday that they will never forget with St Anton Nannies


Our nannies in St Anton have spent hours coming up with plans to make sure that your child has the best holiday possible while with us.  They have countless options on ways to have fun in and out the snow for children of all ages.   With a wide range of arts and crafts ideas we decided to give you a brief insight into some of the many activities that we have planned when you come to St Anton.
Outdoor fun.
What is more fun than being out in the snow for the first time. Our nannies make sure that your child will get to experience the snow in the best way possible by being creative and safe. Of course we like snowman competitions, snow angles, snowball fights and treasure hunts, but we also like to think outside the box and explore  new ideas. Some of our favourites are 

v Painting the snow - the child will have so much fun painting pretty pictures in the snow. 
v Making snow jewels, frozen balloons and ice ornaments.
v Making snow volcanos and snow animals.

And so many more but we can’t ruin the surprises.
Indoor fun.
Our nannies love to get messy making edible slime or playdough which is safer and we all know how children like to taste things.  We have a selection of glitters, paints, cards, paper plates and of course endless imagination to help create amazing art that you will get to bring home as a reminder of all the fun you have had with us in St Anton.
Our nannies also love sensory art with the younger babies  which helps their development, so as well as having fun they are learning new things. Feeling new sensations, tasting and exploring their senses. One of our favourite for babies is making edible paints with yoghurt, food colouring and flavours.  This is fun for all and safe if they eat it.


So contact us and find out how we can give your child a holiday they will never forget. 
And some latest comments on some of our nannies in St Anton
She was always bright and bubbly no matter when we saw her, and this washed off onto Florence; she was always happy and smiling around Katie when we arrived home. She was professional at all times. It was obvious she had a passion for kids and loved what she was doing.
Finn had an amazing time over the last 4 days and we all thought Mikaela did a great job. She came prepared with books and activities, and she kept him active with outings into the snow.  
 https://merinannies.com/book-page/
+447860925055














Tuesday 20 November 2018

5 Best Resorts for Family Skiing


5 Best Resorts for Family Skiing

Skiing is an activity the whole family can enjoy. With a range of mountain and indoor activities, skiing has something for everyone.

There are plenty of family packages available to help you get the most out of your holiday. You can take advantage of the child care services and catered accommodation at your resort.

Are you planning your next ski adventure? Are you unsure which resort is right for your family? These are the 5 best resorts for family skiing.

Méribel, France

Méribel is ideal for a family ski break. Situated in the Three Valleys, this resort is absolutely stunning, with stunning luxury chalets to match.

There are runs that are well suited to beginners and children, as well as events designed for

teenagers.

Experience one of these fun-filled activities:

·       The Olympic Park

·       Tobogganing

·       Skijoring

·       Hiking

For very young children, hire a nanny or use the resort’s kindergarten and day care services.

The fun doesn’t stop in the evening! Try a traditional Alpine restaurant, go to a pool party or watch a live music act.



St Anton, Austria

St Anton is a haven for families. It has retained its traditional feel whilst becoming a modern ski resort.

It has some of the best off-piste courses for those who are seeking an adventure. As well as this, the family can enjoy a wealth of sports and activities such as:

·       Tobogganing

·       Curling

·       Snowshoeing

Experience the Children’s Paradise where the kids are in in charge! They can take part in a ski lesson with expert instructors who will then award them with a performance pass.

There are many accommodation options that are sure to suit any family. Stay in a catered chalet for an intimate and cosy family experience or continue your adventure by going camping!

La Clusaz, France

La Clusaz has been given the Famille Plus label for its dedication to affordable family ski holidays. The amount of activities on offer means that the family will never be bored. Here are just some of the activities you can try:

·       Dog sledding

·       Ice skating

·       Crazy golf

·       Ice bumpers

If you want some time away from the children, you can take them to a child care centre or use a nanny service. There are also ski lessons designed for children of all ages and abilities.

There’s a great selection of fun and cosy restaurants you can try if you want to spend some more quality time with your family.


Le Grand-Bornand is beautiful and charming. This French resort prioritises families and has a number of facilities available, such as a nanny service, to create a better family-friendly experience. You can make use of the following services and activities:

·       Play area

·       Baby’s corner

·       Rock climbing

·       Hot air balloon

If you want to try a more traditional activity, there are cheese making demonstrations and chocolate making courses which is definitely something everyone can enjoy!

Megѐve, France

Megѐve is essentially a large playground for children to enjoy. It’s also a traditional and authentic resort which is rich in history and culture. Why not take your family on an adventure? You can try:

·       The Adventure Park

·       Paintballing

·       Ice hockey

For very young children there’s a nursery or nanny service and for older children there is plenty to do. With a family ski pass you can get unlimited entry into the resort’s sports centre when you want to take a break from the slopes.

If you’re there at Christmas time, then be sure to head over to see the town’s beautiful Christmas tree. You might even receive a treat from Santa himself!

Tempted to head to one of these resorts with your family this ski season? Time to get booking! Start your holiday off on the right foot with a private airport transfer.
www.merinannies.com

Friday 16 November 2018

Chasing snowflakes


We have been chasing snowflakes since 2003, building snowmen and treasure hunting in the Narnia woods, baking gingerbread, freezing balloons and decorating trees with reindeer shapes and angels. Now we are looking forward to doing this again, for the 16th season. The first snowflakes have fallen in the Alps and our new nannies have been very excited to try the uniform and get their activity boxes ready. Wow what a start!
This season we are very lucky to welcome most of our existing nannies again and have added a few new ones too.
We have kept all our resorts so we will operate in Meribel, Courchevel, La Tania, Chamonix, Megeve, La Clusaz and the famous St Anton and Lech.
January discounts are available for full time packages, so if you are looking for expert childcare you need to hurry as many weeks are already booked.
A 10% discount is applied also to full time bookings in March, made within November (subject to availability).
We look forward to welcoming you this winter and look after your little ones while you are having the perfect ski holiday.