To be a seasonaire seems almost mythical; you spend each and every day in this utopia of a place and get paid to do so. Whilst is there is still a place for disbelief when working here, it sure does weaken. You work long days, for little pay. You work very hard, for little gratitude. And on top of that, you’re perpetually on the receiving end of gushing comments insisting how lucky you are. The fact is, it’s tough. But that’s far from saying it isn’t worth it, as it is. It is so worth it.
Some days I’d wake up – and you know, no matter where I wake up, I’ve just woken up so I’m hating life. Could be St. Lucia, could be Flat 9, Jamaica St, Bristol, I feel the same. When I come to my perspective changes. – and I’d be hating life. Think thoughts such as ‘I can’t do today. I just can’t. No. I will not do today. I will not, I cannot.’, but then I’d step outside. I’d come to. I’d come to with urgency like never before, each and every day. The place is beautiful and it demands the best of you, which really is a fulfilling feeling to endure for 6 months. Broadening the mind and all that (that’s what people say, right?). – Former seasonaire
Why is it so tough? The reality is you’re working days longer than you imagined possible and you’re even somewhat expected to be one call outside of those hours too. All which you’re not getting paid too well for either. But, you do get accommodation, food, and a ski lift pass. Plus, although this depends on you, you may also have the time of your life. Many who do become a seasonaire say it’s one of the best things they’ve ever done.
Does this life sound like one you’d like to occupy? Well, here’s what some roles you can do as a seasonaire!
There are different routes you can take when it comes to becoming a seasonaire. All different in nature but equally challenging. Some may help you in gaining experience for your career which is a massive win-win. Some suit lifestyles better than others, like say, if you wanted to be able to drink every night, then the chalet host route is not for you. However, if you’re after those tips and want to be a chef in the future, chalet host is most certainly the route for you. Here are some of the roles.
This job is for the gregarious sort. You need to energetic and willing to help round the clock. If you feel energised by smiles and laughs, then it’s definitely for you. In this role you’ll be the question-answerer and problem-solver of the resort. You’ll also be expected to sell lift passes, equipment hire, and lessons.
Why: You get to ski. A lot.
Why not: Anything goes wrong you’re going to know it because someone will shout at you. It’s generally quite stressful.
Where there are expensive resorts, there are rich parents wanting to rid of their children. That’s a given. So obviously, being a nanny is a big role within the ski industry. Being a nanny at a resort isn’t anything like in the UK, however. You’ll be looking after one or two children regularly, meaning you can create a bond with them and the whole process is less stressful.
Why: Looking after kids can be fun. It’s one of the better-paid jobs. Great opportunity for tips.
Why not: Looking after kids can be horrible. The stress can carry over into your social life. You may not get tips.
This is perhaps the most well-known route. It’s the one you’ve seen in the few films. It’s can be one of the most enjoyable – as we said earlier, this is all subjective. In this role, you will specifically cater for one chalet, which means you can be cooking for up to 20 people. If you’re going for a career in the culinary industry, as aforementioned, this would be a great choice for yourself; character building and CV thickening.
Why: You get to hang out in crazy chalets. You will almost definitely get tips. It’s the best for experience. Free food!
Why not: It bears the most responsibility. The guests can be rather mean and aggressive sometimes.
This doesn’t really need an explanation. You won’t be cooking the meals, you’ll be cleaning them.
Why: Stress-free.
Why not: Mind-numbing.
Whether you’re a seasonaire or a millionaire visitor, everyone in resorts usually wants to sink a few at the end of the day. Much like nannying, this means there’s always a need for bartenders. This is known as the most fun job: you get to socialise, be apart of the never-ending energy, and you may get to drink for free too.
Why: It’s fun. Easier to learn the language due to constant communication. Potential free drink!
Why not: You’ll have to work nights. The job can be exhausting. No real career development.
The way to get these job is to go directly to the bars, hotels, and restaurants directly. At the right time of year – August – they advertise most of these roles. Our advice to you about on how to secure these roles? These companies look for people who are all conscientious, gregarious, and polite. If you convey those traits in a coherent manner, they will strongly consider you.
Choose your resort well. Obviously, our preference is Verbier, but there are many more. You’ll be living here for 6 months, so you better find one you like, otherwise, things may go sour.
Does a life of a seasonaire appeal to you? We hope we’ve helped you today. Been a seasonaire before and simply hoping to return to Verbier? Take a look at our chalets. They’re pretty incredible. Any questions, give us a call!
