The cost of skiing isn't coming down, and more and more people are opting for a do-it-yourself ski holiday in self catered chalets and skiing apartments. There are of course large tour operators offering discount ski apartments with flights at some crazy prices too; these are usually at the lower end of the market, and can be really useful where budgeting is imperative. If it's a last minute decision where the resort and quality are not important, these cut price ski holidays can be an attractive option.

France is currently the most popular ski destination for UK skiers, followed closely by Canada and the US. British skiers find that the flexibility of self service ski accommodation in apartments and chalets has a lot to offer because it gives the independence not available from tour operators. With carriers selling cheap ski flights like EasyJet and Bmibaby and fast internet access, it is now possible to organise, book and pay for travel and ski accommodation in a matter of minutes all on your own.

There are two types of ski accommodation - the apartment and the chalet. In France the apartments are often referred to as 'boxes'. For the most part that's what they are - piled one on top of the other into vast brutal concrete apartment blocks. Some may have had some wood slapped on the side as a minimal concession. They may be ugly, but they have their advantages.

At the budget end this type of ski accommodation can be cheap! The blocks are usually on the piste and right next to the skiing so there is no walking, and the facilities such as restaurants, supermarkets, bars and shops are close by. They are purely functional with little or no aesthetic considerations. The minimum they provide could just be a bed, a tv, a bathroom, a small kitchenette, a sofa and a table and chairs.

The quality end is comparative luxury. Companies such as MGM now have a reputation for buildin

g ski accommodation in more attractive buildings and converting town houses into flats where you can at least swing a cat. Chamonix is a perfect example; because the town has historic and architectural importance attached to it, there are some wonderful buildings that have been converted with taste and flair.

You can also choose from a vast selection of private chalets throughout the Alps as self catered chalet options. These will vary in quality but as they may be people's second homes they can be more roomy and comfortable, and built attractively in the traditional style. As a rule expect them to lie in outlying villages, although sometimes they will be centrally located next to the piste.

Ski apartments and chalets will have any number of beds from two bed 'studios' to twelve bed 'duplexes' and more. For medium quality expect to pay between £100 and £250 per person depending on season and location. Because competition is strong, you nearly always get value for money.

You will also have to pay a returnable deposit for breakages. Bed linen and towels will not usually be supplied in ski accommodation but can be rented by the agent for a reasonable fee. There will be an inventory before you leave and you'll be expected to leave the place clean and tidy!

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