Big Al

Hi Windy, We (myself, wife & 2 teenage kids) skied in Japan for the first time in January this year. We stayed in Happo village & skied Happo, Hakuba 47, Goryu and Tsugaike Kogen. Transport between resorts is free and easy. There were plenty of Australians (and other westerners) there but I didn't see any "hoon" elements which I hear can be commonplace in Niseko, and there were many Japanese too. The skiing and overall holiday experience was fantastic and we are going back in January 2015 and are counting the days - I can thoroughly recommend Hakuba.

Totally Agree. IMHO Columbia have been the most entertaining team at this excellent World Cup. They have an abundance of technically skilled players; a new-found steely professionalism due to Argentinian Coach Peckerman; and an old, experienced squad member in Mondragon to keep the young heads calm. They attack down the wings with overlapping full backs, or with long balls from the back, or by tiki taka through the middle. I sincerely hope they slaughter Brazil !!

The guy is brilliant but disturbed. SBS made some interesting comments about how his behaviour is more acceptable to South Americans who cite the "necessary street smarts" he clearly possesses to rise up from the wrong side of the tracks to the wealth of football superstardom as being admirable. Maybe just a symptom of the world today in which the old cricket rule book clearly has no place !!

Very nice mate. Did the Kitzsteinhorn in (northern) summer back in 1989 and while the skiing is a lot less extensive than the Stubai, there are summer water sports available for the afternoon at Zell am See. Fond memories..