Five major nations share the skiers' paradise we know as the European Alps, but all of these nations possess decidedly different personalities. To further confuse things, each of the individual resorts within these nations focuses their facilities, activities, and marketing schemes to differing sectors of the ski travel market. So, where do you want go? Choose your country; choose your resort!

The Alpine Countries
Travelers throughout the world have equated Austria with skiing ever since Hannes Schneider first snowplowed down an Arlberg slope. Traditional villages welcome skiers with warm hospitality and fun-loving après-ski scenes known for revelry into the wee hours. Excellent snow conditions, affordable lift tickets, and long ski seasons make Austria a world-renowned ski destination.

In Germany, skiing means Garmisch. Located at the southern edge of Germany, Garmisch gets much of its personality from its Austrian neighbor. Frescos, fun, and huge mugs of beer are the attractions here. Read on to this issue's Destination Snow section for a complete report.

France most recently drew the ski world's eye as host of the 1992 Olympic Winter Games. Known for its huge interlinked resorts, state-of-the-art technology, and massive purpose-built ski lodges, France offers some of the most extensive ski-in/ski-out facilities on the planet. This convenience does not come without cost, however, as French ski resorts are both notoriously bleak and notoriously expensive. As might be expected, however, the food and wine are superb.

Italy is blessed with terrain spanning Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and the strikingly rugged Dolomiti Range. The Italian fun-loving passion for "la dolce vita" is apparent in every facet of an Italian ski vacation; the food and wine are inexpensive and rival the quality found in France, long lunches empty the slopes for two hours every afternoon, and long disco nights keep the crowds in bed - and out of lift lines - well into the morning. Possessed of some of Europe's most important tourist sights, Italy is an ideal ski destination for first-time travelers to Europe.

Long known for its technological expertise, Switzerland boasts ski technology on par with its quartz watches and mountain railways. Skiing here is well organized and efficiently run. The mood is decidedly relaxed, as Swiss skiers consider their sport a cultural experience than an athletic endeavor. Bracing mountain air and Europe's most beautiful Alpine scenery lead to long fondue lunches, extended ski breaks on rented chaise lounges, and leisurely evenings in quaint village bars.

Resort Reputations
Skiers seeking specific activities should check out the renowned reputations of the resorts below:

Looking for a hopping après-ski scene? Try Austria's Kitzbuhel, St. Anton, or Ischgl. Switzerland's nightlife picks up around Davos, Zermatt, and Verbier, and the French party at Val d'Isere and Chamonix. In Italy, head for the party at Cortina.

Luxury remains the standard at a few Alpine resorts. Check out Lech/Zurs in Austria, St. Moriz or Zermatt in Switzerland, or Courchevel 1850 in France. And don't forget your credit cards.

Romance is blooming all over the Alps! For destinations built by Cupid himself, try Kitzbuhel in Austria, Courmayeur in Italy, and Saas-Fee or Murren in Switzerland.

Families and beginning skiers will most enjoy Austria, where Schladming, Soll, Saalbach, Mayrhofen, and Obergurgl all groom gentle slopes. In France, try Morzine or Megeve.

Intermediate skiers can enjoy most of the Alpine ski terrain. Great resorts for mid-level abilities include Galtur/Ischgl in Austria, Wengen in Switzerland, and Val Gardena (near Cortina) in Italy. In France, try Meribel or Morzine.

Advanced skiers appreciate the moguls, steep grades, and off-piste skiing offered at Europe's big-name resorts. In France, try Val Thorens, Val d'Isere, or Chamonix. Challenging terrain tests experts at St. Anton, Austria, and at Davos and Verbier in Switzerland.

Still can't make up your mind?