Arnaud Hugon: Store Manager - Ski Republic Val Claret

Tell us a little bit about your shop - how it started out and where you're based...

Our shop (Ski Republic - Borsat) is located in Val Claret, we work primarily with Odalys and some tour operators.

How long have you been a Skiman and how long have you been working with Ski Republic?

I have worked for Ski Republic for 5 years, I was a skiman with Ski Republic Platières in Tignes for 4 years and this is the first year that I have been responsible for a store.

What makes your resort a special place to be for someone in your profession?

Being a skiman is all about enjoy the skiing in resort and sharing this passion with our clients.

What are the best bits about your job?

Speaking about skiing to the customers and getting satisfactory returns from them when they've had a great holiday.

And the worst bits?

For me it's dissatisfied clients but thankfully this rarely happens.

What are you personal and professional goals for the future?

My personal goal is to develop my skills and knowledge in the art of skiing, and as regards the profession, increase the numbers for the store, add some assets to the business - door concierge, communication with customers..

What's your favourite piste or off-piste area & top tip to go skiing?

My favorite Tignes playgrounds are Ognan and around Pramecou (off piste), the corners are very easy to ride but with enough space to have fun!

Where would send someone who was after that something 'something special' in resort, to stay, eat or drink?

If I had to recommend a place to eat and sleep well in Tignes, I would recommend the Hotel du Paquis, it has one of the most beautiful views of the resort and the staff are very welcoming and very friendly!

Your favourite place for lunch or dinner?

A wonderful place to eat in Tignes : Le caveau, where you can eat well, enjoy the friendly atmosphere and concerts held there every week!!

Where will we find the best coffee or hot chocolate?

The Arbina at Tignes lake, the sun station!

What has been your best ever day in your resort?

Every day is a wonderful day :-)

What's the best thing about your resort?

We have one of the largest ski areas, and we were pleased to welcome the winter X games here for 4 years - a very big event.

Do you remember your first trip to your resort?

I was born in the valley in Aix les Bains and my grandfather brought me to Tignes, I have had the chance to ride since I was 2 years old.

What’s your favourite thing to do in resort when not skiing?

When not skiing, you can enjoy the swimming pool and the new sports complex with all its activities.

What do you do in the summer?
In the summer I have several jobs, one of them is a tennis instructor and I was also a maintenance worker in a MMV residence in the south west.

Which is your favourite shop in resort?

My favorite store in tignes Ski Republic Borsat, [obviously] because I am responsibile for it, and we work with many families who return each year and with a smile!! It is a pleasure!!

Where are we most likely to find you for après-ski?!

For after-ski, you will find me nowhere, i'm married..

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Ski Republic have ski hire stores across the Alps and they offer some of the best deals you can find for groups & families. Or you can drop in to their store in Val Claret & say hi to Arnaud - he'll be happy to see you!