Winter is when rich travelers head downhill

St. Moritz, a Swiss luxury resortis among top high-end winter destinations that draw upmarket travelers. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Oetztal Valley

This destination in the Austrian Alps is celebrated for the Soelden ski resort, which has hosted World Cup races and was featured in the blockbuster film James Bond 007: Spectre. The resort covers 434 hectares and rises roughly 2,000 meters above sea level. It hosts a total of 145 km of courses. The nearby Aqua Dome hotel offers splendid Alps views, hot springs and sauna treatments.

Whistler

Canada's Whistler ski resort claims to be the largest of its kind in North America. It offers narrow and steep trails with abrupt twists and turns. Snow conditions are complex, making for an ideal challenge for daredevil and veteran skiers. It hosts over 200 trails and winter entertainment facilities. Many visitors ride snowmobiles over frozen lakes through the wilderness.

Silver Star Mountain Resort

Canada's Silver Star is particularly popular with families. Snow-sheathed Victorian architecture creates a winter-wonderland vibe. The powdery snow and varied terrain makes the resort one of the country's most popular.

Hokkaido

Japan's northernmost island is best for skiing in January and February. Tomamu resort offers diverse mountain trails for skiers of all skill levels. Private Chinese-language coaching services are available.