All parents would probably agree: traveling with a large family to a ski resort can be hectic.
It can make meal-time seem like a job in itself. Overpriced and so-so lunches at the resort cafeteria are enough to make you say "Shhh - OK kids, load up on the free granola bars in the lift line." And shuffling everyone off to an overcrowded restaurant for dinner is the last thing you look forward to after an exhausting day on the slopes. So where is the best place to get healthy, affordable food that isn't chicken strips and fries?
Here is a secret many overlook: private chef for hire. That's right, it's not just for the rich and glamorous anymore. "Many of my wealthy clients know, if they are traveling with a large crowd, they can get delicious, healthy, home-cooked meals made for them at home or in their condo for virtually the same price as going out," says concierge service owner Kate Allan. "Not only do they save money and stress, but they don't have to worry about driving after a few glasses of wine. Not to mention the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen."
In addition to cooking, a private chef will also run all the shopping errands for you so you can avoid the busy resort grocery markets. Think about it: 8 people on a trip might typically spend $20 per person at breakfast and lunch, and another $30 at dinner. That could amount to almost $600 in a single day. A private chef ( at, say, $50/hour plus the grocery bill) may cost around $700 for a full ten hour day of service, but you would get three square meals, a week's-worth of breakfast/lunch groceries, and possibly even two or three ready-to-heat casseroles for the days after. If you're traveling with another family or lots of young kids, dollar for dollar that makes sense.
So the next time you vacation in a popular resort, think about hiring a chef for the day. With the savings, you could get a great in-home massage, take a hot tub, and then come to dinner with a glass of wine in hand. Now that's the way to finish a day on the slopes!
