Going off-piste – why the recession isn’t stopping one couple’s dream

AN enterprising Yorkshire couple are swapping the nine to five for the French Alps after fulfilling their dream of buying a business abroad.

Young professionals Andy and Heather Davies are weeks away from relocating to Meribel after buying a chalet business in the popular ski resort.

According to Mrs Davies, who is currently business development manager at accountants Ernst & Young, the acquisition follows months of searching – and years of dreaming.

“Me and Andy met at university then went travelling. After that we kind of fell into our jobs. Both of us enjoyed our roles but wanted more than to work behind a desk for 20 years,” she said.

The couple, who are both in their late twenties, found Alpine Ethos through a business sale website after unsuccessfully trying to lease chalets independently.

The larger of the chalets can lodge 18 people with the smaller one offering accommodation for 14.

Although the husband and wife team will have a team of two helping them, Mrs Davies will be responsible for cooking breakfast and evening meals.

There are also plans to further develop the brand and to promote seasonal activities such as hiking.

French speaking Mrs Davies, who is also a keen snow-boarder, said friends and family were supportive – and envious – of the life changing decision although some had questioned their timing.

“Yes, there is a recession but we are confident that the business will be a success,” she said.

“A recession gives you time to think about what you really want from life. I’ve also been involved with Ernst & Young’s enterprise programme, which has inspired me.”

However, she said most of the concern’s were about what would happen to the couple’s greyhound.

“It’s funny, it was the first thing people mentioned,” said Mrs Davies.

“We organised a pet passport and she’ll be coming over with us when we leave.”