Winter in Europe is a spectacular time of year. Fresh powder falling from the sky and blanketing the jagged peaks is a snow sport enthusiast’s dream. However, if you happen hail from a warm, tropical climate, the frozen white stuff may have you at a bit of a loss. Perhaps the thought of strapping two thin planks of wood or metal composite on your feet and hurdling down a mountain doesn’t quite appeal to you. Or maybe you just want to try something a little new and a little, well … exotic. Don’t worry — there are plenty of amazing alpine activities waiting for you! All you need is a healthy sense of adventure and a little extra courage.

Ice Climbing

If hanging off the side of a frozen waterfall or giant boulders covered in ice sounds like your cup of tea, ice climbing may be right up your alley. Although ice climbing does require proper training and specialized equipment, Europe is a fantastic location to get acquainted with this thrilling sport.

Some of the most popular ice climbing spots are located in the picturesque Bavarian Alps. Traverse your way through frozen outcroppings, and scale ice-covered ledges and cliffs against the breathtaking backdrops of Zugspitze, Oberstdorf and Jochberg.

Skeleton

Feel like zipping down a mountain face-first on your stomach, on a sled about as big as a boogie board? Skeleton is the perfect to try for daredevils and adrenaline junkies. This epic thrill sport was established in the early 1880s by English soldiers in St. Moritz, Switzerland. Although, it’s been around for some time, it wasn’t added the Winter Olympics as an official sport until 2002.

While there are only 17 official tracks for competitive use in the world, the majority of them can be found in Europe. A great place to learn is La Plagne, France — home to bobsled, luge and skeleton tracks of the 1992 Winter Olympics in nearby Alberville. Once you’ve mastered it, head to picturesque Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. This 1,350-meters-long championship track boasts a vertical drop of more than 120 meters and 13 curves.

Luge

If you’re not quite ready to whizz down the slopes face-first, but still want the excitement of skeleton, check out luge. Using the same icy tracks, luge is a great combination of skeleton and bobsled. Luge riders lie almost flat, feet-first, and use their reflexes to steer the sled and make adjustments as they fly down the track.

If you want to get a crash course (not literally) in luge, head to La Plagne. The resort offers speed luge, which has riders sliding down the 1,500-meters-long track in a specialized sled. This sled is outfitted with a metal cage to protect riders of all levels and abilities, as they zoom at speeds of more than 90 km/h. If you’ve got slightly more advanced skills, head to Schönau am Königsee, Germany. Located directly above the crystalline waters of Lake Königsee, riders will experience up to 1,300 meters, 16 turns and more than 10-percent grade on this World Cup track.

Ice Sailing

Those who love the sea know that winter can be really long when the sailing season ends. However, it doesn’t have to end! During the 17th century, merchants eager to find a mode of transportation in the Baltic countries discovered ice sailing as a quick and reliable solution. Boats were modified by adding steel runners to the hull.

Nowadays, ice sailing prevails as a thrilling sport in European countries such as Austria, Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland and Estonia. During races, competitors line up their rigs, get a running start and are quickly flying at speeds of up to 100 km/h across frozen lakes. Many techniques are similar between normal sailing and ice sailing, and lessons are often available for those who curiosities are piqued.

Snowshoeing

Looking for something a little more grounded, with really no experience necessary? Grab a pair of snowshoes and hit the trails. Snowshoeing is great for those that just want to stop and take time to enjoy the stunning scenery that surrounds them. Many resorts and outdoor recreation centers offer snowshoes for rent. All you need is a sturdy pair of hiking boots (preferably with a waterproof sealant) and a thick pair of wool or moisture-wicking socks. Simply strap the snowshoes on to your boots and go.

With the popularity of hiking and Volksmarching during the spring and summer months, it’s no surprise that Germany’s Black Forest is well-known for dedicated winter walking paths and snowshoe trails. Inclines are often minimal and the trails typically range between 6- and 12-kilometers long.

Whether you glide along icy lakes or tromp through the quiet forests to jaw-dropping panoramas, winter is a fantastic time to head outside. Although, it can be just as fun to curl up next to a cozy fire with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and watch as snowflakes drift through the air.

Whether you love or despise the chilly weather, winter has finally arrived! With all the rain that has been dousing the region, it’s sometimes easy to forget that it is indeed January in Germany. That being said, preparation for the cold days and nights ahead can make a big difference. Here’s what you have to look forward to (or dread) in the upcoming days.

The Munich area will have a high of around 28 degrees on Thursday, with temperatures cooling down a little for the weekend, according to accuweather.com. Friday will be cloudy, Saturday will be partly cloudy and Sunday could see some rain or snow in the morning. Evening temperatures will drop as low as 19 degrees. Temperatures will stay in the low 30s throughout next week with chances of snow. The cooler weather will close out the month and bring us into February.

The Stuttgart region will enjoy a partly sunny weekend with highs of 39 degrees on Saturday. However, Sunday will bring the chance for rain or snow with the clouds. January will come to an end with temperatures reaching around 40 degrees.

Knowing that sunny and 70 degrees is nowhere in sight, now is the time to bust out those base layers and have some outdoor winter fun. Dressing appropriately can make all the difference in your enjoyment of the great outdoors. Don’t forget the essentials like waterproof gloves, boots, snow pants, jackets, scarves and even a face mask (like a balaclava). Remember that winter clothing is usually rated for certain temperatures, which can make a huge difference! If you are dressed appropriately, the chilly weather won’t bother you as much.

Once you’ve geared up and are likely sweating while standing inside, head out for some fun in the snow. A simple snowball fight can be fun for the whole family, or you could build a snowman. If you’re willing to travel, a great place for outdoor activities is in the Zugspitze area in Austria. Consider night sledding at Ehrwalder Alm. Every Tuesday and Friday the slopes are illuminated while sledders race toward the bottom of the hill. Opening times are 6:30 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. Tickets are 24 euros for adults or 18 euros with a valid ski pass. Children ages 6-15 years are 14 euros or 11 euros with a valid ski pass. Other night sledding locations include Berwang, Biberwier and Bichlbach, as well as tobogganing in Grubigstein (each has their own hours and pricing).

After a little fresh air, come inside to warm up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Nothing warms us to the core like a nice hot drink. Of course tea, coffee and glühwein are also great options! No matter the temperatures, if you prepare in advance and make plans accordingly, you can enjoy the cooler weather just as much as the summer. I personally love the cold, because you can always add more layers, but you can’t always take more off!

Winter can be such a drag, no matter where you live. Cold temperatures, rain, snow, and clouds might have you thinking of spending your life savings on a tropical vacation to Greece for a week. Don’t bust out those flip flops and swimming suits just yet. Take a step back and consider actually enjoying the winter with a weekend trip to Schliersee, Germany.

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the small town of Schliersee, along with it’s namesake lake, lies patiently waiting for tourists to crowd its streets and admire the picturesque views. With a population less than 7,000 people, the small town of Schliersee is the ideal place to enjoy the snow, without the overwhelming crowds, while zipping down a ski run at either Spitzingsee or Sudelfeld resorts.

Spitzingsee ski resort caters to skiers of all experience levels. From the novice to the experienced skier, everyone can find the perfect slope on one of the 21 runs available. With groomed slopes, snow-making equipment, and 15 cable cars and lifts, this resort is fun for the whole family. If you just can’t get enough of the adrenaline pumping through your veins while you glide down the Alpine slopes, Spitzingsee offers night skiing on Thursdays and Fridays.

Sometimes one ski resort just isn’t enough. Sudelfeld is less than a 20-minute drive away and a great place for your second day of skiing. Boasting 31 km of runs in the lovely region of Wendelstein, Sudelfeld aims to please its skiers with modern technology. On the 14 lifts offered, you can enjoy child safety, heated seats, and weather protection hoods. These modern luxuries will keep your behind nice and warm and the wind out of your eyes while you take in the sights and soar above the snow covered mountains. Are you bringing young travel companions? Sudelfeld has 2 areas specially designed with children in mind. There’s something fun for everyone.

After a long day of skiing, sometimes a little rest and relaxation is needed. Head down the mountain to the town of Schliersee and stop at Slyrs, a local whiskey distillery. Slyrs offers self-guided or guided tours through their distillery. You can see the multitude of American white oak barrels that case the whiskey, and learn about the process of creating Slyrs single malt whiskey, which is made from Bavarian barley and pure Bannwald spring water. The windows in the tasting room allow you to bask in the beauty of the mountains while savoring the taste of local whiskey. At only 6 euros per person, it’s definitely worth the visit. Don’t skip the gift shop, where you can marvel at and purchase numerous types of whiskies and fruit spreads available.
Let this exquisite village sweep you away for your next weekend vacation.

It's a myth that suicide ideations are more prevalent during the holidays, but what about after the holidays?

"Suicide rates are typically lowest in December, but begin increasing in the spring and fall," said U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Suicide Prevention Program Manager Yancy Chandler. "But it is something that should be addressed often, year-round."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting negative effects on individuals, families and communities. Although the reasons for suicide are more complicated and influenced by numerous factors, the goal of suicide prevention is straightforward: Reduce the factors that increase risk and increase factors that promote resilience. Suicide prevention should address several aspects of influence: individual, relationship and community. 

Suicidal ideations and attempts increased last year compared to 2017, Chandler explained, and keeping the dialog open about this topic is paramount to make positive changes.

"Successful prevention approaches are necessary to foster suicide awareness and a social responsibility toward change," Chandler said. "Suicidal behaviors are so unique that you can't pinpoint an exact time when someone will exhibit the behavior, so you must be aware of the indicators."

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention stated that some indicators may include -- 
TALK
Someone talking about:
• Killing themselves
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Having no reason to live
• Being a burden to others
• Feeling trapped
• Unbearable pain

BEHAVIOR
Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if related to a painful event, loss or change:
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for methods
• Withdrawing from activities
• Isolating from family and friends
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
• Giving away prized possessions
• Aggression
• Fatigue

MOOD
People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Loss of interest
• Irritability
• Humiliation/Shame
• Agitation/Anger
• Relief/Sudden Improvement

Chandler said people may also notice someone withdrawing from friends and family. 

"You may see some behavioral and personality changes that are drastically different from their typical behavior or personality -- that is a sign. Sometimes, it's not always reassuring to see someone go from being depressed to being happy because they might have a plan built," he explained. "So you need to be direct with someone when asking about suicide. Don't ask if they are thinking about 'hurting' themselves -- ask if they are thinking about 'ending their life.'"

While there are several helping agencies that can provide assistance, some people are reluctant because of the stigma associated with reaching out for help, Chandler said. 

"For some, reaching out for help is associated with weakness," he said. "But I want people to know it's OK to reach out for help, because it's a sign of strength. There are some obstacles in our lives that we can't handle alone, so asking for assistance makes you stronger."

Resources available in the Rheinland-Pfalz include on-call chaplains (Kaiserslautern: 0162-296-9054 or Baumholder: 0162-270-8348), unit chain of command, behavioral health, Military Family Life Consultants: 
• Baumholder: 0152-3652-2147
• Kleber Kaserne: 0175-792-3332
• Landstuhl: 0152-2479-2650
• Rhine Ordnance Barracks: 0175-601-1985

Crisis Numbers: 
Military Crisis Line: 00800-1273-8255 or chat at militarycrisisline.net 
Europe SHARP Hotline: 0611-143-537-4277
Domestic Violence Victim Advocate Hotline: 0162-296-7320

People can also take advantage of the suicide prevention courses offered as well.
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
Jan. 10-11 (Baumholder)
Feb. 21-22 (Kaiserslautern)
March 21-22 (Kaiserslautern)

For more Suicide Prevention Program information, visit the USAG RP website or visit the Army Substance Abuse Program Facebook page.

Any of us transplanted from the southern United States dread winter in Germany and its gloomy, short days. However, living in Germany gives you easy access to much of the world’s best locations for skiing and other winter sports. Whether you’re a novice or expert, or prefer to stay at the resort and read in front of a cozy fire, you can have a great time avoiding the winter blues.

European culture

If you’ve been in Europe for a while, you’ve probably noticed that the Europeans take mealtime seriously, stretching it beyond a quick bite to eat. Many Europeans will eat and relax, enjoying the company of friends, even at lunchtime mountainside. This is the perfect time to hit the trails if you prefer less crowded slopes.  For those less die-hard about skiing, take the time to enjoy wonderful European food at lunch. It’s a far cry from what you find at American ski resorts. The gastronomic experience in Germany involves the staple, Jägerschnitzel, while the French serve a skillet dish with potatoes, cured ham and local cheese known as tartiflette.  In Italy, an antipasto of bresaola, cured beef, is served before a meal of pasta and local cheese.

The Europeans are not early risers while on vacation.  Unlike at U.S. resorts where the lines are long before the lifts open, Europeans sleep in. They do not sacrifice their evening social lives to be first on the slopes, so early morning is a great time for a quiet commune with the mountains while enjoying fresh powder. 

The slopes

For the new skier or those in need of a refresher, ski schools in English are available at most destinations.  You may also find the opportunity to hire a guide, particularly if you prefer going off-piste.  As in the United States, you can easily rent equipment if you opt not to bring your own.  Many resorts have mid-station rental shops so you don’t have to traipse from your hotel loaded down with gear.

The system used in Europe for rating the difficulty of slopes is different from that in the United States. Green, blue, red and black circles mark European trails, and such ratings are based less strictly on the slope’s steepness. Other factors, such as turns, the trail angle and width and the presence of exposed rock and other hazards are taken into consideration. Green slopes, also known as learning trails, are for beginners, typically very wide with gently sloping topography. Blue trails are considered easy with slightly steeper gradients, similar to the green slopes found at U.S. ski resorts. Red ratings are for trails designed for intermediate skiers, steeper and narrower than blue slopes. The black, expert, rating encompasses a broad range of slopes from those that are steep and groomed to those that are not groomed, have moguls or present additional challenges, such as steep avalanche chutes. Certain parts of Europe have also started using the color yellow to signify
ungroomed trails.

In contrast to American slopes, European slopes are far longer. While the average descent of an American slope is 2,000 feet, the average European descent is 4,000 feet, and in select areas, vertical footage breaks 6,000 feet. This longevity can make your trip down the mountain seem smoother and give you more time to become accustomed to the trail.  

If you are not ready to book your own vacation or prefer to ski with a group, check out trips through your local outdoor recreation or MWR. Additionally, ski clubs that plan trips can be found in many military communities. While most of central Europe has numerous resorts for winter sports, some noteworthy locations are highlighted.

Germany

Just across the German border from the beautiful city of Salzburg, Austria lies Berchtesgaden National Park, the only German national park in the Alps. During a ski holiday in this quaint area, take the opportunity to see the overlooking Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s mountain refuge during World War II.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, host of the 1936 Winter Olympics, is ranked the top skiing desination in Germany.  Enjoy 47 miles of downhill runs and seven miles of cross-country skiing as well as ice skating and sledding. While there are a couple of intermediate to advanced runs, Garmisch will be better enjoyed by beginners. Conquer the Kandahara and Olympic slopes, home to the annual World Cup competitions, or head to the Zugspitze area located below Germany’s highest peak for fantastic off-piste skiing and a park for snowboarding. 

Austria

The Stubaier-Gletscher is number one for family-friendly skiing according to the ADAC Ski Guide. With family ski camps, children’s slopes, sledding, a snowboarding park and runs of all levels, there is something for everyone. Even lunch has variety with five mountain-top restaurants to choose from.   

Zell am See has been rated among the top ten European skiing destinations. In addition to great slopes, non-skiers can enjoy tobogganing, ice skating, snow shoeing and sleigh rides. Zell am See’s lakeside location provides a beautiful view and access to a rail line, allowing for easy travel to other resorts and towns.

For snowboarding enthusiasts, head to Mayrhofen. With a well-maintained park offering various jumps and rails based upon skill level, boarders will have a blast. After dinner, have a go at night tobogganing, a truly memorable experience. 

France

La Grave is not your average ski resort; it’s an untamed environment for thrill-seeking expert skiers. Rising more than 13,000 feet, the menacing peaks of La Meije require respect. This off-piste ski area has no ski patrol, groomed trails or avalanche control, and your arduous 7,000-foot descent is wrought with vast crevasses and near bottomless chutes. Beginners have no business trying La Grave, but nearby La Chazelet and Col du Lautaret have training slopes and ski schools.

Not ready for La Grave?  With more than 60 miles of trails, including 10 black, 20 red, 28 blue and eight green pistes, Chamonix Mont-Blanc offers endless possibilities for all levels. You can also try speed-riding, skiing using a mini paragliding parachute to steer, which allows you to play with gravity. For non-skiers, or those with impaired mobility, take a ski-taxi to enjoy the slopes by sitting in a fitted armchair during a guided descent of the slopes with a qualified monitor.

Italy

Northern Italy is home to several resorts, including Cervinia, which is known for some of the most reliable snow coverage in Europe. Perfect for families, beginners and intermediate skiers, Cervinia has many long blue and red runs.   

Südtirol’s location on the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a cultural experience as well as fantastic skiing on runs of all levels. Take on the longest piste, a black trail known as Trametsch, at 5.6 miles in length with an elevation change of 4,500 feet, then eat a meal at one of Südtirol’s 17 Michelin-rated restaurants.  Delight in a local favorite called Schüttelbrot, a crispy flatbread made with rye flour and local spices. Snuggle up at night in one of the many wonderful resorts and hotels, or opt to be adventurous and rent an igloo for the night. For more information on accommodations, visit www.suedtirol.info/en/.

Switzerland

Zermatt is composed of three massive mountains connected with an impressive lift system. With more than 46 trails, including several running five to eight miles in length, intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders will face more than a few challenges.  Zermatt’s location permits for excellent skiing into late April or early May and some skiing year-round, though most summer skiing is on the glacier and tailored to beginners. March and April are the best months to ski Zermatt due to longer days, higher temperatures and sunshine. 

Just outside of Interlaken is the beautiful resort town of Wengen, a car-free area that is only accessible by cog-wheel train. With astounding views, traditional architecture and more than 50 trails, Wengen is a great destination, even if you’re not into winter sports.  

After an exhilarating day of skiing, many Europeans have drinks and head off for a full dinner and then out for a night of partying. Make sure to take part in this tradition of après-ski, which is bound to be fun, no matter which resort you choose. By the end of the evening, you will make new friends and solidify yourself as a member of the European community.