Here comes the snow!

The wait is over - the 2011/2012 ski season has officially opened in Małopolska. The weekend of December 10 and 11 saw special preparations on the slopes of the Tatra mountains around Zakopane, as ski service operators, mountain rescue teams, local dignitaries and, or course, the skiers themselves, celebrated the start of the season. Polish Undersecretary of State Katarzyna Sobierajska was on hand add the government's blessing to the festivities, and she smashed a bottle of champagne to mark the occasion. Ms Sobierajska said: "I am sure that this year's winter season in Małopolska will be one of the best in recent years." Overall, the Tatra region has around 200km of ski slopes and runs, for cross country and downhill skiers. The months ahead will see Zakopane and surrounding towns filled with both amateur and competitive skiers, taking part in official competitions and simply enjoying the slopes.