Bulgaria Ski discussion board

Hi all,

Just after any opinion/thoughts/advice.
I am looking at booking a week skiing March 2011 in Bansko for me and 14 others. I have been skiing for donkeys now have and have never been to Bulgaria before, but price is king as most of the guys can't afford the ridiculous prices elsewhere so any help is gratefully appreciated.

I like the look of bansko over borovets as the skiing looks better, is that about right?
I am a bit concerned at some of these reports of ridiculous queues for the gondola, are they really that bad, will it be same in march and is there anyway to avoid?
Has anyone got any thoughts on apartments Belvedere?
No disrespect but it sounds like some of the half board food is not the best so are we best self catering and eating out?
Snow reports I can find show that March is a good time, is that right?
How welcome are large groups of lads?

Sorry for the long list just responsible for making sure 15 peeps have a good time and want to get it right!

you should be fine for the skiing in march. generally really good conditions are had in march. queues for the gondola were horrific xmas due to all the other bulgarian resorts not having any snow. check to make sure the week you go doesnt cross with any school hols both in the uk and greece etc and you will not queue at all. way to remedy the queue is to do what i did during half term a few weeks ago and get up to the gondola for 8am. hard work but worth it to ride unused slopes. as for eating out, i have also heard the half board food is not great. rest assured though, the mehanas (local restaurants) offer some fantastic food at really reasonable prices. to give you an idea, two families of four, wine, beers, starters and main courses always under 200 lev (