Unlike London's Swiss Cottage which benefits from excellent bus and tube connections, getting to Chalet Chocolat may well require the use of a car and quite possibly in less than perfect road conditions! Many of us panic when the roads become coated with ice or a dump of fresh snow. But don't worry, all main roads in the French Alps are frequently maintained with the latest snow-clearing machinery and the roads to the chalet are usually clear. However there are occasions when a sudden heavy blizzard can quickly make driving hazardous for the unprepared. So here's advice we've learned the hard way , so you don't have to! Prepare a 'Driving in Winter-Snow Kit' Always carry these items when preparing to drive in snow or icy conditions: Keep your tank topped up If you're caught out in a blizzard, you'll have sufficient fuel to make it back, or run the engine to keep you and your family safe and warm while you wait for help. Make sure your tyres are in good order In order to drive safely in the snow you must have a good set of tyres beneath you.  Regular tyres have less tread, all-weather tyres are a good compromise, however winter tyres are best but not suitable for year-round driving. ( most people living in the area have winter tyres fitted each winter season). For holiday makers who visit the Alps for just a short time, it's just not cost-effective to buy winter tyres, so our advice