Actually Telemark takes the best qualities from downhill and cross country. The skis and boots are more like downhill equipment and the bindings are designed similar to cross-country bindings. The big advantage to telemark is the mobility allowed with free heel bindings. Tele skiing can be used as a mode of transportation that does not always take you downhill. Backcountry skiing becomes available, opening up a new dimension in adventure.
Alpine skiers learn to telemark a lot faster and easier at a ski area.
Telemarking can be most rewarding and a great challenge for even the most accomplished skier.