What's Up Åre9 Huhti 2025

André Britzen: From Ski Patrol to Surf Breaks and Vanlife Adventures

Growing up deeply immersed in the world of skiing and snowboarding, André Britzen has always chased adventure both on snow and in surf. From competitive beginnings at age 12 to embracing life in Åre’s ski patrol team, André’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Filled with laughter, passion, and a healthy dose of spontaneity, his story is one of taking the scenic route—often literally.

In this episode of What’s up Åre, André opens up about growing up in the competitive skiing community, his shift from elite sports to embracing the unpredictability of ski patrol life, and how his passion for surfing fuels his adventures far beyond the mountains.

He also shares the inspiring story of spending over a year traveling Europe in a van with his family, highlighting the highs, lows, and transformative moments that come from stepping off the beaten path.

Whether you're curious about mountain rescue, vanlife realities, surfing dreams, or simply the art of balancing family and freedom—this episode delivers.

“We don’t have typical days in ski patrol—it's part of the fun.”

“I started competing in snowboarding and skiing when I was 12.”

“We traveled around Europe in our van for more than a year.”

“Surfing and snowboarding have always been my passions.”

— André Britzen

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:05:20) Early Competitive Days in Skiing and Snowboarding

(00:12:10) Life and Challenges at the Ski Gymnasium

(00:19:30) Ski Patrol: Unpredictable Days and Mountain Adventures

(00:26:40) Transitioning from Competition to Lifestyle Sports

(00:34:50) Surfing Passion and Global Travels

(00:42:10) Family Vanlife Journey Across Europe

(00:50:00) Raising Kids with an Adventurous Spirit

(00:57:20) Reflections on Freedom, Family, and Balance

(01:04:30) Staying Warm: Ski Patrol Tips and Avalanche Control

André Britzen: @andrebritzengson

Creative Director: Viktor Ohlin @allinvision.jpg

Hosts: Val Cook and Tim Boffe @thenomadsfamily

Interior Design by Theolin Interior Design

This episode is also available on YouTube and YouTube Music.

Subscribe, rate, and share it with anyone who's ever chased waves, snow, or the open road.

Ever experienced ski patrol, lived the vanlife dream, or changed paths in pursuit of passion? We’d love to hear your story.

🎿 Huge thanks to Skisport Åre for sponsoring this episode!

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