Learn as much as you can about your role and duties, and also what happens if you wish to leave.
The package
Nearly all companies will pay for your travel, accommodation, uniform and at least some of your meals; if not, it should be reflected in your wages.
Passport
You'll need it not just for work, but also to get there in the first place!
Insurance
Your employers may provide it. Otherwise you will need to insure yourself and your belongings.
Health
Obtain a European Health Insurance Card (formerly E111) via your local post office, in case of illness or injury. If you are taking any regular medication or prescriptions, including contact lenses solutions, get enough to last for your stay, or find out how and where to get hold of them abroad via the internet or your employer.
Finances
Ask how you will be paid and in what currency, as you might be affected by exchange rates. An internet banking account will make sorting out your money much easier from anywhere in the world; phone banking is also an option. Arranging for a relative or friend to have authorisation on your account can be useful. Be sure to address any standing orders or direct debits beforehand.
Phone numbers
They may all be in your mobile at home, but if you do not have it with you, you will have no numbers. Write down the ones you think you will need.
Phone home
International calling cards allow cheap phone calls to the UK, whereas 'roaming' on a UK mobile will cost you a fortune. Many people buy a cheap foreign SIM card (for about 10) and put that in their phone, making it cheaper for friends and family to call you. Your employer may even supply one. If people are going to call you from the UK on a regular basis, they can arrange for international calling discounts from their phone company.
If you do not have an account already, it is worth setting one up.
You may have on-site computer access, but if you use a local internet cafe, ask about bulk buying. See hotmail.com, gmail.com.
Plug adaptors
For the electrical and electronic gear you just could not leave at home.
Alarm clock
You'll need one for the early risings.
Sun cream
Essential for both hot summer resorts and sunny ski slopes. Get a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, to protect against UVB, and with additional UVA protection.
Photos
To remind you of home, and to show new friends.
Camera
They might never quite do justice to the views, but you will definitely want photos of your resort life.
Relaxation
Books, magazines, music, DVDs.
