It's been a few weeks since I've returned from my annual Northern Winter ski tour, which is a time I always find most troubling. I find myself walking around bus stop signs with my hands in pole plant position like I'm skiing a powder laden gladed ski run, or I sit in my work chair angling my knees back and forth like I'm racing my mates down the groomer at the end of a great day. Maybe it's just me... it's not common practice to share these symptoms of ski addiction withdrawal with family and friends.

Although the air is definitely cooling down, southern hemisphere skiing is still a few months away. I've decided not to dedicate my time to powder dreaming but instead focus on something I can more easily try to replicate at the pub down the street... Apres ski.

I think all truly great ski days end with some form of Apres ski session. Of course there is all night benders where you find yourself stumbling through Whistler Village with ski boots on, but my favourites are usually the low key ones with your closest mates reflecting on the highlights of the day and telling the same stories that have been making you laugh over the past 10-20 years.

So with Apres thoughts in mind, here's my thoughts on Canada's best spots...

Rafters Lounge (Red Mountain - Rossland)
Aptly named and very cozy with its beamed ceiling that shows off Red Mountain's 110+ of years of history. Try their famous nachos that were recently reinstated (albeit at a higher price) after a petition from locals when the hill pulled it off the menu due to cost.

Longhorn Saloon (Base of Whistler)
Yup, its touristy but after a day on the Hill, nothing beats clicking out of your skis and having a cold beer in your hand one minute later. Located at the base of Whistler right beside the gondola, a perfect place for people watching and to enjoy the late afternoon sunshine. Head inside to play pool, get rowdy and enjoy a big night.

Griz Bar (Fernie Alpine Resort)
At the base of the mountain with great views, this is the place for both locals and tourists. Since 1962, The Griz's rustic and inviting atmosphere has helped many casual apres sessions go further than expected, often prompting calls for the infamous naked table slides.

Tail gate of your car (any backcountry parking lot or places like Revelsoke with limited options)
Sometimes hanging out quietly with good friends in a snow covered parking lot with perfect mountain views makes it just too beautiful to go inside. Can in hand, retelling stories, big flakes falling, boots off steaming in the snow... perfect!

Coal Oil Johnny's Pub (Whitewater Resort - Nelson)
No points for superfly ski suits here, this small powder laden mountain might be the very soul of skiing. With locally brewed beer and a very low, laid back vibe, this tiny lounge is a great place to chill out.

Le Shack (Mt Tremblant - Quebec)
Ok, I've never been here but wanted to include one of the best from the East with its authentic and unique mountain cabin decor. Quebecois liberal attitude to everything enjoyable and not healthy in life is sure to make this a fun place that might even get you into a bit of trouble.

So, if you're skiing in Canada next year be sure to enjoy and apres at any of the above.

At the end of the upcoming season, I'd like to offer up for debate the top 5 Australian Apres ski bars. So please help us out and let me know your favourite place to enjoy a beverage at the end of your ski day in Australia.