Oh god don't get me started on the ESF... That's a classic cartel if there is one. Did you know that they don't let you keep the wages you own? All the money is pooled and then split at the end of the season according to seniority and number of hours. What a scam.
Not that I don't agree with the higher standards required - in other alpine countries you see a lot of anglo-saxon "instructors" who clearly wouldn't be able to pass the tests.
Well, personally I'm miffed about the banning of ski hosting - where they are very careful not to give instruction but it's great to have someone take you round and book restaurants etc.
Having said that, I know of one large French ski area that seems OK with it but I won't say which one it is... :-)
Not that I don't agree with the higher standards required - in other alpine countries you see a lot of anglo-saxon "instructors" who clearly wouldn't be able to pass the tests.