Ski resorts: tips for travellers

The European Consumer Centres Network (ECC-Net) has issued a report Ski Resorts in Europe 2012/2013, based on a survey of almost 400 winter sport resorts, focusing on the price range and infrastructure of ski, cross-country and indoor resorts across Europe.

Nearly 400 winter sport resorts replied to an online questionnaire. It is the second survey compiled by the ECC-Net.

Since skiing holidays are quite popular with the Maltese, the information in this survey may also prove useful for prospective skiers. The report provides relevant information about ski resorts in various European countries, particularly the size of these resorts, availability of lifts and cable cars, prices and special offers, methods of payment, as well as contact details of many European winter sport resorts.

The report’s main finding is that a comparison of the various resorts could lead holiday makers to save money. The ski resorts have been classified into six categories (0 to 2km, 3 to 10km, 11 to 25km, 26 to 50km, 51 to 100km, more than 100km).

ECC-net advises travellers to consider their actual needs. Families with small children normally do not require a big fashionable ski resort. Likewise, smaller and cheaper resorts are suitable for beginners.

While they would have to spend a lot of money in huge ski areas, the cheapest adult day tickets can be found for between €4.31 and €15 in resorts in Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia.

Consumers should take their time when it comes to planning their vacation. This price survey is an overview of the offers.

ECC-Net recommends that consumers check the resorts’ websites. It is wise to do some research about the requirements for any reductions in advance. Is any document required to avail of a discount, such as a student identity card or guest card?

Another highly important aspect that must not be overlooked is insurance in case of accidents. Bear in mind that rules related to the costs for a rescue and emergency medical operation differ from country to country.

In some countries, the costs are covered by national health insurance, whereas in others you have to pay for it yourself.

Travellers are advised to take their national health insurance card with them and decide if they would like to take extra insurance coverage for winter holidays. It is also worth remembering the European emergency number: 112.

The report is available at www.europakonsument.at/skiresorts2012.

The ECC-Net is a European network of 29 European Consumer Centres representing all EU member states, Iceland and Norway.

The network is co-funded by the European Commission (Health and Consumer Protection Directorate-General), EU member states, Iceland and Norway.

In addition to helping consumers in case of a complaint or dispute, members of the ECC-Net engage in joint projects to investigate specific business sectors.

odette.vella@gov.mt

Ms Vella is senior information officer, Office for Consumer Affairs, Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority.