The European Consumer Centres’ network recently compiled a report entitled ‘Ski resorts in Europe 2010/2011’.
This report aims at helping consumers when it comes to choosing the most suitable ski resort as a holiday, focusing on costs and offers of ski resorts all over Europe.
Consumers – in particular, families – can save a lot of money if they are informed in advance about prices and availability of any special offers and family reductions.
Skiing is one of the most expensive leisure sports, both in terms of infrastructure as well as costs for a consumer. Cable cars or ski-lifts are necessary to carry skiers uphill as quickly as possible, and slopes need to be well maintained. Moreover, ski resorts require adequate road access and optimum road conditions during winter.
Visitors who intend to ski in a popular resort must fork out between €35 and €50 per day for a one-day adult ticket. For one week of skiing in a top region, one needs to consider spending around €250 or more (six-day tickets for an adult). On the other hand, cross-country skiing, climbing or hiking is in general free, or available at moderate costs. According to the report, the ski resorts that appear to offer best value for money are mostly situated in the Czech Republic, where ski resorts charge between €40 and €75 for a six-day ticket. The ‘family package’ is available for at least €136.
Among the most expensive ski resorts are the famous Swiss venues. Top costs in Switzerland are around the €896 mark for a ‘family package’.
Accommodation and daily meals expenses must also be taken into account in advance.
Even if prices in attractive ski resorts tend to be high all year round, families with children at school have to go on holiday during school holidays, which is the period considered as peak season.
This usually leads to a high financial burden. Consumers must also take into consideration the costs required for travelling, daily meals (on the slope), as well as ski rentals or skiing lessons. This could amount to several hundred euros.
For an average household, a one-week ski vacation will cost more than an average monthly salary.
An aspect not to be overlooked while planning a skiing holiday is insurance in case of accidents. The rules regulating the costs for a rescue and emergency medical service differ from country to country.
In some countries health insurance covers the costs while in others, the customer must foot the bill.
The full report may be viewed at www.eccnetmalta.gov.mt.