It is the news that many fans of Italian ski areas have been waiting for. After a halt to the opening of lifts, many ski resort providers; much like those in France. Were left with the uncertainty as to when all important trading could commence.
Many of us ski addicts are desperate to give our quads a rest and enjoy full ski areas
It is the news that many fans of Italian ski areas have been waiting for. After a halt to the opening of lifts, many ski resort providers; much like those in France. Were left with the uncertainty as to when all important trading could commence.
Last week the CTS of Italy made gave the green light to Yellow Zones to prepare for this week’s opening. with staggered dates for different resorts – So where is this and what does that mean?
Fortunately for most, this yellow Zone covers many of the main ski resorts. Piedmont, Valle d’Aosta and Veneto are some of the popular areas included. For the remainder there have been calls to open at a reduced capacity but so far these calls have been rejected due to rising numbers of cases within the orange zones.
As expected, health and safety rules will be enforced- online lift pass purchasing, social distancing and hygiene measures. As well as a ‘virtual queuing’ App- This is a great concept to reduce numbers waiting outside the lift pass office for collection. That way skiers can wait until they are called up to collect the pass they have ordered.
Each region will have the authority to review and make decisions on whether the regulations are working effectively and of course to monitor how those eager for some winter turns are adhering to the processes implemented.
Currently these openings are restricted to locals only, meaning many corporate ski trips will still not be able to go ahead. Yet whilst it isn’t the ski season that many providers will be used to by any means, it offers a chance to enjoy the excellent conditions and refresh the mind after such a trying year. For many the opportunity to enjoy some respite is much overdue in ski resorts across Europe. Whilst we have all been enjoying the ‘earn-your-turns’ mentality. Many of us ski addicts are desperate to give our quads a rest and enjoy full ski areas.
Does this mean that neighbouring France will follow suit? We are not sure, with the expectations given, (prior to the new covid-19 variant discoveries) to open in mid-January having been squashed and February written off also. Many providers across the country are now expecting a full write off for the ski lift openings. Despite this; the many resorts and villages have remained ‘open’ with a whole host of activities outside of traditional ski/snowboarding.
Following the developments of this winter, many of our corporate travellers have opted to postpone their incentive ski trip until 21/22 season. Something we recommend given the rapidly growing demand for winter business travel. Availability is already slim following the abrupt ending to the 19/20 season and of course all of this year’s bookings.
Although your business may not traditionally start thinking about next year’s ski trip already- we recommend that you start to do so. The postponements combined with lack of suppliers (for many were sadly unable to continue trading following the devastating economic effects) leaves a narrow space that matches many specifications and expectations in traditional briefs given by yourself to event agencies such as ourselves. With refundable deposits and flexible payment terms- you have an option to secure something that hopefully matches your requirements.
Call us today to chat possibilities for your next business/ incentive trip- or just to chat all things ski! ?