Sun, 8 November 2009
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Snow covers the Alps, but the financial crisis may keep tourists off the slopes this winter.GENEVA — The past few Alpine ski seasons melted away under the presence of global warming, as balmy conditions raised fears about the future of Europe's fabled winter resorts.
During winter 2008-2009, the Alps are blessed with abundant snow, bright skies, and perfect powder, but there's little cheer as resorts feel the pinch from a new threat: the global financial crisis.
Economic gloom and fluctuating exchange rates are weighing heavily across the Alps, making resort operators nervous. The upside for skiers and snowboarders may be cheaper offers for lift tickets and lodging in what promises to be a year of top conditions on the slopes.
"Mother Nature is at least on our side", said Daniel Luggen, head of tourism in Zermatt, Switzerland, which sits just below the famous Matterhorn peak. "There's no panic about the financial crisis, but there's concern of course. You think about it when you read the news everyday".
Zermatt, with its legions of loyal visitors, is likely to be spared a drop in hotel bookings this season, Luggen said. But others will not be so lucky.
A Swiss study is predicting a 2.4 percent fall in overnight stays across the country this winter, and Switzerland Tourism says the decline will be steeper if the nation's appreciating currency, a result of global market turmoil, continues its upward swing.
Spokeswoman Edith Zweifel said a 10 percent rise in the Swiss franc against the euro would translate into a 7 percent drop in hotel bookings as European Union residents, the top tourists in Switzerland, seek cheaper options elsewhere or stay at home.
She said the pain is starting in January after the Christmas season and its millions of advance bookings and paid reservations. Resorts are seeking last-minute arrangements that are more dependent on cash in the consumer's pocket.
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