Snowboarding
The Outlook for Canadian Resorts 2008/2009
With the current economic situation, and impending economic crisis, people are wondering how various industries will be impacted. Ski and snowboarding resorts are no different.
In Canada, resorts are hopeful that the economic slowdown will mean that more Canadians decide to stay and enjoy local resorts. However, there is a strong concern that American and other international visitors will not be willing to make the trip this year. This is especially true of mountains in B.C. which relies more than any other province on international visitors.
Season pass sales are generally strong and a weak Canadian dollar should indeed keep the locals coming. But there is little chance that this season will be as lucrative as the last. It seems that even if the hordes show up, they will not splurge as much as usual, opting for cheaper hotels and less extravagant meals.
I found all of this and a lot more information in a great article at Canoe Travel, including a ton of great information about dozens of Canadian resorts and the improvements they have made for this season. Read about the peak-to-peak gondola at Whistler, the one-year-old resort at Revelstoke B.C., and the new lifts and runs that some resorts are introducing. The article can be found here.
I think that this might work out well in general. The resorts will not make a killing but will certainly stay in business. Skiers and boarders will have better access and fewer crowds to deal with here in Canada. Let’s just hope the snow keeps coming.
Discussion
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It sucks, but I know I am restricting my boarding somewhat this year due to my own financial situation. I’m not broke by any means but certainly have less $$$ to work with these days! I am glad I got to do whistler last year, but wish that I could go back this winter to check out that new gondola. Enjoy!