Best In Travel Magazine Issue 104 // 2020 // World Ski Awards Winners 2020

BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM DISCOVER | VISIT | EXPLORE

MEET THE WORLD SKI AWARDS WINNERS 2020

A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL Austria’s Best Ski Hotel

KITZBÜHEL Austria’s Best Ski Resort

Publisher Kevin Rolfe Editor Siddharth Thaker Designers Mike Gibas Mark Askam Editorial Team Ana Strack Christopher O’Toole Rebecca Cohen Phil Blizzard

Photography Mark Hakansson Ben Roberts Anjjelo San Buenaventura Production Team Nadeem George Denis Halilaj Tracy Rolfe Ella Smith Online George Cooke

Best in Travel is published by Best in Travel Magazine Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London, W1J 6BD, United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 20 7925 0000 M: +44 (0) 7792965550 E: sid.thaker@worldig.com www.bestintravelmagazine.com The use of our Website and Digital Magazine are all subject to the following: All rights reserved. No part of Influencers Magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from The Influencers Magazine.

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© 2020 Best In Travel Magazine

BEST IN TRAVEL

TAKING TO THE

SLOPES World Ski Awards – the global initiative to recognize and reward excellence in ski tourism – has unveiled the winners of its 2020 programme to coincide with its inaugural World Ski Awards Winners Day. Winners include Europe’s highest ski resort, Val Thorens, voted ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’, thanks to its winning combination of snowsure pistes and extensive range of slopeside accommodation.

Sleek urban design amid a spectacular alpine helped Switzerland’s W Verbier to capture ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, whilst Chalet Zermatt Peak, sitting in the shadow of the majestic Matterhorn, claimed ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’.

New arrival on Japan’s luxury ski hospitality scene, Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, took ‘World’s Best New Ski Hotel’. Meanwhile the divine opulence of Verbier’s Chalet Marmottière was acknowledged with the newcomer accolade for ‘World’s Best New Ski Chalet’.

Switzerland’s LAAX, home to deep powder and the world’s biggest halfpipe, was named ‘World’s Best Freestyle Resort’. Ski Dubai picked up ‘World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort’ and Austria’s sumptuous Aurelio Lech collected ‘World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel’.

The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading ski travel, tourism and hospitality brands.

Votes were cast by ski industry professionals and ski consumers, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named the winner.

Sion Rapson, Managing Director, World Ski Awards, says: “Our winners represent the very best of the global ski travel and tourism sector and my congratulations to each of them. They have all demonstrated remarkable resilience in a year of unprecedented challenges.”

He adds: “The World Ski Awards 2020 programme received a record number of votes cast by the public.

CHALET ZERMATT PEAK

BEST IN SKI

W VERBIER VAL THORENS

This shows that the appetite for booking a ski holiday has never been stronger and bodes well for the industry as the global recovery begins.”

Triumphant ski travel providers include Leo Trippi (‘World’s Best Ski Travel Agent’); TUI (‘World’s Best Ski Tour Operator’); and Schneebeben (‘World’s Best Ski Transfer Operator’).

Other winners include Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel (‘World’s Best Ski Resort Company); Valsana Hotel & Appartements, Switzerland (‘World’s Best Green Ski Hotel’); and Bella Coola Heli Sports, Canada (‘World’s Best Heli-Ski Operator’).

Awards were also announced on a country-level, with the best resorts and hospitality providers from the world’s leading ski tourism destinations.

A full list of winners is featured throughout this magazine.

ABOUT WORLD SKI AWARDS World Ski Awards is a sister organisation of World Travel Awards, currently celebrating its 27th anniversary.

Launched in 2013, World Ski Awards aims to drive up standards within the ski tourism industry by rewarding the organisations that are leaders in their field.

Votes are cast by industry professionals and the public in a range of categories, including best resorts, hotels, chalets and tour operators.

For more information visit worldskiawards.com

www.worldskiawards.com

Kitzbühel

A tough guy with a knack for precession When it comes to the perfect finish, Florian is the man the skiers in Kitzbühel trust. For more than 10 years, the genuine Kitzbüheler has been working in the workshop at Kitzsport and makes sure that the skis are always in perfect condition. A challenge that the ski service technician is passionate about and always happy to take up. „I have turned my hobby into my profession,“ he says proudly.

w i n t e r. k i t z b u e h e l . c o m

localheroes.kitzbuehel.com

Make Kitzbühel your First Stop.

Nestled between the Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm mountains, the region Kitzbühel features almost unlimited options for a fun and active stay. Kitzbühel is a synonym for passion, one that gives rise to an unmistakable way of life, as these mountains inspire adventures that beg to be experienced!

routes for connoisseurs: easy to run and

down-to-earth food awaits you, while

without extreme gradients, but with

in the gourmet restaurants the culinary

breathtaking mountain scenery in the

elite conjures up exquisite delicacies. The

background. For those who don‘t want

wide range of dining establishments in

to miss the summit experience even in

Kitzbühel extends from rustic Tyiolean

winter, Kitzbühel Tourism offers guided

guesthouses right through to restaurants

125 years of successful skiing history. It

across an area of over 575 hectares are

the Mausefalle and Hausbergkante, are

winter and snowshoe hikes to the most

boasting Gault Millau toques and other

was Franz Reisch who left the first tracks

skiing heaven for young and old alike.

classified as “extremely difficult ski runs”,

beautiful places in Kitzbühel.

international awards.

in the snow on the Kitzbüheler Horn in

or just experience the „Family Streif “,

The short route to the heart of the Alps.

1893, triggering a full-on skiing boom.

Kitzbühel’s biggest draw is its sheer

Today, skiing in Kitzbühel is open to

variety: while freeriders are able to

Kitzbühel combines urban flair with

everyone, with 233 kilometres of slopes

take on the pristine landscape of the

typical

featuring ideal terrain for skiers of all

“Gamsstadt” or one of the 13 marked

culinary variety and exclusive shopping

ability levels. The 92 ski runs spread

ski routes, freestylers can visit Kitzbühel

facilities. A delightful combination of

Snowpark to take on all the kickers,

sport and lifestyle. The historic Kitzbühel

boxes, special obstacles, rails and jibs

city centre, which dates back over 750

they can handle.

years is known as the perfect ambience

Christmas like it used to be. With

for shopping in the Alps. International

Christmas decorations draped across

which bypasses the toughest sections.

Alpine Shopping Experience Tirolean

hospitality,

NEW

It’s important to highlight how easy it is to get to Kitzbühel! Whether you are

offers

coming from the airports in Munich, TIP | Kitzbühel feeling for your home?

Visit shop.kitzbuehel.com

Innsbruck or Salzburg, by rail or via the excellent road connections, the route to Kitzbühel is a short one.

A name. A concept. A legend. Streif! The

Kitzbühel has more to offer. Cross-

brands and Kitzbühel „fashion originals“

the historic town centre and a dusting of

most spectacular downhill run in the

country skiing, winter and snowshoe

can be found in the shop windows.

winter snow, Kitzbühel brings back happy

world can be used for hiking in summer

hiking, tobogganing, ice skating, curling

and for skiing in winter. However,

or new trend sports - Kitzbühel is not

A treat for the taste buds

descends on the historic town centre in

anyone wanting to follow in the footsteps

without reason considered the most

The culinary journey through the region

the run up to Christmas, nostalgia and

of the world’s best skiers should be a very

legendary city of sports in the Alps. On

leads from traditional local dishes to

tradition are writ large. That’s just the

experienced skier themselves. The main

70 kilometers of cross-country ski trails

international gourmet cuisine. In the huts

way it should be – a tranquil experience

sections of the Streif racing piste, such as

around Kitzbühel, there are mainly

on the mountain or in the traditional inns,

for both guests and locals!

childhood memories. As a sense of calm

CONTACT US Our team is available for assistance servus@kitzbuehel.com +43 5356 66660

w w w. k i t z b u e h e l . c o m

Pictures: Kitzbühel Tourismus | Michael Werlberger, Markus Mitterer

#LocalHeroes

Kitzbühel

A tough guy with a knack for precession When it comes to the perfect finish, Florian is the man the skiers in Kitzbühel trust. For more than 10 years, the genuine Kitzbüheler has been working in the workshop at Kitzsport and makes sure that the skis are always in perfect condition. A challenge that the ski service technician is passionate about and always happy to take up. „I have turned my hobby into my profession,“ he says proudly.

w i n t e r. k i t z b u e h e l . c o m

localheroes.kitzbuehel.com

Make Kitzbühel your First Stop.

Nestled between the Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm mountains, the region Kitzbühel features almost unlimited options for a fun and active stay. Kitzbühel is a synonym for passion, one that gives rise to an unmistakable way of life, as these mountains inspire adventures that beg to be experienced!

routes for connoisseurs: easy to run and

down-to-earth food awaits you, while

without extreme gradients, but with

in the gourmet restaurants the culinary

breathtaking mountain scenery in the

elite conjures up exquisite delicacies. The

background. For those who don‘t want

wide range of dining establishments in

to miss the summit experience even in

Kitzbühel extends from rustic Tyiolean

winter, Kitzbühel Tourism offers guided

guesthouses right through to restaurants

125 years of successful skiing history. It

across an area of over 575 hectares are

the Mausefalle and Hausbergkante, are

winter and snowshoe hikes to the most

boasting Gault Millau toques and other

was Franz Reisch who left the first tracks

skiing heaven for young and old alike.

classified as “extremely difficult ski runs”,

beautiful places in Kitzbühel.

international awards.

in the snow on the Kitzbüheler Horn in

or just experience the „Family Streif “,

The short route to the heart of the Alps.

1893, triggering a full-on skiing boom.

Kitzbühel’s biggest draw is its sheer

Today, skiing in Kitzbühel is open to

variety: while freeriders are able to

Kitzbühel combines urban flair with

everyone, with 233 kilometres of slopes

take on the pristine landscape of the

typical

featuring ideal terrain for skiers of all

“Gamsstadt” or one of the 13 marked

culinary variety and exclusive shopping

ability levels. The 92 ski runs spread

ski routes, freestylers can visit Kitzbühel

facilities. A delightful combination of

Snowpark to take on all the kickers,

sport and lifestyle. The historic Kitzbühel

boxes, special obstacles, rails and jibs

city centre, which dates back over 750

they can handle.

years is known as the perfect ambience

Christmas like it used to be. With

for shopping in the Alps. International

Christmas decorations draped across

which bypasses the toughest sections.

Alpine Shopping Experience Tirolean

hospitality,

NEW

It’s important to highlight how easy it is to get to Kitzbühel! Whether you are

offers

coming from the airports in Munich, TIP | Kitzbühel feeling for your home?

Visit shop.kitzbuehel.com

Innsbruck or Salzburg, by rail or via the excellent road connections, the route to Kitzbühel is a short one.

A name. A concept. A legend. Streif! The

Kitzbühel has more to offer. Cross-

brands and Kitzbühel „fashion originals“

the historic town centre and a dusting of

most spectacular downhill run in the

country skiing, winter and snowshoe

can be found in the shop windows.

winter snow, Kitzbühel brings back happy

world can be used for hiking in summer

hiking, tobogganing, ice skating, curling

and for skiing in winter. However,

or new trend sports - Kitzbühel is not

A treat for the taste buds

descends on the historic town centre in

anyone wanting to follow in the footsteps

without reason considered the most

The culinary journey through the region

the run up to Christmas, nostalgia and

of the world’s best skiers should be a very

legendary city of sports in the Alps. On

leads from traditional local dishes to

tradition are writ large. That’s just the

experienced skier themselves. The main

70 kilometers of cross-country ski trails

international gourmet cuisine. In the huts

way it should be – a tranquil experience

sections of the Streif racing piste, such as

around Kitzbühel, there are mainly

on the mountain or in the traditional inns,

for both guests and locals!

childhood memories. As a sense of calm

CONTACT US Our team is available for assistance servus@kitzbuehel.com +43 5356 66660

w w w. k i t z b u e h e l . c o m

Pictures: Kitzbühel Tourismus | Michael Werlberger, Markus Mitterer

#LocalHeroes

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

MOHAMMAD EL ETRI SKI DUBAI Having been recognised as a leader in global hospitality by the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel sits down with Mohammad El Etri, general manager for leisure and entertainment at Ski Dubai, to find out more about the prestigious honour.

Best in Travel: Congratulations on your victory this year at the World Ski Awards, with Ski Dubai having been honoured with the title of World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort.

How does it feel to have won?

MOHAMMAD EL ETRI

Mohammad El Etri: Ski Dubai is extremely proud to be awarded the title of World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort for the fifth consecutive year.

Being in this category among other well-established ski resorts, including our sister brand Ski Egypt, inspires us to keep raising the bar as part of our endless pursuit at Majid Al Futtaim to create great moments for everyone, everyday.

This award is a testament to the

passion and dedication of the Ski Dubai team, who ensure that our valued guests can enjoy a worldclass experience and exemplary service.

Our guests are at the heart of everything we do at Majid Al Futtaim and the reason behind our constant drive to go above and beyond.

Ski Dubai is deeply honoured and privileged to have our commitment to excellence recognised by industry peers and guests, who voted for us to receive this prestigious title.

BiT: This is the fifth year in succession that the brand has taken the prestigious trophy – just what is it that makes the location so special?

BEST IN SKI

MEE: There are a combination of things that make Ski Dubai the World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort, such as the extreme juxtaposition of being able to ski in real snow in the dessert, its location in the iconic Mall of the Emirates and the wide variety of innovative activities and attractions that we offer for all members of the family.

When it launched in 2005, Ski Dubai was the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort and we have gone on to cement our position as one of the region’s most iconic attractions welcoming tourists, snow enthusiasts and guests from all over the world.

Over the last 15 years, Ski Dubai has continued to enhance the guest experience with new innovations in the family-friendly snow park, which is complete with a wide variety of fun activities, and the hugely popular penguin encounter, which is home to a colony of King and Gentoo penguins.

Ski Dubai has been fuelling huge growth in sporting tourism within the region and fostered a winter sports culture in the UAE and each year 80,000 people are introduced to skiing and snowboarding.

Earlier this week, we celebrated our milestone 15th anniversary and, key to our success, has been our continuous commitment to

innovation and determination to push the boundaries of possibility.

BiT: How useful are the World Ski Awards when it comes to promoting the attraction to the global ski community?

MEE: The World Ski Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence and, as such, are a fantastic international endorsement, particularly given that they are voted for by ski tourism professionals and guests from all around the globe.

We are extremely grateful to the World Ski Awards for recognising us with this prestigious award, which not only motivates us to achieve more, but provides us with an important platform to showcase our award-winning amenities to the world.

BiT: Dubai reopened to international tourism in July, and the market has recovered over the past few months. How would you describe the mood in the sector as we head into 2021?

MEE: Instilling confidence in tourists and guests will be key to the pace of recovery.

Throughout the global pandemic, we have been conducting extensive guest research and confidence levels are increasing, which bodes well for the industry.

Our guests feel comfortable returning to Ski Dubai and Majid Al

Futtaim’s leisure, entertainment and cinemas experiences, with 93 per cent of those surveyed saying that they are ‘satisfied’ or ‘extremely satisfied’ with the measures we have in place.

This is a testament to our dedication and tireless efforts to maintain innovative and worldclass standards so that our guests can enjoy an exceptional and comfortable experience.

Numerous studies have shown that there is a huge pent-up demand for travel, and we anticipate a very strong comeback once more countries start reopening their borders for tourism.

Since reopening, the number of guests has been encouraging and we remain fundamentally confident about the future of the ski tourism industry and are very much looking forward to a successful 2021.

MORE INFORMATION One of the top visitor destinations in the United Arab Emirates, Ski Dubai is home to a 4,500-metre square snow part.

Advanced skiers will find plenty to enjoy, while there is a chance to go sledding and tobogganing for a more family-orientated day out.

Find out more at www.skidxb.com

KitzbĂźhel

BEST IN TRAVEL

WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES WORLD

WORLD'S BEST FREESTYLE RESORT 2020

WORLD'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

LAAX (Switzerland) WINNER

Val Thorens (France) WINNER Bansko (Bulgaria)

Avoriaz 1800 (France) Breckenridge (United States)

Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden (Germany) Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko (Bulgaria) Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel (Argentina)

Les 2 Alpes (France)

Nosalowy Dwór Resort & Spa (Poland)

Chapelco Ski Resort (Argentina)

Mammoth Mountain (United States)

Deer Valley Resort (United States of America)

Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (Canada)

Mayrhofen (Austria)

Dolomites Val Gardena (Italy)

Seiser Alm (Italy)

Rafaelhoteles By La Pleta (Spain)

Funäsfjällen (Sweden)

The Lake Louise Ski Resort (Canada)

Sochi Marriott Krasnaya Polyana Hotel (Russia)

Whistler Blackcomb (Canada)

Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa (Andorra)

Boí Taüll (Spain)

Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Germany) Geilo (Norway) Grandvalira (Andorra) Jasná Nízke Tatry (Slovakia) Kitzbühel (Austria) Kotelnica Bialczańska (Poland) Krvavec (Slovenia)

WORLD'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 W Verbier (Switzerland) WINNER A-ROSA Kitzbühel (Austria)

Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley (United States of America) The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel Hokkaido (Japan) The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences (New Zealand)

LAAX (Switzerland)

Break Sokos Hotel Levi (Finland)

Levi (Finland)

Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Cortina d’Ampezzo (Italy)

WORLD'S BEST NEW SKI HOTEL 2020

Nevados de Chillán (Chile)

Dragon Valley Hotel (South Korea)

Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono (Japan) WINNER

Revelstoke Mountain Resort (Canada)

Fahrenheit Seven Val Thorens (France)

ADLER Lodge RITTEN (Italy)

Rosa Khutor (Russia) Sinaia (Romania)

Fýri – Resort of Hemsedal (Norway)

Skiareál Špindlerův Mlýn (Czech Republic)

Harmony Club Hotel (Czech Republic)

Thredbo (Australia)

Hotel Bügelhof (Sweden)

Gravity Haus Breckenridge (United States)

Vanke Lake Songhua Resort (China)

Hotel Golte (Slovenia)

HakuVillas (Japan)

Hotel Pension Grimus (Australia)

Hôtel Le Coucou (France)

LOTTE Arai Resort (Japan) Mt Hutt (New Zealand)

YongPyong Resort (South Korea)

Hotel Portillo (Chile)

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

Airelles Val d'Isère, Mademoiselle (France) Grand Hôtel du Soleil d’Or (France)

KIDE Hotel by Iso-Syöte (Finland)

BEST IN SKI

Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois, Megève, A Four Seasons Hotel (France)

Eriksgårdens Fjällhotell (Sweden)

Hahnenkamm Lodge (Austria) Hakuchozan (Japan)

L’Armancette (France)

Goldener Hirsch Inn (United States of America)

The Lodge at Blue Sky (United States)

Grand Hotel & Spa Rodina (Russia)

Le Chalet Mont Blanc (France)

W Aspen (United States)

Hotel Crocus (Poland)

Rukan Salonki Chalets (Finland)

Hotel FIS Jasná (Slovakia)

Sequoia Penthouse Thredbo (Australia)

WORLD'S BEST GREEN SKI HOTEL 2020 Valsana Hotel & Appartements (Switzerland) WINNER

Hotel Iso-Syöte (Finland) Hotel Krvavec (Slovenia) Hotel Màgic Ski (Andorra)

Havsdalsgrenda (Norway) Porters Lodge (New Zealand)

Ski Chalet Alpine Residence (Andorra) Skutan Ski Lodge (Sweden)

Holzhotel Forsthofalm (Austria)

Hotel Pashmina (France)

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole (United States)

Hotel Savoy Špindlerův Mlýn (Czech Republic)

KIDE Hotel by Iso-Syöte (Finland)

Hotel Staudacherhof (Germany)

White Deer San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge (Italy)

Ki Niseko (Japan)

Whiteworth Chalet (Canada)

Les Neiges d'Antan (Italy)

Matakauri Lodge (New Zealand)

Naturhotel Leitlhof (Italy) rocksresort (Switzerland)

Meliá Royal Tanau Boutique Hotel (Spain)

Snomads Chalet Diana-Ross (Bulgaria)

WORLD'S BEST NEW SKI CHALET 2020

MI Lodge Las Trancas (Chile)

Chalet Marmottière (Switzerland) WINNER

Thaiwoo Element Hotel (China)

Nermo Hotell (Norway)

Chalet Alice (France)

The Crystal Lifestylehotel (Austria)

Romantik Hotel Chesa Grischuna (Switzerland)

Chalet Astilla (France)

The Gradonna Mountain Resort (Austria)

Saint Hubertus Luxury Resort & Spa (Italy)

Vigilius Mountain Resort (Italy)

The Josie (Canada)

WORLD'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

WORLD'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Chalet ORCA (France)

Aurelio Lech (Austria) WINNER

Chalet Zermatt Peak (Switzerland) WINNER

Chalet Sakami (France)

Ski-Hotel Mondschein – since 1739 (Austria)

Alpin Hotel (Bulgaria) Astra Falls Creek (Australia) Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa (Argentina)

Chalet Chopok (Slovakia) Chalet Ipaka (France) Chalet Kipnuk (France) Chalet Noémie (France)

Apartment Trije ploti (Slovenia)

Chalet ORSO (France) Chalet Tango Charlie, Tignes Val d’Isère (France)

Country Home Pitzner (Germany)

www.worldskiawards.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

JUAN CRUZ ADROGUE CHAPELCO SKI RESORT

Having been recognised as among the best in the business by voters at the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here chats with Juan Cruz Adrogue, president of Chapelco Ski Resort, to find out how it feels to have won.

Best in Travel: Congratulations on Chapelco Ski Resort being recognised as Argentina’s Best Ski Resort. How does it feel to have taken this prestigious title?

Juan Cruz Adrogue: We are proud to have been able to keep the ski resort open for residents and local visitors, during August and September this year, offering a safe and high-quality service.

We are grateful to the community of San Martín de los Andes that chose to enjoy responsibly the mountain.

Thanks to the skiers from all over the country who wanted to come but could not, and supported us from far away, as well as to the foreigners who supported us from much further afield.

JUAN CRUZ ADROGUE

Thanks, too, to the Chapelco staff.

Thanks to our partners – it was a great challenge that we carried out together with prudence and respect.

We celebrate the brave decision and our commitment from the beginning to open the resort in the midst of uncertainty without any financial speculation and supporting our community.

We thank the national, provincial and local authorities for working together.

This recognition fills us with happiness, pride and is definitely a caress to the soul for the entire Chapelco family.

We feel that this year this award is worth double.

We will meet again in 2021 to enjoy Chapelco – and we already started working for that day.

Until then, let us keep taking care of ourselves.

BiT: This is the third year in success Chapelco has taken the title – how useful are they for promoting the destination to the global ski community?

JCA: For the third consecutive year now and for the fifth time, we were distinguished as Argentina’s Best Ski Resort.

Being winners of this prestigious award is definitely a “before and after” in our history.

These awards are very valuable for us to promote the ski resort nationally and internationally, and it really makes a difference.

This award also forces us and our teams to be better, and raises our quality standards in service to the highest level.

BEST IN SKI

BiT: How has Argentina fared from a tourism perspective in 2020? Are there hopes for a return to normality next year?

JCA: The tourism business in Argentina had the most difficult time in 2020.

We had one of the world’s longest lockdown, closed airports and routes, and almost all touristic activities were prohibited.

But by nature, I am a serial optimist - I am confident that in 2021 we will return to normal and we will have a great year.

After that, the national health authorities allowed people from cities located nearby and from other Covid-19-free locations to travel to San Martin de los Andes and ski in our resort.

We worked under strict protocols to give staff, the mountain community and visitors a safe environment: body temperature tests, social distancing, hygiene and sanitisation.

Masks, gloves and eyes protection were mandatory.

BiT: What measures was Chapelco able to put in place to protect skiers from the Covid-19 pandemic?

We recommend visitors buy services on our web platform, and we kept the resort closed two days a week for sanitisation protocols.

JCA: Chapelco is fortunately placed in a Covid-19 free area during the winter season.

The whole staff was deeply committed with this cause.

We opened on August 1st, six weeks later than usual.

During the first week only residents could visit the ski resort.

We are proud that there were no positive cases of Covid-19 in Chapelco - neither of employees nor of skiers during the entire 2020 winter season.

MORE INFORMATION Chapelco Ski Resort is located near San Martín de los Andes and is a striking destination for a ski holiday.

The dramatic views over Volcan Lanin and the turquoise Lake Lácar make for a spectacular backdrop.

This is a modern ski resort with great facilities, including lots of amenities, making it an attractive spot for families.

Find out more at www.chapelco.com

Where your time turns into the best of times.

Kitzbühel A-ROSA Kitzbühel, Ried Kaps 7, 6370 Kitzbühel, Austria DSR Hotel Holding GmbH, Lange Strasse 1a, 18055 Rostock, www.a-rosa.at

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY th e p re m i e r c halet i n th e swi s s al p s

World's Best Ski Chalet

Switzerland's Best Ski Chalet

Discover more at www.chaletzermattpeak.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

LUCIA ŠVECOVÁ HOTEL FIS JASNÁ Having been recognised as one of the leading ski hospitality providers in Europe by the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here chats with Hotel FIS Jasná manager, Lucia Švecová, about the prestigious title.

Best in Travel: Congratulations!

Hotel FIS Jasná has been recognised as Slovakia’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel by voters at the World Ski Awards. How does it feel to have won?

Lucia Švecová: It is a great pleasure and honour for us to be winners during this difficult year.

We are extremely thankful to all our employees, guests and friends for supporting us!

It is an important milestone for Hotel FIS Jasna to be recognised for the fifth time as Slovakia's Best Ski Boutique Hotel.

LUCIA ŠVECOVÁ

On the other hand, it is saddening that we cannot meet our colleagues at the annual World Ski Awards ceremony and exchange our experiences; however, this only makes us more excited for next year.

BiT: As you mentioned, this is the fifth year in succession the property has claimed the prestigious trophy. How useful are the World Ski Awards when it comes to promoting the hotel around the globe?

LS: This prestigious award is helping us grow our market expansion and increase the

BEST IN SKI

visibility of the hotel on a larger scale, as we have seen in the last years.

Being a family run hotel, we want to provide the best services focused on personalisation and create memorable experiences.

Winning this prize does not only give us assurance of it, but also facilitates to increasing our international presence.

BiT: How would you describe the mood in European ski tourism as we begin the season – is there much optimism the corner can be turned on the Covid-19 pandemic?

LS: It is difficult to say at the moment, given that it is a matter of country regulations.

Slovakia is one of the European countries that adopted strict measures against the second wave of Covid-19.

Additionally, Slovakia will be in a lockdown until probably midNovember and we are unsure on whether the ski season will start as usual in December.

Our main priority is to create an environment where both our employees and guests feel safe at all times.

Therefore, we hope we will be able to welcome everyone in our beautiful hotel as soon as it will be possible and fully enjoy this winter season!

BiT: How about looking ahead to 2021 – what measures have you put in place to ensure the ski sector recovers as we move into next year?

LS: We are aware that our core values at the hotel are embellished by our team and the family focus.

Thus, we have been working hard to keep our team intact and not have personnel fluctuations.

Moreover, during the summer we have seen a steep increase in the domestic tourism, and a high return rate for loyal customers.

Given that we are focusing on creating memorable experiences and customer centricity, our guests will look very much forward to visit us again in their second home.

Our guests, after 12-years of operation, became our friends

and our employees became part of our family.

Additionally, we have kept our online activity and marketing budgets unchanged in order to ensure continuous visibility for the ski sector.

MORE INFORMATION Find out more about Hotel FIS Jasná on their official website www.fisjasna.sk

BEST IN TRAVEL

WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES WORLD'S BEST SKI RESORT COMPANY 2020 Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel WINNER

Point da Neve Ski.com Skiworld SnowTrex

WORLD'S BEST HELI-SKI OPERATOR 2020 Bella Coola Heli Sports (Canada) WINNER Arctic Heli Skiing (Iceland)

Aspen Snowmass

Sunweb

Compagnie des Alpes

The Boutique Chalet Company

Hokkaido Backcountry Club (Japan)

Prince Hotels, Inc.

Travelski

Mica Heliskiing

SkiStar

WeSki

Northern Escape Heli-Skiing

Vail Resorts

White Mountain Chalets

Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing (Canada)

WORLD'S BEST INDOOR SKI RESORT 2020

WORLD'S BEST SKI TRAVEL AGENT 2020

Stellar Heliskiing (Canada)

Ski Dubai (UAE) WINNER

Leo Trippi WINNER

Alpincenter Bottrop (Germany)

Camel Snow

Harbin Sunac Snow World (China)

Destination Ski

Madrid SnowZone (Spain)

Explore Niseko Firefly Collection

Whistler Heli-Skiing (Canada)

WORLD'S BEST SKI TRANSFER OPERATOR 2020 Schneebeben WINNER EdelSwiss Limousine Company

Ski Egypt (Egypt)

Iglu Ski

Snow Factor (Scotland)

Impera Villas

Snowplanet (New Zealand)

LUEX

SnowWorld Landgraaf (Netherlands)

Luxury Chalet Book

Innsbruck Airport Taxi – Gangl Transfers

LuxVacation.com

Munich Ski Shuttle

Powderlife

Ski-Lifts

Simply Val d’Isère

SkyExpress

Ski In Luxury/Ultimate Luxury Chalets

SnowDrone Transfers

WORLD'S BEST SKI TOUR OPERATOR 2020 TUI WINNER Bramble Ski Club Reisen Stumböck Consensio Crystal Ski Dolomite Mountains Kaluma Travel Liquid Snow Tours

Ski Line Ski Solutions SkiBoutique The Oxford Ski Company Whistler Central Reservations Whistler’s Official Destination Website

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

Europe Transfer Fly Ski Shuttle

BEST IN SKI

ASIA AND OCEANIA

Blowhard

Manza Onsen Ski Resort

Cedar Cabin - The Eastern Thredbo Village

Mt. Hakkai

Feathertop Château

Myoko Kogen Ski Resort Naeba Ski Resort

AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Oak Apartment – The Eastern Thredbo Village

Thredbo WINNER

Rockpool Lodge

Rusutsu Resort

Falls Creek

Ski In Ski Out Chalets

Sapporo Teine

Hotham Mt Buller Perisher

CHINA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Vanke Lake Songhua Resort WINNER

Niseko United

Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort Shizukuishi Ski Resort

AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Bei Da Hu Ski Resort

JAPAN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Hotel Pension Grimus WINNER

Beijing Huai Bei International Ski Resort

The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel Hokkaido WINNER

Changbaishan Wanda International Resort

Akakura Kanko Hotel

CuiYunShan International Resort

Hotel Appi Grand

Nanshan Ski Village

Hyatt House Niseko

Sun Mountain Yabuli

Karuizawa Prince Hotel East

Thaiwoo Ski Resort

LOTTE Arai Resort

Wanlong Ski Resort

Naeba Prince Hotel

Breathtaker Hotel & Spa Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa Hotel The Sebel Pinnacle Valley

AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Astra Falls Creek WINNER Denman Hotel & Spa

Hilton Niseko Village

New Furano Prince Hotel

JAPAN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort

LOTTE Arai Resort WINNER

Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel

Appi Kogen

Sierra resort Hakuba

Furano Ski Resort

Skye Niseko

Hakuba

The Green Leaf Niseko Village

AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort

The Westin Rusutsu Resort

Sequoia Penthouse Thredbo WINNER

Kiroro Resort

Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel Perisher Valley Hotel QT Falls Creek Ramada Resort Dinner Plain Mt Hotham

www.worldskiawards.com

CHAPELCO. ARGENTINAS’ BEST SKI RESORT 2020

SAN MARTÍN DE LOS ANDES • NEU

UQUÉN • PATAGONIA ARGENTINA

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

MARTIN BROMLEY LE CHALET MONT BLANC Having been recognised as a European hospitality leader by the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel caught up with Le Chalet Mont Blanc general manager, Martin Bromley, to find out more about the one-of-a-kind property.

Best in Travel: Congratulations on your recognition by voters at the World Ski Awards as France’s Best Ski Chalet. How does it feel to have taken the prestigious honour?

Martin Bromley: It is truly a great honour indeed to win this prestigious award.

We were thrilled to have won World’s Best New Ski Chalet last year and to continue on to win France’s Best Ski Chalet this year is truly amazing.

MARTIN BROMLEY

The team and our partners and suppliers have really put in tremendous efforts since the beginning and I am extremely proud of everyone’s commitment to make Le Chalet Mont Blanc into what it is today.

BiT: Can you tell us a little about the property – what is it that caught the eye of voters?

MB: I believe the success is the building itself and our incredible team.

Our chalet has been built with materials locally sourced from within one kilometre of the site and is creatively constructed with clean lines and open spaces, to blend modern design, with the feel of a traditional wooden chalet.

The floor-to-ceiling windows provide uninterrupted views of the highest peaks in Europe and help bring nature right into the chalet.

The Chalet Mont Blanc Team is eagerly awaiting our clients when they arrive, ready to provide the warmest of welcomes and to help them relax from their journey.

The attention to detail provided by our staff is what helps us to gain and maintain the confidence of our clients.

BEST IN SKI

We look forward to greeting these extended members of our family time and time again!

BiT: How would you describe the mood in European ski tourism as we go into the 2020 winter season? Is there hope the corner can be turned on a difficult year for global hospitality?

MB: There is immense anticipation to see what the winter season will bring!

It has been widely reported that with goggles, gloves and masks, skiing is much safer against Covid-19 than other sports.

Chamonix offers hectares of on and off piste skiing and is ready for those eager to hit the slopes.

For many, I imagine they feel like they are in the blocks awaiting

the shot of the starting gun.

And after being locked indoors for much of the year, breathing the fresh mountain air will bring a fantastic sense of peace.

The team at Le Chalet Mont Blanc is here to receive those ready to enjoy the wide-open spaces of this glorious mountain.

BiT: How useful will the World Ski Awards trophy be in getting your message out to the ski community in Europe and around the world?

MB: It’s absolutely critical, it shows we are on the world stage and we will prevail.

With so many destinations the WSA really harnesses a single identity to unite the world of ski and hospitality sectors and all

the supporting business that keep this industry alive.

We are incredibly grateful to be recognized for our efforts in ski hospitality!

MORE INFORMATION Le Chalet Mont Blanc is a chic and modern retreat, offering five floors of unrivalled excellence.

Within the 1,000m2 of living space are 12 executive-style bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi.

Each bedroom has a balcony or terrace that is bathed in the longest hours of sunlight of any property in the Chamonix valley.

Find out more at lechaletmontblanc.com

CHAPELCO. ARGENTINAS’ BEST SKI RESORT 2020 S A N M A R T Í N D E L O S A NDE S • NE U QU É N • PA TA G ONIA A R G E NTINA

Discover Slovakia HOTEL

FIS

JASNA****

SLOVAKIA’S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL ... for the 5th consecutive year.

Hotel FIS Jasná**** is ideal for lovers of winter sports, providing the best ski-in ski-out experience that will satisfy even the most demanding skier.

In summer, you can indulge in breath-taking views and hikes that offer a wide variety of track difficulty levels.

We will pack you a picnic basket filled with delicious lunch and chilled Champagne to cheer a successful hike.

Our newly open Champagne Bar has the best selection of Champagne exclusively sourced for our guests. We take pride in supporting boutique Champagne houses that allow us to bring to the market a one-of-a-kind experience to our guests.

Come and enjoy the best that Slovakia has to offer!

The place where you meet your friends!

www.fisjasna.sk +421 44/559 14 11 Demänovská Dolina 330 Slovakia

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

OLIVER CORKHILL LEO TRIPPI Best in Travel: Congratulations on Leo Trippi being honoured with the title of World’s Best Ski Travel Agent at the World Ski Awards – how does it feel to have won?

Oliver Corkhill: It’s amazing - to win this again, and for the seventh consecutive year it’s just incredible.

This year has been tough for everyone in tourism and the competition for this award has been fierce.

It’s a real testament to our team and the goodwill and support that Leo Trippi has from clients, owners, operators and other suppliers.

OLIVER CORKHILL

Long one of the most popular winners at the World Ski Awards, Leo Trippi has again been recognised as a leader in global hospitality. Here Best in Travel speaks to Oliver Corkhill, chief executive of the company, to find out more.

We can’t thank everyone who voted enough.

BiT: This is a title Leo Trippi has held since 2014 – and the launch of World Ski Awards. What is it that attracts voters to the brand and separates you from your competitors?

OC: We’ve got an incredibly loyal client base from all over the world who have supported us year on year.

We really strive to build relationships with clients and wow them with our unique product offerings and market insight.

Leo Trippi has a strong heritage, dating back to 1882, we’ve got offices in key resorts such as St Moritz, Verbier and Zermatt as well as in the UK and Russia -

we’ve got amazing industry contacts and supporters.

BiT: How useful are the World Ski Awards trophies when comes to promoting the brand around the globe?

OC: Winning at the World Ski Awards certainly inspires confidence in clients when it comes to booking with us.

Not only does it highlight the fact that our properties and service are of the highest quality, but it also helps give customers peace of mind when booking.

There are a lot of fraudulent websites out there and being recognised by the World Ski Awards helps to highlight that we are a long-standing and trustworthy company who will go above and beyond for our clients and industry partners.

BiT: How would you describe the mood in European ski tourism as we enter the 2020 season? Is there much hope we can turn the corner on Covid-19 over the coming months?

OC: While some people are understandably hesitant about the thought of travel, we are delighted that ski resorts across the world have made a huge effort to ensure that the season will be able to go ahead with stringent measures in place, so that everyone can enjoy the season safely.

People have realised the value of travel more than ever and

BEST IN SKI

there is certainly a pent-up desire to go skiing.

This year, the booking pattern has certainly changed with people renting chalets on a longterm basis and we expect a big increase in last-minute bookings.

However, we are encouraged that people are still enquiring and booking ski holidays.

We have flexible cancellation policies in place for many properties that are willing to give full refunds should the client have to cancel due to Covid-19 related government restrictions.

I think this is really helping people to feel confident when booking their holiday with us.

Of course, we can’t fully predict what will happen during the season, the situation is fluid.

What I can say is that we will be here for customers and partners to make sure they’re looked after and have holidays to look forward to, whether that be now or in the future.

MORE INFORMATION Back in 1882 Leo Trippi ran three successful hotels in the Engadin and Italy.

These were the ‘go-to’ properties for European socialites, business tycoons and royalty.

Fast forward a century and the company continues the tradition as a luxury ski holiday company helping guests to create the most exceptional luxury ski chalet holidays and bespoke mountain vacations in Switzerland, France, Austria and Italy.

Find out more at www.leotrippi.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES JAPAN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Ki Niseko WINNER

Muju Deukyusan

Aburaya Tousen

The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences WINNER

MUSE Niseko

Chateau Tongariro Hotel

Vivaldi Park

Nozawa Grand Hotel

Crowne Plaza Queenstown

The Kamui Niseko The Vale Niseko

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

SOUTH KOREA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Villa Rusutsu, Hokkaido

Millbrook Resort

Dragon Valley Hotel WINNER

Zaborin

Peppers Bluewater Resort

High1 Grand Hotel

The Hermitage Hotel

High1 Palace Hotel

JAPAN'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020 Hakuchozan WINNER Aspect Kozue

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Matakauri Lodge WINNER

One Happo

Arrowtown House Boutique Hotel

Phoenix One

Blanket Bay Browns Boutique Hotel

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Mt Hutt WINNER

Eichardt's Private Hotel

Cardrona Alpine Resort

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Coronet Peak

Porters Lodge WINNER

Mt Dobson

Azur Luxury Lodge

Ohau Snow Fields

Distinction Wanaka Serviced Apartments

Porters Roundhill The Remarkables

Whare Kea Lodge & Chalet

Treble Cone

SOUTH KOREA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

TÅ«roa

YongPyong Resort WINNER

Whakapapa

Alpensia

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

Bears Town High1 Ski Phoenix Park

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Alpensia Pyeongchang Suites Hotel Tirol InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort

BEST IN SKI

EUROPE ANDORRA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Neilson Chalet Hotel Casale

Hotel Rasmushof Kitzbühel Kristiania Lech

AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Grandvalira WINNER

Kitzbühel WINNER

Vallnord – Pal Arinsal

Ischgl Lech Zürs am Arlberg

Raffl’s St. Antoner Hof Severin*s – The Alpine Retreat Thurnher's Alpenhof

ANDORRA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Mayrhofen-Hippach

AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

Hahnenkamm Lodge WINNER

Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa WINNER

Saalbach Hinterglemm

Arula Chalets

Holiday Inn Andorra Hotel

SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental

Aurelio Club Chalet

Hotel Himalaia Soldeu

St. Anton am Arlberg

Hotel Màgic Pas Hotel Nordic Hotel Plaza

AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Hotel Princesa Parc

A-ROSA Kitzbühel WINNER

Hotel Ski Plaza & Wellness

Arlberg Hospiz, St. Christoph

The Bringué Hotel

Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt Hotel Almhof Schneider

Chalet 1551 Chalet Mimi Chalet N Eden Rock House Hannes Schneider, Stuben Maierl-Alm Sweet Little Home The Chalet, at 11° East

ANDORRA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

Hotel Arlberg

Hotel Màgic Ski WINNER

Hotel Salzburgerhof

Hotel Diana Parc

Kaiserhof Kitzbühel

Palomé Hotel

Kempinski Hotel Das Tirol

The Xalet Bringué Hotel & Spa

SPA-HOTEL Jagdhof

BULGARIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

TOP Hotel Hochgurgl

Bansko WINNER

ANDORRA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020 Ski Chalet Alpine Residence WINNER Chalet Motxo Els Llacs

Hotel Cervosa

Überhaus Villa Schönbichl Villa Villekulla

Borovets

AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Aurelio Lech WINNER

Pamporovo Vitosha

Elizabeth Arthotel

www.worldskiawards.com

KitzbĂźhel

Skiing pleasure

as far as the eye can see

kitzski.at

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

SHANNON EXELBY ASTRA FALLS CREEK Having been recognised as one of the best in the business by voters at the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here chats with Shannon Exelby, general manager at Astra Falls Creek, to find out more about the luxurious property.

SHANNON EXELBY

Best in Travel: Congratulations on your success at the Ski Awards with Astra Falls Creek walking away with the title of Australia’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel. How does it feel to have won?

Shannon Exelby: We are incredibly proud to accept the award – and every individual in our team shares in this success.

It takes passionate people to achieve such a remarkable standard and it is this passion, geared towards our vision and shared commitment, that makes Astra a success, not only in Australia but within the entire international ski industry community.

BiT: This is the fifth year in succession the property has taken the honour – what is it that makes it so special to voters?

BEST IN SKI

SE: Our guests are always at the heart of what we do.

Astra is a sanctuary for a pilgrimage of return guests and that creates a real sense of family between sta and them.

The location is beautiful and combined with world class services, Astra provides a beautiful cocoon which motivates guests to become fully immersed in the piste, just outside our front door.

This is an experience that both guests and sta seek to be a part of.

BiT: How useful are the World Ski Awards when it comes to promoting the property to the global ski community?

World Ski Awards represent the gold standard in ski industry experience, providing a glowing recommendation for the recipients.

BiT: Australia has opted to close its borders to international travel in the wake of the Covid19 pandemic. Has domestic tourism made up for any shortfall? Is there a hope a vaccine could see a return to something like normal next year?

SE: That is the big question.

We were cut short this year due to Covid-19 state lockdowns and thankfully Australia has emerged from that quite well.

Our guests are always celebrating and sharing in Astra’s successes.

There has been strong government stimulus for the travel and hospitality industry over recent and forward months, and there is an overwhelming pent-up demand for domestic travel.

There is a lot of advocacy from our client base and for those that have yet to experience Astra, the

We expect demand to compound for winter 2021 with North American, European and

SE: It is certainly an achievement that we like to hang our hat on.

Japan ski hills currently out of reach for Australians for an unspecified time.

We are confident demand will be there, knowing we have global skiers experiencing significant withdrawal and there is potentially a new market of first-time skiers searching for an alternative to overseas adventure.

The advantages of a short flight or car-ride, no jet lag, a friendly currency and Aussie hospitality will be compelling and drive a very strong winter season for us.

There is very positive news of a potential vaccine which suggests by June 2021, there will be pathways for Falls Creek to execute a successful season.

MORE INFORMATION Find out more about visiting Astra Falls Creek on their website: astrafallscreek.com.au

BEST IN TRAVEL

WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES BULGARIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko WINNER Aparthotel Lucky Bansko SPA & Relax

Ski Areál Herlíkovice – Bubákov Ski Areál Ještěd Ski Areál Kopřivná Ski Areál Kouty

FINLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Break Sokos Hotel Levi WINNER

Skiareál Lipno

Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki

Grand Hotel Bansko

Spartak Rokytnice

Holiday Club Ylläs Saaga

Hotel Orlovetz

Špičák

Hotel Pikku-Syöte

Hotel Rila Borovets

Sportovní Areál Harrachov

Hotelli Hullu Poro

Premier Luxury Mountain Resort Regnum Bansko Apart Hotel & Spa

CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Yastrebets Hotel Wellness & Spa

Harmony Club Hotel WINNER Clarion Hotel Spindleruv Mlyn

BULGARIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

Hotel Horizont Orea Resort Horal

Club Hotel Yanakiev Ice Angels Hotel

CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Hotel Savoy Špindlerův Mlýn WINNER

BULGARIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Grund Resort Golf & Ski

Snomads Chalet Diana-Ross WINNER

Hotel Praha

Chalet Jora

Hotel Bedriska

Villa Stresov

CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Skiareál Špindlerův Mlýn WINNER Pec pod Sněžkou

FINLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Hotel Iso-Syöte WINNER Hotel Ylläshumina Luxury Lodge L7 RukaVillage Ski-Inn Hotel & Apartments Seita Holiday Resort

FINLAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Hotel Sněžka

Rukan Salonki Chalets WINNER

FINLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Fjell Top Cottages

Levi WINNER Pyhä Ski Resort

FRANCE'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Ruka Ski Resort

Val Thorens WINNER

Salla

Avoriaz 1800

Ski Resort Iso-Syöte

Chamonix Mont-Blanc

Yllas

Courchevel

Chalet Mila Villa Gella

Scandic Rukahovi

Hotel Chalet Ruka Peak

Alpin Hotel WINNER Boutique Hotel Iva & Elena

Ruka Ski Chalets ApartmentHotel

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

BEST IN SKI

La Plagne

Aman Le Mélézin

La Datcha Val Thorens

Les Arcs

Cheval Blanc

Le Petit Château

Les Deux Alpes

Hotel des Dromonts

Rock n’ Love

Megève

Le Chalet Zannier

Shemshak Lodge

Méribel

Le K2 Palace

SHL Lodge

Serre Chevalier

Le Kaila

The Ecurie

Tignes

Le Taos

Val d'Isère

Les Airelles, Courchevel

Valloire

Portetta Hotel The Grandes Alpes Hotel

FRANCE'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Fahrenheit Seven Val Thorens WINNER Altapura Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon

GERMANY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Garmisch-Partenkirchen WINNER Berchtesgaden

FRANCE'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Oberstdorf

Le Chalet Mont Blanc WINNER

Willingen-Upland

Spitzingsee-Tegernsee

Alpaca Chalet Atlantique

GERMANY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Club Med Val Thorens Sensations

Chalet Babylon

Fahrenheit Seven Courchevel

Chalet Colombe

Four Seasons Hotel Megève

Chalet Couttet

Hotel Christiana

Chalet des Cascades

Hôtel TAJ-I MAH

Chalet Joux Plane

Dorint Sporthotel GarmischPartenkirchen

Hotel Terminal Neige - Totem

Chalet La Bergerie

Hotel Exquisit

Le Blizzard

Chalet Le Chardon

Reindl´s Partenkirchner Hof

Le Lana

Chalet Le Grenier

Schloss Elmau

Le Palace des Neiges

Chalet Machapuchare

Les Barmes de l'Ours

Chalet Marco Polo

L’Apogée Courchevel

Chalet Quezac

FRANCE'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Hotel Pashmina WINNER

Chalet BANKSY Tribute

Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden WINNER Alpenhof Murnau Das Kranzbach

GERMANY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Hotel Staudacherhof WINNER

Chalet Rêves de Montagne

Atlas Posthotel

Chalet Ubud

Hotel Sonne Füssen

Chez Bugi

Hotel Zugspitze

www.worldskiawards.com

Towering over the Chamonix Valley, Le Chalet is the

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2013/2014/2015/2016/2017/2018/2019/2020

2019

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

MATTHEW KLAIBER CHALET ZERMATT PEAK Best in Travel: Congratulations!

You have been recognised as both Switzerland’s Best Ski Chalet and World’s Best Ski Chalet at the World Ski Awards.

How does it feel to have won?

Matthew Klaiber: Thank you, it is very much appreciated.

To be awarded Switzerland’s Best Ski Chalet was a great honour – and to then go on and be recognised as the best in the world was truly amazing.

Having the continued support and trust of our great guests, agents and partners, both here in Zermatt and around the globe is absolutely fantastic.

It gives us great confidence for the future.

MATTHEW KLAIBER

Having taken a duo of titles at the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here catches up with Matthew Klaiber, business development manager at Chalet Zermatt Peak, to discover more.

BiT: Can you tell us a little about that one-of-a-kind property and what it offers to the ski tourism market in Switzerland?

MK: As you can see Chalet Zermatt Peak is luxurious, truly unique and perched above the heart of Zermatt.

Our team has a passion for ensuring our guests have a luxurious and memorable experience indulging in our world class facilities.

Whether it is enjoying our culinary masterpieces and private wine cellar, revitalising in our wellness centre or simply soaking up the amazing views of

the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

BiT: How useful are the World Ski Awards when it comes to promoting a property of this kind to the global ski tourism community?

MK: Very useful.

The awards help us, and our partners, promote not only the chalet globally but also to promote Zermatt as a world-class destination.

It is also great for our team to be recognised for their amazing work.

We have an exceptional property, but the Chalet Zermatt Peak difference is about our awardwinning service and our people.

These awards really belong to them.

BiT: How would you describe the ski tourism market in Switzerland as we head into the 2020 season? Is there hope a potential Covid-19 vaccine could reinvigorate the market?

MK: We are optimistic about the future, however, understand people are cautious.

In the summer just passed Zermatt enjoyed excellent tourist numbers from within Europe and the UK. This was a good test for the new health and safety procedures in resort and at our chalet.

BEST IN SKI

People love coming to the mountains for the fresh air, open spaces and incredible scenery, not to mention the skiing.

Jacuzzi and spacious open plan living spilling out onto the generous balcony, all framed by the most envied view in Zermatt.

We know from talking to our returning guests that they are motivated more than ever to visit.

A private gymnasium and full treatment spa ensure guests know the Chalet Zermatt Peak difference.

Who does not need a slice of luxury and a winter paradise right now?

We look forward to welcoming you to Chalet Zermatt Peak soon.

MORE INFORMATION With breath-taking views of the Matterhorn and perched centrally above the enchanting village, Chalet Zermatt Peak is homage to architectural design and luxury.

The privately-run chalet is spaciously laid out over six opulent floors and includes five deluxe double bedrooms, ceiling to floor windows, an indoor - outdoor

The award-winning Swiss chalet

team offer a truly unique and highly personalised experience.

The in-house Michelin star chef takes guests on mesmerising culinary journeys and assists in navigating the carefully curated wine cellar.

Find out more at www.chaletzermattpeak.com/en

Winner of “World’s Best Ski Travel Agent” for seven consecutive years.

World's Best Ski Travel Agent

Providing exceptional luxury ski chalets & tailor-made mountain trips across Europe and beyond.

To ć˜€nd out more visit our website or contact our travel team on: +41 81 385 1882 www.leotrippi.com

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WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES GERMANY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Montana Lodge & Spa

Norefjell

QC Terme Bagni di Bormio

Trysil

ITALY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

NORWAY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Saint Hubertus Luxury Resort & Spa WINNER

Fýri – Resort of Hemsedal WINNER

ADLER Spa Resort DOLOMITI

Dr. Holms Hotel

Hotel Chalet del Sogno

Fleischer's Hotel

Hotel Col Alto

Norefjell Ski & Spa

Dolomites Val Gardena WINNER

Hotel Hermitage

Radisson Blu Resort Trysil

Cervino Ski Paradise

Lagació Hotel Mountain Residence

Country Home Pitzner WINNER Chalet Haus Hamburg Moarhof anno 1665 Staudachers Cottage

ITALY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Cortina d’Ampezzo Courmayeur Mont Blanc

Sestriere

ITALY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Vestlia Resort Geilo

Olimpionico Hotel San Luis Hotel

Madonna di Campiglio Seiser Alm

Thon Hotel Skeikampen

ITALY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020 White Deer San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge WINNER Chalet Être

Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Cortina d’Ampezzo WINNER

Chalet lo Miéte

Alpenpalace Luxury Hideaway & Spa Retreat

Chalet Majon

NORWAY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Nermo Hotell WINNER Herangtunet Boutique Hotel Juvet Landscape Hotel Lyngen Lodge Skarsnuten Hotel Storfjord Hotel

Chalet LV01 Dolce Vita

Chalet Monterosa

Alpin Royal

NORWAY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020 Havsdalsgrenda WINNER Skjelbreid Poirée

Hotel Andreus

NORWAY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Hotel Sassongher

Geilo WINNER

Le Massif

Hafjell

POLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel

Hemsedal

Grand Hotel Savoia

Hovden

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

Kotelnica Bialczańska WINNER Czarna Góra

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Czorsztyn-Kluszkowce

Azuga

Dwie Doliny Muszyna Wierchomla

Poiana Brașov

Jaworzyna Krynicka Karpacz – Śnieżka Korbielów – Pilsko Krynica Szczyrk Szklarska Poręba – Szrenica

POLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Nosalowy Dwór Resort & Spa WINNER

Predeal Rânca Straja Vatra Dornei

RUSSIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Rosa Khutor WINNER Krasnaya Polyana Mount Cheget Mount Elbrus

Grand Hotel Stamary

Zavyalikha

Hotel Belvedere Hotel Czarny Potok Resort SPA & Conference

RUSSIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences, Zakopane

Sochi Marriott Krasnaya Polyana Hotel WINNER Grand Hotel Polyana

Hotel Crocus WINNER Hotel Gronie

Hotel Tulip Inn Rosa Khutor Mercure Rosa Khutor

Hotel Skalny Hotel Zabala

Radisson Hotel, Rosa Khutor Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi

Sinaia WINNER Arena Platos Paltinis

Elpida Boutique Hotel Hotel Rosa Khutor Chalet Sport Inn Hotel

SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Jasná Nízke Tatry WINNER Bachledka Ski & Sun Resort PARK SNOW Donovaly SKI PARK Kubínska hoľa Ski Park Ružomberok – Malinô Brdo Snow Paradise Veľká Rača Oščadnica Tatranská Lomnica Vrátna Malá Fatra Winter Park Martinky

Green Flow Hotel

Park Inn by Radisson Rosa Khutor

ROMANIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Grand Hotel & Spa Rodina WINNER

Vidra Transalpina

Aries Hotel & Spa

POLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

RUSSIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

Rosa Ski Inn Hotel Rosa Springs

SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Grandhotel Praha WINNER Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras Grandhotel Starý Smokovec Hotel Patria Salamandra Hotel

Swissotel Resort Sochi Kamelia

www.worldskiawards.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

ANTON BODNER & CHR BERGBAHN AG KITZBÜH

Having been recognised as among the best anywhere on earth by the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here chats with Anton Bodner, chairman, and Christian Wörister, board member, at Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel, about the prestigious honour.

Best in Travel: Congratulations on your victory at the World Ski Awards with Kitzbühel having been recognised as the World’s Best Ski Resort Company by voters. How does it feel to have won?

Anton Bodner: World Ski Awards is the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in ski tourism by voters.

Launched in 2013, World Ski Awards aims to drive up standards within the ski tourism industry by rewarding the organisations which are leaders in their field.

won the World Ski Award for the seventh time in challenging times like these.

Votes are cast by professionals working within the ski industry and by the public (ski tourism consumers).

This honour would not be possible without the extraordinary work from all our colleagues during the whole year – so first off all we want to thank our staff and our partners.

Therefore it is a great honour for us, and we are very glad to have

BiT: This is the seventh consecutive time you have been

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ISTIAN WÖRISTER HEL honoured in this way – how do the trophies and titles help you promote the destination around the world?

Christian Wörister: The World Ski Award was developed in reaction to overwhelming demand from the ski industry for a program that was fair and transparent; a program with a mission to serve as the definitive benchmark of excellence, and to help to foster a new era of growth in ski tourism.

World Ski Award has created a range of special promotional tools to enable winners to maximise the impact of their World Ski Awards victory.

We use this offers in all means of advertising to strengthen our unique position around the world.

BiT: Kitzbühel is one of the most famous ski tourism destinations in Europe, if not the world. Just what is on offer at the destination that makes it so special?

CW: Kitzbühel is the most legendary sports town in the Alps with over 125 years of successful skiing history.

Kitzbühel – along with the holiday villages of Reith, Aurach and Jochberg – is known worldwide as a winter holiday destination with tradition and extraordinary charm.

Easy accessibility, long winters, a high snow guarantee, a wide range of sporting activities, unique events such as the famous Hahnenkamm Race and the highest level of comfort

characterise the capital of winter sports.

We take the health of our guests and staff very seriously.

The KitzSki area in Kitzbühel and Kirchberg boasts 233 kilometres of perfectly prepared pistes, including 15 valley runs, for beginners, regular holiday skiers and advanced winter sports enthusiasts.

Bergbahn Kitzbühel has taken all necessary measures and activities to protect the health of its customers in line with the regulatory requirements relating to the development of Covid-19.

With our 57 state of the art lifts, we are one of Austria’s largest cable car companies.

Our cable cars offer the highest level of comfort, many of them including heated seats – they are pleasant, modern and stress-free.

Furthermore we operate more than 1,100 snowmaking machines to guarantee perfect snow conditions during the whole season which are fed by ten water reservoirs.

BiT: How would you describe the mood going into the 2020 ski season? Has news of a potential vaccine for Covid-19 lifted spirits?

AB: Actually we have a lockdown in Austria as well as in many other European countries.

So the possibility for people to come to ski in Kitzbühel is actually quite low until Christmas.

We focus on intensifying our marketing activities in Austria and in south Germany since we are convinced, that as soon as it is approved by the government, people will pack their bags and spend their holidays skiing in Austria.

Skiers will have more space at the ticket offices, in the winter cable cars and lifts, inns and mountain restaurants.

Protective masks are available at each ticket office to cover mouth and nose during the lift ride.

Dispensers of sanitiser are also available there.

Last but not least of course we all hope for a vaccine against Covid-19 within the next six months.

MORE INFORMATION Find out more about visiting Kitzbühel by visiting www.kitzski.at

30 minutes by shuttle bus from Joetsu My

LOTTE ARAI RESORT 1966 Ryozenji, Myoko Cit https://www.lottehotel.com

Sapporo

Niigata

Tokyo Nagoya Osaka Fukuoka

yoko Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen

ty, Niigata Prefecture, Japan +81-255-75-1100 m/arai-resort/en.html/

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WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

Hotel FIS Jasná WINNER

Apartment Trije ploti WINNER

Hotel Liptovský Dvor

Chalet Planina

Hotel Mikulášska chata

Ruška Koča

Hotel Pošta Hotel Tri Studničky

SPAIN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Boí Taüll WINNER

SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Aramón Cerler

Krvavec WINNER

Aramón Formigal

Cerkno

Astún

Golte

Baqueira/Beret

Kranjska Gora

Candanchú

Mariborsko Pohorje

Masella

Rogla

Sierra Nevada

Vogel

SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Hotel Golte WINNER

SPAIN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Rafaelhoteles By La Pleta WINNER

El Lodge Hotel Chalet Val de Ruda Hotel La Morera La Almunia del Valle

SWEDEN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Funäsfjällen WINNER Åre Bjorkliden Branäs Funäsdalen Hemavan Tärnaby Riksgränsen Sälen Tänndalen Vemdalen

SWEDEN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Hotel Bügelhof WINNER

Hotel Arena

AC Baqueira Autograph Collection

Copperhill Mountain Lodge

Hotel Natura

Fun Aragon Hills Hotel & Spa

Holiday Club Åre

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kranjska Gora

HG Alto Aragón

Hotel Åregården

SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Hotel Krvavec WINNER

Hotel Himàlaia Baqueira Hotel Val de Neu Meliá Sol y Nieve Parador de Artíes

Hotel Cerkno Skipass Hotel Šport hotel Pokljuka

SPAIN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Meliá Royal Tanau Boutique Hotel WINNER

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

SWEDEN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Eriksgårdens Fjällhotell WINNER Buustamons Fjällgård Fjällnäs Hotel Granen Hotell Fjällgården Åre

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SWEDEN'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020 Skutan Ski Lodge WINNER Åre Timberlodge The Villa - Copperhill Private Lodge

SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Nira Alpina Riffelalp Resort 2222m The Alpina Gstaad The Cambrian Adelboden

THE AMERICAS

The Chedi Andermatt

ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

Tschuggen Grand Hotel

Chapelco Ski Resort WINNER Batea Mahuida

SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

Catedral Alta Patagonia Cerro Bayo

Davos Klosters

Romantik Hotel Chesa Grischuna WINNER

Engelberg

Backstage Hotel Vernissage

La Hoya

Gstaad

Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences

Las Leñas

LAAX WINNER Crans-Montana

Saas-Fee/Saastal St. Moritz Verbier Wengen Zermatt

SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Hotel Firefly Hotel Le Grand Bellevue Hotel Matterhorn FOCUS

Carlton Hotel St. Moritz Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz

Cerro Castor

ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Le Chalet d'Adrien

Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel WINNER

Rixos Flüela Davos

Llao Llao Hotel & Resort

The Omnia

Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa

Valsana Hotel & Appartements

Virgo Hotel & Spa

SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

Chalet Zermatt Peak WINNER

Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa WINNER

W Verbier WINNER Badrutt's Palace

Caviahue Ski Resort

Chalet Marmottière Chesa el Toula

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

Chesetta, St Moritz

Gstaad Palace

Haus Alpina

InterContinental Davos

The Lodge, Verbier

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz

Tivoli Lodge, Davos

Aldebarán Hotel & Spa Correntoso Lake & River Hotel Design Suites Bariloche El Casco Art Hotel Las Balsas Río Hermoso Hotel de Montaña

Mont Cervin Palace

www.worldskiawards.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

SERGEY KHVOROSTYANY ROSA KHUTOR

Having been honoured with a top title at the World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here chats to Sergey Khvorostyany, deputy general director for international relations at Rosa Khutor, about how it feels to have won.

Of course, this requires commitment, not only at a distance, but also a lot of effort during preparation for the competition – this is the same.

At Rosa Khutor, we strive every day to respond to requests of the most demanding guests both from Russia and from more than 100 foreign countries.

SERGEY KHVOROSTYANY

Best in Travel: Congratulations on your victory at the World Ski Awards, with Rosa Khutor having been recognised as Russia’s Leading Ski Resort by voters. How does it feel to have won?

Sergey Khvorostyany: I think it is a sense of satisfaction from a well-done job.

The resort traditionally hosts the Rosa Run festival in May, on one of the days of which the participants compete in the vertical kilometre discipline, running a distance with increase in the altitude of more than a kilometre.

The distance begins under the hot southern sun at the Mountain Olympic Village and it ends at the top of Rosa Peak where there is still snow.

We host about two million tourists annually.

You stand on the top of Rosa Peak, see endless spaces, snowcapped mountains, the Black Sea, breathe in the fresh mountain air and feel that this award gives you renewed strength for the next victories.

BiT: This is the eighth year in succession the resort has taken the title – just what is it that makes it so special in the eyes of the ski tourism community?

SK: I think that answering this question, we should start with the mission of the resort: we are creating a comfortable and safe space for recreation, sports and a healthy lifestyle in a unique place in Russia - at Rosa Khutor.

We are the only one resort in Russia that operates in accordance with a sustainable development program which

covers seven key areas of work unique experiences, nature conservation, energy efficiency, waste management, partnership and cooperation, historical heritage and care for the future generation.

The resort constantly demonstrates innovative approaches and sets the trend for development of the entire ski tourism industry in Russia, being an excellent example of the effective use of the Olympic legacy.

Despite the difficulties of this year, we were able to offer our guests new hiking trails, we opened the first passenger mountain helicopter centre in Russia, held the first German hiking business weekend.

Besides, a very important event took place - the third international conference on Sustainable Tourism: Global Challenges and Russian Perspective.

In the coming winter season, in December, we will delight our guests with new D-line Doppelmayer cable car with cabins for ten passengers and a maximum capacity of 2,400 people per hour.

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This will make skiing in the resort more comfortable.

Make sure to come! I am sure that you will feel the incredible atmosphere of the resort and will want to return to this wonderful place.

BiT: How useful are the World Ski Awards when it comes to promoting Rosa Khutor to the ski tourism market?

SK: It is very important for me to provide information quickly and efficiently about the resort, its strategic opportunities, values and priorities.

The award is one of the most effective ways to establish partnership relations with various industry actors - industry professionals, resorts, sport clubs, hoteliers and travel companies.

The World Ski Awards are a quality mark indicating that the resort is constantly evolving, providing guests with new services and responding to the challenges of the modern world.

I am sure that for a large number of tourists, especially foreign ones, the World Ski Awards are one of the defining moments when deciding on a trip to a particular place.

For example, winning this award allowed us to intensify our partnership with Kitzbühel and a number of Austrian companies, and we received a boost of Austrian guests.

I would like to note that in March, the second Austrian Business Weekend was successfully held at the resort.

For us, the World Ski Awards is a signature that tells hundreds of thousands of domestic and foreign professionals in the sphere of tourism and ski industry that Rosa Khutor not only meets the highest standards but also, being a leader, sets the vector of strategic development of the entire ski tourism industry in Russia.

One more important aspect, the program, thanks to which the industry professionals have an opportunity to share their work experience in difficult conditions and to learn the best examples of the industry leaders development from all over the world.

Rosa Khutor took part in this program, considering it an important aspect of our international activities, certifying the role of Rosa Khutor in the development of the world ski tourism industry.

Of course, for me the award ceremony is also an opportunity to meet my colleagues and friends.

I am looking forward to these meetings at which I receive a large supply of new knowledge and ideas.

occupancy of our hotels was more than 85 per cent.

In practice, we have confirmed the research results according to which people after a long period of selfisolation literally need a reset.

Many came to rest in the mountains, as it is the best place to recharge, restart, pay attention to physical activity on fresh air.

And we expect the same situation in the coming winter season.

This is a great privilege for which I sincerely thank the World Ski Awards team.

Almost all hotels are booked for the entire season, including into March.

BiT: How would you describe the mood in Russian ski hospitality as we go into the 2020 season? Has a potential vaccine for Covid-19 lifted spirits?

Of course, we strictly follow the requirements of the authorities to antiepidemic measures and we are confident that the vaccine will be a significant help for a quick return to normal life.

SK: This year is tough for the completely global community and global market space.

MORE INFORMATION

However, this is a reason to think about new travel products, services and routes.

The synergy of the Black Sea climate and the Aibga Mountains make Rosa Khutor an unforgettable place.

The pandemic has given everyone the opportunity to reconsider their rhythm of life, to stop and reconsider their values and priorities.

Guests can stroll down the Mzymta River promenade and watch the sunset after a day of skiing and recreation.

Each time period can be used positively - good news is always appreciated at any time.

There is also a chance to discover delectable local cuisine, meet locals and feel the energy of our local community.

We had a good summer season; the

Find out more at rosakhutor.com/en

Ski from December till April: 102 km ski tracks, 29 modern ski lifts, 1 535 m vertical drop

Live

Discover

in a hotel, aparthotel, chalet or cottage right next to the slopes

spa and thermal baths based on local tradition

Taste

Dare

local cuisine with a modern twist and a unique character

to take a helicopter ride, go hiking in the wild outdoors or cross a rope bridge over a gorge

You just need to change your altitude!

The Black Sea climate combined with the magic of the Aibga Mountain Range creates an unforgettable and beloved destination all year long.

rosakhutor.com Rosa Khutor Mountain Resort Sochi, Russia

Ski from December till April: 102 km ski tracks, 29 modern ski lifts, 1 535 m vertical drop

Live

Discover

in a hotel, aparthotel, chalet or cottage right next to the slopes

spa and thermal baths based on local tradition

Taste

Dare

local cuisine with a modern twist and a unique character

to take a helicopter ride, go hiking in the wild outdoors or cross a rope bridge over a gorge

You just need to change your altitude!

The Black Sea climate combined with the magic of the Aibga Mountain Range creates an unforgettable and beloved destination all year long.

rosakhutor.com Rosa Khutor Mountain Resort Sochi, Russia

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WORLD SKI AWARDS 2020 WINNERS & NOMINEES CANADA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Revelstoke Mountain Resort WINNER Banff Sunshine Village Big White Ski Resort Fernie Alpine Resort

Nita Lake Lodge Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre

Hotel Antumalal

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel

Hotel Nevados

Sun Peaks Lodge

Hotel Posada Farellones

Sunshine Mountain Lodge

Sun Peaks Resort

CANADA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2020

The Lake Louise Ski Resort

Whiteworth Chalet WINNER

Tremblant

Alpine View Chalet

Whistler Blackcomb

Amanderu Estate

Whitewater Ski Resort

Belmont Estate Big Sky Chalet

CANADA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

Crescendo Revelstoke Bison Lodge

Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside WINNER Fairmont Banff Springs Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Fairmont Chateau Whistler

MI Lodge Las Trancas WINNER

Skoki Lodge

Panorama Mountain Resort RED Mountain Resort

CHILE'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

CHILE'S BEST SKI RESORT 2020

UNITED STATES' BEST SKI RESORT 2020 Deer Valley Resort WINNER Alta Aspen Snowmass Beaver Creek Big Sky Resort Breckenridge Crested Butte Jackson Hole Mammoth Mountain Park City

Nevados de Chillรกn WINNER

Snowbasin Resort, Utah

Corralco

Snowbird

Four Seasons Resort & Residences Whistler

Portillo

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows

Post Hotel & Spa

Valle Nevado

Steamboat Stowe Mountain Resort

The Rimrock Resort Hotel

CHILE'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2020

CANADA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020

Hotel Portillo WINNER

The Josie WINNER

Hotel Termas Chillรกn

Adara Hotel

Hotel Valle Nevado

Hotel Quintessence

Valle Corralco Hotel & Spa

Nominees listed alphabetically E&OE

Sun Valley Telluride Vail

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UNITED STATES' BEST SKI HOTEL 2020 Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley WINNER Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vale Grand Hyatt Vail Limelight Hotel Ketchum Montage Deer Valley Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa Sun Mountain Lodge The Arrabelle at Vail Square The Blake The Little Nell The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch The St. Regis Deer Valley The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa, Avon, Vail Valley Waldorf Astoria Park City Westgate Park City Resort & Spa

UNITED STATES' BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2020 Goldener Hirsch Inn WINNER Amangani Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge Hotel Terra Jackson Hole Lake Placid Lodge Stein Eriksen Residences Washington School House Hotel

www.worldskiawards.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

INTERVIEW

ITO TATSUYA LOTTE ARAI RESORT Having been recognised as one of the best ski resorts in Asia by World Ski Awards, Best in Travel here chats with Ito Tatsuya from marketing at Lotte Arai Resort to find out more.

ITO TATSUYA, LOTTE ARAI RESORT

Best in Travel: Congratulations on your recognition as Japan’s Best Ski Resort at the World Ski Awards. Can you tell us how it feels to have won this prestigious honour?

Ito Tatsuya: I am very happy to receive such a prestigious award.

When I spoke with my boss, we decided to give this award our first try, and although it was a difficult process from application to winning this award, we are very happy to have won it.

We are a very young resort ski area; this is our fourth season since our grand opening in 2017.

Compared to the leading resorts in Japan, we are inferior in terms of the number of users, name recognition and brand power in many areas, but I would like to

take this opportunity to thank all the staff who have continued to do what they can from the startup to this point in operation and marketing.

I would also like to thank all the Lotte Arai Resort fans around the world who have supported us as young and inexperienced ski resorts.

BiT: How useful are the World Ski Awards trophies when it comes to promoting Lotte Arai Resort to the global ski community?

IT: In the ski resort business, we understand that it is very difficult to make a comparative ranking with other companies.

There are ways to compare simply by the number of visitors and sales, or by the number of

runways and trails, but is it the reputation of the resort to say that it is superior to others?

What do customers want? How rewarding and satisfying are your employees? How well do you work with local businesses and municipalities?

We believe that a combination of internal and external factors should be used to select the best resorts, and this award was the perfect opportunity.

Voters included skiers and snowboarders from all over the world, as well as competitors, clients, individuals and, of course, our own employees.

All the numbers were judged by the world to be excellent, so we are truly the best in Japan, both in name and in substance.

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This will be a great added value for our branding in the future, and will affect many aspects of our business.

BiT: Can you tell us a little about the Lotte Arai Resort? What is it that makes it so special to voters at the World Ski Awards?

IT: The biggest factor is the value of the free riding zone (uncompressed snow area) that we are able to offer due to the heavy snowfall environment with an average annual snowfall of 1,800cm.

The amount of snowfall and quality of snow in this small island country is something the world can be proud of.

We are located in an area with heavy snowfall, where the trees are buried underneath the snowpack and the snow is so thick that it allows us to safely open up our large free riding zone to all our customers.

Of course, this would not be possible without the hard work of our mountain team, including the avalanche forecasters and their patrols, who work tirelessly in the field to ensure that the conditions are as safe as possible for all of our guests.

BiT: How would you describe the market for ski tourism in Japan in 2020? Is there hope for a recovery next year as vaccines are discovered from Covid-19?

IT: The influence of Covid-19 is truly astounding and has had a huge impact on our business.

This season will be a tough one for us, but we cannot keep looking down.

This is the time to do what we can do now, one thing at a time, to

prepare ourselves to be the first platform of choice when demand picks up.

We feel that we are starting to see a gradual recovery in demand, however, the restrictions on physical visits to Japan are unavoidable, and we hope that we will be able to provide our customers from abroad with the best possible timing when the restrictions are lifted.

However, with an estimated six million skiers and snowboarders in Japan, we are not concerned about domestic demand at all, and bookings are doing very well due to the government’s GoTo Travel Campaign.

When Covid-19 is over worldwide, we will be ready to make sure that everyone around the world can enjoy the experience with more peace of mind than ever before, so please stay tuned for more to come.

MORE INFORMATION Lotte Arai Resort awaits ski tourism enthusiasts amid a scenic landscape of mountains stretching outward to the ocean from Mount Myoko.

All 257-rooms at the resort are open to both long and short-stay guests.

On site there are 15 ski courses, as well as first-class leisure activities, with guests offered the chance to indulge in eight areas of ungroomed snow, spas, pools and restaurants.

Find out more about Lotte Arai Resort at www.lottehotel.com/arairesort/en.html

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WORLD SKI AWARDS AUSTRALIA’S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL

2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020

The Kiroro, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Hokkaido Winner of Japan’s Best Ski Hotel 2020 A world-class ski-in ski-out hotel in the Winter Wonderland of Kiroro Resort info@kiroro.co.jp

www.kiroro.co.jp

+81(0)135 -34 -7111

A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL Austria’s Best Ski Hotel

BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM

KITZBÜHEL Austria’s Best Ski Resort