Is it safe to book a ski holiday this year?
Covid-19 has had a dramatic impact on the ski industry, having cut short the 2019-20 season. The pandemic hit profits and scuppered the plans of many winter sports fans - but will it do the same this year?
According to a survey by Ski Press and Skipedia back in May, two thirds of ski industry figures believed there would be lower sales in 20-21, but that the season would go ahead. 70 percent believed social distancing would be necessary.
Roll forward to now, and it seems there will indeed be an upcoming ski season - but not as we know it.
The UK's biggest ski operator, Crystal Holidays, has cancelled all of its chalet capacity for the 20-21 season. A little earlier, Skiworld announced it would reduce its whole operation by 20 per cent, including its chalet program.
However, most ski operators still plan to run their hotels, alongside some chalets. Many package deals are available, and often include return flights, transfers, half board, ski passes and ski hire.
What are the risks of booking a ski break?
The main risk is having your booking cancelled because of travel restrictions related to Covid-19. Some scientists worry that there could be a second wave this winter - because Covid-19 may spread more easily in lower temperatures and when people spend more time inside.
However, your holiday provider should have ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) and ATOL (Air Travel Organisers' Licensing) protection, which means if they go out of business you'll receive a refund, and you'll be covered for any return transport costs if you're abroad at the time. Make sure you only book a holiday with both ABTA and ATOL protection.
Taking out travel insurance is also critical - it covers you for things like delays, medical costs and loss/theft of personal effects.
What if my ski break is cancelled due to coronavirus?
According to the Citizens Advice Bureau, "If the company you booked with cancels your booking because of coronavirus, contact them. You have the right to a refund – or you can choose to rebook for another time."
If you ask for a refund, it should be paid within 14 days for a cancelled package holiday, and within 7 days for a European flight.
So far, the 20-21 ski season looks set to go ahead. According to a 2018 study, 1.5m UK residents take a ski holiday at least once a year. While this figure may well be reduced for the upcoming season, many people won't want to miss out on their annual skiing or snowboarding fix.
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