Impossible to believe that 15 years ago there were almost no Russians in the Alps

20th ski salon Grand Ski opened in France on January 18. Traditionally representatives of resorts, hotels, restaurants and transport companies of the country acquaint foreign operators with their product at the salon.

At the opening ceremony a lot was said on how important development of Russian and CIS markets is for France. The minister of tourism of France Frederic Lefebvre welcomed the Russian delegation in particular. Talking to Larisa Maksimova, commercial director of «Jet Travel» the minister mentioned that at the moment up to 30% of guests on the French ski resorts are foreigners and France would like to increase their number to 50% like in Switzerland. «France offers various resorts to Russians, different types of accommodation and excellent cuisine, - said Mr. Lefebvre. – We are happy that your demanding guests appreciate all this».

Christian Manthey, President Atout France stressed that despite the fact that the number of skiers from Russia is far behind for example Great Britain the positive dynamics is very important. «15 years ago there were almost no Russians in the Alps and now you can see them almost on every resort», - added Mr. Manthey. According to the representatives of resorts and touroperators the capacity of the Russian market will increase by 20 – 25 % this season.

Russian – Ukrainian delegation was the biggest at the Salon, 2 countries were represented by 64 touroperators, which was more than British and Scandinavian teams. There were 460 French and foreign companies at the Grand Ski. During pre-convention tour  the Russian touroperators visited  three resorts mostly interested in promotion on the Russian market, namely Brides Les Bains,  Les Menuires and La Clusaz.