A devalued US dollar was welcome news to international skiers earlier this year.
United States ski resorts reported seeing more international visitors than previous recent years. They credit this primarily to the lower exchange rate of the dollar vs. other currencies. People like getting the most bang for their buck, no matter what buck their currency represents.
During the recently passed ski season, guests booked extended stays months in advance. Resorts reported that skiers who would generally stay two to four days have extended their visits to seven to 10 days due to getting better prices for their currency.
International guests also shopped and spent more money at local stores and restaurants and on rental equipment.
Some resorts reported that the number of Canadian skiers was up by 20 percent. Stowe and Smuggler's Notch reported stronger bookings from Europe during the Easter holiday break. Eastern United States ski resorts had a very good 2007-2008 ski season due to an early Easter holiday, steady winter storms and a weak dollar.
European ski destinations such as France, Switzerland and Andorra were all affected by more skiers heading for North America, and some hotels in Andorra have already reported that a second year of a high Euro and low Dollar could impact their 2008/9 ski season bookings.
Now that skiing has come to an end for this season, holiday goers will be looking for great summertime destinations. The dollar is still lower in value than it has been in years, making the United States a more viable tourist destination. Many hotels are already booked for prime summer travel months. Theme park operators are looking forward to the potential influx of tourists due to current exchange rates.
Many favourite ski resort destinations also double as favourite summertime destinations. Most resorts offer great summer activities as well as ski packages.
North American ski resorts offer summertime camping, fishing, hiking and other outdoor activities.
Children's camps are one of the more popular summertime activities at resorts. Several favourites offer summertime concerts and other special events. Some special events include mountain biking and the occasional poker run.
Prime holiday destinations, such as the Balearic and Canary Islands could potentially see a decrease in holiday traffic this year. The typical holiday on the island of your choice will be more expensive due to current exchange rates.
Some of the more popular summertime destinations in the United States are Florida, Colorado, California, Washington D.C. and New York.
One of Florida's main family attractions is Disney World. Disney World is one of the most visited family holiday destinations in the world. Other Florida destinations include Daytona Beach, Miami, Busch Gardens and Kissimmee.
Colorado, Washington D.C. and New York offer great historic and educational holiday opportunities for families looking for more than roller coasters and swimming pools.
Current monetary exchange rates as of April 2008 allow the purchase of a $75 theme park ticket for 47 euros or just under 38 sterling.
The current decreased value of the dollar allows great potential for more international visitors to enjoy an American vacation during 2008.
Cheaper airfares from many destinations in Europe will help offset the current exchange rate for Europeans who enjoy the occasional weekend trip to the Balearic Islands.
For skiiers considering a European ski holiday for the 2008/9 season, yourandorra.com includes a map of Andorra and ski holidays in both Europe and Northern America with Crystal ski
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