France continues to be the most popular destination for UK visitors. The market for the 1998/99 season is up 2% on the same period last year.
UK skiers now make up 27% of the French ski market, and operators attribute the success to the strong pound, the variety of resorts and skiable terrain, as well as its accessibility, particularly since the introduction of a direct Eurostar service from London Waterloo to the Tarantaise.
“France is selling fairly strongly, with train sales higher than last year. This is a growing market because of the convenience and longer stay in resort,” said a Thomson spokesman.
Inghams reports that around 70% of skiers to France still fly, with a trend developing for more to drive and take the train.
What is the best way of travelling to a French ski resort? Should agents advise clients to fly, take the train, drive or go by Eurostar? Travel Weekly looks at the options and weighs up the pros and cons.