World Ski Awards 2019 Yearbook

Celebrating Excellence in Ski Tourism 7 T H A N N UA L

2019 YEARBOOK 22ND – 24TH NOVEMBER 2019 A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL, AUSTRIA

Kitzbühel

WORLDSKIAWARDS.COM

WORLDSKIAWARDS

KitzbĂźhel

WELCOME TO THE 7TH ANNUAL WORLD SKI AWARDS IN KITZBÜHEL – THE HOME OF LEGENDS. Back in 2014, on the occasion of the 2nd World Ski Awards, we had the privilege of welcoming a very special and inspirational person to Kitzbühel.

This was the great Akio Shinya, who had travelled from Hokkaido to receive the annual World Ski Award for Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism.

Back home in Japan, Akio Shinya is a living legend, known by all as the Outdoor God or simply the Master. He has given his life’s work to ensuring the safety of millions of skiers through his pioneering world with the Niseko Avalanche Institute.

It had been well documented that the Master had single-handedly saved countless lives, and if it wasn’t for his pioneering work, there would not be a world-class ski industry of the scale and popularity that we see in Japan today.

As I had the honour of greeting Akio at the A-ROSA Kitzbühel, I walked out onto the terrace to show him the panoramic view of the old town and the looming, snow-capped Hahnenkamm. I charted the course of the famous Streif downhill course that snakes its way around and down the famous mountain.

As tears welled in Akio’s eyes, he pointed to the Rasmusleiten, the finishing run at the foot of the Hahnenkamm, and said two words: “Toni Sailer.”

He told me that as a very young boy in Sapporo, he had avidly read the newspaper reports from the 1956 Winter Olympics as his love for skiing was born.

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He followed with awe and wonder the news of a 20-year-old Toni Sailer, the Blitz from Kitz, who was writing the history books by winning an unprecedented clean sweep of all three skiing gold medals. Toni, Akio told me, had been his boyhood hero. He even remembered sports first global superstar visiting Japan and being greeted by Crown Prince Akihito and 250,000 delirious fans at the airport.

And here he finally was, in the home of Toni Sailer and staring at the legendary Hahnenkamm – Toni’s mountain – with the same awe and wonder he had experienced as a boy in Sapporo all those years ago.

It is inspirational people like Akio Shinya and Toni Sailer that makes the world of ski so very special.

The year before we bestowed the World Ski Award for Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism to Akio Shinya on the occasion of our very first Gala Ceremony, the same honour had been received by another inspirational person who was writing his own chapter in the book of Kitzbühel legend. This was Dr. Josef Burger, the CEO of Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel. Under-pinned by a twin ethos of the central importance of strong teamwork and growth via investment to not just meet but to surpass the needs of the customer, he had helped to revolutionise Kitzbühel’s ski tourism industry, restoring its pioneering position as one of the global greats.

After he oversees the opening is the new LEITNER ropeways built Fleckalmbahn gondola lift – the biggest investment in the history of KitzSki, incorporating state-of-the-art ropeway technology that will place Kitzbühel at the very vanguard

of mountain infrastructure – Dr. Burger will be stepping down from his role.

This means, that very sadly, this year will be Josef ’s last World Ski Awards at the helm. His astute business knowledge, courage, skill and, above all else, his kind and generous spirit will be hugely missed.

You can read more about his notable achievements and an insight into what makes the great man tick in a special feature within this Yearbook.

And do take the time to speak to Josef in person and to the other leading industry figureheads, decision-makers and key innovators that make up the annual World Ski Awards audience.

As Akio Shinya testified, it is the people, their pioneering achievements, and what they inspire in others that that makes the world of ski and ski tourism so special.

The palatial resort has recently undergone a major refurbishment, an investment that looks to the future and will again raise the benchmark of the customer experience.

All that is left to say is that I hope that the World Ski Awards continues its journey as a power of good to this fabulous industry of ours: a ski tourism industry which gives employment, prosperity and enjoyment to so many people in all corners of the world.

Please make the most of ski tourism’s event of the year.

Sion Rapson Managing Director, World Ski Awards

The annual World Ski Awards is the only time that today’s most important people in the ski tourism world come together, and it is only together, through an exchange of knowledge, ideas, and innovation that can we ensure that our industry ensures a healthy and prosperous future for all.

None of this would be possible without the kind and generous support our Premier Partners and we extend a huge thank you to LEITNER ropeways, PRINOTH, DEMACLENKO, Kitzbühel Tourism, Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel and KitzSki, as well as to our Supporting Partners – Sportalm, Scheiblhofer and Rass & Dorner.

And I heartfelt debt of gratitude is extended to our dear friend Uwe Schramm and the tireless hard-work of his team here at the A-ROSA Kitzbühel.

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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

WELCOME TO A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL WELCOME TO YOUR HOME IN THE ALPS

Kitzbühel is a remarkably cosmopolitan town that effortlessly blends lifestyle, sport and tradition with the pristine nature of the Alpine resort. This jewel in the crown of the Austrian Alps has been enchanting visitors from all over the world for many years. Breathtaking landscapes and authentic Tyrolean hospitality, meet extravagant social events and renowned sporting spectacles; a unique cocktail that is only to be found in Kitzbühel.

The A-ROSA nestles above the town with marvellous views of the historic centre and, of course, the “Hahnenkamm” and “Streif ”, two iconic legends of the winter sports world.

It is our honour to welcome you, our guests, for the 7th annual World Ski Awards. We are proud to present our renewed Spa experience and refurbished Restaurant Streif which we sure will provide an additional sparkle to your stay.

Come with us on a journey of discovery through our house in the knowledge that, whatever might have changed, we still place the greatest importance on being hosts with heart, charm and personality. We remain the A-ROSA that you have come to appreciate.

As General Manager of the A-ROSA Kitzbühel and experienced host of the “Oscars of Ski”, it pleases me that over the years, many attendees have become friends. It is a large and sociable community of skiers who make the effort to be a part of this event year after year and it is much appreciated. I wish you all a wonderful stay and memorable celebration.

Uwe Schramm General Manager A-ROSA Kitzbühel

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F ir s t S t o p :

KitzbĂźhel

Home of Ski and Pa ssion.

w w w.kit zski.uk

ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER WORLD SKI AWARDS!

We are proud to see World Ski Awards grow into the most prestigious awards programme in the global ski industry.

World Ski Awards has become a fixture in Kitzbühel’s yearly highlights, and we can no longer imagine a time when the “crème de la crème” of the ski industry

didn’t come together. The best of the best are awarded on this day, but the occasion is also so much more. People from all over the world meet and exchange ideas, thoughts and plans. This hub of entrepreneurs is the key source that makes the snowy season so appealing for millions. With this in mind, it is an even greater

honour to host an event of such magnitude here in Kitzbühel for the seventh time. I hope that in all these years Kitzbühel has never come to disappoint, but rather offered you fertile ground on which to create new and innovative ideas.

As a host, I am looking forward to showing you

a great time again here in Kitzbühel and wish you all a great World Ski Awards, as well as a prosperous winter season.

With all my best regards, Signe Reisch President Kitzbühel Tourismus

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a word-class luxury home of unparalleled excellence classic elegance … like never before

From its distinctive look to its uncompromising design,

In each room, the ceilings at Crescendo average 12 feet to 18

Crescendo is a testament to contemporary ingenuity and to

feet. In the Great Room, 30 feet of floor-to-ceiling glass offers

architectural genius. A work of art, actually. One of our guests,

spectacular views to the slope (only steps away) and to the breath-

in fact, shared that she’d “sent the architectural plans to St

taking views of the Monashee Mountains beyond. Crescendo is

Peter, so when I get to heaven he will already have a start on

a four-season, 5-bedroom 5-bathroom luxury home, and each

my dream chalet.”

dedicated bedroom has its own private ensuite.

in design – DISTINCTIVE in quality – UNCOMPROMISING in amenities – EXTRAORDINARY

Interested in experiencing Crescendo? see skiCrescendo.com Interested in owning this Award Winning Masterpiece? see JoanWolf.ca

The master suite, though, is especially sweet, overlooking

Crescendo’s location, too, is second to none. Merely steps from

the Great Room and sharing the same spectacular slope-side

the slope, and only about 100 yards to Big White’s main village. In

view. Practical elegance is another descriptor of Crescendo:

its truest sense, then, Crescendo is a ski-in/ski-out ski chalet. Even

geothermally

automation,

still, we’ve been told by our guests that Crescendo’s signature dish

computer-integrated lighting, whole house audio/video, all

is its indoor-outdoor pool/Jacuzzi. As one guest so aptly noted,

controlled via the touchpanels in each room.

“Brilliant in design, you will be the envy of all who ski by!”

heated/cooled,

state-of-the-art

THE LEITNER ROPEWAYS FLECKALMBAHN IN KITZBÜHEL: A HIGHLIGHT OF THE WINTER SEASON

Austria’s first ropeway to travel at 7 m/s and featuring the world’s first heated seat back The “Fleckalmbahn” is indisputably sensational: LEITNER ropeways’ new gondola lift, built this year in the popular Tyrolean winter sports resort of Kitzbühel, features technological and

design innovations that guarantee unprecedented comfort and sustainability.

The 27.5 million Euro project is the largest ever individual investment by Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel.

On 18 October, Josef Burger, managing director of BBAG Kitzbühel, presented the innovative product during a press conference in Munich.

Following 35 years of accident-free service, 90,000 hours of operation and more than 30 million satisfied customers, the old Fleckalmbahn was respectfully retired on 14 April 2019. LEITNER ropeways will put its replacement, the new Fleckalmbahn, into operation

on 6 December 2019, after less than eight months of intensive construction work.

The Symphony 10 cabin with its elegant Pininfarina design will offer the greatest passenger comfort currently available on the market.

Its dimensions – depth, width, height, and door width – exceed both those of the old cabin and those of comparable models offered by competitors.

The cabin is equipped with ergonomically designed single seats with leather covers and another world’s first: heating elements at lower-back height. Like the cabins, the stations are designed in the Pininfarina style and equipped with an extensive array of functions powered by LEITNER ropeways technology.

The new Fleckalmbahn also proves the company’s commitment to sustainability once again. Its LEITNER DirectDrive system, for instance, saves considerable amounts of energy. The company has also implemented a resource-friendly, speeddriven capacity management system, reduced the number of support towers by a quarter

and the amount of cabins by a half while maintaining the same transport capacity, and used compacted and smoothed ropes and rollers with a larger diameter. These measures cut the energy requirements of the system by 75,000 kWh per year, effectively demonstrating technological progress and real-life sustainability.

LEITNER ropeways celebrates its new installation as yet another chapter in its successful partnership with Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel. Martin Leitner, member of the Leitner Board of Directors, said: “The new Fleckalmbahn is a significant technological milestone in our longstanding partnership with Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel.

It is the 18th system we have realized together. This gondola lift epitomizes individuality and elegant design. It is Austria’s first ropeway that can reach a speed of 7 m/s and its newly-developed cabins feature additional heating elements in the seat back, which are unique on the market. They guarantee unprecedented ride comfort in the cabin.”

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VAL THORENS DEFENDS TOP WORLD SKI AWARDS CROWN A-ROSA Kitzbühel showcased the best of Austrian flair for the event

In what was a blockbuster year for World Ski Awards, Val Thorens once again walked away with the title of ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’. Here we take a look back at the Gala Ceremony 2018

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Chalet des Cascades took the title of World’s Best New Ski Chalet at the 2018 World Ski Awards

A-ROSA Kitzbühel will host the World Ski Awards for a seventh time this year

Fahrenheit Seven in Val Thorens was honoured by voters with the title of World’s Best New Ski Hotel

In November 2018, World Ski Awards welcomed 250 industry leaders from around the world to a red-carpet ceremony at the five-star A-ROSA Kitzbühel to see who among them had been crowned the best in the business by voters. The big winner on the night was Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe, which successfully retained the title of ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’. At the same time, the perfect balance of contemporary design and Swiss tradition led to W Verbier collecting the trophy for ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, while Chalet Les Anges in Zermatt was named ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’.

In the newcomer categories, understated luxury and home-from-home comforts helped Fahrenheit Seven Courchevel scoop the title of ‘World’s Best New Ski Hotel’, while the unrivalled ski-in ski-out convenience of Chalet des Cascades (Les Arcs) led to it winning the trophy for ‘World’s Best New Ski Chalet’.

In a special category to acknowledge his pioneering work revolutionising the Argentine ski resort of Chapelco, Juan Cruz Adrogué was awarded the trophy for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism’.

General manager Pierre-Henri Bovsovers leads the W Verbier team on stage to collect the trophy for World’s Best Ski Hotel

Taking place at A-ROSA Kitzbühel for the sixth consecutive year, World Ski Awards 2018 brought together representatives from ski nations across Europe, Asia, North America, South America and Australasia. The prize-giving ceremony marked the climax of a threeday itinerary that included exclusive networking events, gourmet dinners, site-seeing tours and alpine activities.

World Ski Awards is globally recognised as the leading programme in the global ski sector. Votes are cast by industry

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Guests were treated to an Alpine banquet during the event

Val Thorens successfully defended the World’s Best Ski Resort title

Sion Rapson, Managing Director, World Ski Awards honours Juan Cruz Adrogué with an Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism trophy

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Representing Chalet Les Anges in Zermatt, Klodjan Bajraktaraj and Savannah Henley celebrate with the trophy for World’s Best Ski Chalet

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World Ski Awards returned to A-ROSA Kitzbühel for the sixth annual Gala Ceremony

professionals and the public in a range of categories, including best resorts, hotels, chalets and tour operators.

Commenting on the success of the 2018 event, Sion Rapson, Managing Director, World Ski Awards, said: “Kitzbühel, the home of legends, proved a world-class host for what was been a magnificent evening of triumph for the winter sports hospitality industry. We had the privilege of recognising the leading organisations from across the world and my congratulations to each of them.”

M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N

World Ski Awards welcomed 250 industry leaders to the event

For a full list of recipients from the Gala Ceremony 2018 visit: www. worldskiawards.com/winners/2018

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OFFER YOUR GUESTS AN EXTRA STAR The #1 destination for premium entertainment "en franรงais"

travel.tv5monde.com

www.sportalm.at

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!

5 years of successful skiing history. It

Kitzbühel’s biggest draw is its sheer

was Franz Reisch who left the first tracks

variety: while freeriders are able to

in the snow on the Kitzbüheler Horn in

take on the pristine landscape of the

1893, triggering a full-on skiing boom.

“Gamsstadt” or one of the 13 marked

Today, skiing in Kitzbühel is open to

ski routes, freestylers can visit Kitzbühel

everyone, with 234 kilometres of slopes

Snowpark to take on all the kickers,

featuring ideal terrain for skiers of all

boxes, special obstacles, rails and jibs

ability levels. The 92 ski runs spread

they can handle.

across an area of over 570 hectares are skiing heaven for young and old alike.

A name. A concept. A legend. Streif! The most spectacular downhill run in the world can be used for hiking in summer and for skiing in winter. However, anyone wanting to follow in the footsteps of the world’s best skiers should be a very experienced skier themselves. The main sections of the Streif racing piste, such as the Mausefalle and Hausbergkante, are classified as “extremely difficult ski runs”, or just experience the „Family Streif “, which bypasses the toughest sections.

Foto: Kitzbühel Tourismus | Michael Werlberger, Markus Mitterer, Defrancesco

Kitzbühel has more to offer. There is

Christmas like it used to be. With

The short route to the heart of the Alps.

a wide range of other activities, such

Christmas decorations draped across

It’s important to highlight how easy it

as tobogganing, winter hiking and

the historic town centre and a dusting of

is to get to Kitzbühel! Whether you are

snowshoe hiking, romantic horse-drawn

winter snow, Kitzbühel brings back happy

coming from the airports in Munich,

sleigh rides or simply strolling through

childhood memories. As a sense of calm

Innsbruck or Salzburg, by rail or via the

the picturesque town centre, which

descends on the historic town centre in

excellent road connections, the route to

offers a welcome alternative for those

the run up to Christmas, nostalgia and

Kitzbühel is a short one.

who haven’t come to the “Gamsstadt”

tradition are writ large. That’s just the

of Kitzbühel simply for skiing. The

way it should be – a tranquil experience

“Gamsstadt” is an enchanting place,

for both guests and locals!

featuring a medieval city centre that is both cosmopolitan and conscious of tradition. You can enjoy typical Tirolean hospitality in the alleys of the old town, which dates back over 700 years. The culinary offerings range from rustic local fare to international haute cuisine.

The Kitzbühel Advent runs from 27th November to 26th December, providing a tranquil setting for the most magical time of the year. There is a huge variety of options available at over 30 stands, ranging from regional culinary delicacies to genuine handcrafts.

The calendar of events boasts top-quality attractions including traditional sporting events, classical music, catchy music festivals and film festivals. The winter events range from the Snow Polo World Cup to the legendary Hahnenkamm Races, followed by the unique Streif Vertical Up and the 10th Fireball.

Did you know that … ... in Kitzbühel you don’t need a car - everything is within walking distance. ... in Kitzbühel you can access the mountains from the city on skis. ... in Kitzbühel all practice lifts in the valley can be used free of charge.

All information under skiing.kitzbuehel.com Or contact us: servus@kitzbuehel.com +43 5356 66660

Celebrating Excellence in Ski Tourism

WORLD SKI ™ AWARDS WINNER WALL PLAQUE Receiving a World Ski Award™ is a world-class achievement that provides you, the Winner, with the ideal marketing tool to promote your winning products and services ahead of your competitors.

OPTIONS

The World Ski Awards™ Winner Wall Plaque is perfect for display outside premises, in hotel lobbies, receptions, sales counters in fact anywhere you want the public to see that you have been voted the best of the best within World Ski Awards, the most comprehensive and recognised Ski awards programme in the world.

Keyhole mounting brackets are pre-installed and suitable screws are supplied that are appropriate for most installations.

CONSTRUCTION

PRICING

The wall plaque is produced from a base of 30 pound High Density Urethane (HDU) which is then coated with a cold applied, real metal coating. This patented LuminOre® Metalizing Process is up to seventy-five percent real metal and is in use worldwide as an architectural and industrial coating. LuminOre® is well established, reliable and extremely durable.

After application, it has all the properties of cast or sheet metal but without the limitations.

£498.00 Includes free delivery

DIMENSIONS 10 x 10.5 inches 25.4 x 26.7 centimetres

WORLDSKIAWARDS.COM

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Black raised

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Brass recessed

SHIPPING The Winner Wall Plaque is made to order. Delivery can be expected approximately six weeks from receipt of payment.

ORDER NOW Contact your World Ski Awards™ contact or contact us by: Email: awards@worldskiawards.com Phone: +44 (0) 20 7925 0000

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More than 200 days of skiing excitement per year!

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KitzSki - leading since 1929

LEITWOLF

UNIQUE IN EVERY WAY

A LEADER FOR DECADES – the LEITWOLF is not only a sports vehicle on snow for its design. 530 HP (390 kW) and the AUTOMATIC winch with a traction force of 4.5 t speak for themselves.

The LEITWOLF owes its superior grooming capacity to a track width of 4.5 m.

Thanks to the worldwide unique parallel movement of the POWER tiller and its excellent climbing ability, the LEITWOLF leaves behind the perfect slope on any terrain. The LEITWOLF is the leader not only in performance, but it is also the best-in-class for its low consumption.

prinoth.com

Officially equipped by

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WORLD SKI AWARDS SPOTLIGHT ON:

EUROPEAN SKI TOURISM

As the home of the ski tourism industry, there is never a dull moment in Europe.

Here we bring you the biggest headlines ahead of the 2020 season Welcome news for the ski community in Sweden and Norway, with the new Scandinavian Mountains Airport set to open in December this year. Privately built by a consortium of 33 companies on the site of a former recreational airfield, it will be the first new airport in Sweden for two decades and is poised to generate significant interest in ski breaks from outside traditional Nordic markets. The closest slopes, at Hundfjället, are just ten minutes away by bus, while shuttles will also operate to Tandådalen, Högfjället, Lindvallen, Trysil, Stöten and Kläppen once the airport is fully operational.

Scandinavian Airlines has confirmed it will operate direct flights from Denmark and the United Kingdom.

The new SAS flights from Heathrow to the airport will operate from December 29th until April 11th and are now on sale. Interestingly, Scandinavian Mountains Airport will also be the first airport in the world built without an air traffic control tower, with operations being overseen by a virtual tower at Sundsvall.

Just a 40-minute transfer from Scandinavian Mountains Airport, Trysil is set to benefit from the new

airport. Voted ‘Norway’s Best Ski Resort’ at the World Ski Awards, the destination is the largest skiing area in the Norway. Skiing facilities here are suitable for all abilities and the area is well-known for its immaculatelygroomed slopes. Trysil is made up of four interlinked skiing areas, all located around the Trysil mountain.

B U LG A R I A In Bulgaria, the ski resort of Bansko has regained its position as best value family ski resort in Europe from Bardonecchia, Italy, which takes the

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runner-up spot this season. According to the Post Office Family Ski Resort Report 2019 – which compares the weekly cost of lift passes, equipment hire, ski lessons for a family of four and a typically priced for lunch on the slopes – the destination was the best value on the continent.

Recognised with the title of ‘Bulgaria’s Best Ski Resort’ by voters at the World Ski Awards, Bansko is widely considered a European leader. It is home to the longest ski runs and the richest cultural history in Bulgaria.

The town is situated at the foot of the Pirin Mountain in the south-west of the country, some 160 kilometres

from capital Sofia. The resort offers excellent ski and snowboarding conditions, while a number of hotels cater to varied markets. In terms of après-ski, Bansko offers hundreds of bars and traditional restaurants called ‘mehana’ – well worth a visit.

VA L T H O R E N S Of course, no roundup of European ski hospitality would be complete without some mention of Val Thorens – considered the ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’ by World Ski Awards voters. The highest resort in Europe, perched at 2,300 metres above sea level, will this year become the

first in the world to welcome a selfdriving electric bus, providing free transport around the village. With sustainable tourism climbing everhigher on global agendas, it is sure to be a welcome development.

In terms of accommodation, the new Igloo Village has an ice bar, restaurant and an igloo hotel. An overnight stay under duvets designed for polar expeditions includes a guided snowshoe walk and a Savoyard dinner with wine – a great way to experience the destination. Chalet operator Ski Beat also has two new properties in Val Thorens, including Chalet Renne split over two floors and sleeping 12.

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THE BIG JOHN

JOHANN SCHEIBLHOFER

we are the wine With the most hours of sunshine and the highest temperature peaks Andau is known as hottest spot of Austria. Given this in combination with the mineral gravel soils, ideal conditions for ripe and full-bodied wines are given. Already Johann Scheiblhofer, founder of the winery, was well-known for his high-quality wines. His son, Erich Scheiblhofer, attracts a lot of attention with his distinctive stylistic wines these days. After his training as Viticulture Master, certified Winemanager and international oenologist, Erich Scheiblhofer gained practical experience in California and Australia.

He created a new wine line with the goal of full-bodied and opulent red wines with great potential. The first vintage of these wines was 2000. Even before that, father and son created their most famous cuvée “Big John”, which means a homage to his father for Erich.

WEINGUT SCHEIBLHOFER | Halbturnerstraße 1a | AT-7163 Andau TEL +43 (0)2176 2610 | E-MAIL office@scheiblhofer.at | www.scheiblhofer.at

THE LEGEND

ERICH SCHEIBLHOFER

It is the type of wine Johann likes the most, dark colored, full-bodied, perfect drinking joy and great potential. Thanks to its well-established teams in the spacious tasting rooms, which invite you 7 days a week to free tastings, Erich can devote to the cellar, which demands a lot of attention with its 3000 oak barrels.

With around 85 hectares own area in the best locations in Andau the winery is one of the bigger ones in Burgenland.

A positive attitude in combination with making wine with pleasure create a unique atmosphere at the winery.

This is what makes it worth a visit.

NEW FLECKALMBAHN GONDOLA LIFT TO OPEN FOR KITZBÜHEL’S WINTER SEASON

A highlight of Kitzbühel’s winter season is the new LEITNER ropeways Fleckalmbahn gondola lift. Austria’s first ropeway to travel at 7 m/s, the state-ofthe-art gondola lift also features a heated seat back. It also includes a new base and top station, as well as a state-of-the-art ski shop and ski storage facility.

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Where the “Streif” myth W W W. R A S M U S H O F. AT

Foto Michael Werlberger

truly comes alive Austria's Austria’s BestSki Ski Boutique Best Boutique Hotel Hotel

EUROPE

2019

ANDORRA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Palomé Hotel The Xalet Bringué Hotel & Spa ANDORRA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Chalet Motxo Els Llacs Neilson Chalet Hotel Casale ANDORRA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Holiday Inn Andorra Hotel Hotel Himalaia Soldeu Hotel Nordic Hotel Plaza Hotel Princesa Parc Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa The Bringué Hotel ANDORRA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Grandvalira Vallnord

AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Aurelio Lech Elizabeth Art Hotel Hotel Rasmushof Kitzbühel Hotel Tannenhof Kristiania Lech Raffl’s St. Antoner Hof Severin*s – The Alpine Retreat Thurnher's Alpenhof AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Aurelio Club Chalet Chalet Laurus Chalet Mimi Chalet-N, Lech Eden Rock Hahnenkamm Lodge

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House Hannes Schneider, Stuben Maierl-Alm Sweet Little Home The Chalet, at 11° East Tschoder Überhaus Villa Schönbichl AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 A-ROSA Kitzbühel Arlberg Hospiz Hotel Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt Hotel Almhof Schneider Hotel Arlberg Hotel Cervosa Hotel Salzburgerhof Kaiserhof Kitzbühel Kempinski Hotel Das Tirol SPA-HOTEL Jagdhof Top Hotel Hochgurgl AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 arlberg1800 RESORT Ischgl Kitzbühel Lech Zürs am Arlberg Mayrhofen-Hippach Obergurgl-Hochgurgl Saalbach-Hinterglemm SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental St. Anton am Arlberg

BULGARIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Alpin Hotel Boutique Hotel Iva & Elena Club Hotel Yanakiev Ice Angels Hotel

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BULGARIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Chalet Jora Chalet Mila Villa Gella Villa Stresov BULGARIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Hotel Orlovetz Hotel Rila Borovets Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko Lucky Bankso Premier Luxury Mountain Resort Regnum Bansko Apart Hotel & Spa Yastrebets Hotel Wellness & Spa BULGARIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Bansko Borovets Pamporovo Vitosha

CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Grund Resort Golf & Ski Hotel Bedriska Hotel Praha Hotel Savoy Špindlerův Mlýn Hotel Sněžka CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Clarion Hotel Spindleruv Mlyn Harmony Club Hotel Hotel Horizont Orea Resort Horal CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Pec pod Sněžkou Ski Areál Herlíkovice –

Bubákov Ski Areál Ještěd Ski Areál Kopřivná Ski Areál Kouty Skiareál Lipno Skiareál Špindlerův Mlýn Spartak Rokytnice Špičák - Železná Ruda Sportovní Areál Harrachov

FINLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Arctic Lakeside Hotel Rukan Kaarna Chalet Ruka Peak Hotel Iso-Syöte Hotel Ylläshumina RukaVillage Ski-Inn Hotel & Apartments Seita Holiday Resort FINLAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Fjell Top Cottages Rukan Salonki Chalets FINLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Break Sokos Hotel Levi Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki Holiday Club Ylläs Saaga Hotel Pikku-Syöte Hotelli Hullu Poro Ruka Ski Chalets ApartmentHotel Scandic Rukahovi FINLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Levi Pyhä Ruka Salla Ski Resort Iso-Syöte Yllas

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SKI FINALISTS 2019

FRANCE'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Aman Le Mélézin Cheval Blanc Hotel des Dromonts Hotel Le K2 Hotel Pashmina Le Chalet Zannier Le Kaila Le Taos Portetta Hotel The Grandes Alpes Hotel Villa Rose FRANCE'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Alpaca Chalet Atlantique Chalet Babylon Chalet BANKSY Tribute Chalet Couttet Chalet des Cascades Chalet Grande Corniche Chalet Joux Plane Chalet La Bergerie Chalet La Colombe Chalet Le Grenier Chalet Le Petit Chateau, Courchevel Chalet Marco Polo Chalet Quezac Chalet Rêves de Montagne Chalet Ubud Chalet Valentine La Datcha Val Thorens Le Chardon Mountain Lodges Lodge SHL Rock n’ Love Shemshak Lodge The Ecurie FRANCE'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Altapura Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon Club Med Val Thorens Sensations

Fahrenheit Seven Courchevel Fahrenheit Seven Val Thorens Four Seasons Hotel Megève Hotel Christiana Hotel Les Airelles Hotel Terminal Neige Totem Le Blizzard Le Lana Le Palace des Neiges Les Barmes de L'Ours L’Apogée Courchevel The Taj-I Mah FRANCE'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Avoriaz 1800 Chamonix Mont-Blanc Courchevel La Plagne Les 2 Alpes Les Arcs Megève Méribel Serre Chevalier Tignes Val d'Isère Val Thorens Valloire

GERMANY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Atlas Posthotel Hotel Sonne Füssen Hotel Staudacherhof Hotel Zugspitze GERMANY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Chalet Haus Hamburg Country Home Pitzner Moarhof anno 1665 Staudachers Cottage GERMANY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Alpenhof Murnau Hotel Das Kranzbach Dorint Sporthotel Garmisch-

Partenkirchen Hotel Exquisit Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden Reindl's Partenkirchner Hof Schloss Elmau GERMANY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Berchtesgaden Garmisch-Partenkirchen Oberstdorf Spitzingsee-Tegernsee Willingen-Upland

ITALY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Adler Mountain Lodge Hotel Adler Dolomiti Hotel Chalet del Sogno Hotel Col Alto Hotel Hermitage Spa & Beauty Lagació Hotel Mountain Residence Olimpionico Hotel Saint Hubertus Resort Luxury Hotel & Spa San Luis Hotel

Hotel Sassongher Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel Montana Lodge & Spa QC Terme Bagni di Bormio ITALY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Cervino Ski Paradise Cortina d’Ampezzo Courmayeur Mont Blanc DOLOMITES Val Gardena Madonna di Campiglio Seiser Alm Sestriere

NORWAY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Herangtunet Boutique Hotel Juvet Landscape Hotel Nermo Hotell Skarsnuten Hotel Storfjord Hotel NORWAY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Havsdalsgrenda Lyngen Lodge Summit to Sea Skjelbreid Poirée

ITALY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Chalet Être Chalet la Petitta Chalet lo Miéte Chalet Majon White Deer, San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge

NORWAY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Dr Holms Hotel Fleischer's Hotel Norefjell Ski & Spa Radisson Blu Resort Trysil Thon Hotel Skeikampen Vestlia Resort Geilo

ITALY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Alpenpalace Luxury Hideaway & Spa Retreat Alpin Royal Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Cortina d’Ampezzo Grand Hotel Savoia Hotel Andreus

NORWAY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Geilo Hafjell Hemsedal Hovden Norefjell Trysil

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DR. JOSEF BURGER, CEO, BERGBAHN AG KITZBÜHEL

As CEO of Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel, Dr. Josef Burger has been an instrumental figure in bringing the world to Kitzbühel. In particular he has played a pivotal role in supporting and nurturing the growth of World Ski Awards since its launch in 2013.

When Josef Burger started working for the executive board at Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel, his main aim was to coordinate employees. If employees

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were motivated to work at a company, then they would work as a team – a team that gels together and understands that the main aim

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is for customers to have a good time in the resort. Today, 11 years later, the members of KitzSki know that they are a wonderful team.

This is very important to Josef Burger: he is also part of the team and not the chief, but a leader.

Since the 2008/09 season, KitzSki has increased revenues by 50 percent, which equates to over €50 million in 2017/18. KitzSki is also part of two ski pass networks, and KitzSki generates the number one in those revenues too. The increasing revenues have had a great impact on the EBT with €7.3 million in 2017/18, which is the best EBT in the company history.

The main driver in this growth is the investments to increase the comfort of customers. Over the last 11 years, Josef Burger has been in charge of more than 110 projects, requiring investments of more than €225 million. The biggest investment in the history of KitzSki is the new Fleckalmbahn gondola, costing €27.5 million. The Fleckalmbahn will achieve the highest level in comfort on the market. Its stateof-the-art ropeway technology will push KitzSki to new levels both in the region and internationally too.

Josef Burger is thinking outside the box and thinking forward.

These skills are responsible for his achievements for the region. He was able to ensure for the ARGE (Sci Club Kitzbühel, Tourism Board of Kitzbühel, City of Kitzbühel and KitzSki) that all members are now moving together in one direction and have left the old times behind (when everyone was doing their

own business and not thinking what might be the best for the whole region). He was able to work as a collective instead of in isolation and separation. And so it is no one wonder that Josef Burger was elected as the Chief of the Supervisory Board of Kitzbühel Tourism not only once, but twice (he is currently serving in the second term).

Josef Burger is always thinking of the future, not the past. ‘What will help the customer? What are his needs?’

And then the whole team is thinking and the best way will be driven in. He also is thinking of children, youth and athletes. He wants them to practise sports in an active way. Therefore he supports families by inventing a good pricing policy (for example children pay €10 for a day ticket in some regions of KitzSki). Furthermore he introduced partnerships with the Austrian Ski Team and German Ski Team and many ski clubs, such as the Ski Lions from TSV 1860 Munich, who do their training at KitzSki both in summer and in winter.

WORLD SKI AWARDS 2019

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FULL-SERVICE CONCEPT AUDIO LIGHTING MULTIMEDIA STAGING

Rass & Dorner GmbH

Paß-Thurn-Straße 21 A-6372 Oberndorf / Kitzbühel Tel. +43 (0) 5356 / 666 89 info@specialevents.at www.specialevents.at

EUROPE

2019

POLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Hotel ART&SPA Zakopane Hotel Crocus Hotel Skalny Hotel Zabala

RUSSIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Elpida Boutique Hotel Grand Hotel & Spa Rodina Hotel Rosa Khutor Chalet Sport Inn Hotel

POLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Aries Hotel & Spa Grand Hotel Stamary Hotel Bania Thermal & Ski Hotel Belvedere Hotel Czarny Potok Resort & SPA Nosalowy Dwór Resort & Spa

RUSSIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Grand Hotel Polyana Green Flow Hotel Mercure Rosa Khutor Park Inn by Radisson Rosa Khutor Radisson Hotel Rosa Khutor Radisson Lazurnaya Hotel Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi Rosa Ski Inn Hotel Rosa Springs Sochi Marriott Krasnaya Polyana Hotel Swissotel Resort Sochi Kamelia Tulip Inn Rosa Khutor

POLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Czarna Góra Czorsztyn-Kluszkowce Dwie Doliny Jaworzyna Krynicka Karpacz – Śnieżka Korbielów – Pilsko Kotelnica Bialczańska Krynica Lysa Gora Szczyrk Szklarska Poręba – Szrenica

ROMANIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Arena Platos Paltinis Azuga Poiana Brașov Predeal Ranka Sinaia Straja Vatra Dornei Vidra Transalpina

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RUSSIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 All Season Resort Gorky Gorod Mount Cheget Mount Elbrus Rosa Khutor Zavjalikha

SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Hotel FIS Jasná Hotel Liptovský Dvor Hotel Mikulasska Chata Hotel Pošta Hotel Tri Studničky

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SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Grand Hotel Kempinski Grandhotel Praha**** Grandhotel Starý Smokovec Hotel Patria Salamandra Hotel and Resort**** SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Jasná Nízke Tatry PARK SNOW Donovaly Ski Bachledova SKI PARK Kubínska hoľa Ski Park Ružomberok – Malinô Brdo Snow Paradise Veľká Rača Oščadnica Štrbské Pleso Tatranská Lomnica Vrátna Free Time Zone Winter Park Martinky

SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Alpska perla Hotel Krvavec Skipass Hotel Šport hotel Pokljuka SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Chalet Planina Ruška Koča Tilnik Farm SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Hotel Arena Hotel Golte Hotel Natura Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kranjska Gora

SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Cerkno Golte Kranjska Gora Krvavec Mariborsko Pohorje Rogla Vogel

SPAIN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 El Lodge Hotel Chalet Val de Ruda Hotel La Morera La Almunia del Valle Meliá Royal Tanau Boutique Hotel SPAIN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 AC Baqueira Autograph Collection Fun Aragon Hills Hotel & Spa HG Alto Aragón Hotel Himàlaia Baqueira Hotel Val de Neu Meliá Sol y Nieve Parador de Artíes Rafaelhoteles By La Pleta SPAIN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Aramón Cerler Aramón Formigal Astún Baqueira/Beret BOÍ TAÜLL Candanchú Masella Ski Resort Sierra Nevada

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SKI FINALISTS 2019

SWEDEN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Buustamons Fjällgård Fjällnäs Hotel Granen Hotell Fjällgården Åre SWEDEN'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Åre Timberlodge Skutan Ski Lodge The Villa - Copperhill Private Lodge SWEDEN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Copperhill Mountain Lodge Holiday Club Åre Hotel Åregården Hotel Bügelhof SWEDEN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Åre Bjorkliden Branäs Funäsfjällen Hemavan Tärnaby Riksgransen Sälen Vemdalen

SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Backstage Hotel Vernissage Chalet d'Adrien Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences Hotel Firefly Hotel Paradies Le Grand Bellevue, Gstaad Matterhorn Focus Rixos Flüela Davos Romantik Hotel Chesa Grischuna The Omnia SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Chalet Aconcagua Chalet Bioley Chalet Les Anges, Zermatt Chalet Zermatt Peak Chesetta, St Moritz Etoiles de Montagne Haus Alpina The Lodge, Verbier Tivoli Lodge, Davos

SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Badrutt's Palace Carlton Hotel St Moritz Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa Grand Hotel Zermatterhof Gstaad Palace InterContinental Davos Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains Kulm Hotel St Moritz Mont Cervin Palace Nira Alpina Reffelalp Resort The Alpina Gstaad The Cambrian, Adelboden The Chedi Andermatt Tschuggen Grand Hotel W Verbier SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Crans-Montana Davos Klosters Engelberg Gstaad LAAX Saas Fee St. Moritz Verbier Wengen Zermatt

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PASSION IS A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE. All the beauty of Italian hospitality is here: in the majesty of Mont Blanc, in the enchanting sea of Sardinia, and in the wellness of Tuscany's spas.

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AMERICAS SKI TOURISM

Following a record season last year, Vail Resorts has made a huge investment in North American ski hospitality, while one of the leading resorts in Canada has seen its future secured. Read on for more Before turning to the season ahead, North American ski hospitality is taking a moment to bask in the glory of a record outing last time around. According to figures from the National Ski Areas Association, resorts in the United States welcomed more than 59 million ski visitors during the 2018-19 season, up 11 per cent year-over-year. The statistics represent the fourth best outcome since the body started making records in 1978.

The jump came as snowfall increased by 31 per cent nationwide compared with the year before.

“Snow is our greatest asset, and this year was one to remember,” the

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National Ski Areas Association chief executive, Kelly Pawlak said. “Skiers and riders were greeted with an awesome on-snow experience. Continued investment in infrastructure, like chairlifts and snowmaking, make those days on the slopes even better.”

The biggest visitor gains came in the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Southwest/Sierra region (which includes Arizona, California and Nevada). The Rockies’ total of 24 million visitors was a record for the region and represented a 15.6 per cent jump from last season.

Visitor figures at Pacific Southwest/ Sierra resorts were also up 23 per cent.

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It is hoped the increases mark a turning point in the North American ski sector, which has seen numbers remain largely flat for the past decade.

VA I L R E S O R T S This year Vail Resorts is making the headlines, having entered into a merger agreement to acquire 100 per cent of the outstanding stock of Peak Resorts.

At a purchase price of $11 per share, the deal is valued at roughly $264 million.

The deal includes Mount Snow in Vermont; Hunter Mountain in New York; and Attitash Mountain Resort, Wildcat Mountain and Crotched Mountain in

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New Hampshire. Also on the table are Liberty Mountain Resort, Roundtop Mountain Resort, Whitetail Resort, Jack Frost and Big Boulder in Pennsylvania; Alpine Valley, Boston Mills, Brandywine and Mad River Mountain in Ohio; Hidden Valley and Snow Creek in Missouri; and Paoli Peaks in Indiana.

“We are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to add such a powerful network of ski areas to our company,” said Rob Katz, chairman and chief executive officer of Vail Resorts. “Peak Resorts’ ski areas in the North-East are a perfect complement to our existing resorts and together will provide a very compelling offering to our guests in New York and Boston. With this acquisition, we are also able to make a much stronger connection to guests in critical cities in the mid-Atlantic and Midwest and build on the success we have already seen with our strategy in Chicago, Minneapolis and Detroit.”

C A N A DA North of the border, Parks Canada has approved the Lake Louise Ski Area Long-Range Plan. The document is considered a significant achievement and secures the future of the Lake Louise Ski Resort, voted ‘Canada’s Best Ski Resort’ at the World Ski Awards.

The plan includes new and improved experiences for visitors, such as new ski runs, development of a new day lodge to support relocated summer use operations and terrain modification in key locations to improve skier safety and circulation.

long-range plan ensures that skiing will remain an integral part of the national park experience long into the future.

ARGENTINA In the southern hemisphere, Chapelco has been making headlines with a journey into the unknown. In September, an intrepid group of snowkite explorers visited the picturesque fourth summit of the range, known simply as ‘C4’.

After a quick helicopter transfer from base, the 24-strong group landed 2,000 metres above sea-level for the event – known as Kite Patagonia Experience.

Using 18-metre sails, they were offered 360° views across the entire Andes in a one-of-a-kind adventure.

The event was covered by Brazilian media outlet, O Globo, and welcomed the participation of Brazilian sports icon Fernando Fernandez. Footage will be used to promote Chapelco across South America to ski explorers. The adventure ended with an 800-metre freeride through the forest back to base and a cold beer.

Visitors to Chapelco – which is considered ‘Argentina’s Best Ski Resort’

by World Ski Awards voters – can follow in the explorers’ intrepid footsteps. The location is home to a practice KitePark, located in Pradera del Puma, and offers time with experienced instructors.

Downhill skiing was introduced in Canada by early Swiss mountain guides and has long been part of the visitor experience in the mountain national parks. Organised downhill areas first appeared in the 1920s and the first mechanical ski lift was used at Mt. Norquay in 1941. The

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AMERICAS ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Aldebaran Hotel & Spa Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa Correntoso Lake & River Hotel Design Suites Hotel Bariloche El Casco Art Hotel Las Balsas Rio Hermoso Hotel ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Llao Llao Hotel & Resort Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa Virgo Hotel & Spa ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Batea Mahuida Catedral Alta Patagonia Cerro Bayo Cerro Castor Cerro Caviahue Ski Resort Chapelco Ski Resort La Hoya Las Leñas

CANADA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Adara Hotel Hotel Quintessence Nita Lake Lodge Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre Skoki Lodge Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Sun Peaks Lodge Sunshine Mountain Lodge The Josie

CANADA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Alpine View Chalet Belmont Estate Big Sky Chalet Crescendo Revelstoke Bison Lodge Taluswood - The Heights Whiteworth Chalet CANADA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Four Seasons Resort & Residences Whistler Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside Post Hotel & Spa The Fairmont Banff Springs The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Fairmont Chateau Whistler The Rimrock Resort Hotel CANADA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Banff Sunshine Village Big White Ski Resort Fernie Alpine Resort Panorama Mountain Resort RED Mountain Resort Revelstoke Mountain Resort Sun Peaks Resort The Lake Louise Ski Resort Tremblant Whistler Blackcomb Whitewater Ski Resort

CHILE'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Hotel Antumalal Hotel Nevados Hotel Posada Farellones MI Lodge

SKI FINALISTS 2019 CHILE'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Hotel Portillo Hotel Termas Chillán Hotel Valle Nevado The Valle Corralco Hotel & Spa CHILE'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Corralco Nevados de Chillán Portillo Valle Nevado

UNITED STATES' BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Amangani Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge Goldener Hirsch Inn Hotel Terra Jackson Hole Lake Placid Lodge Rusty Parrot Lodge Washington School House

Waldorf Astoria Park City Westgate Park City Resort & Spa UNITED STATES' BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Alta Aspen Snowmass Beaver Creek Big Ski Resort Crested Butte Deer Valley Resort Jackson Hole Mammoth Mountain Methow Valley Ski Area Park City Snowbird Squaw Valley - Alpine Meadows Steamboat Stowe Mountain Resort Sun Valley Telluride Vail

UNITED STATES' BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Element Basalt - Aspen Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vale Hotel Talisa Limelight Hotel Ketchum Montage Deer Valley Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch St Regis Deer Valley Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley Sun Mountain Lodge The Arrabelle at Vail Square The Blake The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe The Little Nell The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa WORLD SKI AWARDS 2019

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NISEKO: THEN, NOW AND THE FUTURE

Steep and deep with a famous Mt Yotei view.

For anyone lucky enough to visit Niseko, Japan, it’s easy to see what the international fuss is about.

The hustle and bustle of Hirafu intersection.

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The Japanese experience alone reveals a rich, deep and brilliantly complex culture which, in Niseko, combines gracefully with the luxury and convenience of world-class hotels and resort amenities. The town is a charming mish-mash of modern global alpine architecture interspersed amidst old Japanese homes and buildings. Similarly, the dining scene is a patchwork of cuisines, ranging from traditional izakaya-style Japanese eateries, to Michelin-star French restaurants and everything in between.

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And the unmissable views of Mt. Yotei are, quite simply, breathtaking.

It’s a destination not to be missed for many reasons, and that’s before the 14 metres of snow that falls every winter is even mentioned.

From a skiing perspective, Niseko is certainly one of the most exciting places on the planet right now.

From food, architecture, culture, design, development and investment perspectives, the same can be said.

A charming mishmash of modern and traditional architecture.

A once sleepy, little potato-farming town in Japan’s rural north, Niseko is now Asia’s premier, fastest growing year-round holiday destination and one of CNN’s 9 ‘must-visit’ summer resort destinations. Incredible, really.

THE BEGINNING So, how and when did it all begin?

Skiing was introduced to Niseko (then known as Kaributo) in 1912, and the resort itself was formally established in 1961. But it wasn’t until 1972, when Sapporo hosted the Winter Olympic Games, that skiing became a passion for Japanese people.

This marked the very beginning of development in Niseko, with passionate skiers and budding Japanese entrepreneurs coming to town.

Development continued at a slow pace to service the market for domestic tourism which peaked again in 1987 when the Japanese

film Watashi Wo Ski Ni Tsurutette (‘Take me to the snowland’) was released to mainstream popularity.

Some of the businesses which opened around this time still operate today.

‘ N I S T R A L I A’

back and side country skiing when other Japanese resorts wouldn’t.

This manifested in the first western investment in Niseko. Large, apartment style accommodations designed for budget conscious

In the late ’90s, legend had travelled as far as Australia. The promise of deep, untracked snow, short lift lines, incredible food and an amazing cultural experience available in Japan. The Australians, adventurous and entrepreneurial, yet deprived somewhat of consistent high quality skiing conditions at home, began visiting Japan in droves.

And they chose to visit Niseko, as opposed to other resorts with equal snowfall elsewhere in Japan. Thanks for this can be given to the foresight of the ski resorts operator, Tokyu Resort Service, who built a worldclass chairlift network and allowed

The world's best, easilyaccessed back and sidecountry terrain.

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The greater Niseko region is blessed with flat, fertile farm land, the perfect ingredient for a world class dining scene.

Blow your mind in the Niseko backcountry.

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Ski-in ski-out luxury, design and service at Skye Niseko.

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Pack your skis, boots, helmets, goggles and snorkel!

Aussie skiers who favoured the shorter trip and cheaper airfare to Japan than the expensive pilgrimage to Europe or North America.

Hotels, restaurants and ski schools with English-speaking instructors all appearing—Niseko’s first real estate “boom”.

A D E S T I N AT I O N F O R ALL SEASONS Niseko grew throughout the 2000s, with annual visitor numbers rising year-on-year. The winter staff and business owners who serviced the mountain in winter soon began living in Niseko all-year-round. This was a necessity in some ways, to

Sun rises over Mt Yotei. Skye Niseko enjoys an unobstructed view.

use the quieter summer months in preparation for the busy winters.

And this led to another development, that of year-round activities in the ski resort.

Facilities for golfing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking and hiking began to appear across the four resorts of Niseko United. Niseko quickly became a four-season destination, attracting domestic tourism, largely from Japan’s main island, Honshu.

The annual growth of “green-season” tourism continues today, with the ever-reliable northern migration of Japanese visitors now being paired with a smaller-but-growing influx of international visitors coming to Niseko outside of winter.

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A landscape unlike any other.

T H E C H A N G I N G FAC E Fast forward 10 years, Niseko keeps growing but the visitor and the investment dynamic has shifted.

The Aussie owners are certainly still here, enjoying their annual ski trips

to Japan and their early investments continue to yield. But the bulk of new visitation and investment is now coming from mainland Asia.

Many holiday guests from Asia have been unable to leave Niseko without seeing the incredible investment growth opportunity here and deciding to become a part of it. Other savvy property buyers have seen the potential from afar and bought property off the plan. The future looks bright for these investors.

W H AT ’ S A H E A D ?

With new direct flight routes into Sapporo from Europe with Finnair and Australia with Qantas this season complementing the existing eight direct routes from China alone, plus plans for the Shinkansen bullet train to link all the way to Tokyo in the next few years, Niseko will undoubtedly continue to attract a larger, wealthier pool of holiday-makers.

The local town monuments endure relentless snowfall!

Early morning access to the NisekoAnnupuri peak via the King Single chairlift - aka 'The Meat-Hook'.

This trend has seen a rise in premium accommodations, full-service hotels, luxury chalets and high-end restaurants. Now, Niseko stands not

just as Japan’s best ski resort, but as a genuine player on the global ski resort landscape, successfully competing with the most famous resorts of Europe and North America.

With over 17 years managing many of Niseko's best properties and businesses, HTM Niseko has the connections and experience in Japan and internationally to ensure the success of your Niseko venture.

Visit www.htmniseko.com to find out more.

WORLD SKI AWARDS 2019

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WORLD SKI AWARDS SPOTLIGHT ON:

ASIA & OCEANIA SKI TOURISM With China taking the spotlight ahead of the Winter Olympics 2022, Japan is also playing its role in developing the ski hospitality market in Asia & Oceania. Meanwhile New Zealand is boosting its environmental credentials, as we here discover more All eyes are on Beijing when it comes to ski tourism in Asia, as the city prepares to host the Winter Olympics in 2022. Having been selected as host in 2015, preparations are now taking shape for the $US4 billion project.

The first test event is scheduled for February next year, with the Alpine Skiing World Cup set to welcome 111 athletes from more than a dozen countries. Taking place at Yanqing to the north of Beijing, the meeting will feature both downhill and super G events. Yanqing itself is one of the three competition zones for

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the 2022 games, and is set to host Alpine skiing, bobsleigh and luge.

Club Med is also looking for its slice of the action, as it looks to capitalise on the booming Chinese ski market in the build up to the Winter Olympics kickoff in February 2022. The all-inclusive resort operator recently unveiled plans for a winter retreat with a ski school near Beijing. It will join Secret Garden Resort from Genting of Malaysia and privately-held Wanlong (both of which are already in operation in the Chongli district) in a booming market. Qian

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Jiannong, chief executive officer of Fosun Tourism Group, owners of Club Med, explained: “We are planning to open more ski resorts in northern China and in Hebei, close to Beijing.�

He added the expansion plan looks to capture a growing demographic of affluent Chinese travellers and make them aware of the ski tourism industry.

JA PA N China might not have it all its own way, however, with Finnair offering skiers a piste of the action in the Far East, with

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offering stunning landscapes and fantastic winter-themed activities in a traditional Japanese setting.

Christian Lesjak, Finnair senior vice president, network and resource management, said: “Japan is a key market for us, and we are excited about adding Sapporo to our network. With the new route, Finnair is the only European airline to fly a scheduled route to Sapporo.

With five key Japanese cities in our network, we are now the largest European carrier flying to Japan.”

the launch of twice weekly flights to the stunning Japanese ski destination of Sapporo. The new winter route for 2019 is the Finnish flag-carrier’s fifth destination in Japan, in addition to Tokyo Narita, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka. Sapporo is well known as a great winter and skiing destination,

For World Ski Awards guests, the flight means it is now even easier for travellers to experience the worldfamous powder in Hokkaido, home to Rusutsu Resort, considered the best in Japan by voters. Ahead of the influx of guests, Rusutsu has also opened a brand-new hot spring – Kotobuki.

With a total floor space of 3,000 square meters and overlooking at ShikotsuToya National Park, the development offers a large indoor pool with heatgenerating floor to ceiling windows and a spacious outdoor bath. Using natural hot spring water, the Kotobuki provides both indoor and outdoor

relaxing and therapeutic experiences – it has to be seen to be believed.

NEW ZEALAND With a pristine natural environment, New Zealand has long been at the forefront of tackling climate change.

Its ski industry is no different, with organisations across the sector working to curb emissions. Mt Hutt – honoured with the title of ‘New Zealand’s Best Ski Resort’ last year at the World Ski Awards – has been leading the way, investing half a million dollars in environmental projects designed to reduce the location’s footprint.

The company recently purchased a PistenBully 600 snow groomer, a top-of-the-line machine that drastically cuts down emissions on the slopes. Off the mountain, employees are planting up to 3,000 trees to offset carbon and rebuild forestry along the access road which was previously cleared out.

The seedlings are being provided from department of conservation nurseries. The business is also trapping pests in a bid to bring back natives to the area.

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ASIA & OCEANIA AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Astra Falls Creek Denman Hotel & Spa Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel Perisher Valley Hotel QT Falls Creek Ramada Resort Dinner Plain Mt Hotham AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Blowhard Cedar Cabin - The Eastern Thredbo Village Feathertop Château Rockpool Lodge Sequoia Penthouse Thredbo Ski In Ski Out Chalets AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Breathtaker Hotel Pension Grimus Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa The Sebel Pinnacle Valley AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Falls Creek Mt Buller Mt Hotham Perisher Thredbo

CHINA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Bei Da Hu Ski Resort Beijing Huai Bei International Ski Resort Changbaishan Wanda International Resort Cuiyunshan Galaxy Ski Resort Genting Resort Secret Garden Nanshan Ski Village Sun Mountain Yabuli Thaiwoo Ski Resort Vanke Lake Songhua Resort

JAPAN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Aburaya Tousen Hyatt House Niseko Ki Niseko LOFT Niseko MUSE Niseko Nozawa Grand Hotel Ryokan Sakaya The Kamui Niseko The Vale Niseko Villa Rusutsu, Hokkaido Zaborin JAPAN'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Aspect Hakuchozan Kozue One Happo Phoenix One JAPAN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa Alpen Ridge Hilton Niseko Village Karuizawa Prince Hotel East Naeba Prince Hotel New Furano Prince Hotel

SKI FINALISTS 2019 Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel Sierra resort Hakuba The Green Leaf Niseko Village The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel Hokkaido The Westin Rusutsu Resort JAPAN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Appi Kogen Furano Ski Resort Hakuba Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort Kiroro Resort Manza Onsen Ski Resort Mt. Hakkai Myoko Kogen Ski Resort Naeba Ski Resort Niseko United Rusutsu Resort Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort Shizukuishi Ski Resort

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2019 Arrowtown House Boutique Hotel Blanket Bay Browns Boutique Hotel Eichardt's Private Hotel Matakauri Lodge NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2019 Azur Luxury Lodge Distinction Wanaka Serviced Apartments Porters Lodge Whare Kea Lodge & Chalet

NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Chateau Tongariro Hotel Crowne Plaza Queenstown Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa Millbrook Resort Peppers Bluewater Resort The Hermitage The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Cardrona Alpine Resort Coronet Peak Mt Hutt Ohau Snow Fields Porters Roundhill The Remarkables Treble Cone Tūroa Whakapapa

SOUTH KOREA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2019 Dragon Valley Hotel High1 Grand Hotel High1 Palace Hotel Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Alpensia Pyeongchang Suites Hotel Tirol InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort SOUTH KOREA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2019 Alpensia Bears Town High1 Resort Muju Deukyusan Phoenix Park Vivaldi Park YongPyong Resort

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WORLD WORLD'S BEST FREESTYLE RESORT 2019 Avoriaz 1800 (France) Breckenridge (United States) LAAX (Switzerland) Les 2 Alpes (France) Mammoth Mountain (United States) Mayrhofen (Austria) Seiser Alm (Italy) The Lake Louise Ski Resort – Showtime Terrain Park (Canada) Whistler Blackcomb (Canada) WORLD'S BEST GREEN SKI HOTEL 2019 Forsthofalm Holzhotel (Austria) Hotel Terra (United States) Leitlhof Dolomiten (Italy) Les Neiges d'Antan (Italy) Résidence Pierre et Vacances Premium L'Amara (France) rocksresort (Switzerland) Thaiwoo Element Hotel (China) The Crystal Lifestyle Hotel (Austria) The Gradonna Mountain Resort Châlets & Hotel (Austria) Valsana Hotel & Appartements (Switzerland) Vigilius Mountain Resort (Italy)

WORLD'S BEST HELISKI OPERATOR 2019 Arctic Heli Skiing (Iceland and Greenland) Bella Coola Heli Sports (Canada) Hokkaido Backcountry Club ( Japan) Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing (Canada) Stellar Heliskiing (Canada) Whistler Heli-Skiing (Canada) WORLD'S BEST INDOOR SKI RESORT 2019 Alpincenter Bottrop (Germany) Harbin Sunshine Park (China) Madrid SnowZone (Spain) Ski Dubai (UAE) Ski Egypt (Egypt) Snow Factor (Scotland) Snowplanet (New Zealand) SnowWorld Landgraaf (Netherlands) WORLD'S BEST NEW SKI CHALET 2019 Amanderu Estate (Canada) Arula Chalets (Austria) Chalet 1551 (Austria) Chalet Culinnan (France) Chalet Machapuchare (France) Chesa el Toula (Switzerland) Chez Bugi (France) Le Chalet (France) WORLD'S BEST NEW SKI HOTEL 2019 Le Massif (Italy) Skye Niseko ( Japan) The Josie (Canada) Valsana Hotel & Appartements (Switzerland)

SKI FINALISTS 2019 WORLD'S BEST SKI RESORT COMPANY 2019 Aspen Snowmass Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel Compagnie des Alpes Prince Hotels, Inc. SkiStar Vail Resorts WORLD'S BEST SKI TOUR OPERATOR 2019 Bramble Ski Club Reisen Stumböck Consensio Crystal Ski Dolomite Mountains Kaluma Travel Liquid Snow Tours Point da Neve Ski.com Skiworld SnowTrex Sunweb The Boutique Chalet Company TRAVELSKI WeSki White Mountain Chalets

WORLD'S BEST SKI TRAVEL AGENT 2019 Camel Snow Explore Niseko Firefly Collection House of Travel Ski Iglu Ski Leo Trippi LUEX Luxury Chalet Book LuxVacation.com Powderlife Schneebeben Simply Val d’Isère Ski In Luxury/Ultimate Luxury Chalets Ski Line Ski Solutions SkiBoutique The Oxford Ski Company Whistler Central Reservations Whistler.com

WORLD'S BEST SKI TRANSFER OPERATOR 2019 EdelSwiss Limousine Company Europe Transfer Fly Ski Shuttle Innsbruck Airport Taxi – Gangl Transfers Munich Ski Shuttle Schneebeben Ski-Lifts SkyExpress SnowDrone Transfers

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CELEBRATING TRAVEL EXCELLENCE SINCE 1993

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ECSM PROPERTY Ltd. WE OFFER AN ARRAY OF EXCLUSIVE MOUNTAIN HOMES AND LODGES IN THE DOLOMITES AREA WHERE YOU CAN EXPERIENCE AN INCREDIBLE DIVERSITY ALL YEAR ROUND If you are looking for a mountain lodge with the most beautiful scenery in the world, why not come to the Dolomites.

We exclusively hand pick alpine properties for sale at prime locations, where you can enjoy at dawn and dusk the colourful spectacle known as the “Alpenglow” unique to the Dolomites.

Appealing chalet, steps from ski lifts, amenities at one of the most sought-after locations in Alta Badia, South Tyrol, Dolomites. 450 sqm internally, 6 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, large spa and relaxation area, mountain views, garage, private garden. Freehold. Great holiday home or rental income investment. Price:Eur4.2M

Luxury penthouse for sale at prime location with large panoramic terraces offering views of the Sassongher mountain, steps from ski lifts and amenities at Corvara, Alta Badia, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy. Split level apartment with 150 sqm internally, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, underfloor heating, lift access, garage. Freehold. Price Eur1.5M

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Exquisite mountain lodge with ski in and out facility, pool, spa, underground garage, located in Alta Badia, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy. Designer finishes with 700 sqm living space across 5 floors, amazing panoramic views. Entertainment area for over 100 guests, spacious wine cellar, cigar room. State-of-the-art technology and security system, professional kitchen, staff quarters. Steps from amenities, direct access to the ski slopes. Exceptional mountain retreat.

Freehold. Asking price Eur8M

Designer finished alpine home with ski in and out facility at a panoramic location in Alta Badia, South Tyrol, Dolomites.

340 sqm internally across 4 floors with a fully fitted furniture, 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, sauna, cinema room. 500 sqm private garden, parking area. Close to a village centre with variety of amenities. Freehold. Price Eur4.1M

The Dolomites are proudly part of the UNESCO world heritage. Surrounded by wonderful landscapes, you can enjoy a great skiing experience.

DOLOMITES BASIC INFORMATION Location: South Tyrol, Belluno, Trento Area: 15,942 km² Highest mountain: Marmolada (3,342 m) Skiable area: 1200 km, 450 ski lifts accessible with 1 ski pass Natural parks: 7 UNESCO world heritage site Closest airports: Innsbruck, Venice, Verona, Bolzano

ECSM Property Ltd., a London based Real Estate company with in depth knowledge of the area and a wide network across the Dolomites, in collaboration with local property developers, architects, interior designers offers a variety of newly built and resale properties, Real Estate investment projects, Commercial establishments, holiday rentals, property and lifestyle management services in Italy, Austria, Malta, Cyprus, Florida.

Webpage: www.ecsmproperty.uk.com Email: ec@ecsmproperty.uk.com

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a Different Point of vieW

Perched on 15 acres of private Mediterranean parkland overlooking the Eternal City, the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldor f Astoria Resor t, offers unparalleled experiences: 345 spacious guestrooms and 25 luxuriously appointed suites; exclusive Imperial Club; elegant Grand Spa with one indoor and three outdoor pools, including a children’s pool ; supreme 3-star Michelin Restaurant La Pergola; one of Europe’s largest private ar t collections; genuine True Waldor f Service creating authentic moments and memories that are never to be forgotten.

via aLberto CaDLoLo, 101 - 00136 roMe, itaLY teL: +39 06 3509 2031 eMaiL: roMeCavaLieri.reservations@WaLDorfastoria.CoM roMeCavaLieri.CoM

Los Lagos, Rafting ©kokajak.cl

„For me, wellbeing is inextricably linked to the concept of holism: being healthy and feeling comfortable in one’s skin concerns body, mind, and soul alike. This belief underlies every bespoke retreat at Hotel Post Bezau.“ Susanne Kaufmann

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THANK YOU TO ALL OUR PARTNERS We wish to express our sincere gratitude to our very generous partners and supporters. In particular, we extend a heartfelt thank you to our fabulous Host Hotel, A-ROSA Kitzbühel, and to our Premier Partners: LEITNER ropeways, PRINOTH, DEMACLENKO, Kitzbühel Tourismus, Bergbahn Kitzbühel and KitzSki. Also to the very generous support of our Supporting Partners: Scheiblhofer, Sportalm and Rass und Dorner.

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A GROUP OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES. Ropeways, grooming equipment and snow-making machines, from a single source, with much in common: Technical excellence, design and a high degree of specialization.

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