Tourism Whistler update on business levels for the 2011/ 2012 winter season.

With significant wins in December and January and with February and March pacing well ahead of last year, this winter is shaping up to be one of – if not the – best winter season in recent years (post the 2008-recession) with regards to room night volumes.

Please note some highlights below:

Business Levels in Whistler:

This past December was our busiest December on record in terms of room nights and saw a double digit increase over last winter.

January is looking very strong compared to last year, and February, March and April are all pacing ahead.

This winter is on track to be more than 10% ahead of last winter in terms of room night bookings.

Several factors affecting the positive results include:

The success of Tourism Whistler’s efforts, which include:

1.      Enhanced Whistler profile from increased investment into brand marketing in key target markets – aimed at leveraging the global awareness garnered from the 2010 Winter Games.

2.      Gains in early bookings through a resort-wide early-booking program in partnership with our in-resort mountain and hotel stakeholders and our in-market tour operators.

3.      Significant interest generated by the Whistler Sabbatical Project – Tourism Whistler’s 2011/ 2012 winter marketing campaign.

Whistler’s snow advantage – particularly compared to many major U.S. ski resorts.

Considerations:

The volatility in the international economic climate has resulted in a shift in consumer behavior which experts suggest is permanent. How people spend has changed and travellers are seeking greater value for money than ever before.

Regardless of budget – from moderate to luxury – people are looking to get the biggest bang for their buck – and Whistler is continuing to work hard, ensuring we deliver upon that.

We recognize how fortunate we are. Mother Nature has been very kind to Whistler this season – and we’re pleased to see other resorts starting to receive snow, as that is good for the entire ski industry for the long-term.