Early snowfalls at a number of Alpine ski resorts have prompted some to kick off their ski seasons early. The situation is also good for many tour operators who have been dreading a repeat of last years slow down in bookings due to the credit crunch. Reports that up to twenty inches of snow have fallen on some resorts means that resorts such as Kitzbühel in Austria have been able to start their ski lifts earlier this year than ever before. Kitzbühel opened on October 24^th, earlier than it ever has in its eighty year history.

Many resorts and operators had been worried by unseasonably high temperatures for the time of year but reports are that along with the snow falls have come the lower temperatures. Operators point out that the early snow fall is positive news for those wishing to book a skiing holiday this year as they should guarantee a good snow base for the rest of the season.

Reports of good snow early in the season seem to be encouraging people to book a ski holiday this year and Inghams, Thompson Ski, First Choice Ski and Crystal all report an increase in bookings because of the snow reports. Inghams spokeswoman, Lisa Tyrell says that over the past two weeks the rate of bookings has gone up and she thinks that as well as good snow conditions the numbers are also to do with better economic conditions.

The snow conditions at many resorts last year were the best that many people can ever remember and with a glut of cheap holidays on the market, it seems that many who missed out last year will be determined not to this year.