Russian's still rule the roost in the world's premier ski resorts despite the troubled Rouble according to booking data from Alpine Guru

As the 2014/15 ski season draws to a close, luxury ski specialist, Alpine Guru, has looked back at the highlights and trends of the season for the luxury end of the market.

Dominated by glitzy chalets and bespoke experiences, the luxury market often reflects or predicts wider economic trends.

Russian spending remains high
Much has been made of the poor state of the Rouble following economic sanctions taken against Russian wealth in recent months. The effect of the weakening currency would appear to be hindering the middle class, whilst the ultra-wealthy have continued to enquire about and book properties such as Chalet No.14 in Verbier (peak price: £137,800 for a one week stay from 27 December – 3 January, next winter 15/16) and Chalet Gentianes in Courchevel (peak price: €425,000 for a three week stay from 26 December – 16 January, next winter 15/16).

Typically this year, Russian clients spent 26% more than their British counterparts and 17% more than their contemporaries did the previous year.

Russians looking to book such high-end properties have been benefitting from holding their wealth in multiple currencies outside of Russia, or even living and working outside of their homeland in economic hubs such as London and Geneva.

Oli Corkhill, founder of Alpine Guru, says: “Whilst Russian spending has remained high this season, we do expect the weakening Rouble to have more of an effect next year. In line with this we are seeing Russian clients, not often known for early booking, coming to us with 2015/16 enquiries already. They are also negotiating rates much harder than has been the case in recent years.”

The UK and Continental Europe
As ever, the UK market continues to be key for Alpine Guru, accounting for 27% of bookings. Spending remains particularly strong on holidays to Eurozone countries as the Pound continues to strengthen.

Interestingly, those travelling from the rest of Europe are more likely to book Alpine Guru's self-catered properties. Popular self-catered apartments are centrally located and near the lifts. Typically it is the penthouse style properties that offer top luxury with a self-catered service (including cleaning and concierge) that are most popular. Examples of such properties are Chalet Skye and the Valentine Penthouse, both in Verbier.

Big spenders from growing economies elsewhere
Those booking from the Middle East have continued the upward trend in terms of spend per booking. Those from the lands of seven star hotels and gold plated Bugatti maintain their elaborate wish lists whilst visiting the world's most exclusive ski resorts.

Spending continues to increase from the emirates, as well as emerging economies such as Brazil and China.

Oli predicts that Latin America and Asia will be the areas of the market to see the most growth: “Over the next three to four years we expect to see more holidaymakers from the likes of Brazil, China and even India as the economies of these nations continues to grow. With globalisation comes further awareness of alpine holidays type of service and accommodation available in the mountains. Nations such as these enjoy family orientated travel so chalet holidays are ideal with the space afforded and the personal service provided.”

Never a task too far
Whilst bookings are often completed four months before travel, there are still those for whom a decision takes a bit more consideration. One such party waited until they were on the ground at Geneva Airport before instructing Alpine Guru to source accommodation for that week, which was ski's busiest week; New Year. Within the two hour transfer to the high mountains the team managed to successfully source luxury accommodation for the party's stay.

For more information on luxury ski holidays with Alpine Guru visit www.alpineguru.com

– Ends –

For further press information please contact:
Julie Aguilera / Kevan Barber
T: +44 (0)20 3440 8930
E: AlpineGuru@rooster.co.uk

About Alpine Guru
The team at Alpine Guru works tirelessly to find clients the perfect luxury ski chalet or hotel for their alpine getaway. Founded in 2011 by ski enthusiasts Oli Corkhill and Ant Cullen, Alpine Guru boasts an impressive collection of over 350 luxury chalets, apartments and hotels throughout 35 of the best ski resorts across seven countries in Europe and North America; all on one comprehensive, polished and easy to use website.

A global brand, Alpine Guru boasts clients from over 14 different countries and has enjoyed growth of over 1,000% in its first three years, with sales figures soaring from under £100,000 in 2011/12 to over £1,000,000 in 2013/14.