It looks like the slow start to the season, coupled with financial worries, have affected French ski resorts according to information released by the Isere tourist board. Resorts had reservations of 51%, down 8% compared to last season. Christmas was down 13%, compared to 5% for New Year. Bookings were very slow in the run up to Christmas and these were partly compensated by last minute bookings. There were also more short term or mid-week bookings, perhaps due to money concerns or the fact that Christmas and New Year were on Sundays this year. Normally resorts only offer 7 days stays, the trend towards short term bookings, only sold in desperation by hotels and agencies, is a trend that maybe better exploited in the future, especially for apartments which saw a drop of 20% in reservations.
All is not bad news, the current exceptional snow conditions have renewed interest in ski holidays and February looks to be busy. There are still offers to be had in January though.