European University's and Ski Industry

[kyleoutside]

I have begun looking into the possibility of pursuing a MBA or Masters Degree in International business/marketing across the pond in Europe. My eye is currently set on universities in France or Switzerland but I am open to other suggestions. I have taken upon myself to learn French, but would still need to be in an english speaking program. I was hoping to get opinions from people on the best international universities that also are in relatively close proximity to skiing.

Additionally, I am trying to wrap my head around the differences between the North American Ski Industry (U.S. & Canada) vs. the European Ski Industry. To my current understanding the terms ski area and ski resort are not common in Europe. I know that in most of Europe the "ski lift operators" are usually independent of other operations, unlike the U.S. where everything is wrapped into one package (lifts, hotels, lodges, etc.). Is this correct?

Any insight on universities and the differences between the ski industry in Europe vs. North America would be much appreciated!

 

[pcurran871]

In America and Canada one company will own the lifts, restaurants and run ski patrol and also own some of the shops, hotels and other things in the villages. In Europe a company (or several companies) runs the lifts but typically the restaurants, hotels, ski shops and everything else is privately run businesses although of course one business could own several hotels, shops etc.

The term ski resort is common in both Europe and North America but the main differences are that in most resorts in North America you have a ski resort which is the area in bounds which is covered by ski patrol but you also have backcountry which is out of bounds. An easy example would be whistler which is famous for its backcountry but most of this is not actually lift accessed and requires a touring set up or heli/ snowmobile to access. Also I think in France it is actually illegal to go outside the ski area boundary because of the risk of starting an avalanche but I'm not 100% sure.

As for your university problem I haven't got a clue but good luck!