With the arrival of cold weather and the activation of technical snow cannons, major Italian ski resorts are preparing for the start of the winter season. Some resorts will open as early as tomorrow, November 30, with the exception of Madonna di Campiglio, which has already advanced to the 23rd, while most will kick off operations over the weekend of December 7-8. Despite the enthusiasm for the return to the slopes, fans will have to contend with the continuing increase in ski pass prices. According to a survey by Assoutenti study center, in the past three years price increases have reached +30% in some cases. The winter tourism sector, however, remains one of the pillars of the Italian economy. Last year it generated a total turnover of 23.7 billion euros, considering direct and indirect spillovers. Facilities, along with accommodations, restaurants, ski schools and trade, contributed 11.2 billion, marking an 8% growth over the previous season. The upcoming season is expected to see a slight 4.2% drop in Italian clientele, probably related to cost increases, but a 7.5% increase in arrivals from abroad. Italian resorts continue to be popular with tourists from China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, the Czech Republic and Scandinavian countries, who choose our country for the quality of its slopes and infrastructure.