Measuring destination competitiveness: an empirical study of Canadian ski resorts

Abstract This article focuses on a recently developed model of tourism destination competitiveness, adapts this general model to ski resorts and subsequently develops operational measures for each of the components of the model in order to provide an index of destination competitiveness for ski areas in Canada. Using this index, thirteen ski areas were surveyed using a detailed stakeholder questionnaire. The results highlight the various strengths and weaknesses for each destination, and show that the opinions of key stakeholders can be very useful for indicative purposes. The research provides a foundation for developing a comprehensive and standardized model for measuring the competitiveness of tourism resorts worldwide. The model may be a very useful vehicle for the planning and development of resorts that operate in highly competitive markets.