Many are setting their sights this winter on Ischgl. Andreas Steibl, Managing Director of the Paznaun-Ischgl Tourism Association, has successfully sharpened the brand in recent years. Ischgl is a young destination that has grown strongly and will outgrow itself in health management this winter. The native Viennese talks about our most important asset, learning processes and comprehensive measures to get through the winter refreshed and healthy. 

What health measures have been taken to provide a safe and relaxing holiday experience?

Of course we are aware that we are in the shop window of the world this winter. We have learned a lot from experiences of the past winter and have developed a health management that far exceeds the official requirements. We now want to set an impulse and show that we take what we have experienced seriously and that the health of our guests, employees and locals is our top priority. That's why we have prepared for a very, very long time together with experts, the authorities, the Silvrettaseilbahn AG and with the municipality and have worked on every single point down to the smallest detail. 

What are the pillars of this health management?

Extensive disinfection measures are a key aspect of the multi-layered health management system. Silvrettaseilbahn AG has arranged for all cable car cabins to be disinfected on an ongoing basis using cold fogging equipment. The same method is used daily in the ski buses as well as in sports shops, ski depots, WC facilities, lift cabins and first aid stations. In addition, extensive employee testing is carried out in terms of safety. All Silvrettaseilbahn AG employees are tested for Covid-19 before taking up their duties for the first time, and fever measurements are subsequently taken daily. Throughout the winter season, there is an ongoing opportunity for on-site testing in order to provide the best possible protection for both guests and work colleagues.

How can potential sources of infection be quickly identified and stopped?

We recommend that our guests present a negative Covid 19 test at check-in, or there is also the option of being tested daily at the guest screening station on site. Another measure is the waste water monitoring - an initiative of the Tyrol, which is used in cooperation with the University of Innsbruck. These ongoing wastewater tests are designed to provide early detection of potential infections with a high degree of accuracy. In addition, we recommend using the Stop Corona app to protect yourself and your fellow human beings.

What should holidaymakers pay particular attention to this year?

Winter sports enthusiasts must always wear mouth and nose protection when travelling on chairlifts, lifts and in sensitive areas - Silvrettaseilbahn AG provides multifunctional wipes for this purpose as a free bonus when purchasing a ski pass. All staff in contact with customers will also wear appropriate protection. In the queuing areas, Silvrettaseilbahn AG will organise these technically in such a way that groups of people standing close together are avoided as far as possible.

How do you deal with a large number of guests in mountain restaurants who are competing for a free table?

Here, too, the officially mandated minimum distances between tables and seating are observed. In addition, new partitions were installed in the seating areas and hygiene measures were expanded. In order to ensure sufficient safety distance, access to the catering establishments on the mountain will be limited - depending on capacity. Our goal for this winter season is to be one of the safest destinations with the developed health and hygiene measures and to guarantee our guests a holiday experience with the best possible health and safety standards.