Park City is still home for me, and it’s beautiful there. Before ski tourism arrived, it was a silver mining town. Today, most people are just as passionate about the outdoors as they are here in Andermatt. Still, moving to Switzerland was something very special. I knew the country from previous travels, but when I first drove through the Schöllenenschlucht and reached the old village centre of Andermatt, I knew that working, living, building something great and of course skiing here – that’s a dream. My wife Heidi was immediately thrilled too.

(laughs) It would have been perfect. But my grandchildren made it clear before we left: Grandma and Grandpa can’t stay away forever. So we knew we had to return eventually – which made us appreciate the time in Andermatt all the more. I’m still passionately involved in the strategic development and local relationships at our European locations, and I’m very satisfied with the progress in Andermatt. We’ve made great strides in every area and are well positioned.

I’ve always remained an Andermatt local, even when I worked as head of the Office for Civil Protection and Military Affairs in the Canton of Uri. What I remember ­ vividly is that in the early 2000s, when Andermatt lost its role as a Swiss military base, we suddenly had no perspective. Young people moved away, jobs were scarce, development stalled. When Samih Sawiris came with his vision, some were skeptical, but the vast majority believed in it. Today, Andermatt is an economic engine for the canton. Young people are returning, exciting jobs are available and we’re back on the tourist map. Of course, challenges remain, but as locals we can be proud of our village’s progress. Vail Resorts’ arrival three years ago brought even more momentum.

I sense that people have confidence – not just in me, but also in our collaboration with Vail Resorts. We create jobs, bring stability and invest long term. And we’re transparent. When we provide information, people show up. They ask questions and get involved. That shows we’re on the right path

When Vail Resorts arrived, we didn’t know exactly what to expect. Then Mike came – the perfect person for the job. From the start, he showed us appreciation, trust and reassurance. He said: “We bring a lot of know how, but we want to learn from you.” That’s how we grew together and now shape the future hand in hand. It works because we listen to each other. Mike never tried to force American concepts on us; instead, he involved us in strategy. We’re not just administrators, we’re co-creators

Pricing is set locally. A day ticket still costs CHF 89. There are differences between online and on site purchases, but we place great importance on family friendliness and local access. We want children to learn skiing and locals to keep enjoying their mountain. People often compare us to the US, where single day tickets cost up to $300 – but almost no one pays that, because most people have season passes. Here, we aim for balance and long term growth.

Snow reliability at this altitude is excellent, even in the long term. That makes it all the more important to care for the environment. At Vail Resorts, we pursue our “Commitment to Zero”: 100% renewable energy, a massive reduction in waste and compensation for environmental impacts. In Switzerland, green electricity is standard, but in North America, switching all our resorts to sustainable energy was a milestone. We’re also investing in high efficiency snowmaking systems that use less water and energy. And when we cut down trees, we plant ten times as many.

Of course we look at the competition. But I’m convinced, in terms of slope quality and guest experience, we are already number one in Central Switzerland. The feedback confirms it. And we’re proud of our product.

There are so many great options. I especially recommend Colorado – Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone are all close together. Over 100 lifts, up to 800 runs – a real paradise. Park City in Utah, the largest ski resort in the US, is also worth it. And of course, Whistler in Canada. But I must say: Switzerland is my favorite place to ski – and I say that openly. Still, anyone who can should experience skiing in the US at least once

I visited Beaver Creek privately – and it was fantastic. It was exciting to see how American guests structure their ski day and what matters to them. We can learn a lot from each other. For me, it was one of the most beautiful experiences ever.

The combination of Alpine heritage, modern infrastructure and a passionate outdoor community is unique
here. Also, the nature, the Bernhard Russi run in winter, the hospitality of the people, my colleagues – and the dining
experience. In the US, many guests eat in huge self-service restaurants – quick in, eat, quick out. In Switzerland, food is part of the ski day – slower, better, more enjoyable. I love that.

Skiing, absolutely. And hiking in summer.