Winter break tourists in Östersund find cheaper options: Staying with relatives
Tourists visiting Östersund during the winter break are opting to stay with relatives to save on costs amid high expenses due to inflation.
The winter break in Sweden has commenced, particularly affecting schoolchildren in the northern regions, including Östersund. As families prepare for a week of vacation, many are grappling with the impact of high electricity bills and increasing prices for food and other necessities. This financial strain is influencing how families plan their winter sports activities, with some tourists choosing to visit relatives instead of staying at more costly accommodations to reduce expenses.
In investigating the spending habits of tourists in Östersund, SVT Jämtland found that the current economic situation is prompting many visitors to reconsider their holiday options. The increase in living costs has led to a rise in the number of families opting for budget-friendly alternatives, such as staying with family members rather than in hotels or lodges. This reflects a broader trend in the region as families seek to maintain their winter sports traditions while being mindful of their financial constraints.
Additionally, the discussion surrounding winter sports as a class issue was highlighted in a new episode of the show Ekonomibyråns, which explored the accessibility of skiing during the winter break. The episode raised important questions about whether skiing and other winter activities are becoming luxuries only affordable to wealthier families, signaling a potential shift in how winter sports are perceived and participated in across different socioeconomic groups.