We have seen and heard how the Japanese have responded with such courage and civility and shown the world how special and unique their society is with everyone working together rather than panicking and looting like we have seen in so many other areas of the world.

The tsunami and damage was located on the northern portion of the main island called Honshu Island.  Our Dreamski Adventures in Japan all take place on Hokkaido Island, located north of Honshu Island and it was not affected by the earthquake and tsunami.  My friends and colleagues who live and work there have reported that it was business as usual after the events of March 11 as there was no structural damage or interruption of services and utilities.  The only “damage” was to the local businesses and hotels as tourists stopped coming for the rest of March and April.   Understandable but unfortunate as there was epic snowfall and great skiing enjoyed by all those that were there and the few who did follow through with their ski plans.  They had the slopes to themselves.

This brings me to my point.  Japan is going to be a while recovering from this disaster. Their economy has been greatly affected due to this event. I want to ask you to not consider Japan off limits for your travel plans because of this event.  I want to encourage you to follow through with any travel you were planning or considering for Japan.

If you wish you could do something to help the Japanese people this is one practical and tangible way to do that.  Continue to travel to Japan this coming winter and enjoy this beautiful part of the world and special people and culture.  Come see it first hand and help support those small businesses that rely on our tourist dollars.  This is not the time to stay away. It is the best time to travel and the most supportive time.  And as Warren Miller says, “If you don’t do it this year, you will be a year older when you do!”

In order to help support Japan in this manner, we have already set our 2012 dates to get the ball rolling.  Our Japan Tour is set for Feb 05-17, 2012.  If you were considering Japan as a ski destination this is the year to make the most impact.

See you on the Slopes!

Gerry Winchester
Founder, DreamSki Adventures