Courchevel locals hope rich Russians take no offence

One of Russia's richest men, Mikhail Prokhorov, has been released without charge, following an investigation into an alleged prostitution ring at a famous French ski-resourt. This may make the Russian Week in Courchevel much less popular.

The resort has become a playground for Russia's rich and famous. Oligarchs like Roman Abramovich, Vladimir Potanin and Mikhail Prokhorov have been regulars in Courchevel until Mikhail's Prokhorov's arrest. The incident has thrown the spotlight on the activities of an elite part of today's modern Russian society.

Thousands of Russian holiday-makers come to stay nearly every winter. For them it is a chance to meet new people and show off their financial capacity.

Courchevel is one of very few ski resorts that has its own helicopter landing pad, and there are special signs in Russian.

Daytime shopping in luxurious jewellery or fur boutiques (where a top may cost “a mere” 3,000 Euros) and all-night parties in restaurants make a pleasant change from mounting surfing.

“Until recently I have thought they [Russians] perfectly fitted in the town,” says local  Philippe. “Recent events have revealed some less pleasant things. Well, this is life. It happens everywhere.”

“People rest and relax the way they can,” explains singer Alyona Kravitz. “Our opinion is: money does make a lot, but still education and good manners should be present in Russians' behaviour,” adds Alyona's friend Ruslan.

Locals say they hope the Russians will keep coming. They provide lucrative business. If the oligarchs take their money elsewhere, January in Courchevel might not be the same for the Russian elite.