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Andrew Adams reporting from ParisThe French say summer tourism and an interest in family history are expected to win out over winter tourism to Utah, even with "the greatest snow on earth" in the Beehive State.
The French expect summer tourism to be an easier sell. Air France product manager Isabelle Dagallier says skiing isn't going to be as much of a draw.
"We also have mountains in France. We [would] have to advertise the Rocky Mountains," she said.
She says Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park are easier sells.
Meanwhile, Invest in France President Phillippe Favre says his country gets a bad rap as a place to do businesses. He says France is trying to improve its business reputation.
"There's a perception issue, and I think it's very important for us to communicate on the recent changes in the French economy," he said. He hopes he can get some Utah companies interested.
The French also have a common interest with Utahns you may not know about: genealogy.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Family History Library is well-known in France. Europe1 radio personality Nicole Baecker says her station has a one-hour weekly program on genealogy.
"There is a market interest, and it's well-known. I mean, you have associations and little newsletters and serious researchers working on it," Baecker said. She says the French like to learn about their heritage.
That's something Air France officials also know and are hoping to capitalize on with this nonstop flight to Salt Lake.
E-mail: aadams@ksl.com
