Thrifty getaways: tips for budget-friendly stays in hotels and resorts
Amidst Economic Challenges, Russian Tourists Adjust Holiday Preferences
In response to economic strains such as inflation and the impact of sanctions, Russian tourists are modifying their holiday plans, particularly in the Black and Azov Seas region. This shift reflects a broader adjustment to tighter budgets and limited foreign travel opportunities.
Key aspects of how Russian tourists are adapting include:
1. **Choosing domestic or nearby destinations:** The Black and Azov Seas remain popular for Russian holidaymakers because they provide relatively economical and convenient options compared to international travel.
2. **Searching for budget options:** Economic factors, including the tripling of essential food prices and high inflation rates, mean Russian families are cutting discretionary spending. Consequently, tourists prioritize less expensive accommodations and shorter trips rather than long, costly vacations abroad.
3. **Adjusting to reduced foreign tourism:** A notable global trend shows shifting travel preferences due to geopolitical and economic factors, which also influences Russian tourists to focus on nearby regions like the Black and Azov Seas rather than distant international destinations.
The average duration of beach holidays has decreased from 8 nights to 6-7 nights, according to data from major market players such as ALEAN, PEGAS Touristik, and "Sletat.ru". This analysis indicates that tourists are opting for shorter, more affordable trips.
More travelers are opting for off-peak travel to avoid peak prices and crowds. The choice of destination and travel format is evolving, with travelers exploring alternative destinations, preferring lesser-known resorts and their own regions.
There is a growing demand for 3-star hotels and non-star-rated accommodations, and tours without meals have become the top sellers, surpassing all-inclusive options. This trend reflects a focus on budget-friendly options.
Eighthly, there's an increase in car trips and apartment rentals instead of hotels. This shift towards self-catering options allows tourists to control costs more effectively.
Non-standard saving methods like home exchange and finding travel companions are becoming popular as tourists seek creative ways to reduce costs.
The share of tours in "four-star" hotels is decreasing, reflecting the growing preference for budget-friendly accommodation. Early booking remains relevant, allowing tourists to fix the price and plan their trip in advance.
These trends are observed among tourists visiting the Black and Azov Seas, with similar economizing strategies being adopted nationwide. Despite high interest in all-inclusive tours, a low percentage of this option is being chosen, suggesting that cost-effectiveness is a key consideration for many tourists.
In summary, Russian tourists are increasingly favoring cost-effective domestic seaside holidays around the Black and Azov Seas, adapting to economic uncertainties by scaling down travel ambitions and focusing on accessible, budget-friendly local options. This trend reflects their broader adjustment to inflationary pressures and limited foreign travel opportunities amid continuing economic difficulties.
[1] "Russia's Economic Challenges and the Impact on Tourism." (2021). [Link] [2] "The Economic Impact of Sanctions on Russian Families." (2021). [Link] [3] "Global Travel Trends and their Impact on Russian Tourists." (2021). [Link]
- In an effort to minimize expenses and adapt to economic hardships, many Russian tourists are prioritizing domestic or reasonably priced nearby destinations for their holidays, such as the Black and Azov Seas, as they offer more affordable options compared to international travel.
- To accommodate tighter budgets, Russian families are not only choosing less expensive accommodations and opting for shorter trips, but are also adopting measures like choosing tours without meals, selecting non-star-rated accommodations, and even transitioning to car trips and apartment rentals to further reduce travel costs.
