Vacationers are abandoning their vacation plans in Sochi
Following the closure of beaches in Anapa, Russians are seeking alternative vacation destinations. A survey reveals that a significant number of respondents prefer to visit Crimea, with Sochi being a less popular alternative. The high cost of holidays in Sochi is a significant factor, as a standard week-long stay in a hotel room can cost up to 140,000 rubles, and travel expenses add to the overall cost. Despite the lower prices of guesthouses in Sochi, they remain largely unoccupied.
Another reason for the declining interest in Sochi is the availability of more affordable foreign holidays due to the strengthening ruble. Tourists find the cultural and diverse experiences offered by foreign destinations more appealing compared to domestic alternatives. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Thailand have seen an increase in Russian tourists.
While domestic destinations like Moscow and St. Petersburg, known for their cultural and historical significance, remain popular, cities like Yekaterinburg and Kazan are also gaining attention for their unique cultural blend and historical sites. Natural wonders such as Lake Baikal and the Altai Mountains offer a serene escape and diverse outdoor activities.
With the rise in appeal of foreign holidays, travelers are drawn to destinations that provide affordable and novel experiences. While the cost of traveling abroad, including visa requirements and international travel costs, can be higher than domestic travel, the variety of experiences available often offers better value for money. The unique cultural experiences and diverse landscapes of foreign destinations are increasingly attractive to those who have already explored Russia's domestic offerings.
- Some Russians, seeking to balance their personal-finance and lifestyle preferences, are turning to foreign travel destinations, finding that the variety of experiences offered in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Thailand provide better value for money, despite the additional costs of visas and international travel.
- As for managing their finances and maintaining an affordable lifestyle, many Russians are opting for domestic destinations that offer a mix of cultural immersion and outdoor activities, such as cities like Yekaterinburg and Kazan, Lake Baikal, and the Altai Mountains, which are becoming increasingly popular for their unique cultural experiences and diverse landscapes.
