Step into the captivating world of Russia’s tourism industry as we sit down with Yulia Maksutova, the visionary Director of the National Center for Tourism Development. With her dedication to sustainable travel and innovative strategies, she is very optimistic about propelling Russia to new heights after the Pandemic slow-down. Maksutova shared her plans for transforming the country’s tourism landscape and also extended her warm welcome for Indian travellers to visit and explore Russia.
Please share with us a few tourism initiatives/attractions that make a trip to Russia irresistible.
Russia is a vast country with 89 regions, offering numerous travel opportunities and attractions.
One can visit Moscow or Saint Petersburg to experience how Christmas is celebrated and explore palaces and bridges that open and close for river traffic at night. Additionally, witnessing the Aurora phenomenon is a must-see experience that is unique to Russia. While Norway is famous for the Aurora Borealis, our country also provides the opportunity to marvel at this natural wonder, at a more affordable cost.
In terms of tourism statistics before the pandemic, we saw approximately 30 million tourists. However, in 2020, due to lockdowns, the number drastically dropped. We are now determined to revitalize the tourism industry and reach the previous figures of 16 million tourists annually.
To achieve this, certain steps are being implemented. Firstly, tourists can easily apply for an electronic visa on our website of the MFA Consular Department (https://electronic-visa.kdmid.ru), ensuring a hassle-free process. This visa allows for a stay of 16 days in Russia. Additionally, we offer business visas for those visiting for professional reasons. Furthermore, for groups of travellers from certain countries like China, and quite soon India, we can arrange their stay without the need for a visa. We successfully tested this measure last year with Chinese tourists, and this year we plan to include India in this program as well. We aim to facilitate a seamless and enjoyable experience for tourists visiting Moscow and other regions of Russia.
There are a few challenges including the technicalities of financial transactions, but now both Governments are working on solutions so that Indian travellers coming to Russia from India can open an account for easy transactions, etc.
How important is the Indian market for Russian tourism?
The Indian market is of great importance to Russian tourism as India is a vast country and a prioritized market for us. To cater to Indian travellers, we have developed various programs that allow them to not only explore Moscow and St. Petersburg, our cultural capital but also experience other lesser-known locations. We offer special packages for different types of tourists, such as families with children, and have plans to open more Indian restaurants in Moscow and other cities. Additionally, we are considering employing Indian cooks and organizing exclusive shopping opportunities for specific groups of tourists, including corporate travellers.
What is your promotional planning for Russian tourism?
This year, we have an extensive marketing plan in place. Our promotional efforts include leveraging social networks, collaborating on special projects with Indian mass media, and organizing cultural exchange programs in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
What can you say about the weather in Russia?
Currently, Sochi is one of the most attractive destinations in Russia. Situated on the Black Sea coast, Sochi is known as a summer beach resort and offers ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. Visitors can enjoy the snow in winter and swim in the sea during summer.
Any message you would like to share with TW readers?
This is my first time in India and I have truly fallen in love with the country and its people. Indian hospitality is exceptional, and I would like to extend an invitation to all of you to visit Russia. We pride ourselves on our warm hospitality and have a wealth of cultural heritage, magnificent monuments, breathtaking landscapes, and natural wonders to offer.
Come to Russia and experience the joy and beauty of our country.
Anirban Dasgupta
