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Russian tourism on the increase
Intourist, the Russian tourism ministry’s promo-tional
arm that also works in other countries in Eastern Europe, reports that the
number of Russian tourists has increased by 20% this year. Vasant
Kudadakeng, director of Intourist, Thailand, said that these figures should
increase in the second trimester of this year.
Vasant explained that the reason for the large influx of Russian tourists is
that Russia has newly opened, meaning more Russians are able to travel
abroad, and that package tours to Thailand are cheap. He continued to say
that September - December of every year is the peak Russian travel time.
Bangkok and Pattaya are the ‘hit’ destinations, followed by Samui and
Phuket, with an average length of stay of 10-14 days.
To increase variety, Mr. Vasant said Intourist will be further developing
the destinations of Samui and Phuket, and not only sell Pattaya as the main
beach resort destination. He said these markets would be able to expand even
more if there were more direct flights.
He said the main problem to be solved is convincing tour operators in
Thailand that low priced, low quality tours would in the end be a
disadvantage for tourism.
He also said that Thai Airways should increase the number of flights
directly to Russia and/or arrange charter flights directly from Russia.
Currently, Aeroflot flies directly from Moscow to Bangkok. Orient Express
Airways and Trans-Arrow also charter flights.
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