Crimeans expect to see more Russian tourists this year

According to surveys of the Public Opinion Foundation, 49% of the population of Crimea and 59% of Sevastopol expect to see more Russian tourists this year than before the annexation. 22% and 17% respectively have a contrary opinion. Sanatoriums have been booked until September. Ilya Umansky, vice president of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia, explained that the number of Russian tourists on the peninsula will depend on transportation, it can be accessed by plane or ferry service. In his words, people have hardly bought plane tickets due to their high prices, people using the ferry have been encountering a slew of problems on the Kerch Ferry.

The expert noted that additional ferries had been launched, ferry terminals expanded, the capacity of the Simferopol Airport increased to 200-250 planes a day. He predicts that the transportation achievements will boost tourism.

Umansky noted that the ruble-to-dollar currency had been high until April, halving tourism, compared to the figures of 2014. The ticket sales this year exceed the previous year's by 40%. The expert pointed out that Russia formed two primary home tourism brands: Sochi and Crimea. Recreation in Crimea is generally similar and, in many cases, better than in analogical places, he adds. Crimea has a more diverse infrastructure and service level, it is new for most Russian tourists.