The RBC today held a press conference of the Federal Tourism Agency, headed by Alexander Radkov, on "Tourism a la russe: why does supply not meet demand?" The events raised questions as to why Russian tourists prefer to vacation abroad, and foreigners do not want to spend their vacations in Russia.
Radkov said that the attitude to tourism is slowly changing in Russia, since many regions have developed their tourist programs which are supported by budgetary funds. He also stressed the importance of tourism for the development of jobs.
Radkov said that the beach resorts of the Krasnodar Territory remain in highest demand. Tourism has increased by 0.5 % there, despite the recent flooding.
The official noted that there are well-equipped resorts in the Caucasus such as Dombay and Arkhyz, while the Caspian Sea has great beach potential.
Radkov stressed that the main problems impeding the development of domestic tourism are the absence of cheap transport fairs and too expensive lodgings. The officials said that all these problems will be tackled with the help of a state targeted program.
