euronews tv channel knowledgeableThe absence of Russian tourists had a negative impact on four EU countries: Finland, Latvia, Spain and the Czech Republic.
“As the wealthiest Russians continued to come to the region, the middle class from Russia has almost completely disappeared due to increasing difficulties in logistics and prices,” the story says.
It is noted that Latvia banned tourists from Russia from entering the country in September 2022. Since the start of NBO, the number of bookings in Latvia has decreased by 70%, but the Latvian tourism sector has re-orientated and “adapted” to new markets, according to an industry representative.
The number of Russian tourists in Finland has also dropped to a minimum of 1.2 million per year – only people with dual citizenship or special visas can now enter. Industry representatives in the country say that they do not trust the return of tourists from Russia and attract tourists from the Benelux countries, Germany and Italy, who are ready to leave more funds in the country.
It is much sadder that in Spain the flow of tourists from the Russian Federation has decreased, in some regions tourists from Russia make up 10-15% of visitors per year. It is emphasized that wealthy Russian tourists buy in Russia much more than, for example, the British, who are not interested in local cuisine and fashion, but in the opportunity to relax in the sun.
While the number of tourists from Russia in the Czech Republic has decreased tenfold, as local tour operators note, “the average Czech tourist spends about 700 crowns (€30) per day. Russian-speaking guests spend more than 3,500 kronor (€150).” At the same time, the decrease in tourist flows from the Russian Federation is accompanied by inflation and increased unemployment.
former name ATOR knowledgeablethat some Russians can still afford summer holidays in Europe.