In the first month after direct flights resumed between Moscow and Ho Chi Minh City, the influx of Russian travelers to Vietnam rose by about one and a half times. Reports from RBC confirmed the sharper pace as tourism authorities noted sustained demand from Russian visitors following the return of seasonal air links to the Vietnamese metropolis.
Across the first two months of 2024, Russian nationals accounted for 38.6 thousand visits to Vietnam. This figure marks a substantial rise compared with the same period a year earlier, when roughly 24.3 thousand Russian travelers were recorded. The growth reflects renewed interest in Vietnam as a destination, aided by improved air connectivity and continued interest in Vietnam’s coastal cities, cultural sites, and unique culinary experiences. Industry observers point to a broader trend of increasing Russian travel to Southeast Asia during the first quarter of the year, supported by competitive flight schedules and promotional travel packages offered by regional operators.
February 2024 marked a milestone as direct flights between Moscow and Vietnam resumed after a four year hiatus. This development opened a more convenient gateway for Russian tourists and business travelers, potentially sustaining the earlier momentum observed in early 2024. Travel officials suggest that the restored service will help balance seasonal demand and support longer stays for visitors exploring multiple destinations within Vietnam.
In neighboring Thailand, Sudavan Wangsuphakitkoson, head of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, reported that Russia ranked third in the country’s tourist arrivals during the initial weeks of the year. According to the official, about 347,847 Russian travelers visited Thailand in the first seven weeks of the year. The data place Russia behind China and Malaysia in total tourist counts for that period. South Korea and India followed, occupying the fourth and fifth positions respectively. The Thai tourism authority emphasized that Russia’s share of visitors remains robust, reflecting sustained interest in Thai beaches, culture, and shopping, even as regional competition remains intense.
Earlier updates from Rosaviatsia outlined a plan to resume flights with a broader group of partner countries, signaling a strategic push to expand air links and facilitate easier travel for international guests. The aviation authority stressed ongoing schedules and safety standards as key pillars of the plan, aimed at stimulating cross-border tourism and business exchange in the region.
Overall, the early months of 2024 show a clear rebound in travel flows from Russia to Southeast Asia, with Vietnam and Thailand serving as prominent destinations. Industry participants expect continued growth as air routes stabilize, visa policies evolve, and promotional campaigns highlight the rich experiences available across these popular travel corridors. Marketers and travel operators are increasingly aligning itineraries that combine multiple Southeast Asian experiences, inviting visitors to linger longer and explore a broader spectrum of cultural and natural attractions across Vietnam and Thailand. The trend underscores a broader revival in international tourism markets as travelers regain confidence and seek affordable, vibrant travel options in the region.
Attribution: RBC and Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports official statements provide the primary data and context for these observed patterns.