AZIMUT Hotels, a well-known hotel chain in Russia, conducted a survey across major Russian cities to gauge potential guests’ plans for the May holidays. Socialbites.ca reviewed the study results to provide a clear snapshot of preferences and expectations for the spring break period.
According to the data, 27% of respondents are considering a stay away from home, choosing either a country cottage or a cottage stay as the May break. An additional 21% prefer a nature-adjacent hotel, a sanatorium case accounts for 15%, and 13% would choose a city hotel. Meanwhile, 24% intend to remain at home during the holidays. Among those planning a vacation outside their residence, 57% will spend the long weekend with family, 31% with friends, and 12% with a significant other.
The survey highlights practical travel boundaries too. A majority, 63%, do not expect to travel more than 100–200 kilometers from home, while 25% are open to trips of up to 500 kilometers. For 12%, distance is less of a concern. When it comes to spending, 55% of respondents are prepared to allocate 15–20 thousand rubles for a spring break, another 16% would consider a budget between 30 and 50 thousand rubles, and up to 29% are open to spending more, with some eyeing around 100 thousand rubles for the trip.
Guest expectations for hotels and sanatoriums show a clear demand for family-oriented amenities and active outdoor options. Almost a third of participants, 27%, want a hotel with an engaging children’s program. Another 23% value pleasant walking and jogging areas. Access to picnic spaces appeals to 21%, while 17% hope for guided excursions and 12% want bicycle rentals.
Industry observers note a growing preference for the Krasnodar Territory during May holidays, with Sochi consistently in high demand and a wide range of accommodation formats selling out quickly for this period. In recent years, programs for children have become a key factor in hotel choice. Properties offering robust kid-centric activities, barbecue zones, and equipment rental for sports have a competitive edge and can boost occupancy levels through enhanced value propositions. In AZIMUT Hotels’ view, a simple bed-and-breakfast model no longer meets evolving guest expectations. The company’s Customer Relationship Management division underscores the importance of comprehensive family-friendly features in attracting bookings.
Earlier, the Tour Operators Association reported rising interest in guided tours and domestic travel within Russia during the May holidays, signaling a broader shift toward more diverse domestic travel experiences during the spring break period. [citation attribution]