Tarbaev, who chairs the State Duma Committee on Tourism and the Development of Tourism Infrastructure, spoke with socialbites.ca about the opportunities November presents for cultural and educational travel. He suggested that Russians might consider spending the long November 4–6 weekend exploring cities across the country. He also pointed to Kaliningrad and the Kaliningrad region as excellent options for travelers looking to extend the autumn season and enjoy a different coastal atmosphere. The region, he noted, offers a distinct blend of maritime charm and regional culture that can add a unique flavor to an autumn getaway.
Tarbaev emphasized that weather at these latitudes can be unpredictable, yet this should not deter those seeking cultural experiences. He observed that major cities with populations exceeding one million generally provide high-quality services and fresh experiences that can keep visitors engaged even as the season shifts. For travelers hoping to prolong autumn’s appeal, he recommended a trip to Kaliningrad and its surrounding areas, highlighting the distinctive coastal ambiance and a variety of food and drink festivals during the season.
According to Tarbaev, sanatoriums in the Caucasian Mineral Waters region remain popular year-round because they combine therapeutic procedures with relaxation. He also encouraged exploring the North Caucasus regions, noting that the combination of medical options and leisure activities helps maintain steady visitor interest regardless of the calendar month. The Caucasian mineral waters offer both treatment and non-treatment services, which contribute to ongoing popularity. In addition, he mentioned the potential appeal of resorts in Kabardino-Balkaria, Dagestan, and Chechnya, each presenting its own cultural tapestry, history, culinary diversity, and distinctive local flavors. He added that a visit to the Caucasus can leave visitors with memories strong enough to invite a return trip any time of year.
Tarbaev also described November as the period when the ski season begins for many resorts, even as access may vary and some destinations open later in the month. He advised residents in the eastern regions of Russia to consider journeys to Sakhalin, the Kuril Islands, and Kamchatka, where alpine and volcanic landscapes offer additional winter experiences. He explained that snowmaking at the Khibiny Mountains typically starts when sub-zero conditions become stable, while Sheregesh tends to open by mid-November and the Caucasian ski resorts follow suit shortly after. Weather variability remains a factor, so travelers should stay flexible. He also highlighted the Far East destinations such as Mountain Air near Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk and the Kuril Islands, noting that these options may not fit every weekend itinerary for those based in central Russia. He suggested that residents in the east of the country might have easier access to these experiences.
The deputy shared his own weekend plan, mentioning a trip to Buryatia and Baikal as a preferred option. He described Baikal as one of Russia’s most treasured destinations, with Ulan-Ude offering a city atmosphere shaped by Buddhist influences and a relatively affordable gateway for November travel. He suggested staying in Ulan-Ude to soak in the local ambiance before dedicating a day to Baikal itself, calling the lake the pearl of Russia and expressing a hope that visitors would carry a piece of its spirit in their hearts. This personal itinerary echoes a broader push to showcase regional diversity and the potential for meaningful, experiential travel during the late autumn period. The exchange underscores how November can provide a rich mix of cultural discovery, wellness escapes, and natural wonders for travelers across different parts of the country. The message remains clear: there are compelling reasons to plan a November journey that blends education, culture, and nature with the evolving pace of the season.