A notable shift in travel plans among Russians for New Year holidays shows a preference for warm, sun-soaked destinations overseas. This trend has been echoed by a joint study conducted by YuKassa and Sutochno.ru, with coverage from RIA News highlighting the growing desire to swap cold winters for beachside celebrations. The data indicates that around one in six Russians opt for a warm country when ringing in the New Year, a figure that underscores the appeal of destinations with milder climates during the festive season.
Experts note that the allure of tropical and subtropical locales goes beyond mere warmth. The preferences reveal a clear inclination toward destinations that offer comfortable weather, diverse leisure options, and family-friendly resorts. Among the options most frequently cited by respondents are Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and Turkey. In particular, Turkish beach towns often emerge as favored spots for families traveling with children, thanks to a combination of accessible flights, kid-friendly activities, and established hospitality networks.
The survey also sheds light on how Russians plan their January breaks within the country. Nearly half of participants express an intention to explore the vast Russian landscape during the long weekend, with a significant portion aiming for major urban centers like Moscow and St. Petersburg. There is also interest in hitting notable ski resorts and venturing to European destinations for a different kind of winter experience. These intentions reflect a balanced approach, balancing domestic travel with international adventures during the peak travel window.
Previously, another study conducted by Ostrovok.ru on behalf of socialbites.ca highlighted a shift in consumer behavior. Russian residents began to actively book hotels abroad for the New Year period, signaling growing confidence in international travel during the holiday season. The research noted that the average nightly rate abroad hovered around 10 thousand rubles, representing a substantial increase from the previous year. This uptick suggests that travelers are willing to invest more in comfort, location, and services when planning end-of-year getaways.
In summary, the travel landscape for Russians during the New Year now shows a two-pronged pattern: a robust appetite for international warmth and a parallel appetite for exploring homegrown winter experiences. The emphasis on family-friendly environments in destinations like Turkey, combined with the broader appeal of places such as Thailand and the UAE, reflects a desire to blend convenience, safety, and memorable moments with loved ones. The domestic segment also remains vibrant, as urban centers and ski hubs attract travelers seeking festive experiences that are grounded in the richness of Russia’s own landscapes and cultural offerings.
Industry observers point out that these trends are likely to influence pricing, flight capacity, and hotel demand in the coming seasons. Travel providers may respond by expanding family-oriented packages, offering flexible itineraries, and promoting bundled deals that include accommodations, activities, and transport. For travelers, the takeaway is clear: whether choosing a sunny abroad escape or a cozy domestic city break, the New Year horizon appears wide and inviting for a broad spectrum of preferences and budgets. As ever, travelers are encouraged to compare options, check entry requirements, and consider travel insurance that covers winter-specific contingencies to ensure a smooth celebration, wherever the journey leads. (Sources: YuKassa, Sutochno.ru, RIA News, Ostrovok.ru, socialbites.ca)