Russian travelers showed a notable shift in their international choices this autumn, with hotel reservations in Japan and Cuba rising sharply. A recent study conducted by OneTwoTrip, and summarized by socialbites.ca, reveals that bookings to these two destinations increased ninefold over the year, signaling a strong appetite for experiences beyond the usual itineraries and a willingness to explore destinations with distinct cultural and scenic appeal.
Beyond these gains, there is growing activity among Russian holidaymakers toward Singapore, where hotel bookings surged roughly five times compared to prior periods. This uptick aligns with broader trends toward Southeast Asia, where cosmopolitan cities, diverse cuisine, and efficient hospitality infrastructure attract a broad segment of travelers seeking comfort coupled with cultural immersion. Meanwhile, autumn travel to Qatar has become three times more popular, and trips to South Korea have grown by about 2.5 times, reflecting sustained interest in Gulf countries and the Korean Peninsula for business, shopping, and nature-based experiences. In addition, destinations such as Peru and Vietnam doubled their appeal, indicating a diversified travel palette that blends outdoor adventure with rich historical contexts.
There is also a marked rise in interest in Malaysia, with demand for holidays increasing significantly compared with autumn 2022. Malaysia’s share in the travel mix rose by about 80%, underscoring a renewed appeal for its tropical landscapes, culinary variety, and affordable luxury options. The popularity of the Philippines grew by around 67%, and Montenegro by roughly 66%, suggesting that travelers are seeking both island paradises and European charm, often balancing long-haul journeys with accessible, memorable experiences.
Looking at a longer horizon, the top twenty destinations that gained traction this year include Azerbaijan (~60%), Thailand (~59%), Sri Lanka (~55%), and India (~51%), each with varying attractions from natural beauty to historic sites and cultural festivals. Romania and Indonesia also appear prominently in the list, reflecting continued interest in both Eastern European heritage and Southeast Asian biodiversity. Brazil and Switzerland offer a blend of vibrant city life and alpine scenery for travelers seeking contrast, while the UAE and Italy remain enduring favorites for luxury, architecture, and cuisine. This pattern demonstrates a broadening of travel interests among Russian travelers, with a preference for diverse regions that offer a mix of culture, nature, and modern amenities.
Historically, agencies catering to Russian clients have identified the New Year period as a prime time for destination selection. The current data suggests that planners are increasingly considering a wider range of locales, informed by value, safety, accessibility, and personal interests. In this evolving landscape, travel providers emphasize flexible booking options, transparent pricing, and curated experiences that resonate with a global audience while meeting the specific preferences of Russian travelers during peak holiday seasons.