With its virtually sub-tropical climate, its seaside location, the health-resort potential and now, with backing from the local government, the Crimea is set to become the capital of Eastern European tourism.
These ambitious dreams were voiced by Vasyl Dzharty, the Prime Minister of the Crimea during a recent two day trip to Brussels and London.
During his visit Dzharty met with Stefan Fuele, the Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighborhood Policy, to sign a new deal that will secure financing for the Ukrainian government’s new “Support of Joint Initiative and Cooperation in Crimea” program.
The deal will see the European Union provide 12 million Euros to the Crimean government, which will be used to promote the Crimea’s economic and social development and facilitate even more fundraising for the region.
The Crimea’s potential as a tourist destination is huge. With its perfect climate and its rich historical background, there is much to draw visitors to the region. The summer in the Crimea is similar to that of the Mediterranean coastline, yet due to its near-island position in the Black Sea, it doesn’t have the high humidity problems of say, Greece or Turkey.
There are many fascinating attractions in the Crimea, which once served as the favored summer retreat of Russia’s Tsars, and then later, the Soviet Union’s communist leaders.
As well as its gorgeous beaches, dozens of spas in the Crimea serve as places of relaxation and rehabilitation, while the glorious vineyards provide fantastic scenery and great quality wine. For wine tasting at its very best, visit the Wine Tasting Hall in Yalta, the city known as the “Pearl of the Crimea”.
Architectural sights include the Vorontsov Palace, designed by British architect Edward Blore, who was also responsible for Buckingham Palace, while the beautiful Livadia Palace is best known for hosting the famous 1945 Yalta Conference between Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill.
“We hope to develop the Crimea and show people what they are missing,” said Mr. Dzharty in Brussels. “It’s time for more tourists to come and explore the Crimea.”