In news from the Moscow Times, tourism to the Russian Federation has taken a hit this year so far as excessive costs and red tape have stifled European inbound travel there. According to the newspaper, the first quarter of 2011 saw a 24% decline in tourists from Europe. With the Sochi Olympic just around the corner, it may be time for half measures to cease.
Russian travel
Russia & EU Closer to Free Visa Agreement
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov offers a ray of sunshine for those who want a free-visa zone between the EU and Russia. At a press conference the Minister told reporters Russia and the EU are much closer to an agreement. So far the EU has stonewalled every attempt by the Kremlin to free up travel and tourism between Russia and the rest of Europe.
Russian Federation Tourism Initiative Moves Forward
The Russian Federation’s travel and tourism initiative goes forward with a Moscow convention directed at the problems of medical tourism in Russia. The Russian Tourist Industry Union reaches out to the industry to help solve Russia’s principle issues where the disabled are concerned. Just as Prime Minister Putin embraces his gifted Bulgarian sheepdog, Russia seems to want to embrace the world now.
To Russia With Love
Russia’s government now intent on breaking down barriers for the travel and tourism industry there. What has been one of the most difficult countries in the world to visit, should the plan succeed, will become one of the world’s most visited. Russia holds some of the world’s greatest tourism treasures, and now more people will be able to share them.