Amidst the persisting conflict in Ukraine, the ease of reaching cherished summer destinations in Crimea, a Black Sea region annexed by Moscow from Ukraine in 2014, has dwindled for many Russians.
Previously, Siberian traveler Viktor Motorin reminisced about a brief four-hour plane journey to his Crimean holiday home; however, the present situation necessitates an intricate route – flying to Moscow and then enduring a train voyage lasting a day and a half.
The 18-month-long Ukrainian conflict has not only complicated travel logistics but also raised safety concerns.
The Crimean Bridge, connecting Russia to the peninsula, has been targeted in two significant Ukrainian assaults since October of the previous year, causing worry among potential visitors.
Nevertheless, Siberian resident Viktor Motorin assessed the situation and deemed his annual journey a calculated risk.
Despite the challenges, the allure of Crimea’s lush landscapes persists, yet vacation options are now fraught with several complexities due to the ongoing war.
Sanctions have severed Western flights, and the depreciation of Russia’s ruble has inflated the costs of excursions to other popular locations like Turkey and Thailand.
Additionally, the commercial airspace over Crimea remains closed, necessitating entry by car or rail, often accompanied by extensive delays at the bridge.
The President of the National Union of Hospitality Industries, Alexei Volkov, highlighted the projected decrease in tourist numbers for Crimea, anticipating a 20-30% drop this year to around 6-6.5 million visitors.
Volkov underlined the unprecedented difficulties faced by the hospitality sector due to the military operation, affecting both locals and the tourism industry.
While Crimea experiences a decline in visitors, other Black Sea resorts, perceived as less vulnerable, have witnessed increased demand.
Sochi’s hotel occupancy rate has reached 100%, and Novorossiysk, a port city, has noted a 6% surge in visitors.
The security threats, though looming, do not dissuade some Russian travelers.
Some exhibit confidence in the region’s air defense systems, playing down the risks associated with their visits.
Notably, despite the challenging circumstances, many Russians remain dedicated to supporting the local tourism industry and enjoying their vacations, displaying resilience and a sense of unity.
Amidst these intricacies, the allure of Crimea endures, despite the region’s proximity to the ongoing war.
For some, the prospect of a restful vacation and the desire to support the local tourism industry outweigh the concerns associated with the conflict.
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