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IN SHORT
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At the heart of a war that is reshuffling the cards of the modern world, Russian vacationers are adopting unexpected destinations: their own country. In search of comfort and national identity, these travelers rediscover family landscapes and traditions anchored in their culture. As the international context becomes tenser, this phenomenon raises questions about the underlying motivations of these choices, oscillating between economic pragmatism, a feeling of belonging and the desire to escape. In this changing panorama, Russia presents itself as a destination that is both a refuge and a symbol, where each stay takes on a particular flavor, imbued with a complex history.
A delicate economic situation
Since the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine, Russia has faced a inflation galloping, caused by international economic sanctions. This economic crisis has direct repercussions on the purchasing power of Russians. Many media outlets report that the cost of vacations abroad has increased significantly, reaching astronomical sums. A getaway outside Russia may now require a budget exceeding the 3000 euros (i.e. about 300,000 rubles), an unsustainable sum for many, whose average salary does not exceed 700 euros per month.
The appeal of national destinations
With the increasing difficulty of traveling abroad, Russians are turning to more accessible destinations within their own territory. Places like Sochi Or Gelendzhik are experiencing renewed interest. Although these destinations are generally crowded, they offer some escape everyday life in a more familiar setting. The government also encourages this phenomenon, encouraging citizens to rediscover their country through slogans such as “discover your country!”.
The perception of danger abroad
The psyche of potential vacationers is also marked by fear and uncertainty. Military conflicts, such as the strikes in Crimea, increase Russians’ reluctance to travel. Incidents that endanger the lives of civilians, such as the interception of missiles, create an atmosphere of insecurity. The choice to stay in Russia thus becomes a vacation daydream sheltered from the potential dangers that a trip abroad could cause.
A changing tourism infrastructure
The increase in domestic tourism also reveals a desire to improve tourism infrastructure in Russia. Despite the dilapidation of certain facilities, efforts are being made to attract vacationers. In some regions, new projects are emerging to modernize accommodation and entertainment establishments. This is sparking interest in local holidays, although there are challenges to meeting demand.
Transportation challenges
Since the start of the conflict, travel possibilities have been greatly reduced. THE airports Some tourist areas have closed, making access to destinations very difficult. Now, to get to the southern seaside resorts, you have to take alternative means of transport such as the night Train or the car, often on congested roads. This time constraint may seem daunting, but it inspires many to explore new routes within the country.
A balance between security and escape
Despite these obstacles, Russians are desperate for moments of relaxation and respite. Holidays in Russia offer a certain form of emotional and psychological comfort, allowing vacationers to escape a daily life marked by uncertainty.
In an uncertain global context, this return to basics and this reassessment of priorities can appear as essential refuges, revealing the resilience of a population in the face of adversity.
