The Summer of 2003

It started slowly but it came eventually! The news reports in March/April were not positive towards International tourism and the Russian market was not exception with a general reluctance to make reservations with so many negative reports and general uncertainty around the world.

The Russian market again showed it's resilience and general impressions and information indicate that most destinations and Tour Operators can record a successful season.

As always, the lack of reliable statistics make a detailed report impossible, but interviews with Tourism specialists both around the world and in Russia indicate that the market continues to grow but at a slightly slower rate than in previous years.

Initially capacity was reduced to many traditional destinations, but a cold and wet spring encouraged many Russians to make their reservations resulting and much capacity being sold out and additional availability being offered.

Moscow at this time of year is a very pleasant city. Whilst the number of tourists visiting Moscow increases every year, more and more Russians are travelling for longer or are out of the city at their Country estates and dachas. Business is quiet, the newspapers are scrabbling for stories and the giant appears to be sleeping. This all changes suddenly on September 1st. Schools return and full business resumes. The travel trade is preparing for Winter business and there will be many opportunities.

The Editor