Russian Tourists to South East Asia

Edward Grigoriev, Department of Tourism market representative in Russia and CIS, said outbound tourists from Russia reached 6.4 million in 2006.

In Southeast Asia, Thailand remains the most popular destination for Russian and CIS tourists, he pointed out.

Indonesia came in a far second as a Southeast Asia destination for the Russian market with 23,000 arrivals in 2006, he said.

Malaysia, which started its promotion efforts two years ago, had 9,000 arrivals from Russia and CIS. Aside from these three countries, the Philippines would also compete with Goa in India, the Caribbean islands, Maldives and Vietnam, Gregoriev said.

The Russian tourists spend about $2,000 on airfare and would be willing to spend the same amount during their stay here, Gregoriev added.

The activities Russian tourists would like to do include sightseeing at historical places, nature parks or island hopping; spa and wellness treatment; diving; and shopping, he said.