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Stranded travelers seek options: Regular excursions halted, usual attractions lack fire, tour alternatives needed

Preparing a cost-effective summer 2025 vacation is proving challenging. Gone are the days of snatching last-minute bargains, as overseas trip costs have inflated by a significant 15%. This trend is evident even in Russia, where hotel and transportation prices have risen. Maya Lomidze, director...

Preparing for a thrifty holiday excursion in the summer of 2025 proves challenging. Gone are the...
Preparing for a thrifty holiday excursion in the summer of 2025 proves challenging. Gone are the days of spontaneous last-minute trips, as costs for worldwide travel packages have escalated by 15 percent. Even within the boundaries of Russia, hotel expenses and transportation fees have surged. The highest-ranking official at the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), Maya Lomidze, has shared insights into popular travel destinations and methods of economizing.

Stranded travelers seek options: Regular excursions halted, usual attractions lack fire, tour alternatives needed

Preparing for a wallet-friendly summer vacation in 2025? No worries, you've got options, both far and near.

If the allure of exotic locations catches your fancy, consider budget-friendly international destinations:

  1. Belarus: With its welcome visa-free policy for Russians, this nation offers an easy entry. Flights from Moscow to Minsk can cost as little as 10,000 rubles, and accommodations average about 7,000 rubles daily[1]. Immerse yourself in culture with Minsk's excursions and gastronomic experiences.
  2. Abkhazia: Known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions[1], Abkhazia continues to charm tourists.
  3. Egypt: If you're looking to save while experiencing the desert marvels, Egypt is a popular choice. Increased demand for this destination among Russian tourists is backed by high-quality and affordable hotels, along with expanded charter flight programs[3].

Domestic options beckon, too, with numerous budget-friendly opportunities:

  1. City Sights: Iconic landmarks like Moscow's Red Square and St. Petersburg's Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood offer free or budget-friendly visits[4].
  2. Cultural Delights: The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg offers an insight into Russia's rich cultural heritage.[4]
  3. Natural Beauty: Unleash your adventurous spirit at Russia's national parks and lakes. These outdoor locations promise a summer filled with affordable activities.[4]

In light of increased tour prices, opting for advance bookings can help save money on flights and accommodations[2]. Additionally, auto tourism has become a popular choice, with an estimated 60% of travelers choosing this option by 2025[2].

Interestingly, Russia's northern regions, such as Murmansk Oblast, Karelia, and the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, have garnered unexpected attention from tourists[2]. So if you've been contemplating an unconventional vacation spot, these might just be the change you've been seeking.

In case you missed the boat on last-minute deals, remember that the sooner you book your vacation, the better[2]. Happy budget-friendly travels!

[1] Source: Marie Claire Russia

[2] Source: news.ru

[3] Source: Sputnik News

[4] Source: Rosturizm

If you're planning a wallet-friendly travel adventure in 2025, you might want to consider budget-travel destinations like Egypt, where despite the desert marvels, accommodations and hotels are high-quality and affordable. For those who love cultural immersion, Minsk in Belarus is an appealing option with visa-free entry, budget-friendly excursions, and daily accommodations averaging about 7,000 rubles.

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