Russians have become more interested in holidays in Italy and Greece, said travel agents selling premium tours from Pac Group tour operator.
Travel agents said that demand from wealthy tourists for all destinations is generally equable, without distortions in one resort or another. Exception from the trend is Italy and Greece. There is a noticeable revival of these destinations. Tourists have begun to show greater interest in these countries compared to last year.
“Sales of tours to Italy have revived. This year we see interesting changes in the structure of demand. Firstly, tourists began to buy group tours well. Secondly, the demand from tourists of the middle price segment is reviving, which was not the case last year. Travelers began to book 3* hotels more often,” Natalia Vashlanova, head of Italy department of Pac Group, noted.
According to the head of the Italian department, it is more profitable to fly to Italy through Yerevan. From this point there are flights to Rome, Milan and Venice. Flights to Rome are daily, to Venice and Milan - 2-3 times a week, depending on the month. Another good option is Turkish Airlines via Istanbul.
Greece is another European destination that Russians are showing interest in this year, travel agents say.
The head of the Greek department of Pac Group Maria Dubova notes positive dynamics. It is a remarkable fact that families with children are interested in Greece as well, despite the long flight.
“Tourists, including families, when flying to Greece, began to make stop more often for 1-2 days in the country of connection. By this way the flight becomes easier and more interesting,” says Maria Dubova.
“Tourists who used to fly to Greece for 5 days, of course, cannot afford this now. Mostly they fly for 2-3 weeks and choose hotels of high category. We have a direct contract with Greek hotels popular among Russians. These are, for example, the chain Grecotel Hotels & Resorts, Ikos and Sani Resort,” said Maria Dubova.
