What happened to the tourists?

Many representatives of the travel agency’s segment are now discussing a rapid decline in sales – the number of customers in travel agencies is noticeably smaller. Some say that this is a seasonal lull, it does not particularly different from the last year pictures. Others - on the contrary, believe that the "period of silence" is painfully reflecting on TA pocket. Representatives of travel agencies have told to TRN about their feelings and conclusions. Natalia Goldovskaya, CEO of the travel agencies' network – “Sales point of “ANEX Tour” (Moscow region) - "The “calm” of this year is very different from last year. We feel the lack of money very clearly”. Irina Sidina, CEO of the travel agency "Magic Travel" (Moscow Railway) - “I think the reasons for a lull are fully obvious: lack of people money and waiting for the opening of Egypt. The fans of country of pyramids and cheap tours, of course, are waiting for the opening of directions. They call us, ask constantly about the latest news. The second main factor is the lack of money, or rather - the desire to save money or to wait for something”. Tatiana Shikin, director of travel agency "Rhythm Plus" (Nizhny Novgorod region) - "We are feeling the recession. But, as usual, it is similar to this time for this season. We have orders. Of course, the number of tourists is fewer than in the summer season. Many tourists already booked the trips on New Year's eve, but there is a number, who at the last moment will seek what is left. Perhaps, colleagues see a strong decline in tourist flow because of the lack of Egypt. Of course, when this destination will be opened the tourist number will increase mush more”. Vladimir Konev, marketing director of TA "Shik Travel, Kursk" - "Calm is seasonal. For several years, we note a drop in sales in October-November. It is no coincidence that the lowest prices for tours to Thailand were in December in the past and the year before last. Today is the same picture. Everything is repeated this year.”