Russians reveal top 5 foreign destinations for New Year holidays

Demand among Russians for overseas holidays in warmer countries over the New Year period has doubled compared to the previous year. This was reported by the press service of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), citing data from the country’s leading travel companies.

The most popular destinations among Russian tourists are the UAE, Thailand, Egypt, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. These countries account for a significant share of all holiday bookings: the UAE makes up between 21 per cent and 29 per cent, Thailand between 16 per cent and 25 per cent, and Egypt between 16 per cent and 23 per cent.

Tour operators have particularly highlighted a surge in interest in Vietnam, which entered the top five for the first time this year, with bookings increasing fivefold compared to last year.

Thailand has also seen growth of three to five times, while bookings for Egypt are up by a factor of 3 to 6.4, driven by affordable prices, expanded flight programmes, and a wide range of all-inclusive hotels. Experts consider the UAE's top position in the New Year rankings unsurprising, as it is the best-served destination in terms of flights.

Cuba, China and Indonesia (Bali) also made it into the top ten most popular destinations.

Photo: EM_prize / iStock