Ensuring comfortable and accessible travel routes was a central topic at a session held during the V International Tourism Forum "Travel!" The session, titled "Transport Arteries of Tourism: Infrastructure Development for Comfortable Travel," highlighted the critical need for significant investment in Russia's transport logistics to achieve a breakthrough in the country's tourism sector.
Participants underscored that transport accessibility is a decisive factor for both tourism development and regional growth. Discussions focused on regional efforts to expand road networks and modernize infrastructure, particularly in remote areas that are increasingly becoming tourist hubs.
A key point of concern was the need for comprehensive modernization of railway connections beyond the Urals, where outdated and slow trains are prevalent. Experts noted that the absence of high-speed trains and direct flight routes severely hinders tourism development in these areas.
The high cost of domestic air travel was also a major issue, especially for destinations like Kamchatka, Sakhalin, and the North Caucasus. This is attributed to a limited number of carriers, high fuel surcharges, and weak competition. Attendees emphasized the importance of expanding regional airports and interregional air services, particularly given the growing interest in non-capital destinations.
The forum also addressed challenges in internal logistics, including poor road quality, insufficient public transport in cities, seasonal restrictions in the Arctic, and a lack of alternative transport solutions like cycling infrastructure or car-sharing services. These factors directly impact the comfort and overall experience for travelers, especially in regions aiming to position themselves as tourist-friendly.
Experts concluded that infrastructure is not just about roads and rails, but a crucial investment in the future of tourism, its sustainability, and its attractiveness. Resolving transport issues is fundamental to making travel across Russia truly accessible.
The "Travel!" Forum, organized by the Roscongress Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation and supported by the Government of the Russian Federation and the Moscow City Tourism Committee, continues at VDNKh until June 15. The business program concludes on June 12.
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