Ministry of Sports of the Republic of Tatarstan

Tourism potential of Kazan discussed in London

12 November 2012, Monday

Interest towards Kazan among foreign tourists has increased significantly in recent years. Visitors from abroad are attracted by the dynamic changes in the infrastructure of Tatarstan's capital, its rich history, as well as the mixture of cultures and religions. However, the high potential of Russian cities should be augmented by affordable prices and easier visa procedures. All this was said at a press conference given by the Russian delegation at the world's largest tourism exhibition “World Travel Market”.

The exhibition has run from November 5 to 8 in the UK capital's major exhibition center “ExCel London”.

The capital of Tatarstan has been taking part in the “World Travel Market” since 2009. In the last two years, Kazan, together with Moscow and St. Petersburg, has participated in the exhibition under “The Three Capitals” brand .

According to experts, Russia's main tourist magnets are Moscow and St. Petersburg. However, "The Three Capitals" tour reveals the potential other Russian cities. In particular, the interest towards Kazan on the part of Western tourists has increased by more than 50% in recent years.

According to the representative of the largest tour operator «Intourist» Christie Loris, the popularity of Kazan is growing. Foreigners are attracted primarily by the mixture of cultures. "The Three Capitals" tour proves to be very popular.

Christie Loris and head of the Tourism Committee of Moscow, Sergei Shpilko, also noted that in order to increase the number of foreign visitors, the prices and visa regulations should be revised. According to «Intourist» experts, many foreigners are reluctant to go to Russia because of the high prices. In addition, to increase the flow of tourists, the right steps need to be taken to make obtaining visas easier or to abolish them altogether.

by The city of Kazan

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