The expert spoke about actively developing tourism formats in Russia.

Tourists have become more interested in authentic trips to the regions of the Russian Federation, but "local" holidays are also in demand, said Elena Sysueva, a leading analyst and head of Strategic Marketing at ARB Pro. She told Izvestia on March 10 which formats of domestic tourism turn holidays into a unique experience, and not just an alternative to foreign tours.

"The interregional tourism market is on the rise. People are increasingly seeking authentic and informative trips around Russia, immersing themselves in the traditions of the region, forming a collective image of our large country. But at the same time, there is also a demand for "local" holidays within the region of residence," she said.

According to her, the field of outdoor recreation is actively developing: amusement parks and theme parks, country bathing, outdoor recreation, contact zoos.

"The very request [of tourists] strives for a multi-layered experience that makes travel not just a vacation, but an opportunity for personal growth, cultural enrichment and active interaction with nature and communities. Long vacations are gradually losing popularity. Increasingly, people are dividing their legally prescribed 14, 21, 28 or more days into small segments — micro-holidays and weekend vacations of 2-4 days each year, during which they also want to do everything," added Sysueva.

She noted that the rate of return of guests to tourist destinations is decreasing because people choose a variety of experiences. Travelers are looking for unique and memorable entertainment options. There is a growing demand for immersive and themed entertainment, educational leisure, and unusual types of tourism, such as agricultural and industrial.

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"There are more and more discerning consumers among travelers whose attention needs to be earned. Tourists are as receptive as possible to the nuances of the host's service, they want to stay in the usual rhythm of life and have the necessary amenities in both premium and budget accommodation options. People are trusting reviews more and more, this is one of the criteria for making a decision along with the price and direction," said the analyst.

The expert named several recreation formats, the development of which is supported by large star hotels, regional administrations, private companies, and guides. Health tourism resorts are among such options. Sanatoriums offer personalized wellness programs, accompanied by a medical concierge.

The analyst also noted the ethnotourism that exists, including in the Rostov Region, the Republic of Crimea, the Krasnodar Territory, and Dagestan.

"More than 150 wineries and distilleries are open to visitors to explore the wine culture, filtration, pressing, washing of containers, tasting rooms, harvesting, and the like," said Sysueva.

In addition, tourists in Russia can relax in forest bathing and hotel complexes, visit zoo farms and nature reserves, and themed eco-villages. Travelers have the opportunity to go to camps and camps for adults that mimic Soviet camps. At the same time, plein-airs and trips by amateur artists are organized in the country.

The expert recalled that there are also sea and river cruises.

"[There are] more than 3,500 routes with cruise companies from standard class, luxury to expedition routes in Russia and the Arctic," she noted.

In addition, lovers of fishing, hunting, cheese making and mushroom picking may be interested in rural tourism, while those who are fond of skiing and cycling may be interested in sports tourism.

Tourists can consider traveling with a motorhome or going to retreat centers, spiritual and yoga tours. At the same time, they can visit remote regions of the country.

Nature lovers can choose glamping — camping with amenities. There are more than 300 of them in Russia, the analyst said. In addition, there is a camp for children with diabetes in the country, where endocrinologists are among the staff.

"And sea and beach holidays, of course, are also in the progress of the service level. It is uneven across the country and with less rhythm than we would like," added Sysueva.

Earlier, on February 23, experts from the OneTwoTrip travel planning service told Izvestia about popular spring destinations. According to their information, Russians are more likely to choose Sochi, Lake Ladoga and Dagestan for recreation. Experts singled out Egypt, Japan and Turkey among the foreign destinations.