Tourism from Russia is set to continue it's growth in 2005 following to a most successful year in 2004.

Many regions around the world have experienced an increase in the number of Russian visitors. Whilst pricing has become most competitive all suppliers agree that the value of a Russian client still exceeds that of most other countries with Russian client continuing to spend more money in resort than and other.

High quality, luxury tourism has shown substantial growth with Russian clients continuing to book the most luxurious suites, chartering exclusive yachts, travelling to up-market destinations and now playing golf.

Mass market tourism continues to increase with Turkey and Egypt still leading the market though serious competition in winter is now being seen from other long-haul destinations.

The market is maturing and it is most interesting to note the emergence of Meetings and Incentive business with several companies now specialising in this sector and an increasing number of specialised MICE events.

The Internet continues to play an important role on this vast market, though it is still mostly in an advertising function with most reservations being made off-line.

In this issue we also re-introduce our Monthly Statistics. These are based on a formula that calculates the value of advertisements placed in major trade publications. These statistics enable us to compare the number of advertisements placed each month and to report on the changes.

In the early days of 2005 we look at some of the specialised tourism events and facilities that are organised in Russia, enabling International suppliers to create new contacts and to service existing accounts.

2005 will most certainly see a further increase in the total value of the Russian travel market and we wish you all great success.

The Editor