Few Russians can afford to vacation abroad

International sanctions and Ukrainian drone attacks have severely impacted Russia's economy, making international vacations unaffordable for most citizens. The situation has also curtailed domestic travel, with even popular tourist spots experiencing sharp declines in bookings, according to the Moscow Times.

Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Crimea and other areas within Russia have led to widespread fuel shortages and damaged infrastructure, including airports and bridges. These attacks, coupled with rising prices and general fear of further disruptions, have caused a significant drop in bookings at Russian-owned resorts. Bookings in Crimea, for instance, decreased by 30 percent from May to June compared to the previous year. Sochi has seen a similar decline of 25 percent.

While the wealthy elite from major cities may still seek destinations in Asia, particularly China which has seen a doubling of Russian travelers due to visa-free policies, millions of ordinary Russians cannot afford to travel even within their own country. Popular domestic sites like Lake Baikal have also experienced a 30 percent decrease in bookings. A teacher from a small village, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Moscow Times that travel is unrealistic for rural residents.

These economic hardships are a direct consequence of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the resulting international isolation. The Kremlin faces pressure not only from external factors but also from the internal strain on its population, which is forced to conserve resources like electricity and gasoline. Despite these challenges, analysts suggest President Putin remains committed to his course of action.

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It is only a few people here who can go anywhere at all. It is unrealistic for people in the countryside to take a vacation.