• Organizing the trip

Several studies have confirmed that specifically large cities residents prefer to book their trips online. This means it would be a good idea if the hotel website has information in Russian. Russian tourists turn to a travel agency service at least once a year. This figure is much higher amongst travelers from smaller towns. Although it’s more expensive, many Russian tourists prefer package holidays since it’s easier to organize. It is advisable that hotels design various packages which would suit Russian travelers needs and think about optimal ways of advertising them.

• Eating & drinking
• While abroad, Russians are reported to like eating a hearty breakfast, lunch and dinner and appreciate hot food in the afternoon.
• Tea is a very popular drink amongst Russians.
• There should always be enough bread on the table as Russians like to eat bread with almost every dish.
• Restaurant business working with Russian visitors declare the following: Russian guests expect that in a meal with multiple courses, “the next dish will be served immediately after they have finished the one before them, regardless of whether their neighbour at the table has finished his or not.” (HotellerieSuisse 2019: 22)
• Russians start their day later than in Europe or in America, for instance. Normally they don’t eat lunch before 2pm. Consequently, they expect that stores and restraurants are open late. It’s a good idea to imform Russian guests if facilities close early or, if possible, have flexible hours in the hotel or restaurant where they are staying.
• It is said that alcohol is an essential part of the eating ritual for many adult visitors from Russian cultural origin. They like to drink spirits such as vodka during their meal while wine is declared to have become a popular status symbol. Amongst newer trends also whiskey and gin are mentioned. Champagne and nowadays prosecco are appreciated spesifically amongst women (HotellerieSuisse 2019: 22).
• In Russia, people drink vodka in large water glasses (such as 8 cl of vodka). It is recommended that genuine Russian vodka shouldn’t be be missing in a bar.
• Russians often appear in sportswear to breakfast.
• Hotel employees should keep in mind that Russian visitors are not used to talking with the staff or showing gratitude for a service rendered. But at the same time, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the guests are rude or not grateful. It’s just not a part of their culture to openly show this.