Southern Russia's Krasnodar region emerges as a favorite tourist destination among students: an increasing number of young people opt for the sunny resorts in the region.
Revised Article:
Curiosity about venturing through Russia, particularly Krasnodar Krai, is on the rise among the youth, as reported by Russia's Ministry of Science and Higher Education. Since 2025 began, over 57,000 participants have registered in the federal Student Tourism program, representing a significant 17,000-person increase from the previous year, 2024. The sunny destinations of Sochi, Gelendzhik, Tuapse, Anapa, and Novorossiysk, as echoed in "Izvestia", are popular among this cohort.
The Student Tourism program caters to students, young professionals, and scientists aged 18 to 35, allowing them to traverse Russia and CIS countries at affordable rates. Accommodation in university partner dormitories costs just 80-100 rubles per day. Universities also chip in for travel expenses. Besides the southern resorts, popular domestic destinations include Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Kamchatka, and Murmansk.
Through the program, students aren't just chasing sun, sand, and adventure. They can also undertake internships, attend scientific and cultural events, and partake in volunteer initiatives. This year, they have the option to visit China, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Armenia, and Uzbekistan.
So, what's fueling this surge in interest? Global educational tourism is growing at an astounding pace, forecasted to soar from USD 754.6 billion in 2025 to over USD 3,732.5 billion by 2035. Students are attracted to the prospect of academic, cultural, and adventure experiences that Russia has to offer.
Russia has been welcoming more international students as part of its geopolitical strategy, with large numbers hailing from countries like Cuba, China, India, and the Middle East. Local universities and government bodies are also marketing Russia's cultural and natural wonders, boosting domestic tourism during international travel restrictions.
Russia straddles geographical extremes, from the Arctic adventures in Murmansk to the subtropical beaches of Krasnodar Krai, offering students a rich tapestry of experiences. This diversity could well be a primary draw for the new generation of travelers.
In summary, the rising enthusiasm among students to traverse Russia can be linked to global educational tourism trends, geopolitical initiatives, domestic tourism growth, and Russia's unique offerings. Programs like the Student Tourism initiative paint a picture of immersive experiences, academic opportunities, and access to breathtaking destinations, making Russia an attractive travel destination for students around the world.
| Destination | Key Attractions/Features | Program Benefits ||--------------------|---------------------------------|------------------------------------|| Krasnodar Krai | Subclimate, Black Sea, culture | Cultural immersion, recreation || Murmansk/Kirovsk | Arctic, Northern Lights, skiing | Adventure tourism, academic exchanges|| Moscow/St. Petersburg| Universities, museums, heritage sites| Academic, cultural networking |
Traveling to Krasnodar Krai, with its subtropic climate and rich culture, offers students not only a chance for relaxation but also an opportunity for cultural immersion. Participants in the Student Tourism program can explore the Black Sea region of southern Russia.
The allure of Arctic adventures in Murmansk, including the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights and engaging in academic exchanges, is another appealing destination for students through the Student Tourism program. This journey offers a unique experience for adventure-seeking individuals.
