Russian tourist arrivals to Vietnam in 2013 reached 250,000, a 71 percent rise over last year, according the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.
This is the second consecutive year Russia held the first position among tourist markets to Vietnam. Aiming to attract Russian tourists, many domestic travel agencies have recently launched specific tourism routes for followers of Islam, with access to vegatarian food.
Vietnam introduced a 15-day visa exemption for Russian tourists. In 2013, some relevant agencies suggested to extend the visa-free stay to 30 days.
Air services between the two countries have strongly developed with the opening of new direct flights such as Saint Petersburg - Nha Trang and Moscow - Nha Trang. In addition, travel agencies launched chartered flights from Russia’s Siberia and Far East to Vietnam.
Russian tourism experts said that 29 cities in Russia suggested operating direct flights to Vietnam.
In 2014, the domestic tourism sector expects to greet 300,000 Russian tourists.