The May holidays are fast approaching in Russia, and Aeroflot, the country's flagship airline, has revealed the most popular travel destinations based on booking data from April 30 to May 11, 2025. According to reports, both domestic and international travelers are ready to embark on their journeys, with demand surging for specific locations.
Among the most sought-after international destinations from Moscow are Istanbul, Yerevan, Male, Antalya, and Tashkent. These locations have consistently ranked high among travelers looking to enjoy a mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
On the domestic front, property in Saint Petersburg remains a hot spot, especially for residents of the city as well as travelers from Moscow. This year's top domestic destinations include Vladivostok, Khabarovsk, Saint Petersburg, Kaliningrad, and Sochi. The choice reflects a keen interest in both exploration and leisure as families head to their preferred getaways.
The airline's booking statistics indicate a robust appetite for air travel among Russians during the May holidays, a period known for increased leisure travel.
Local residents in the Primorsky Krai region have voiced their feelings regarding their holiday plans. Many indicate they are opting to stay within their region and enjoy local leisure activities, such as barbecuing and trips to summer cottages—known as dachas. Olga, a local journalist, declared her eagerness to visit the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on May 8, stating, “I’ve always dreamed of seeing this country, and now my dream is coming true.”
Conversely, some locals are staying put. Svetlana, a nurse, mentioned that she will be working throughout the May holidays but plans to enjoy some leisure trips with friends over the summer. Likewise, Ksenia, a veterinarian, shared her family plans for making shashliki, a traditional Russian barbecue, stating that it is “sacred” on May Day. She also expressed her intention to attend the Victory Parade on May 9 to honor the nation’s heroes before visiting her great-grandmother in the afternoon.
While some travelers are diving into booking elaborate vacations abroad, the draw of local traditions and family gatherings continues to resonate strongly across the Primorye region.
Alongside the flurry of travel plans, another topic has surfaced within Russian media. Wildberries, a local marketplace renowned for its online shopping services, has increased the fee charged for returning goods not picked up within 14 days. This increase is notably from 100 to 200 rubles, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from the public. The platform mentions that such returns constitute less than 1% of its total order volume. In response to these alterations in policy, consumers are encouraged to review their purchasing behavior carefully.
In a related development, Vera Shcherbina, the deputy governor of Primorsky Krai, announced flourishing investments within the area. Investments exceeding 600 million rubles will bolster infrastructure as a modern warehouse site occupying over 140,000 square meters is under construction in the Nadezhdinsky district. Shcherbina remarked, “Investment into our region continues to rise significantly.” These advancements aim to enhance logistics and distribution—key components for boosting local economies.
Another concern being voiced in the country surrounds the planned legislation addressing the health implications of certain snacks. An initiative is underway to impose a 20 percent excise tax on potato chips, raising awareness of their detrimental health effects. According to statements from health officials, the World Health Organization marked chips as the most unhealthy food product in a 2023 report. Oleg Pavlov, head of the Public Council at Rospotrebnadzor, asserted that it is vital to establish restrictions on advertising these snacks as well due to their impact on consumers.
As preparations ramp up for the upcoming holidays, the landscape is multidimensional. Leisure travel, community engagement activities, and significant economic developments define this period. The combination of a rich tradition for celebrating the May holidays while balancing the new trends emerging in business indicates a dynamic shift.
Ultimately, whether venturing abroad or enjoying the comforts of home, the legacy of the May holidays continues to forge powerful connections amongst families and communities in Russia.
