Q & A with Gabriel Perrone, Coordinator with Argentina’s National Institute of Tourism Promotion for the European Market
Q & A with Gabriel Perrone, Coordinator with Argentina’s National Institute of Tourism Promotion for the European Market
Without non-stop flights yet, the Russian tourism it’s been increased in Argentina, particularly after both governments agreed the exemption of visas, a road taken by several Latin American countries. Natural attractions such as Iguazu Waterfalls and Perito Moreno Glacier as well as Buenos Aires’ cultural offer are some of Russian tourists’ preferences, who are mainly looking for first class infrastructure and services.
How important is Russia for Argentina in terms of tourism market?
It represents a huge challenge. Last year, we agreed the visa exemption between both countries. This element has brought about an increasing number of Russian tourists arriving in Argentina, though there is no non-stop flight. For instance, last July the Russian tourism registered a growth rate which is similar to a upscale market for Argentina, just like Brazil is: the Brazilian tourism, with an average of some 50,000 tourists per month, gained around 48 percent from July 2009 to July 2010. Russian tourism also grew a 48 percent, with some 2,000 visitors. However, the rate rise reflects how strong it’s turning to be.
What destinations do Russian tourists travel to the most in Argentina?
They love nature, especially Iguazu Waterfalls. In the front side of the stand we’ve placed the Guarani culture and the Waterfalls in the other side, which are among the finalists to be selected as natural world wonders. Beyond that fact, they also like the cultural atmosphere in Buenos Aires and tango, as well as Perito Moreno Glacier.
What hotels do they book the most?
Russian tourists mainly prefer high range hotels, they are very demanding, and they select high quality hotels. We count on the infrastructure so as to satisfy that segment.
What’s the most frequented route to get to Argentina?
Frankfurt and Paris hubs are very important, with non-stop flights to Argentina. To fly with Aerolíneas Argentinas you’ll have to travel to Madrid or Rome. It’s the same with Iberia, the trip to Madrid is longer, when you can have non-stop flights to Argentina from Frankfort and Paris. From Moscow, via Frankfurt, there are 16 hours, including the San Petersburg stop. There are 18 hours through Madrid.
What’s the average expense of Russian tourists in Argentina?
We’ve counted 70 dollars of daily average plus hotel expenses. It’s as much as the European average.
Do they go for multi-destination?
They sometimes combine Brazil with Argentina after visiting Iguazu Waterfalls. Sometimes they combine it with Peru. They go for these combinations because, as they go through long trips, they want to visit more than just one country.
