(Kyiv) — Despite the ongoing challenges posed by war and economic uncertainty, Ukrainians continue to travel both domestically and internationally during the winter season, with preferences ranging from budget-friendly getaways to luxury destinations. Experts highlight a mix of traditional and exotic options, with noticeable shifts in travel costs influenced by the war’s impact on logistics and demand.
In Ukraine, the Carpathian Mountains remain the top choice for winter holidays, while abroad, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates dominate as the most popular destinations. Exotic locales such as Zanzibar are also gaining attention among travelers seeking unique experiences.
Anton Rudich, President of the Ukrainian Association of Travel Agencies, explained that the Carpathians maintain their status as a favorite winter destination for Ukrainians. “As before the war, the Carpathians are the most popular in Ukraine during winter. For international travel, Egypt’s sunny climate and the luxury of the United Arab Emirates attract many tourists,” he said. However, he noted that the need to travel through neighboring countries such as Poland, Romania, and Moldova has increased costs.
Volodymyr Tsaruk, Director of the Center for Tourism Development, provided further insights into current trends. “Domestically, the Carpathians, Bukovel, Transcarpathia, and Lviv are popular during the New Year and Christmas periods. A short weekend trip to Transcarpathia starts at 5,000 to 7,000 hryvnias per person, excluding transportation, while prices for peak dates can rise to 10,000 to 15,000 hryvnias for three days,” Tsaruk noted.
Internationally, Poland (Zakopane, Krakow), Egypt, and bus tours to European cities like Prague, Vienna, or Hungary’s thermal resorts remain favored options. For those seeking more exotic experiences, Zanzibar and the United Arab Emirates lead the list.
Tsaruk observed significant price changes in the tourism market. While domestic travel costs have remained stable or even decreased in some cases, international trips have become more expensive due to complex logistics. “In Ukraine, demand has decreased due to the lack of inbound tourism and the ongoing war. However, peak-period destinations like Truskavets and Transcarpathia remain fully booked,” he said.
Notably, domestic resort prices have dropped by 20-30% compared to pre-war levels, particularly in non-peak periods. Many hotels have also reduced rates despite bearing extra costs such as generator expenses. Conversely, international tours have seen price increases. A seven-night trip to a four-star hotel in Egypt starts at around $450 per person, while five-star options cost approximately $800 to $900, including airfare and meals. Zanzibar’s costs are steeper, with ten-day tours starting at $1,200 and reaching up to $2,000.
Oleh Kulik, General Director of the Let’s Go With Us travel network, emphasized Egypt’s popularity due to affordability. “For two people, an average tour to Egypt costs between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on the season. Prices tend to rise during the New Year and Christmas holidays, but December offers lower rates,” Kulik explained.
Bus tours to Europe also attract a loyal following, with sightseeing trips to Prague, Vienna, or Hungary’s spas remaining a popular choice. According to statistics, 80% of Ukrainian travelers choose Egypt, 10% opt for European bus tours, and the remaining 10% explore higher-end destinations like Zanzibar, Spain, or the Maldives.
Kulik concluded that price fluctuations across destinations are expected due to inflation, currency devaluation, and seasonal demand. “Every year, prices increase by 5-15%, which is normal. Significant spikes occur mainly during peak periods when demand is high, but on regular dates, the changes are minimal.”
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