Russians staying home for football festival while the country also sees as influx of visitors who might otherwise come to Thailand
Hotel occupancy down to average 50% in third quarter, with 'sharp drop' in Russian arrivals.
Tourist chiefs in Thailand have stressed the importance to them of visitors from the eastern regions of Russia.
Tourist numbers from Siberia rising as economy improves following 2014 downturn
Beijing proposes tours to neighbouring Khabarovsk region which wind the clock back to the Communist era.
More than 130billion roubles invested in special gambling zone to lure wealthy Asian tourists to Russia, complete with its own beach, marina and ski area.
Transit passengers from 20 countries will be allowed 72 hours in Russia without the hassle of obtaining a visa.
Now the Far East of Russia linked to beaches and cities in the sun with direct routes from Vladivostok on low-cost airline Vietjet.
The beaches here are thronged with sun-seekers, children paddle in the warm waters — even the babushki are relaxed.