International organized tourism in the Republic of Karelia (2004–2021)

Abstract

The Republic of Karelia, being a border region, is characterized by an advantageous economic and geographical position, unique natural, cultural and historical potential, preserved traditions and hospitality of the local population, which have made the region famous in the state and beyond. Along with the development of domestic tourism, the international tourist flow is of high importance for the border region. How attractive is the Karelian destination for foreign organized tourists? What is the role of the Republic of Karelia in the development of international tourism in the Northwest Russia and in the Russian Federation as a whole? Based on the analysis of open statistical data, the paper analyzes the trends in the development of international organized tourism in the Republic of Karelia. The study is based on an extensive data set for the period 2004–2021 according to seven calculated indicators. The advantageous position of the Republic of Karelia as a tourist destination in the Russian Federation and the Northwestern Federal District in receiving Finnish tourists is shown. The analysis revealed a high degree of dependence of the regional tourism business, focused on servicing the international organized tourist flow, on the preferences and interests of the citizens of neighboring Finland. The study used the analysis of statistical information, methods of generalization, comparison and analogy.