by Isaac HimmelmanDespite sanctions and an internationally-condemned annexation, Russia believes Crimea could be the hot new tourist destination.Commercials promoting “tourism in the Motherland” were recently published on social networks across Russia, encouraging Russian tourists to choose the scenic Crimean beaches over destinations abroad. According to Russian news, Crimea is expecting approximately 6 million tourists this year.However, that number feels… well, exaggerated. Prior to the Russian occupation, Ukrainians accounted for roughly 67 percent of Crimea’s tourism industry. That fanbase will most likely not be returning this season.Despite Russian advertising, Ukrainian media highlights Crimea’s now-abandoned beaches and crumbling infrastructure. It also doesn’t help that the U.S. and most major European countries are warning their citizens against all but essential travel to the region.Either way, wear sunscreen.
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