Russians tourists join sun, sand, Ayurveda quest

Indian resorts and spas, with a tinge of Ayurveda added to the offering, has a ready market among North Americans and West Europeans. The news is that Russians are climbing onto this bandwagon.

As the Russian economy settles down, the number of Russians with a bit of disposable income but unable to afford a vacation in southern Europe in order to escape the Russian winter is growing.

They are increasingly turning to India, causing Indian resort managers to tailor their marketing strategy accordingly.

"We have divided our market in Europe into the European and Russian market," said Jagmohan Misra, vice president, The Grand Ashok.

"The Russian market has become quite significant today with so many nouveau riche and many of them trying to escape the winter with a visit to the tropics. India makes up one of their favourite destinations. Many of them now are also attracted by Ayurveda," added Misra.

The Grand Resort Goa, a resort run by The Grand Group, is a major beneficiary of this set of tourists to India. Champneys, a British spa and health resorts group, will launch Champneys Goa in association with The Grand Resort.

It claims that the setup will be a blend of the East and the West. "We want to give a wholesome experience to our guests," said Ray Payne, managing director, Champneys "" Health Resorts, UK.

Champneys claims to be one of the largest premium destination spa groups in the world and this is their first spa in Asia. Champneys Goa will offer a range of spa and therapies. These therapies will include Ayurvedic treatments, aromatherapy, body wraps and hydrotherapy.

Ayurvedic treatments will include Shiro Dhara, Abhyangam (four-handed massage) and the Indian Himalayan clay mask.