what are the places of recreation and tourism

What Is the Difference Between Tourism and Recreation?

By Robert Palmer

Are you confused about the difference between tourism and recreation? While both concepts involve leisure activities, they are not interchangeable terms. In this article, we will explore the difference between tourism and recreation and help clarify any confusion.

What is Tourism?

Tourism is the practice of traveling for pleasure or business purposes. It involves visiting new places, experiencing different cultures, and engaging in leisure activities. The primary goal of tourism is to have an enjoyable experience while exploring new destinations.

Tourism can take many forms, such as:

• Sightseeing
• Visiting historical landmarks
• Participating in cultural events
• Relaxing on a beach or at a resort
• Exploring nature through hiking or camping

The Importance of Tourism

Tourism plays a significant role in the economy of many countries. It creates jobs, generates revenue, and provides opportunities for cultural exchange. Additionally, it can help to preserve natural and historical sites by promoting their conservation and protection.

What is Recreation?

Recreation refers to leisure activities that individuals engage in during their free time. These activities can be physical or mental and are typically done for enjoyment or relaxation purposes. Unlike tourism, recreation does not require travel to a new destination.

Examples of recreational activities include:

• Sports like tennis or basketball
• Hobbies like painting or playing an instrument
• Gardening or other outdoor activities
• Meditation or yoga
• Reading books or watching movies

The Importance of Recreation

Recreation is important for both physical and mental health. Engaging in leisure activities can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall wellbeing. It can also provide opportunities for social interaction and personal growth.

The Difference Between Tourism and Recreation

While both tourism and recreation involve leisure activities, there are some key differences between the two concepts. The primary difference is that tourism involves traveling to a new destination for leisure purposes, while recreation does not require travel.

Another difference is that tourism often involves experiencing new cultures or environments, while recreation is typically enjoyed in familiar surroundings. Additionally, tourism is often a planned activity with a specific itinerary, while recreation can be spontaneous or unplanned.

In conclusion, while both tourism and recreation involve leisure activities, they are not interchangeable terms. Tourism involves traveling to a new destination for pleasure or business purposes and can take many forms.

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Chapter 1. History and Overview

1.1 What is Tourism?

Before engaging in a study of tourism , let’s have a closer look at what this term means.

Definition of Tourism

There are a number of ways tourism can be defined, and for this reason, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) embarked on a project from 2005 to 2007 to create a common glossary of terms for tourism. It defines tourism as follows:

Tourism is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors (which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents) and tourism has to do with their activities, some of which imply tourism expenditure (United Nations World Tourism Organization, 2008).

Using this definition, we can see that tourism is not just the movement of people for a number of purposes (whether business or pleasure), but the overall agglomeration of activities, services, and involved sectors that make up the unique tourist experience.

Tourism, Travel, and Hospitality: What are the Differences?

It is common to confuse the terms tourism , travel , and hospitality or to define them as the same thing. While tourism is the all-encompassing umbrella term for the activities and industry that create the tourist experience, the UNWTO (2020) defines travel as the activity of moving between different locations often for any purpose but more so for leisure and recreation (Hall & Page, 2006). On the other hand, hospitality can be defined as “the business of helping people to feel welcome and relaxed and to enjoy themselves” (Discover Hospitality, 2015, p. 3). Simply put, the hospitality industry is the combination of the accommodation and food and beverage groupings, collectively making up the largest segment of the industry (Go2HR, 2020). You’ll learn more about accommodations and F & B in Chapter 3 and Chapter 4 , respectively.

Definition of Tourist and Excursionist

Building on the definition of tourism, a commonly accepted description of a tourist is “someone who travels at least 80 km from his or her home for at least 24 hours, for business or leisure or other reasons” (LinkBC, 2008, p.8). The United Nations World Tourism Organization (1995) helps us break down this definition further by stating tourists can be:

• Domestic (residents of a given country travelling only within that country)
• Inbound (non-residents travelling in a given country)
• Outbound (residents of one country travelling in another country)

Excursionists  on the other hand are considered same-day visitors (UNWTO, 2020). Sometimes referred to as “day trippers.” Understandably, not every visitor stays in a destination overnight. It is common for travellers to spend a few hours or less to do sightseeing, visit attractions, dine at a local restaurant, then leave at the end of the day.

The scope of tourism, therefore, is broad and encompasses a number of activities and sectors.

Spotlight On: United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

UNWTO is the United Nations agency responsible “for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism” (UNWTO, 2014b). Its membership includes 159 countries and over 500 affiliates such as private companies, research and educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations. It promotes tourism as a way of developing communities while encouraging ethical behaviour to mitigate negative impacts. For more information, visit the UNWTO website .

NAICS: The North American Industry Classification System

Given the sheer size of the tourism industry, it can be helpful to break it down into broad industry groups using a common classification system. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) was jointly created by the Canadian, US, and Mexican governments to ensure common analysis across all three countries (British Columbia Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, 2013a). The tourism-related groupings created using NAICS are (in alphabetical order):

• Accommodation
• Food and beverage services (commonly known as “F & B”)
• Recreation and entertainment
• Transportation
• Travel services

These industry groups (also commonly known as sectors) are based on the similarity of the “labour processes and inputs” used for each (Government of Canada, 2013). For instance, the types of employees and resources required to run an accommodation business whether it be a hotel, motel, or even a campground are quite similar. All these businesses need staff to check in guests, provide housekeeping, employ maintenance workers, and provide a place for people to sleep. As such, they can be grouped together under the heading of accommodation. The same is true of the other four groupings, and the rest of this text explores these industry groups, and other aspects of tourism, in more detail.

It is typical for the entire tourist experience to involve more than one sector. The combination of sectors that supply and distribute the needed tourism products, services, and activities within the tourism system is called the Tourism Supply Chain. Often, these chains of sectors and activities are dependent upon each other’s delivery of products and services. Let’s look at a simple example below that describes the involved and sometimes overlapping sectoral chains in the tourism experience:

Before we seek to understand the five tourism sectors in more detail, it’s important to have an overview of the history and impacts of tourism to date.

Long Descriptions

Figure 1.2 long description: Diagram showing the tourism supply chain. This includes the phases of travel and the sectors and activities involved during each phase.

There are three travel phases: pre-departure, during travel, and post-departure.

Pre-departure, tourists use the travel services and transportation sectors.

During travel, tourists use the travel services, accommodations, food and beverage, recreation and entertainment, and transportation sectors.

Post-departure, tourists use the transportation sector.

[Return to Figure 1.2]

Media Attributions

• Front Desk by Staying LEVEL is licensed under a CC BY-NC 4.0 Licence .

Tourism according the the UNWTO is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes.

UN agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism worldwide.

Moving between different locations for leisure and recreation.

The accommodations and food and beverage industry groupings.

someone who travels at least 80 km from his or her home for at least 24 hours, for business or leisure or other reasons

A same-day visitor to a destination. Their trip typically ends on the same day when they leave the destination.

A way to group tourism activities based on similarities in business practices, primarily used for statistical analysis.

Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality in BC - 2nd Edition Copyright © 2015, 2020, 2021 by Morgan Westcott and Wendy Anderson, Eds is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

What is Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management?

In today’s fast-paced society, recreation and leisure are more important than ever to our physical and mental well-being. Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (PRTM) students learn to create and facilitate sustainable and affordable experiences in local and global communities by utilizing best business practices in programming, marketing and budgeting. Our students graduate prepared to make a difference in people’s lives by creating quality recreation and nature-based programs, education and events that provide leisure, enhance community and address societal concerns—such as physical health, juvenile delinquency and economic sustainability.

Our students gain real-world experience through hands-on classes and internships. Students benefit from partnerships with local and state agencies, nonprofits and a network of parks in the greater Raleigh area. Our college is home to the NC State Tourism Extension Office, which is committed to boosting economic and community development efforts in rural North Carolina. Our students have the opportunity to gain professional and leadership experience by assisting this office with projects in the areas of agri-tourism and micro-entrepreneurship.

Our Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT).

Concentrations

• Recreation and Park Management  focuses on environmental education, outdoor recreation, parks planning and management and conservation of parks and other natural resource areas.
• Tourism and Event Management  focuses on recreation facility management techniques, fiscal management, facility and site planning, and recreation programming and administration.

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Curriculum

• Semester by Semester Plan for Recreation and Park Management
• Semester by Semester Plan for  Tourism and Event Management
• Popular minors include Business Administration, Environmental Education, Journalism, Nonprofit Studies and Psychology.

Internships lead to jobs.

Prior to graduation, students complete a 400-hour internship at places like the Jimmy V Foundation, YMCA of the Triangle and Yellowstone National Park.

Why are Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management graduates important?

Our Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management graduates help plan, organize and lead sports tournaments and special events, such as arts, music and holiday festivals, which generate not only direct revenue from fees and charges, but also significant indirect revenues to local and regional economies through hospitality, retail and transportation.

Tourism is one of the world’s fastest growing industries and is a major source of income for many countries and local communities. Our alumni play a critical role in supporting a thriving economy and the more than 1.1 billion people who travel globally each year.

Our graduates help create, improve and promote places for youth and adults to be physically active, which results in an increase in residents who exercise at least three times per week and provides positive lifestyle choices to youth.

Hands-On Experiences in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

May 08, 2024

Bond Lammey Charts New Course with Online Master of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management 

Bond Lammey finds new direction with online Master of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management degree program.

December 06, 2023

Logan Jones Takes a Swing to Expand His Experience

Logan Jones recently completed an NC State Online degree program. Currently with the Chicago White Sox, Jones travels often and found the online format helpful as he continued his educational journey. Read more about Jones’ experiences with NC State Online!

August 14, 2023

Cailsen Lackey Provides Inclusive Summer Camp Experiences

This summer, Lackey served as an adventure counselor at Victory Junction in Randleman, North Carolina.

What can you do with a Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management degree?

The Parks, Recreation and Tourism industries are growing. Employment of people working in recreation professions is projected to grow 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Outdoor recreation alone contributes 6.1 million jobs and $645 billion to the U.S. economy annually. That means our students graduate with options.

Sample Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Careers

• Community Event Planner  – Coordinate and implement meeting and event logistics for a specific community. Recent employers include the Special Olympics and the Girl Scouts of America.
• Environmental Educator  – Give talks to schools and other community groups about environmental issues. Lead outdoor walks and field trips. Recent employers include Yellowstone National Park.
• GIS Specialist  – Use geographic information systems to solve problems, present data and store information. Recent employers include ProStar, Inc.
• Youth Director – Manage and implement programing specifically for youth. Recent employers include the YMCA of the Triangle.
• Eco-Tourism Guide – Give impact tours of fragile, pristine or undisturbed natural areas. Recent employers include The National Ecotourism Society.
• Superintendent of Recreation –  Lead planning, development and operation of a comprehensive public recreation program for the community. Recent employers include Rocky Mount Parks and Recreation.
• Park or Trail Planner  – Research, analyze and interpret data related to park use to perform strategic planning, design and development of parks, trails and recreational facilities. Recent employers include the U.S. Forest Service.
• Tourism Marketing Analyst  – Gather and analyze data on tourism, consumers and competitors, study market conditions and trends. Recent employers include the Raleigh Convention and Visitor Center.
• Nature Center Manager  – Plan, coordinate and manage all program activities. Recent employers include the Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation Department.
• Park Ranger  – Patrol park grounds to make sure campers, hikers and visitors follow park rules and fire safety regulations. Give presentations or guided park tours. Recent employers include the National Park Service.
• Resort and Hotel Operations Director  – Oversee daily hotel or resort operations, including supervising staff and interacting with guests. Recent employers include Disney Resorts.

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Careers

Schedule a visit to the College of Natural Resources

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Saratov city, Russia

The capital city of Saratov oblast .

Saratov - Overview

Saratov is a large city located in the southeast of the European part of Russia, the administrative center of Saratov Oblast, a major cultural, economic, and educational center of the Volga Region.

The population of Saratov is about 818,400 (2022), the area - 2,100 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 8452, the postal codes - 410000-410600.

Saratov city flag

Saratov city coat of arms.

Saratov city map, Russia

Saratov city latest news and posts from our blog:.

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History of Saratov

Foundation of saratov.

People already lived on the site of today’s Saratov in ancient times. On the territory of the city there is Alekseevskoye settlement - an archaeological monument that has seven identified cultural horizons from the catacomb culture of the Middle Bronze Age (the 20th-19th centuries BC) to the settlements of the Golden Horde time (the 13th-14th centuries AD) with a temporary break in the 5th-13th centuries.

The settlements in this place regularly appeared during periods of relatively stable state structures (Khazar Khaganate, Volga Bulgaria, Golden Horde) and disappeared without a trace during the next wave of nomads. The last such cycle before the founding of Saratov ended in 1395-1396, during the invasion of Tamerlane (Timur), who destroyed the Golden Horde town of Uvek (Ukek) that stood here.

In the next 200 years, the sparse population of this region was represented by Nogai and then Kalmyk nomads, Cossacks and fishing artels of Russian monasteries. After the military campaigns of Russian troops against the Kazan Khanate in 1552 and the Astrakhan Khanate in 1556, the Tsardom of Russia gained control of vast territories of the Volga Region. Under Tsar Fyodor Ivanovich, it was decided to found several new fortified towns on the Volga River.

In the summer of 1586, the Samara fortress was founded, in the summer of 1589 - Tsaritsyn (Volgograd). In the summer of 1590, halfway between Samara and Tsaritsyn, the Saratov fortress was founded. The exact location of the original Saratov is unknown. In the winter of 1613-1614, the fortress burned down. In 1617, it was rebuilt on the left bank of the Volga, at the mouth of the Saratovka River.

In 1674, Saratov was moved to the right bank of the Volga, to the area of the present Muzeynaya Square. Thus, the city of Saratov was founded three times: in 1590, 1617, and 1674, and each time in a new place.

More Historical Facts…

Saratov in the 18th-19th centuries

In 1700, the population of Saratov was about 2,000 people. The sedentary agricultural population for a long time could not populate the territory of the region. Only those who were attracted by the free life of the Cossacks moved here.

The construction of the Tsaritsyn guard line and other measures taken by Peter I to strengthen security created conditions for the settlement of the right bank of the Volga. Its location at the intersection of the shortest land route to Moscow and the water route from the lower Volga and the Caspian made Saratov an important transit point and a major center for trade in fish and salt.

In 1763, foreigners were invited to settle in the Volga Region. In 1766, Saratov became the center of coordination of German colonists. In 1780, the town became the center of the Saratov Vicegerency. In 1796, it was renamed the Saratov Governorate.

In 1811, the population of the town was 26,700 people. The general plan of Saratov, approved in 1812, became the basis for the development of the town for more than a hundred years. The French invasion of Russia (1812) influenced the life of Saratov. In 1813, the French prisoners of war were exiled here and used for public works to level ravines, build dams, plant gardens. Later, a lot of them took Russian citizenship and stayed in Saratov. Some of them were invited as tutors and teachers to Russian families and educational institutions, others opened their workshops.

In 1828, the Saratov Tobacco Factory, one of the first in the Russian Empire, began production. In addition to it, the town had a rope, tannery, bell, brick, and a number of other factories. Cholera epidemics broke out in Saratov in 1830 and 1848. The epidemic of 1830, which lasted more than one month, claimed up to 10,000 people.

The further growth of crafts and trade stimulated the development of river shipping on the Volga, which became the main transport artery of the Russian Empire. In the 19th century, Saratov turned into a major river port. A very strong impetus for the development of the Saratov Governorate was the construction of the Tambov - Saratov railway in 1871. It connected Saratov with the country’s railway network.

In 1876, the first stationary circus in the Russian Empire was built in Saratov. In 1885, a public art museum was opened, which became a major event in the cultural life of the city. In the end of the 19th century, Saratov was one of the largest centers for the grain trade and flour-grinding industry in the country. It became a major intermediary in the trade of oil products, meat, fish, salt, and wool.

Saratov in the 20th century

In 1908, trams began to carry passengers in Saratov - one of the oldest tram systems in Russia. In 1912, the Saratov Conservatory was opened - the third in the country after Moscow and St. Petersburg. In 1914, its population was 235,300 people. Until the end of the 1920s, Saratov remained the largest of the cities of the Volga Region (larger than Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara, etc.) and was often unofficially called the “capital of the Volga region”. From 1928 to 1932, Saratov was the administrative center of Lower Volga Krai, since 1934 - Saratov Krai, since 1936 - Saratov Oblast.

The rapid development of the city took place during the Second World War, when a number of factories and military schools were evacuated here from the west of the USSR. Saratov was subjected to several German air raids, the main purpose of which was to destroy the bridge over the Volga and the oil refinery.

Before the war, the town of Pokrovsk (Engels) located just across the Volga River was the capital of the German autonomous region with a population of about 800,000 people. A lot of them (about 400,000) were exiled to Siberia and Kazakhstan during the war; some later came back. Since the 1980s, most of them have emigrated to Germany. Until now, the few surviving buildings in the pseudo-Gothic style remind of this page in the history of Saratov.

Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space, studied in Saratov. In 1955, he graduated with honors from the Saratov Industrial College. After his historic flight, Gagarin also landed about 35 km from Saratov - on the left bank of the Volga.

Saratov’s population peaked in 1987 - 918,000 people. Until 1992, Saratov was a closed city (foreigners were not allowed to visit it), since several large enterprises of the Soviet defense industry worked in the city, in particular, the Saratov Aviation Plant, which produced military and civil aircraft. Several industrial enterprises in Saratov also carried out orders for the Soviet space program.

Streets of Saratov

Street traffic in Saratov

Author: Kiyanovsky Dmitry

Picturesque old building in Saratov

Architectural monument in Saratov

Saratov - Features

Saratov stretches for 34 km along the right bank of the Volgograd Reservoir (the Volga River) opposite the mouth of the Saratovka River and the city of Engels, which is located on the opposite bank. The distance from Saratov to Volgograd - 376 km, Samara - 425 km, Moscow - 847 km. The City Day of Saratov is celebrated on the second Sunday in September.

There are several hypotheses about the origin of the name of Saratov. One of the main versions is that Saratov got its name from Sokolovaya Mountain, which was called “sary tau” in Tatar meaning “yellow mountain”. There is an assumption that the name came from the words “sar atav” - “low-lying island” or “saryk atov” - “hawk island”. It is also possible that Saratov got its name from the Scythian-Iranian hydronym “Sarat”.

Three silver fish (sterlet) are depicted on the coat of arms of Saratov symbolizing “the great abundance of such fish in this area”. They form the Greek letter “upsilon” meaning “the choice of a worthy path at the crossroads of life’s roads”.

The climate in Saratov is moderately continental. This city is characterized by long (about four months), moderately cold winters and hot, often dry summers. The average temperature in January is minus 7.5 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 22.6 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Saratov is from late May to early September.

Saratov is located at the intersection of main railway and highway lines, water routes. The international airport “Gagarin” offers regular flights to Yekaterinburg, Krasnodar, Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, St. Petersburg, Sochi, Surgut, Ufa.

Trains to Moscow regularly depart from Saratov railway station, as well as passing trains to Adler, Astrakhan, Volgograd, Yekaterinburg, Kislovodsk, Kirov, Krasnoyarsk, Nizhnevartovsk, Nizhny Novgorod, Novokuznetsk, Novorossiysk, Perm, St. Petersburg, Simferopol, Tyumen, Chelyabinsk. The river port of Saratov serves only passengers of intercity cruise ships.

Saratov is a large industrial, cultural and educational center. Machine building, chemical and oil industries are well developed here. There are a lot of various attractions in Saratov: historical, architectural, religious and natural, various museums and beautiful parks. The city has a large number of architectural monuments of the late 19th - early 20th centuries.

Main Attractions of Saratov

Victory Park on Sokolovaya Mountain . This memorial complex was created in Saratov in 1975, when the 30th anniversary of the Victory in World War II was celebrated. This large park covers an area of 80 hectares. Here you can find the Eternal Flame, the Museum of Military and Labor Glory, the 40 meters high monument “Cranes”, and a unique exposition of military and civilian equipment with over 200 exhibits.

In 2003, the National Village of the Peoples of Saratov Oblast was opened in the park with real houses, yurts and other dwellings of the peoples of the region. In this place you can feel the atmosphere of the past not only of Russians, but also of Tatars, Armenians, Bashkirs, Georgians, and other peoples living in the Saratov region. In 2013, the Alley “Days of Russian Military Glory” was solemnly opened, on which monuments to prominent Russian commanders and statesmen were erected.

Victory Park is a favorite place for recreation for locals and visitors of the city. The top of Sokolovaya Mountain is one of the highest points in Saratov (165 meters). The observation deck located here offers a magnificent view of Saratov, the Volga River and its islands, the opposite bank, and the city of Engels (Saratov is connected with it by a bridge). Sokolovaya Street.

Cosmonauts Embankment - a street that stretches for 1.5 km along the Volga to the Saratov Bridge. The embankment received its present name in 1962 - after the first cosmonaut of our planet landed near Saratov. The monument to Yuri Gagarin was erected at the beginning of the embankment more than 30 years later. The embankment descends to the Volga in 4 wide terraces. In summer, there is a rental of bicycles, rollers, and gyro scooters.

In 2017, the floating light and music fountain “Heart of the Volga” was opened here. It is located right on the water, its multicolored jets rise to a height of 40 m. The fountain is open from May to October.

The embankment offers an excellent view of the Saratov Bridge (1965) - a reinforced concrete road bridge across the Volga River connecting Saratov with the city of Engels. The length of the bridge is over 2.8 km. It is one of the symbols of Saratov.

Kirov Avenue - a pedestrian street that stretches for 1 km through the historic center of Saratov. Unofficially, the street is called “Saratov Arbat”. Along the entire length of the street there are mansions and houses built in the late 19th - early 20th centuries. The most interesting ones are the neo-Gothic building of the Saratov Conservatory (1902) and the Volga Hotel (1917) built in the Art Nouveau style. The monument to the Saratov accordion, one of the symbols of Saratov, is installed here.

The walking area starts from Kirov Square, where one of the oldest stationary circuses in Russia is located - the Nikitin Brothers Circus. The fountain near the circus is a traditional meeting place. The building of the Covered Market (1916) located here is also worth mentioning.

Pictures of Saratov

The building of the Volga railway administration in Saratov

Summer in Saratov

Saratov architecture

Church of the Icon of the Mother of God (1904-1906) - a very picturesque church, the main feature of which is that its multicolored domes resemble the Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed standing on Red Square in Moscow. In Soviet times, the building served as a city planetarium. So it has been fairly well preserved. Volzhskaya Street, 36.

Cathedral of the Life-Giving Trinity (1689-1695) - the main Orthodox church in Saratov, a unique architectural monument for the Saratov region built in the Moscow baroque style. Moskovskaya Street, 6.

Saratov Regional Museum of Local Lore - the largest museum organization in Saratov Oblast. In total, the museum has about 400 thousand exhibits: archaeological, ethnographic, paleontological, entomological collections, examples of manuscript and early printed books, objects of religious worship, poster graphics, numismatics, materials on the history of the political, economic, and cultural life of Saratov.

Among the numerous exhibits on display in 30 spacious halls, it is worth highlighting the complete skeleton of an ichthyosaur, utensils belonging to the 4th century BC, a rare saber granted by Empress Elizabeth to the clerk Panteley Selivanov. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum organizes thematic exhibitions. Lermontova Street, 34.

The Radishchev Art Museum . Created in 1885, it became one of the first publicly accessible art museums in the Russian Empire. The ground floor displays medieval icons and a collection of Western European art, which is considered the third largest in Russia. These are canvases by Dutch, German, French, and Italian artists, furniture and porcelain, bronze and glass products.

On the second floor, you can see the works of Russian painters. Musical concerts and literary and art meetings are held in the Great Hall of this art museum. The library of the museum has a rich collection of manuscripts, old books. Radishchev Street, 39.

Museum of Samovars . This private museum, opened in 2015, houses the largest collection of samovars in Russia - over 700 pieces. Today, in a small room on the ground floor of a residential building, you can see samovars from all over the world and trace their evolution over several centuries. Over time, these ordinary kitchen utensils have turned into works of art and have become one of the symbols of Russia. Kutyakova Street, 34/36.

Gagarin’s Field (Gagarin’s Landing Site) . This attraction of Saratov is located outside the city. On April 12, 1961, the landing vehicle of the Vostok-1 spacecraft with Yuri Gagarin on board landed near the village of Smelovka in Saratov Oblast, several kilometers south of Saratov.

According to the pre-flight plan, the landing was to take place in the steppes of Kazakhstan, but due to a failure in the braking system, Vostok-1 landed on the field of the collective farm “Lenin’s Path”. Yuri Gagarin himself considered his landing near Saratov to be symbolic. In this city the first cosmonaut of the planet attended an industrial technical school.

Today, a memorial complex has been created on this field with a 27-meter obelisk in the form of a rocket taking off. It is a smaller copy of the Monument to the Conquerors of Space located near the Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow. Near the obelisk, there is a monument to Yury Gagarin, a descent vehicle, and 12 steles with images of the first cosmonauts, Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, and Sergei Korolev. There is a small park around the complex.

Saratov city of Russia photos

Sights of saratov.

Dandelion fountain in the center of Saratov

Saratov State Agrarian University

Lenin monument in Saratov

Churches of Saratov

Holy Alexievsky Convent in Saratov

Author: Oleg Maraev

Church of the Icon of the Mother of God Soothe My Sorrows in Saratov

Cathedral of the Life-Giving Trinity in Saratov

The questions of our visitors

The comments of our visitors.

As an American visiting Saratov for the first time I was a little apprehensive, but I was pleasantly surprised with the friendliness of the people, so much so that I returned many times in recent years.

If you are interested in exploring Russia away from the usual Moscow or St Petersburg, you should consider Saratov with its location on the Volga River, interesting city center and landmarks. You will find the people will try and interact with you even if you don't speak Russian. Another wonderful adventure!

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The state of tourism and hospitality 2024

Tourism and hospitality are on a journey of disruption. Shifting source markets and destinations, growing demand for experiential and luxury travel, and innovative business strategies are all combining to dramatically alter the industry landscape. Given this momentous change, it’s important for stakeholders to consider and strategize on four major themes:

• The bulk of travel is close to home. Although international travel might draw headlines, stakeholders shouldn’t neglect the big opportunities in their backyards. Domestic travel still represents the bulk of travel spending, and intraregional tourism is on the rise.
• Consumers increasingly prioritize travel—when it’s on their own terms. Interest in travel is booming, but travelers are no longer content with a one-size-fits-all experience. Individual personalization might not always be practical, but savvy industry players can use segmentation and hypothesis-driven testing to improve their value propositions. Those that fail to articulate target customer segments and adapt their offerings accordingly risk getting left behind.
• The face of luxury travel is changing. Demand for luxury tourism and hospitality is expected to grow faster than any other travel segment today—particularly in Asia. It’s crucial to understand that luxury travelers don’t make up a monolith. Segmenting by age, nationality, and net worth can reveal varied and evolving preferences and behaviors.
• As tourism grows, destinations will need to prepare to mitigate overcrowding. Destinations need to be ready to handle the large tourist flows of tomorrow. Now is the time for stakeholders to plan, develop, and invest in mitigation strategies. Equipped with accurate assessments of carrying capacities and enhanced abilities to gather and analyze data, destinations can improve their transportation and infrastructure, build tourism-ready workforces, and preserve their natural and cultural heritages.

McKinsey Live event: Faces, places, and trends: The state of tourism & hospitality

Thursday, June 13 at 10:30 a.m EDT / 4:30 p.m CET

Now boarding: Faces, places, and trends shaping tourism in 2024

Global travel is back and buzzing. The amount of travel fell by 75 percent in 2020; however, travel is on its way to a full recovery by the end of 2024. More regional trips, an emerging population of new travelers, and a fresh set of destinations are powering steady spending in tourism.

There’s no doubt that people still love to travel and will continue to seek new experiences in new places. But where will travelers come from, and where will they go?

We share a snapshot of current traveler flows, along with estimates for growth through 2030.

The way we travel now

Which trends are shaping traveler sentiment now? What sorts of journeys do today’s travelers dream about? How much are they willing to spend on their trips? And what should industry stakeholders do to adapt to the traveler psychology of the moment?

To gauge what’s on the minds of present-day travelers, we surveyed more than 5,000 of them. The findings reveal disparate desires, generational divides, and a newly emerging set of traveler archetypes.

Updating perceptions about today’s luxury traveler

Demand for luxury tourism and hospitality is expected to grow faster than for any other segment. This growth is being powered in part by a large and expanding base of aspiring luxury travelers with net worths between $100,000 and $1 million, many of whom are younger and increasingly willing to spend larger shares of their wealth on upscale travel options. The increase is also a result of rising wealth levels in Asia.

We dug deeper into this ongoing evolution by surveying luxury travelers around the globe about their preferences, plans, and expectations. Some widely held notions about luxury travelers—such as how much money they have, how old they are, and where they come from—could be due for reexamination.

Destination readiness: Preparing for the tourist flows of tomorrow

As global tourism grows, it will be crucial for destinations to be ready. How can the tourism ecosystem prepare to host unprecedented volumes of visitors while managing the challenges that can accompany this success? A large flow of tourists, if not carefully channeled, can encumber infrastructure, harm natural and cultural attractions, and frustrate locals and visitors alike.

Now is the time for tourism stakeholders to combine their thinking and resources to look for better ways to handle the visitor flows of today while properly preparing themselves for the visitor flows of tomorrow. We offer a diagnostic that destinations can use to spot early-warning signs about tourism concentration, along with suggestions for funding mechanisms and strategies to help maximize the benefits of tourism while minimizing its negative impacts.

Six trends shaping new business models in tourism and hospitality

As destinations and source markets have transformed over the past decade, tourism and hospitality companies have evolved, too. Accommodation, home sharing, cruises, and theme parks are among the sectors in which new approaches could present new opportunities. Stakeholders gearing up for new challenges should look for business model innovations that will help sustain their hard-won growth—and profits.

Unbundling offerings, cross-selling distinctive experiences, and embracing data-powered strategies can all be winning moves. A series of insight-driven charts reveal significant trends and an outlook on the future.

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Patricia Stokowski

Professor, Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Program

81 Carrigan Dr 313A Aiken Center Burlington , VT 05401 United States

Patricia A. Stokowski, PhD, is a Professor at the University of Vermont, and conducts research about social, cultural, and discursive aspects of outdoor recreation behavior, environmental interpretation, and tourism development in rural and resource dependent communities. Her current research focuses on the place-making processes of people in transitioning communities, the cultural meanings of landscapes, and social networks in tourism and natural resource management; her work applies an array of qualitative interpretive methods, especially discourse and narrative analysis.

Stokowski has conducted a longitudinal study of the development and impacts of gambling-based tourism in the former mining towns of Central City and Black Hawk, Colorado; results from her research were published in Riches and Regrets: Betting on Gambling in Two Colorado Mountain Towns (1996; University Press of Colorado) and in subsequent journal articles. She also wrote Leisure in Society: A Network Structural Perspective (1994, Mansell Press). From 2009 to 2013, Stokowski co-edited the journal Leisure Sciences with Walter Kuentzel. She was elected to the Academy of Leisure Sciences in 2009. In 2014, she was on sabbatical in Vienna, Austria, working at the Institute of Landscape Development, Recreation and Conservation Planning, at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU).

For pleasure, Stokowski is also a professional figure skating coach who trains ice dancers. A native of Massachusetts, she received her PhD from the University of Washington (1988), and MS (1978) and BS (1976) degrees from Michigan State University. Before moving to Vermont in 1998, she held faculty positions at Texas A&M University and the University of Colorado-Boulder.

Area(s) of expertise

Instructional programs:  Parks, Recreation and Tourism; Natural Resources Research: Outdoor recreation behavior, parks, community tourism development, sense of place

Areas of Expertise

Saratov Oblast Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Saratov Oblast, an unassuming gem in the heart of Russia, is a region that captivates with its rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Nestled along the majestic Volga River, this picturesque destination offers an array of experiences for travelers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Saratov Oblast, including the best time to visit, must-see places, exciting activities, transportation options, dining experiences, accommodation choices, famous street markets, and essential travel tips to make your journey to this hidden gem truly unforgettable.

About Saratov Oblast: Geography: Saratov Oblast is located in the southern part of European Russia, along the Volga River. The region boasts diverse landscapes, including fertile plains, rolling hills, and picturesque riverbanks.

Cultural Heritage: Saratov is known for its rich cultural heritage, with influences from Russian, Tatar, and German traditions. It is famous for its local festivals, music, and folklore.

Best Time to Visit Saratov Oblast: Summer (June to August): Summer is the prime tourist season in Saratov Oblast. The weather is warm, nature is in full bloom, and outdoor activities are at their peak.

Spring (May and early June) and Autumn (September): These transitional seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the region.

Winter (December to February): If you enjoy winter activities and the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, visiting Saratov Oblast in winter can be a unique experience.

Places to Visit in Saratov Oblast: Saratov: The city of Saratov, the regional capital, is known for its vibrant cultural scene. Don’t miss the Saratov State Art Museum, the beautiful riverfront, and the historic city center.

Engels: This picturesque town is located on the Volga River and is known for its charming architecture, parks, and the picturesque Lenin Square.

Volga River: The Volga River, one of Russia’s most famous waterways, flows through Saratov Oblast. Enjoy a river cruise to appreciate the scenic beauty and historical sites along its banks.

Sokolova Mountain: For panoramic views of the Volga River and the surrounding landscape, visit Sokolova Mountain. It’s a perfect spot for hiking and photography.

Things to Do in Saratov Oblast: Saratov Beaches: Enjoy the sandy beaches along the Volga River during the summer months, where you can swim, sunbathe, and engage in water sports.

Volga River Cruises: Take a cruise along the Volga River to appreciate the natural beauty of the area and to visit nearby towns and attractions.

Local Festivals: Participate in local festivals and events, such as the Saratov Festival of Balloons and the annual Volga Day celebration.

Local Cuisine: Savor the local flavors of Saratov, including traditional Russian dishes, Tatar cuisine, and German specialties influenced by the region’s heritage.

How to Get Around Saratov Oblast: Public Transportation: Saratov Oblast has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, trolleybuses, and a metro in Saratov city.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Saratov Oblast. Make sure to use official and registered taxi services to ensure a safe and fair experience.

Walking: Many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a pedestrian-friendly destination.

Where to Eat in Saratov Oblast: Russian Cuisine: Sample traditional Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and shashlik at local restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the local flavors.

International Cuisine: Saratov Oblast also offers a variety of international cuisine, including Italian, Chinese, and European restaurants. You can find options to suit diverse tastes.

Cafes and Bakeries: For a quick snack or a cup of coffee, Saratov Oblast has numerous cafes and bakeries where you can relax and enjoy a break.

Famous Street Stalls in Saratov Oblast: While street food stalls are not as prevalent in Saratov Oblast as in some other cities, you can find local stalls offering traditional Russian snacks and fast food in some areas.

Where to Stay in Saratov Oblast: Hotels: Saratov Oblast offers a range of hotels, from luxury to budget-friendly. Some popular options include the Saratov Marriott Hotel and the Saratov Hotel.

Hostels: If you’re traveling on a budget, Saratov Oblast has several hostels that offer affordable accommodations with basic amenities.

Guesthouses and Homestays: For a more personal and homely experience, consider staying in guesthouses or bed and breakfasts in smaller towns and villages.

Travel Tips for Saratov Oblast: Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visa to enter Russia well ahead of your trip. Visa processing can take some time.

Language Barrier: English may not be widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn some basic Russian phrases or have a translation app handy.

Currency Exchange: It’s advisable to exchange some currency to Russian Rubles before your trip. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.

Respect Local Customs: Russian culture values politeness and respect. Be courteous to the locals and follow cultural norms.

Weather Preparation: Depending on the season of your visit, pack accordingly. Winters can be extremely cold, so bring warm clothing.

Conclusion: Saratov Oblast, with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences, promises an unforgettable journey for travelers. Whether you’re captivated by the natural beauty, cultural festivals, or outdoor activities, Saratov Oblast has something for every type of traveler. By following the travel tips provided in this guide, you can make the most of your visit to this hidden gem, whether you come in the summer, winter, or any other season. Saratov Oblast is a destination where lasting memories are waiting to be created.

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Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting

The Bureau of Land Management provides opportunities to hunt, fish and engage in shooting sports activities in a safe and environmentally sound manner that promote marksmanship, public safety, hunter education, competition and lawful hunting.

Over 99 percent of BLM-managed lands are open to hunting, fishing and recreational shooting opportunities. The BLM provides important access to hunting and fishing opportunities on public lands and waters, working with local communities and our valued partners to actively expand access to these opportunities.

Find BLM Land near you.  Online Interactive Map .

America’s shared public lands provide habitat important for big, upland, and small game, furbearers and waterfowl and other game birds. The BLM manages 43 million acres of elk habitat, 131 million acres of mule deer habitat and 23 million acres of bighorn sheep habitat. BLM-managed lands are home to over 3,000 species , including big game, upland game birds and waterfowl. Numerous wildlife species occur nowhere else in the country, except on public lands. 

Unless specifically prohibited, public lands managed by the BLM are open to hunting. Always check with your local BLM office in the region you plan to visit to inquire about closures, restrictions and safety tips before you plan your trip. 

It is extremely important to hunt only on lands where it is legally allowed. Private land is open to hunting only if you have the permission of the land owner. If you do not have permission to hunt, you are trespassing and can be prosecuted. Crossing private lands to access public lands is not permitted, unless you first obtain permission from the private landowner. The BLM provides public information, such as brochures and maps, through online and physical public rooms. Find a public room in your state here .

All hunters on public lands must have the required state license(s) . States are responsible for managing wildlife within their borders for the trust and benefit of their residents, even if the hunting occurs on federal lands.  

The BLM manages over 130,000 miles of fishable rivers and streams and provides countless public recreational fishing access opportunities throughout the United States. From desert reservoirs to mountain streams, BLM's fisheries and aquatic resources support public recreation and subsistence fisheries and are critical for sustaining the Nation’s aquatic resources and fisheries. BLM-managed lands are open for fishing unless specifically closed for specific resource protection purposes.

All anglers on public lands must have the required state license(s). That’s because states are responsible for managing wildlife within their borders for the trust and benefit of their residents, even if the hunting occurs on federal lands. You can search for state fishing licenses on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website .

Recreational Shooting

Target shooting is generally allowed on BLM-administered public lands, as long as it is done in a safe manner, without damaging natural resources or improvements on public lands. Across all BLM-administered lands, discharging or using firearms, weapons, or fireworks is not allowed on developed recreation sites and areas except at sites specifically designated for that purpose. Check with your local BLM office for any additional restrictions on shooting.

Please follow this guidance during your recreational shooting experience:

• Never shoot from or over any road or highway.
• Always use a safe backdrop.
• Glass and exploding targets are prohibited in some states.
• Do not use plastic pellets, tracer rounds, exploding rounds, or steel-core rounds.
• Do not attach targets to plants or place targets against rocks, plants, or solid objects.  It is illegal to deface or destroy trees, signs, outbuildings, or other objects on federal lands.
• Carry in your targets and carry out all litter, brass and shell casings.  All targets, shell casings, debris and trash must be removed.
• Cross-country travel is not permitted outside of OHV Open Area boundaries, so please stay on designated routes.

Visit the National Shooting Sports Foundation page to see an interactive map of places to shoot.

Read more Tread Lightly tips for responsible shooting sports.

During Fire Season, some areas may be closed to target shooting .  

Safety Tips

Come prepared. Weather and conditions may change quickly so pack accordingly. Always bring a first-aid kit, extra water, food and dry clothing.

Plan your route in advance. Stop by your local BLM field office to pick up hard-copy maps, and make sure your course is on public lands. Don’t enter private lands without contacting the landowner and getting permission first. Some BLM maps can also be found on the BLM website. 

Know your surroundings. Be on the lookout for other people and potential risks. Always be sure of your target and what is beyond.

Let others know your plans. Before leaving, make sure to touch base with someone and let them know where you will be, when you will be back and develop an emergency plan just in case. 

Make sure your equipment is in proper working condition. By checking your equipment, you decrease risk of injury to yourself and others and to avoid accidentally starting a wildfire on public lands. Take steps to make sure trailer chains aren’t dragging, and stay on roads and trails.

Practice Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly principles . Whenever you venture out on public lands, you should follow outdoor ethics to preserve the great outdoors for future generations. Do your part to keep public lands clean and prevent the spread of invasive species.

Practice proper rifle and archery safety. Treat every gun as if it is loaded. Don’t let the muzzle of a firearm point at anything you do not intend to shoot. Keep your finger off the trigger and out of the trigger guard until your sights are on the target and you are ready to shoot. Make sure to never dry-fire a bow, use proper arrows that you store in a quiver and stay alert around broadheads. 

Protect yourself by wearing safety equipment. Always wear proper hearing protection and safety glasses. When target shooting, always use appropriate targets and backstops. In addition, wear hunter orange when required. 

REPORT CRIMES

Please help preserve our heritage. Treat cultural sites with respect. Do not touch petroglyphs or remove artifacts. Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.

State Hunting/Fishing Information

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Things to Do Outdoors in Vermont

Vermont stands out as a four-season outdoor recreation destination, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore new horizons . S ummer bring s adventures like hiking lush trails, kayaking on pristine lakes , and cycling through scenic countryside. Fall showcases Vermont’s iconic foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, and more . When winter blankets the state in snow, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating become cherished pastimes. And Spring reawakens the senses with warmer air and activities on recreation paths and rail trails. Vermont’s diverse outdoor experiences recharge your batteries year-round, no electricity required .   

Find Clarity in Nature

Hiking trails crisscross Vermont, offering everything from challenging mountain ascents to accessible paths through lush forests. Cyclists and mountain bikers, including those who use adaptive equipment, can explore scenic countryside routes, while camping options range from secluded spots in state parks to private campgrounds. Additionally, Vermont’s extensive rail trails, repurposed from old railroad lines, provide picturesque and accessible routes that connect downtowns and regions.

Recreation Paths and Rail Trails 

On the Water

From the leisure of paddling to the refresh of swimming, Vermont’s pristine waterways offer adventure in spades. Canoeing and kayaking allow for serene exploration of tranquil lakes and winding rivers, providing an up-close encounter with the state’s natural beauty. Swimming in Vermont’s crystal-clear lakes, ponds, and swimming holes is refreshing on a hot summer day. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely rides or exciting water sports, including sailing on Vermont’s lakes, embracing the flow of wind and water.

Sailing & Boating

Winter Recreation

Vermont’s snow-covered landscapes offer a winter wonderland for activities like skiing and snowboarding, with world-class resorts providing well-groomed and heart-dropping vertical for all ages and ability levels, including those who need adaptive equipment. Elsewhere, hundreds of miles of backcountry terrain and trails beckon Nordic skiers and snowmobilers.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Snowmobiling

Cross-Country Skiing

Snowshoeing

More Ways to Get Outside

From teeing off to clipping in, there are so many ways to get outside in Vermont. Find more recreation resources here.

Vermont’s natural setting challenges golfers with rolling hills on course and frames scenic mountain views in the backdrop. More than 60 golf clubs and courses beckon throughout the state.

Rock Climbing

Vermont’s climbing routes can be found throughout the state, whether seeking cliffs and cracks to reach new heights or bouldering near a river. There are also many indoor climbing gyms where you can hone your skills.

Shred the trails on two wheels. With their extra-large tires, wide rims and unorthodox dimensions, fat bikes are equipped to take on hundreds of miles of maintained trails in Vermont.

With 24 courses in Vermont’s picturesque outdoors, disc golf is a growing sport in the Green Mountain State. 

Ice Skating

Vermont’s lakes and ponds, as well as public and maintained ice rinks, make for great places to get out and glide. The state is also home to the longest maintained ice skating trail in the U.S. on Lake Morey.

Sledding and Tubing

Sledding is a great way to experience the adrenaline rush and fun of letting gravity take you down the hill. Vermont is home to several family-friendly public sledding hills and many ski areas offer tubing hills.

More bucks are harvested per square mile in Vermont than any other New England state. With over 800,000 acres of land open for hunting from late October through November, Vermont is a game destination for deer, bear, moose, and turkeys.

Ice fishing

Ice fishing gives the angler a unique advantage during the hard-water season; once there is six inches or more of ice, you can easily and safely move off-shore without a boat to fish trout, salmon, bass, and more. 

Ice Climbing

When Vermont’s schist freezes over, this hidden gem appears in plain sight. Ice picks are located throughout the state from Smuggler’s Notch rugged terrain to Lake Willoughby’s steep lines above the scenic glacially-carved lake.

Outdoors for EveryBODY

Vermont Adaptive Sports

There are many ways to get outside in Vermont for those who use adaptive equipment. The state’s first fully adaptive mountain biking trail network, The Driving Range, was designed for three-wheeled bikes, aiming to present the same levels of challenge and accessibility to all . Vermont Adaptive aims to make outdoor recreation, from sailing, cycling, and mountain biking to skiing, riding, and more, accessible with guide services, adaptive equipment, and programming.