The Soviet Union, also known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), was a socialist state that existed from 1922 to 1991. During its existence, the country was known for its strict government control and limited freedoms. One question that often arises is whether tourism existed in the Soviet Union.
Tourism in the Soviet Union
Tourism in the USSR was not like modern-day tourism. It was organized by the state with a focus on showcasing the achievements of communism rather than providing leisure activities for tourists. The government used tourism as a tool to promote socialism and improve its image abroad.
The Development of Tourism Industry in USSR
The development of tourism industry in the USSR started after World War II. In 1950, the government created Intourist, a state-owned travel agency responsible for organizing and managing foreign tourism within the country. Intourist controlled all aspects of tourism including transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing.
Types of Tourism
There were two types of tourism available in the Soviet Union – domestic and international. Domestic tourism was restricted to residents of the USSR while international tourism was open to foreigners.
Domestic tourists could visit places such as sanatoriums, health resorts, spas, and cultural centers. These facilities were affordable for ordinary citizens as their costs were subsidized by the government.
International tourists had access to more luxurious accommodations but they also faced strict regulations on their movements within the country. They were only allowed to visit specific destinations that were approved by Intourist.
Sights to See
The Soviet Union had many historical landmarks and cultural sites that were popular among tourists. Some of these included:
- The Red Square in Moscow
- The Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg
- The Kremlin in Moscow
- The Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow
- The Lenin Mausoleum in Moscow
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourism did exist in the Soviet Union but it was heavily controlled by the government. The focus of tourism was not on leisure but rather on promoting socialism and improving the country’s image abroad. Despite this, there were many historical and cultural sites that were popular among tourists.