“Visit us after the war, as soon as we have achieved victory.” That is the message of Olena Kazmina and Maria Yukhnovets of the Association of Incoming Tour Operators in Ukraine. The tourism organization of the country at war is a notable exhibitor at the Holiday Fair. Ukraine’s participation was initiated by ANVR, together with other industry associations from the ECTAA (the European ANVR, ed.) and business and industry partners of the ANVR. A large image in the modest position says it all: Visit Ukraine after the victory. ‘Our message is not that tourists should come to Ukraine now, but please come after the war. We are now fighting for victory and planting the seed, as it were, for when our country is safe again,” says Maria Yukhnovets. Before the attack by Russia and before corona, inbound tourism in Ukraine accounted for $1.8 billion. ‘By coming back to Ukraine, tourists will be able to contribute to the reconstruction of the country,’ says the duo. “We are fighting for peace and respect. Visitors can see with their own eyes what the situation is like in our country and not be misled by propaganda.’ Kazmina and Yukhnovets are very happy with the help of ANVR and partners. For example, NS International has covered the costs for a train return from Kiev to Warsaw, KLM has arranged return tickets from Warsaw to Amsterdam and NH Hotel Utrecht has taken care of the hotel stays during the event. Jaarbeurs provided a stand. ‘Together we are stronger.’ Photo: Maria Yukhnovets and Olena Kazmina.
