- Title: Accomodation shortages and free sleepovers for World Cup fans in Russia's Rostov
- Date: 4th June 2018
- Summary: ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA (RECENT) (REUTERS) ARC WITH WORLD CUP 2018 RUSSIA LOGO PEOPLE PASSING BY FLOWER BED SHAPED AS SOCCER BALL
- Embargoed: 18th June 2018 13:43
- Keywords: Russia World Cup World Cup housing Russia hostel Russia Airbnb
- Location: ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA
- City: ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA
- Country: Russia
- Topics: Sport,World Cup
- Reuters ID: LVA0018IW8MKN
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Story Text: The Russian provincial city of Rostov-on-Don is expecting an inrush of soccer fans as the city will host World Cup matches this month, while accommodation remains an issue for many visitors.
The majority of hotels are already full and apartment rental prices have gone up dramatically, but hostel owners assure last minute bookers that they will also find a place to stay.
"Closer to the dates of the championship we will open these rooms for rent on platforms like Booking (.com)," says Polina Lukyanova the manager of ID hostel in the heart of the city.
She explains this strategy with Russian legislation curbing the growth of prices during the World Tournament. The government ruling passed back in February 2016 has limited housing prices to the regional average, which satisfied businesses in the capital and left some provincial hotels disappointed.
"The legislation set a price limit for a double room which we cannot exceed in our hotel. As our rooms have six to eight beds - the government said we must divide this sum by eight. This means that we have to sell places in our hostels for 200-300 roubles (3.23 - 4.84 USD) per person. This is even less than our usual price," Lukyanova told Reuters, adding that the legislation is supported with considerable fines.
In the meantime some people seek other than financial benefits from the upcoming surge of visitors. Some Rostov residents let out a room or a sleeping place for free intending to use communication with foreigners as a way to improve their language skills.
"My parents study English to travel with ease and this would be some good practice for them," said Oleg, one of those who preferred knowledge to quick money, adding that he plans to get his guests involved in family activities.
Russia will host the World Cup from June 14 to July 15 in 12 venues spread across 11 cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan and Sochi, and is expecting a large influx of visitors. - Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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