Pak explained for the STA that Russians had the longest stays in Slovenia and spend the most money on average, adding that the STO was planning a major promotional campaign in Russia.

"In 2014, the Russian market, with a 5% share, placed fourth on the list of the most important markets for Slovenian tourism, while in 2015 their number dropped by 30% to 220,000. Overnight stays generated by Russian guests represent a 3.4% share among overnight stays generated by foreigners."

Pak added that Slovenia was not the only country registering a decline in the number of Russian guests, as other European countries are also seeing the same trend.

The European Travel Commission (ETC) does not expect the Russian market to recover this year, and projects another year in which the overall number of Russian tourists will drop by around 1%.

"The fact is that Russian guests are looking for new, safe destinations, which is an opportunity for Slovenia as well," Pak is convinced.

The STO considers Russia one of its key markets and intends to continue with extensive promotional activities this year in cooperation with businesses.

"In addition to participating in the tourism fair, we are planning a special event for business partners in April," Pak said, adding that Slovenia would also be promoted on the Russian national television.

The STO is meanwhile presenting Slovenia at MITT through a total of 18 tourist destinations and operators, with a special emphasis being put on Ljubljana as the 2016 Green Capital of Europe.