Yerevan was among the top three most popular destinations in the near abroad among air travelers from Russia in January-June 2017, experts from Tutu.ru tourist service have announced.

The near abroad usually refers to the newly independent republics (other than Russia itself) which emerged after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The Armenian capital is generally a preferred route for tourist from Russia.

In the near abroad section, Moldova (Chisinau) is leading, with the Georgian capital of Tbilisi also making it to the top three, Lenta.ru reports.

Among destinations of far abroad, Israel was most in demand, followed by Turkey, in particular, Antalya and Istanbul.

The most popular European cities among air travelers from Russia in the reporting period were Prague, Larnaca (Cyprus) and Munich.

The average prices for air tickets from Russia reportedly fell by 15-20% in the first half of 2017 year-on-year.