Rental cost for a two-seater chair set at 2,500 per day.
Sochi, a city of contrasts, continues to attract visitors with its crystal clear sea, vibrant music scene, and unique attractions. However, the destination also faces criticisms about high prices, overcrowding, and sometimes poor service.
Sochi, located in the Krasnodar Krai region of Russia, is a city of luxury foreign cars and battered Ladas, high-end restaurants and street food stalls, tourists and locals, trendy boutiques, and street vendors selling cheap "knock-offs". A new attraction in Sochi is a 50-meter pedestrian bridge called "Magic Leaf" spanning the Sochi River, which has become a popular spot for selfies and group photos this season, according to a local tour guide.
The resort in Sochi offers options for every budget, including affordable accommodations and luxury hotels with private beaches. However, many tourists find the prices in Sochi to be expensive. To enjoy a comfortable stay at the resort, it's better to rent a room in a private house or book a room with a sea view.
The city has changed since the 2014 Olympics and the World Cup, but now feels stagnant, according to a journalist who travelled from Moscow to Sochi by train for 13,800 rubles, including a meal, clean toilets, shower, and air conditioning. The embankment near the maritime station in Sochi has been renovated, but is now described as a "desolate zone" with no trees.
Despite these challenges, Sochi remains a worthwhile destination. Visitors can enjoy natural beauty along with cultural and leisure sites such as the Adler Dolphinarium and Skypark, which continue to attract many tourists[1][3]. The city offers a variety of experiences like dolphin and marine animal shows, walking on the longest suspension bridge in Russia, and access to mountain and sea landscapes.
Although the beaches are free, sunbeds and umbrellas cost 2,500 rubles a day, and tourists complain about empty wallets despite this. Distant beaches in Sochi are almost empty due to the heat, while nearby ones are crowded like "sardines in a tin". Beach vendors shouting "chebureks" and "hot corn" are no longer common on the beaches in Sochi.
However, for those who seek a quieter and more authentic experience, Sochi has hidden gems waiting to be discovered. A friend of a journalist from 'KP' shared that they found quiet, almost wild beaches, cafes with delicious shashlik, tea plantations with beautiful sunsets, and mountain spots with fresh air and trout dishes.
In summary, if your priorities include natural scenery, lively atmosphere, and entertainment options, Sochi remains a worthwhile destination in 2022. Travelers should be prepared for higher prices and manage expectations regarding service quality and crowd levels to maximize their experience.
References:
[1] Telegram Channel PrimaMedia.Primorye - The Main Thing - Faster Than Others [2] Sochi - Wikipedia [3] Sochi Travel Guide 2022
While Sochi continues to enthrall visitors with its diverse offerings of luxury and authentic experiences, it's essential to prepare for elevated prices when planning a trip. Amidst the city's lively atmosphere, tourists can explore attractions like the Adler Dolphinarium and Skypark, or discover hidden gems such as secluded beaches, quaint cafes, and picturesque tea plantations.
