Russia is rarely out of the headlines these days -- often for controversial reasons -- but does that mean it should be avoided by tourists?
Since the collapse of the Soviet Union the country's status as a travel destination has grown steadily, with visitors drawn as much by the spectacular architecture and history of Moscow and St. Petersburg, as by the people and rich culture.
However, recent events in Ukraine and the Crimean region have dealt a blow to this popularity, and could spell further trouble for Russia's tourism industry in 2015.
Ironically, with the ruble taking a significant hit after the West slapped sanctions on Moscow following the annexation of Crimea and tensions in eastern Ukraine, there's seldom been a cheaper time to go for visitors from many countries.
But will they go? And, crucially, should they?