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Russian TV show Utro Rossii films in NMI
Russian television show Utro Rossii filmed on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota last month for programs scheduled to air on June 15 to over 1 million viewers.
While in the Northern Marianas, the show host interviewed historian Scott Russell about indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian culture, president Sharon Hart and students from Northern Marianas College, and principal Raena Bermudes at Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School. Other filming included an interview with World War II survivor David Sablan and various World War II sites on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
World War II survivor David Sablan is interviewed by Russian TV show Utro Rossii on May 11, 2015. (MVA)
Indigenous Chamorro dance troupe Simiyan Manaina-ta is filmed by Russian TV show Utro Rossii (MVA)
Culinary attractions will also be featured on the show, including the Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden and Tinian “donne sali” (hot pepper) production. Filming was also conducted at Saipan World Resort, Kanoa Resort, Aqua Resort Club, Mariana Resort & Spa, Pacific Islands Club Saipan, Rota Resort, and Fiesta Resort & Spa and aboard the “Stars & Stripes” dinner cruise boat.
A local family shared the day with the film crew as well, preparing a local barbecue and preparing for and performing local dances. Other filmed adventures included the Sea Touch marine animal encounter, an RZR tour with Let’s Go Tour and scenic sites on all three islands.
“The Russian outbound market has serious international issues far beyond the control of the CNMI,” said MVA Marketing manager Bruce Bateman. “Nevertheless, we are doing everything possible to stimulate current Russian arrivals and to keep our destination’s image in front of the traveling public during these trying economic times. High viewership programs like this one are seen all across Russia and help meet that exposure goal.”
Arrivals from Russia fell 80 percent to 189 visitors in May as a result of the suspension of direct flights last year. The MVA has launched discount campaigns to the NMI from Far East Russia throughout summer 2015 to begin rebuilding the Russian market in the face of severe economic pressures and has launched a campaign providing incentives to travel agents who book hotels in the Northern Marianas. (MVA)
