Google' financial and technical help is hoped to help increase the influx of tourists to the Russian city of Kostroma.

      Traditionally considered a jewellery capital of Russia, Kostroma admits to having a shortage of the actual facilties for tourists, both in hotels and in attractions, however these are being rapidly developed. To save on promotion of the region, Kostroma turned to the Internet and the main player, Google, to spread the word about existing tourist opportunities.

      A 2,5 months project is intended primarily for Moscow visitors. They will be able to browse a revamped website of Kostroma City and a complementary mobile app. Many buildings and attractions in the city have been QR-coded by Google, precisely with the intent to help visitors learn more about the site they are at. 

      Kostroma has received a page for its hotels on Oktogo.ru and a dedicated YouTube channel. And within a special project intended at disabled visitors a map has been created that tracks facilities and routes for tourists with various special needs. 

      After the results will have been gathered and analysed in early 2013, Kostroma will continue using the same web-based channels to promote the region and to increase the influx of tourists, this time not just from Moscow.