GVB Welcomes First Russian Family since Visa Parole

Tumon, (Guam) – 29 January 2012 – On January 17, 2012, the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) welcomed the first Russian visitors since the US Department of Homeland Security approved visa parole for Russian citizens on January 15, 2012. The Prudnikovs, a family of four, arrived on Guam via Korean Air under the Guam Russia Visa Waiver Parole Authority. The family is staying at the Pacific Islands Club, a popular hotel with waterpark, and will be on Guam for three weeks. They return to Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia on February 6, 2012.

The Guam Russia Visa Waiver Parole Authority makes it easy for Russian travellers to visit the islands of Guam and Saipan. Guam, a US territory, is the closest American destination from Russia and Saipan has long been visited and inhabited by Russians.

The Department of Homeland Security on November 23, 2011 granted visa parole authority for Russian visitors to come to Guam. Parole authority allows tourists to enter the island on a case-by-case basis, without the need for a visa. The parole allows Russian visitors to stay in the Mariana Islands for up to 45 days total.

GVB General Manager Joann Camacho was quoted as having said that they are delighted to welcome the Prudnikovs out of the cold winter weather into the gorgeous tropical climate of Guam, and are confident that the family of four will enjoy all the beach, water, and family activities the island has to offer and return to Russia refreshed and recharged.