Experience of creation and functioning of tourist and information center in Russia: tourist and information center «Dmitrov» in Moscow region

The article deals with the problems of creation and functioning of Tourist and Information Center (TIC) in Russia as one of the most important segments of the hospitality industry. With the example of TIC «Moscow suburbs. DMITROV» the main problems that appear in process of creation and functioning of Russian TIC in current conditions are considered. The article presents basic features and capabilities of TIC, the range of services, examples of applications of citizens, the main difficulties in process of work. In addition, this article considers TIC not only as an organization that provides information to residents and visitors to the city, but also reflects their role as a bridge between business and municipal authorities in the territory for more effective their interaction and the formation of a competitive tourism product in the region. Big attention is paid to lack of normative legal acts defining and regulating the activities of TIC, their powers, which greatly complicates the process of work and the further development of such centers. To address these issues the inte- gration of the work of all state and municipal bodies responsible for the development of tourism in the Russian Federa- tion is required. The article provides a brief analysis of creation and functioning of Tourist and Information Center «Moscow region. DMITROV», experience of its work and problems that have been encountered. It also contains proposals relating to the regulation of Tourist and Information Centers’ activities, defining their powers and duties as well as cooperation with each other and other organizations