Direct links from the eastern cities of Vladivostok and Khabarovsk are on the way, said Russian presidential adviser Igor Levitin.

Transit passengers from 20 countries will be allowed 72 hours in Russia without the hassle of obtaining a visa.

US, Dutch, Swiss, Swedish, South Korean, German and Russian tourists banned from leaving the area.

Emergency chiefs say that increased activity means tour companies and residents must avoid going too close to eruptions.

Graham Vavangas collided with Scania tanker, say police in Yakutia.

Popular with the aristocracy and the royals in the 18th and 19th centuries, the lavish festivity will be held for tourists.

Custom officers said the young woman walked unnaturally and was visibly nervous.

Tourist chiefs in Thailand have stressed the importance to them of visitors from the eastern regions of Russia.