GREECE is undoubtedly one of the world’s top tourist destinations, being ranked consistently in the top 15 and with 17.5 million visitor arrivals in 2008.
However, 2009 was a relatively difficult year for Greek tourism and, with social stability still a matter of concern, 2010 early summer bookings slowed down between five and 10 per cent.
But this is not the complete picture. According to Minister of Culture and Tourism Paul Geroulanou: “The picture of social unrest shown to the world clearly left a negative impact on Greek tourism and we are set to reconstruct that image.
“We have also changed our strategy and fundamentals and our goal is to have 52 weeks of tourism activities all over Greece when we will promote the various categories including religious tourism, cultural tourism, agro-tourism, health tourism and sports tourism.
“Besides that we want to encourage weekend tours to cities like Thessalonika which are fabulous places and have much to offer but unfortunately do not receive the numbers they could. The Museum of Acropolis for instance has been awarded and identified by the Guild of Travel Writers of Great Britain as the best museum in the world and can help boost tourism into this area.”
Currently Greek tourism contributes almost 18 per cent into the country’s revenues. This year the government announced plans for a VAT reduction for tourism enterprises from 11 per cent to 6.5 per cent. This could help create jobs and shows the government’s commitment to the tourism industry and the contribution it can make to the economy.
With much progress in arrivals from traditional markets such as Great Britain and Germany, the country is now looking at growth in new markets and an expected increase in visitors from Eastern Europe and the Balkans. “We are also working with Russia, France, Italy and the Middle East and hope to see significant arrivals from these countries in 2011,” said Geroulanou.
While the sky is the limit, Geroulanou is confident of closing 2010 with a five per cent increase in arrivals from last year.
Greece is creating new products to attract tourists to various cities and sites across the country including Samos, Crete, Halkidi and Mount Athos. The main target is to re-build the high season but also to work harder at becoming a year-round destination.
“Besides great value, our way of life, philosophy, history, food and culture make Greece a perfect holiday destination,” added Geroulanuou. “And for guests looking for luxury, we have five-star luxury hotels that reflect our history and culture offering an unforgettable vacation.”