Jet2holidays, Britain's second-largest tour operator, reported an increase in bookings to Cyprus and Greece, following the two countries' announcements of arrangements for British tourists in May.
As far as Cyprus is concerned, bookings through the travel company have tripled in the last week due to the announcement that Britons fully vaccinated against coronavirus will be admitted without testing and quarantine from 1 May.
Although the British government's timetable for lifting anti-coronation restrictions stipulates that international leisure travel will not be allowed before May 17, Jet2holidays CEO Steve Hippie said the decision by Cyprus and Greece to declare ready early is welcome.
"The United Kingdom is the most advanced country in Europe in terms of the successful development of the vaccination program, so we congratulate the governments of Greece and Cyprus for their decisions for the future," said the experienced British agent.
He added that in line with the timetable announced by the British government, announcements from Cyprus and Greece now give "great confidence" to British tourists that they will be able to enjoy the sunshine of the Mediterranean this summer. "We know how incredibly difficult this period has been for everyone and we look forward to taking everyone from our rainy islands to their dream vacation destination this summer and beyond," said Hippie.
Bookings are on the rise despite Transport Secretary Grand Saps urging the British to be patient until April 12, when the government-led International Travel Working Group will finally decide when and how leisure travel abroad will be allowed. .
The Sun quotes Deputy Tourism Minister Savva Perdiou as saying that there is a "significant increase" in bookings following the launch of the lockdown exit schedule in Britain. "It is too early to give numbers, but I can say that in the coming weeks and days we will be in talks with all the tour operators. "TUI, Jet2, Love holidays, EasyJet, Sunvil, Mercury, Olympic will be among them", said Mr. Perdios.
The Times recalls statements made last week by the Deputy Minister of Tourism noting that Cyprus will also welcome Britons who have not been vaccinated, if they show a negative diagnostic test. Mr. Perdios also stressed that with its announcements Cyprus offers to the interested tourists and the travel industry "certainty", which is necessary in the planning of the trips.
Meanwhile, the Daily Telegraph describes Cyprus as "the most important of the Mediterranean islands" and hosts a tribute to what the visitor can discover.
Among other things, reference is made to the tranquility of the island, the good accommodation options, the endless sunny days, the sandy beaches, the many activities for children, to "some of the best sports activities in the Mediterranean", to the taverns and restaurants with Authentic local recipes, nightlife, top spas, world-famous archeological sites, mountains with wineries and nature trails, chatting with locals in cafes, rich history and culture.