The messages for the tourism industry of Paphos District are not encouraging at all, according to the vice-president of the Paphos Hoteliers Association, Evelyn Cleanthos Komodromou, adding that in recent weeks they have received some messages from foreign travel agents referring to the reduced travel interest. .
In her statements to KYPE, Ms. Komodromou mentioned that a month and a half ago there was some optimism from new markets, however she noted, now the data have changed, since the hoteliers are receiving messages last month that in the next tourist year the interest will be reduced. Unfortunately, he noticed that after the announcements for the Omicron mutation, the hoteliers of Paphos received several cancellations.
He added that the tourism we see now in Paphos is from Poland, Romania and from countries where Ryan Air flies through Individual Booking. In December it continued, occupancy reached 25% noting that very few hotels have been left open, about 20 of the 110 operating in Paphos District. Ms. Komodromou stated that some hotel units that are still operating today are expected to close after the holidays for a period of two months.
He then referred to the uncertainty that prevails for the summer season, saying that travel agents are asking for reductions. The period of the pandemic, he noted, combined with the negative psychology of the people does not help at all, emphasizing that they will again rely on last minute reservations.
Asked about the domestic market, Ms. Komodromou answered that she mainly chooses mountains and mountain resorts. A positive development was also characterized by the continuation of the program of the Ministry of Tourism with the subsidized holidays until March.
The primary market for Paphos Province is the English one, he said, while stating that the Russian market is expected to develop without high hopes. Indicatively, he said, the Russian market is a classic market. The Israeli market is a special market for a few days vacation, but due to Covid-19, as he said, the Israelis do not travel.
Comparing the current year of 2021 with 2020, Ms. Komodromou said that in terms of tourist traffic, 2021 is better due to the vaccination program and the shielding of citizens. However, he noted, a new market needs some preparation to start. He then referred to the program that Paphos started with the German-speaking areas, noting that with the start of flights that a specific airline dared, there was a response and this is encouraging.
Source: KYPE