Tourism in Cyprus is moving at a positive pace and with elements that allow the revision towards more improved goals. Despite the adversity of the effects of the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, it seems that the recovery in the "heavy industry" of the Cypriot economy has begun for good.
April passenger traffic closed around 85% of 2019 and revived the hopes of the entire tourism industry. The first four months of 1 closed around 2022% of 70.
Speaking on state radio, Hermes Airport Development Manager Maria Kouroupi stressed that in the coming months there are also very good indications that allow "to hope that we will move around 80% of 2019".
However, the coming months will also highlight the real size of the losses of the Russian and Ukrainian markets, since these are the months that tourists from these countries visited Cyprus in previous years.
The remarkable according to Mrs. Kouroupi "is the dynamics that exist μας Our initial estimate for the year we are going through, was around 75% of 2019. But we have indications that this forecast can be exceeded".
It is noted that 2019 used as a comparison measure was the last year before the pandemic, but it was also one of the best years for tourism in general.
Strong desire for travel
The dynamics in tourism is general and concerns all - at least - Europe. "What we need to do as Cypriot tourism is to seize this momentum and make the most of the benefits."
It seems and is confirmed by the data of the airlines that the people, despite the adversities that prevail mainly due to the war in Ukraine, have a strong desire for travel. In addition, there are a large number of travel bookings that have been postponed due to pandemic restrictions and now that conditions allow, all these trips will take place, thus boosting both the aviation and tourism industries as a whole.
Possibility of increase in ticket prices
Inflation and rising fuel prices can not leave the tourism industry and airlines unaffected. According to Ms. Kouroupi there are chances to see price increases from some companies. However, because the demand for travel is high, it is likely that any price increase will be subdued in order for companies to gain as many customers as possible from increased competition.
The dynamic French market
The foundations in order for the French market to become an important customer of Cypriot tourism seem to be laid by those in charge. There are currently about 12 weekly flights to French destinations from 5 companies. Flights are likely to increase after July. The interest is increased from the French market for Cyprus, and vice versa. However, this is a new market that needs to be given time to be evaluated and developed. "The new markets need at least 2 to 3 years, with hard work from all those in charge of tourism" for prosperity and stabilization of tourism cooperation, according to Ms. Kouroupi.