Tourism is a dynamic pillar of the economy

"The co-operation of the hotels with the tour operators keeps the prices low and the competitiveness of the tourist product of Cyprus"

Expectations are being verified that the world is returning to normality after the Covid-19 era and it is easier than before to travel for vacations or escapes for a few days of rest and a change from everyday life. This return favors development and the economy and consequently the tourism sector, keeping Cyprus high as a noteworthy and preferable tourist destination. The advantages that Cyprus offers seal the satisfaction of the visitor who finds at the same time that his money has value and that he can enjoy all this with less expense. In this field, the co-operation of hotels with tour operators contributes to keep prices low and to continuously ensure the competitiveness of the tourist product of Cyprus. This is why tourism is a dynamic pillar that provides money to the economy year after year.

The indications for this year exceed all expectations, especially after the slow start of the first two months due to the neighboring conflict, since the continuation of the night reservations run at a very high rate and occupancies are high until the end of October, even in the first days of November. The strong sterling pound in comparison with the rate of exchange with the euro significantly strengthened and increased the English tourists to travel to Cyprus, offsetting the relative decline from affected markets such as Israel due to the war and Germany due to the financial crisis. Also, it cannot be ignored that Cyprus entered very strongly in markets such as Poland, France, the Scandinavian countries and that it receives interest and preference from Switzerland, the Netherlands, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Extension of tourist season

Extending the tourist season by including part or the months of March and November can become a reality, as long as the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, local authorities, hotels, food and leisure sectors contribute in this direction. The main issue is for them to discuss and agree with the tour operators and airlines to continue their flights with the same frequency, without interrupting their programs and the connectivity of Cyprus for the descent of tourists. Everyone should contribute to attracting visitors and filling seats on planes for trips to Cyprus. The benefit will be great since the lengthening of the tourist season in these months will progressively increase demand in the coming months with the aim of gradually expanding and covering the whole year.

Objectives to be realized

It is an indisputable fact that Cyprus with its high-level hotel facilities, the importance it attaches to hospitality, in addition to the sun, the very good climate conditions, the clean seas and the other advantages it offers, is also the finding that it is cheaper and better from other tourist destinations. Advertising campaigns and attention should therefore be focused on objectives that arouse the interest of the traveller to visit Cyprus. Events that have a remarkable content and international reach so as to become an institution and showcase the various parts of Cyprus can be a landmark of the tourism product. The organization and conduct of concerts, festivals, local activities that highlight traditional culture and gastronomy, sports events, tournaments, hosting athletes for winter training and conference tourism are among the priorities and pursuits that can be implemented and to further highlight Cyprus as a tourist destination.

Expectations for the coming years

The assessment and expectation from tour operators is that Cyprus can continue its dynamic course in the years to come, as long as we preserve the low prices it offers and the competitiveness of its tourist product. New travel organizes from mainly central European markets are already showing interest, a factor which should be taken advantage of in order for Cyprus to receive the corresponding benefit. The local Authorities and the State through the Deputy Ministry of Tourism play an important role in this effort and must implement innovative initiatives and essential benefits, including care for the protection of the environment. A well-trained staff is a priority and a responsibility that it must be consolidated by highlighting Cyprus in this sector of service provision as well.