Greece is a leader in tourism development among other European countries

In an interview given to the newspaper “Ελεύθερος Τύπος της Κυριακής”, Minister of Tourism Vassilis Kikilias says that “in 2022, Greece experienced the largest increase in tourism in Europe.”

The Minister noted that the figures so far – both for arrivals and income, as well as for the number of bookings that have been made for the coming months – indicate that this year’s figures will be 10-20% higher than in past.

“In 2022, Greece was the country with the largest growth in tourism in Europe, with an influx of travelers from very important markets, to which new ones were added, after very lucrative agreements with airlines and tour operators. Therefore, this season we expect a further increase in the tourist flow from major markets, such as the UK, for example,” the minister stressed.

As emphasized, the Ministry of Tourism launches flights from China even in the off-season – based on the logic that the Chinese travel all year round, as well as to Australia (the new EOT office has been opened in Melbourne). At the same time, Israel is increasing the number of flights to our country, which is the number 1 destination.

“In addition, we are moving forward on important agreements with Saudi Arabian airlines and have already begun work with India and South Korea. And of course, this year we also have direct flights from the US and Canada, which were first made last year. All these transactions, except for very large ones, concern high-spending travelers who spend a lot. At the same time, they have more time in the country. The result is a significant strengthening of the Greek economy, small and medium-sized businesses in Athens, Thessaloniki, of course, on the islands, as well as in mountainous and alternative destinations,” added Mr. Kikilias.

The Minister noted that, despite numerous crises, the increase in the flow of tourists and the extension of the season have led to a significant increase in the turnover of shops in all directions, and especially in Athens, which now welcomes travelers from all over the world for almost 12 months a year. He specifically mentioned the EOT shopping campaign in Greece – in collaboration with ESEE – to further strengthen trade through tourism development.

Finally, to the question about promotion of medical and health tourism Mr. Kikilias replied: “The wellness* industry is constantly growing and expanding. The interest of a wide category of citizens has significantly increased in it, since life expectancy has increased. We have ready-made offers for this tourism sector. In the near future, the draft will be put to a vote in parliament.”

**Wellness implies the complex use of healing methods, consisting of dietology, rehabilitation programs, psychological recovery, functional training, spa treatments, etc. Wellness may include fitness.

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