Extension of the season from Kastellorizo to Athens
In the extension of the tourist season even in less popular destinations, with the result that travel revenues exceed the target of last year’s budget by 3 billion. euros, said the Minister of Tourism Vassilis Kikilias speaking at the Open.
“Yesterday, a friend of mine from Kastelorizo who was in the local government for years, Giorgos Achladiotis, called me and informed me that until mid-November, the accommodation in this island complex was full. Samos, Kos, which had very high tourist flows this year – because we are also interested in alternative destinations. Of course, the popular destinations had and still have tourists, it is impressive what is happening this year in Athens and Thessaloniki” said Mr. Kikilias, noting that travel revenues go directly to the average Greek family, Greek society and a number of professions – from tourism industry, catering and trade up to the primary sector and constructions – while at the same time they give the Government the possibility to proceed with social support policies for Greek households – such as the Food Pass – in a very difficult period of global crises.
The Minister of Tourism also underlined that in the context of the efforts made to strengthen winter tourism in the country, and based on the announcements of the Prime Minister regarding the curation of the tourist season, 11 airlines have already signed contracts with the EOT for flights, new . destinations, or increasing capacity for December, January, February and March.
In addition, he pointed out the decisive role of the “Tourism for All” program. It was decided – and we thank the Presidency of the Government and the Prime Minister very much – that the number and the program concerning 400,000 of our fellow citizens will be doubled. The next draw will take place at the end of January. Because this; Because we want to support the winter destinations, the mountain destinations, the small accommodations that suffered during the pandemic” said the Minister of Tourism.