Operators dismiss reports tourists are shunning Greece
Operators are dismissing reports that tourists are shunning Greece due to its economic instability.
As Greece reached a last minute agreement with the Eurozone earlier today, On the Beach claims bookings to the country are up 46% on the previous year.
Responsible Travel says Greece has not dropped from its position as the site’s 8th best-selling destination.
But agents still seem unsure about selling the destination according to TravelMole’s recent poll.
When we asked if they are confident selling holidays to Greece, 49.78% said yes while 50.22% said no.
Alistair Daly, chief marketing officer at On the Beach said: "We have seen a significant increase in bookings over the past two weeks, which suggests that confidence is growing. This can only be great news for the Greek economy."
Responsible Travel has criticised Government advice and misleading headlines for discouraging travel.
Managing director of Responsible Travel, Justin Francis said: "One of the best things we can do to support Greek people is to continue to travel to the country, however the tone of the messaging and advice from the UK government, and subsequently the mass media, completely contradicts this.
"Tourists couldn’t be more welcome than they are now – the Greek people need them to keep travelling – and it’s this which underpins our travel advice, alongside the practical tips and considerations as put forward by the FCO, and by our members on the ground in Greece."
Christos Panagiotopoulos, general director of Responsible Travel member, Arkas Travel, which is based in the Pelopponese, added: "We never heard of any incident with tourists, or any problems with supplies. In contrast I would say that during this time, we the Greeks understand that we need tourism more than ever."
Responsible Travel said the images of empty supermarkets and queues for banks are out of context and concentrated in Athens, away from popular tourist areas.
It added that taking cash can help the Greek people who are facing restrictions at ATMs and using locally-owned accommodation and restaurants means the tourism money is getting to those who need it most – with just 6% of hotels in Greece belonging to international brands.
Diane
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