Journalists from Great Britain, Germany and France had the opportunity to get to know the landscapes, monuments and authentic hospitality experiences offered by Pieria up close, as part of a familiarization trip (fam trip) that took place on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November.
The action was organized by the Region of Central Macedonia, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism of the Regional Unit of Pieria and the Pierian Organization for Tourism Development and Promotion (P.O.T.A.P.), with the aim of enhancing the extroversion and international recognition of the region.
During their visit, the international media representatives were given a tour of emblematic sites in Pieria, such as the Information Center of the Olympus National Park, the Archaeological Park and Museum of Dion, the traditional settlement of Paleo Panteleimonas, as well as the Permanent Paleontological Exhibition in Neokaesareia. At the same time, they had the opportunity to taste local products and get to know the gastronomic identity of the region, which combines the sea, the mountain and authentic Greek hospitality.
As part of the trip, meetings were held with the Deputy Governor of Pieria, Ms. Sofia Mavridou, the Deputy Mayor for Tourism and Culture of the Municipality of Katerini and member of the Board of Directors of POTAP, Ms. Elina Diamantopoulou, as well as with the Director of POTAP, Mr. Vasilis Dimou. These contacts provided the opportunity to present the region’s tourism development strategy and new promotion actions in European markets.
P.O.T.A.P. expressed its warm thanks to the Olympus National Park Management Unit, the Association of Greek Tour Guides of Northern Greece and the Friends of Nature and Man “MASTODONTAS – NEOKEASAREIA” Group, for their contribution to the tours and the hospitality of the journalists.
According to the Region of Central Macedonia, the hospitality of representatives of the international press is part of a comprehensive program to promote Pieria as a four-season destination, with an emphasis on experiential experiences, nature, history and gastronomy.
As the organizers note, such actions substantially contribute to the tourist promotion of Pieria in the markets of Western and Central Europe, offering the public an authentic image of the region, beyond the stereotypes of summer tourism.
With coordinated efforts of the Region and local bodies, Pieria is dynamically claiming the place it deserves on the European tourist map, as a destination that combines nature, culture and experiences throughout the year.
