The Hersonissos Chamber of Commerce has issued a clear message in favor of short-term rentals, following the letter from Crete hoteliers to the Prime Minister, in which they are calling for horizontal measures for Airbnb. As it is emphasized, these platforms support the local market, in contrast to the all-inclusive system that “leads to the decline of commercial and food stores.”
The association recognizes the problems caused by the increase in short-term rentals in the housing of workers in tourist destinations, such as teachers, doctors and police officers. However, it points out that Airbnb and small accommodations “feed the local economy,” in contrast to all-inclusive, which they say:
- restricts consumption in local businesses,
- leads to a waste of resources and products,
- alters traditional Cretan hospitality.
In fact, traders cite the example of Mallorca, where a restriction on all inclusive has been implemented since 2022, with a maximum number of drinks per day, as a measure to address overtourism.
In the meantime, the Hersonissos Trade Association is submitting three proposals for discussion:
- Restriction of all inclusive to the high season (June 20 – August 20).
- Establishment of a two-day “off all inclusive” every week, e.g. on weekends.
- Retention of all inclusive only for families with children, with abolition in adults only hotels.
The association emphasizes that with the opening of the new airport, Crete must avoid becoming a “low-income destination” and calls for dialogue with all stakeholders to develop a common strategy in tourism.
