A climate of optimism prevails in the hotel world of Paros for the new tourist season, as, the president of the Hoteliers’ Association, Mania Ampatzi, reports to Tornos News, the majority of the island’s hotel units are set to begin operating in early May, thus marking the start of this year’s tourist season.
She points out that the island is experiencing one of the most beautiful times of the year, with nature in full bloom and increased tourist interest for Easter. Of course, most visitors are expected to be accommodated in privately owned holiday homes, while the number of tourist accommodations that are already operating and welcoming people is small, with good occupancy rates, however.
Mrs. Ambatzi emphasizes that the island has now overcome the effects of the recent bad weather, which caused problems mainly in the Naoussa area. She even expresses her surprise at the negative publicity given, emphasizing that the problems were local and limited in scope. In any case, she emphasizes that all tourist businesses, as she points out, are ready and are optimistically awaiting the start of the new season.
Regarding the phenomena of overtourism that have seen the light of day in recent years, the president of the Union is clear: “The island’s big problem is the uncontrolled development of short-term rentals.” As she explains, 8-10 room villas are “springing up” in off-plan construction, with serious consequences for the natural landscape, available resources, and the flow of visitors, which is increasing dramatically without adequate planning, she emphasizes in TN.
As part of the strategy for extending the tourist season, the Paros Hoteliers’ Association has entered into collaborations with local wineries and dairies, with the aim of creating experiences that will attract visitors outside the high season.
Mrs. Ampatzi expresses the hope that Paros will manage to win the bet of sustainable tourism development and the extension of the season, offering a more qualitative and balanced experience for both visitors and residents of the island.
RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
