This year’s tourist year for Edipsos and Northern Evia is developing with reduced mobility compared to initial expectations, according to the president of the Edipsos and Northern Evia Hoteliers Association, Thodoris Roumeliotis.
As he points out in his statements to Tornos News, the picture looks more restrained this year, however the final assessment will be made at the end of the season, as is the case every time
The contribution of Social Tourism is limited
According to Mr. Roumeliotis, the participation of Greek visitors is noticeably lower, despite the support that Social Tourism theoretically offers. “The vouchers exist, but their use is not as widespread as we would expect,” he notes. In fact, it is observed that the large volume of these reservations is mainly made in August, which does not help the diffusion of the tourist season.
Lower flows from abroad
As for international markets, with a focus of course on the Balkans, the opening of the borders with Bulgaria has not had – so far – a substantial impact on the region, with the president of the hoteliers expressing the hope that next year will be better in this regard.
Organized groups vs. individual visitors
The best picture is presented by accommodations that collaborate with organized groups, in contrast to those that rely exclusively on individual visitors, which face lower occupancy rates.
Fall in revenues and limited consumption
Although in some cases occupancy rates are maintained at tolerable levels, the revenues of tourism businesses are reduced. “Consumption outside of accommodation is limited – a trend that is being recorded throughout the country this year,” he explains, attributing the restraint to the economic pressures facing households in Greece and Europe.
“There is availability – even in August”
Meanwhile, as Mr. Roumeliotis reports, this year bookings are mainly made at the last minute, with typical examples of visitors booking on Thursday for the weekend.
Finally, he addresses a call to Greek travelers, emphasizing that “those who wish to visit Edipsos will find available rooms even in August, since occupancy has not reached 100%” and at very good prices.
