- Interview with Christina Kousouni
“Slow tourism is the new trend and Greece is an authentic choice,” says GNTO Secretary General Andreas Fiorentinos in a conversation with Tornos News, describing a new phase of maturity for Greek tourism, in which quality, experience and sustainability take the place of quantity. The strategic planning reflects a Greece that does not simply aim to increase arrivals, but to create tourism with respect for the place, culture and the traveler.
Mr. Fiorentinos notes that this year’s tourist season demonstrates the dynamic and resilience of Greek tourism, with high occupancy rates, increased arrivals and a positive contribution to the national economy. “The Hellenic Tourism Organization continues to strategically support the country’s promotion, highlighting new destinations and enriching the tourism product with thematic formats.”
At the same time, the Secretary General of the GNTO emphasizes that “our goal for next year is to strengthen sustainability, expand the season, exploit new markets, especially in neighboring countries, and strengthen the visitor experience, so that Greece remains among the top destinations worldwide.”
According to what he says, all the major tourism players are now investing in Greece, recognizing the country’s stability, attractiveness and long-term perspective. He explains that airlines are constantly strengthening their itineraries, adding new destinations and improving connectivity. For example, British Airways has increased its direct flights to Greek islands, responding to the ongoing demand of the British market and strengthening tourist mobility beyond the summer months.
At the same time, as Mr. Fiorentinos points out, investment interest in the hotel sector remains strong, with projects that focus on quality, sustainability and the added value of experiences. The development model, according to him, is gradually shifting towards a more authentic and experiential tourism, which emphasizes local culture and the personal contact of the visitor with the place.
The Secretary General of the Greek National Tourism Organization concludes that the main issue now is continuity and synergy, with targeted actions, cooperation between the public and private sectors and a commitment to sustainability, in order to maintain the momentum that Greek tourism has acquired and to further strengthen the country’s image internationally.
