From the utter disaster that seemed like a few days ago, the situation in Ierapetra is starting to normalize. As the president of the Ierapetra Hoteliers’ Association, Giorgos Tzarakis, points out to Tornos News, the bookings are gradually returning to safer levels, after the critical days of the fires and the disruption caused on the tourism front.
“The cancellations were many and justified. But we were spared the worst,” Mr. Tzarakis states characteristically. Currently, bookings in the area are down approximately 30% compared to last year; however, there is optimism that the trend will improve in the coming weeks, thanks to the coordination of all those involved and direct communication with tour operators abroad.
One of the biggest problems concerns the newly built Harmony E Rock hotel in Agia Fotia, which suffered serious damage to both the facilities and the natural environment that surrounded it. The hotel is currently under-operating and cannot sign contracts for next year.
“This is a serious matter. Harmony E Rock must immediately be included in a special support regime, so that it can return to full operation,” notes the president of the Hoteliers’ Association, calling for intervention by the state.
Photo: discovergreece.com
However, the climate seems to be changing. Mr. Tzarakis made direct contact with foreign tourism organizations, such as TUI and Alltours, who initially expressed concern and requested official assurances about the safety of the area. The relevant document, he says, was sent on time thanks to the direct coordination of the fire department, the headquarters, and all the relevant bodies, strengthening the trust of partners in the main European markets, especially in Germany.
The communication of the Ierapetra Hoteliers’ Association with tour operators is now daily, both abroad and in Greece, with constant updates to the competent ministry on the impact that the fires had on tourism in the region. “The mobilization of the Fire Department was impressive. Reinforcements came from all over Crete, even from other islands. Thanks to this immediate reaction, most of the tourist units were saved and – above all – the image of the region abroad”, notes Mr. Tzarakis.
Ierapetra, despite the blow, is standing tall and fighting for its tourist recovery. The next day brings responsibility, cooperation, and a challenge: to regain the trust of visitors and to support those who were directly affected, as those involved say. At this point, the role of the Ministry of Tourism is crucial and for this reason the Ierapetra Hoteliers’ Association has already held a video conference with the general secretary of the ministry and is awaiting his intervention.
