Despite expectations for even higher performance, South Rethymno maintains a consistently high tourist rate this year as well, with occupancy rates hovering above 70%, as Ilias Vardakis, president of the area’s hoteliers, tells Tornos News.
The wider area of Plakias welcomes approximately 4,000 visitors daily, with estimates for August being particularly positive, while September also shows good signs, strengthening the hopes of entrepreneurs for a strong tourist season until the fall. “The occupancy rate is at 70% and above, like last year. We expected something more, but we are optimistic about the future,” emphasizes Mr. Vardakis.
Although the migration issue has affected some areas of Crete, southern Rethymno has remained unscathed, as it has not faced mass arrivals. Nevertheless, as he points out, “there is always an issue”, implying the need for overall management of the situation, so as not to affect the image of the host Crete.
Finally, for those who want to visit the beauties of Southern Crete, it should be emphasized that significant improvement is also recorded in the road network accessing the area, which strengthens domestic and international tourism and highlights the potential of a destination that constantly invests in the quality of the visitor experience.
