Kikilias said that this year, Greece is expecting tourism-related revenue to reach 12 billion euros.
The minister said that a 20 percent increase in average spending is a positive sign of recovery. The ministry worked hard to make sure that flights from the US continue through to the end of the season.
A decision on Monday by the Biden administration to allow fully vaccinated travelers from certain countries to enter the United States as of November is expected to fortify Greece’s tourism performance this year.
“We want to protect our very popular island destinations from overtourism, supporting local infrastructure and preserving the viability of the product,” Kikiliassaid, adding that he will work with fellow ministers in this regard.
Regarding a crisis management tool, Kikilias said that Covid-19 and climate change have given rise to new conditions. “We are obliged to address anything that may arise in the future and to safeguard growth,” he said.
Kikilias also stressed the importance of upgrading tourism training and upskilling, which will fetch higher quality jobs with better salaries.
The minister confirmed that French hospitality group Accor has expressed interest in creating a tourism academy in Greece.
Tags: Greece
