First drop in five years in tourist arrivals in Greece

Tourist arrivals this summer in Greece are slightly slower than last year, according to surveys, air arrival data and hoteliers.

The drop observed in May appears to have continued into June, with the first few days of last month halving the gains recorded in the first six months of 2019. Hotel sector professionals speak of low occupancy rates and reduced prices, with the exception of destinations such as Myconos. At the same time the elections have predictably suppressed domestic tourism, as revealed by ferry figures, but this is expected to recover over the next few days.

The main reasons for this pressure on Greek tourism are to be found in the economic slowdown seen in many countries from which Greece has traditionally drawn visitors, as well as the special case of Britain and its anticipated exit from the European Union – Britain is the second biggest market for Greek hotels. It should also be noted that this decline in 2019 is coming after five consecutive years of record figures in visitors and revenues for Greek tourism.

Via ekathimerini