N-TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

NOVEMBER 2022 ENTREPRENEURSHIP

THESSALONIKI TOURISM ORGANISATION

www.thessaloniki.travel

THESSALONIKI NO MATTER THE SEASON

Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, is a 365-day destination that combines the best of modern-day facilities and the vibes of ancient times with its cosmopolitan character and rich, stormy history.

If you are looking for a bunch of tourist attractions crammed inside a small geographical area, Thessaloniki never fails to impress.

15 UNESCO MONUMENTS

A tour across this unique open-air Byzantine museum is truly a special experience.

UNESCO creative city of gastronomy Thessaloniki is widely known for its quality cuisine and rich gastronomic tradition, with a reputation far beyond the Greek borders.

off the beaten track

Cultural treasures of global interest, religious pilgrimages, nature, various activities are waiting for you and even within walking distance from the city.

THESSALONIKI TOURISM ORGANISATION

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@thessaloniki.travel

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NOVEMBER 2022

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NAFTEMPORIKI EDITOR - SHAREHOLDER

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Platon Tsoulos

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Giannis Sarantopoulos REPORTAGE

Fanis Zois, Antonis Tsimplakis, Vassiliki Vegiri, Teti Igoumenidi, Danai Alexaki, Stamatis Zisimou, Anthi Angelopoulou, George Georgiou, Paris Tsirigotis COPY EDITOR, TRANSLATOR

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ΥΠΟΔΟΜΕΣ • ΜΕΤΑΦΟΡΕΣ • LOGISTICS

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

NOVEMBER 2022

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

EDITORIAL

Greece, a 12-month destination Greece’s tourism staged a restart as soon as the global economy began to return to normality. In the first post-pandemic summer, the Greek tourism market proved resilient enough to top the historical records it saw in 2019, and significantly expand the period of foreign tourists arrival.

Such performance should not be seen simply as accidental. Boasting one of the most attractive tourism products, which in addition to the sun, sea and pure white of its islands, the country also offers one of the best cuisines internationally, agritourism, medical and religious tourism, the fully-recovered cruising and yachting.

Greece’s next bet would be winter tourism. It offers many high-end hospitality alternatives and a natural landscape on par with other major international destinations in Europe, clearly differentiated from the competition and with a wide variety of style and ambiance by region.

Greece is now gaining momentum against its neighboring markets, which also claim a strong presence in the tourism market.

The country has convinced both international and Greek investors.

The need to create an infrastructure capable of meeting future demand in the reception of foreign tourists has made the country a promising international investment destination.

High-value investment projects in all areas of tourism interest are currently being carried out, while a large number of projects are already planned for the future. It would certainly not be an exaggeration to say that Greece is today a vast tourism construction site, which in addition to accommodation, such as complex tourism projects, hotels, guesthouses, villas, rooms to let and Airbnb, also includes major infrastructure projects. The country's port network is being overhauled, marinas are being given out to private companies for exploitation, and road and railway networks are being expanded.

In the next five years, Greece will have radically changed as a tourist destination, so that it will be ready to welcome visitors from all over the world all twelve months of the year.

Platon Tsoulos

We welcome you where the city’s golden age weaves seamlessly with modern elegance.

Enjoy contemporary luxury at a coveted location that shares the history and spirit of the city through subtle details and create...

Memorable Moments and Stories.. that Stay!

BOOKINGS ON

mgallery.accor.com

Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery Collection 4, Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue & 2, Kriezotou Street, 106 71 Syntagma Square, Athens - Greece Phone: (+30) 214 444 2000 | Fax: (+30) 214 444 2003 | E-mail: HB3X8-RE@accor.com

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OPINIONS

TRANSPORTATION SPONSOR FOR THIS SPECIAL EDITION

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Vassilis Kikilias Minister of Tourism

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Sofia Zacharaki Deputy Minister of Tourism

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Katerina Notopoulou Member of Greek Parliament Thessaloniki A’ SYRIZA, Head of Tourism for the Opposition Party

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George Hatzimarkos Regional Governor South Aegean Region

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62

70

102

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Athenian Riviera: Inviting international home buyers

Multinational giants stepping up investment in Greek tourism

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Voula Patoulidou Deputy Regional Governor of the Metropolitan Area of Thessaloniki, President of the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization

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Konstantinos Zervas Mayor of Thessaloniki

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Alexander Vasilikos President of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels

Upgrading ports to boost cruising

Greece looking to a speedier & greener costal shipping

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Grigoris Tassios President of the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation

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Lyssandros Tsilides President of the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Travel & Tourism Agencies (FedHATTA)

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Nina-Aspasia Vlachou Municipal Councilor of Kifissia, President of Cultural and Sports Center "DIMITRIOS VIKELAS", and Head of Tourism

Speeding up airport privatisations

The profile of foreign tourists

INDEX

NOVEMBER

30

40

50

78

84

94

126

136

142

Why Attica is really “Greece in a Snapshot”!

Greek cruises on a strong recovery path

Alternative tourism: Recration along with new experiences

Real estate bargains

Know a better destination for yachting than Greece?

Agritourism: Cultivating new fields of growth

2022

Tourism investments picking up in Nothern Greece

Airlines winter check-in

Medical tourism as a growth driver for Greece

ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

SOARING INVESTMENTS IN GREEK TOURISM International giants are focusing their interest on Greece, and so far as many as 83 new investments have been launched in 4-star and 5-star hotel units of more than 100 beds, mainly in Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Halkidiki and Attica

I Vassilis Kikilias Minister of Tourism

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n 2022, Greece significantly upgraded its tourism product and accelerated its pace. Since last autumn, through a targeted strategy and a well-thoughtout plan, we have worked hard to be able to strengthen as much as possible the country's national economy, as well as small- and medium-sized enterprises, the primary sector that supplies the unique products of the Greek land, hotels, catering and trade, and in this way to support every Greek family.

With the season this year having started earlier than ever, and with the summer having recorded excellent performance, and travel flows in the autumn being at high levels, we are working with optimism even for the off season period.

We successfully promoted new destinations, ideal for alternative tourism, resulting to several weak-branded islands and mainland areas this year welcoming higher numbers of visitors, with occupancy rates hitting up to 100% Many cities around Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki staged a strong comeback after years of hard tests (pandemic, prolonged financial crisis, etc.), with EOT’s successful city break campaign “greekend” bearing fruit.

In addition, the cruise segment played a decisive role, with spectacular increases of up to 250% and 130% in Thessaloniki and Piraeus, respectively, and recording

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

excellent performance in other ports around the country, giving economic life to the urban centers.

Tourism development is Greece’s investment magnet.

International giants have turned their interest to Greece, and so far as many as 83 new investments have already been launched in 4-star and 5-star hotel units of more than 100 beds, mainly in Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Halkidiki and Attica. In addition, 10 tourist ports are in the process of zoning.

All these projects point to a real “springtime” in investment activity.

At the same time, the Greek government is proceeding with major infrastructure projects utilizing resources from EuropeWith the season this year having started earlier than ever, and with the summer having recorded excellent performance, we are working with optimism even for the off season period.

an Union programs (RRF, NSRF) for the construction of critical projects for tourism development, such as destination management, mountain tourism, health and wellness tourism, agritourism, gastronomy, upgrading marinas, accessibility projects in tourist areas for people with disabilities, etc.

However, no matter how well thoughtthrough our strategic planning was, no matter how many beneficial agreements we won following the contacts we have had with powerful players in the tourism market, nothing would have been done without the people of tourism: The industry’s professionals (hoteliers, accommodation owners, restaurateurs, traders), and employees. All of those receptionists, waiters, workers in kitchens, beaches, cleaning, who serve our guests with a smile, showing them what Greek hospitality really is about. They are the pillars of tourism and the image of Greece abroad.

For our part, hard work continues on upgrading the Greek tourism product, attracting more travelers, and highlighting new destinations, all year round.

Our fixed goal is to support and enhance both the national economy and as many local communities as possible. In this very difficult period that we are going through, the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis will continue to support all Greeks, especially the weaker citizens.

REPORTAGE ●

Athenian Riviera:

INVITING INTERNATIONAL

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TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM 2023

HOME BUYERS

Attica’s southern suburbs, especially the beachfront, are becoming the focus of real estate investments, spearheaded by an €8b development on the site of the former Athens airport in Elliniko.

By Teti Igoumenidi tigoumenidi@naftemporiki.gr

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM 2023

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REPORTAGE ●

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ttica’s southern suburbs, especially the beachfront, are becoming the focus of real estate investments, spearheaded by an €8-billion development on a 1532-acre site of the former Athens airport in Elliniko.

A significant part of real estate investments concerns hotels and tourist residences or residences purchased by foreign nationals who choose Greece as their country of residence by investing in real estate.

The scene taking shape in the wider area of the Athenian Riviera, from Piraeus to Sounio, creates expectations for further capital gains in real estate, and continuous development in coming years as projects progress. According to Lamda Development, Elliniko alone, in its full development, will attract about 1.0 million tourists per year, a development that will positively impact the entire region of Attica. There are currently three purely tourist developments in Elliniko, and they will all be implemented in the first phase of the project by 2026.

The largest of the above-mentioned developments concerns the Integrated Tourist Complex with a casino (IRC), an investment valued at €1.0 billion (€150 million to be paid to the State for the casino license, and approx. €600 million for construction, with the remaining amount concerning the necessary equipment, financial costs and other expenses).

The project to develop the IRC, according to the GEK Terna - Hard Rock joint venture, is expected to begin in the first months of 2023 and last approx.

3 years, with the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens, expected in 2026. The IRC will be one of 6 towers (tall buildings with a permitted height of up to 200m above sea level) to be built in Elliniko, with the total permitted build space set at 168,000 square meters. Based on the specifications of the previous tender, the high-rise complex will include a 5-star hotel with a minimum floor space of

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TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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60,000sqm, casino facilities of at least 12,000sqm, conference The Integrated and exhibition facilities of at least 12,000sqm, as well as Tourism Complex indoor space theaters (arena) with a casino of at least 3000 seats. At the (IRC) in Elliniko, end of 2020, several months a total investbefore the contract for the ment of €1.0b transfer of the former airport is expected to site was signed, the first agreebe operational in ment announced by Lamda 2026. was with TEMES, owned by Achilleas Konstantakopoulos, for the joint development of two luxury hotels and the corresponding tourist-residential complexes on the coastal front of Elliniko, an investment valued at €300 million. Designs will be taken care of by leading international architectural firms, while the management will be assigned to internationally renowned management firms (hotel operators).

Acording to Engel & Völkers’ Market Report 2022, precisely because of the development of the former airport site, the Elliniko area is among Greece’s fastest-growing regions.

The very expensive areas in the southern suburbs, i.e. Voula, Vouliagmeni and Glyfada, are consistently at the center of demand. Piraeus seems to be gathering particular momentum in the coming months, as there are currently several new projects in progress, most notably the large reconstruction project of the Piraeus Tower. The same is expected for the areas of Neo Faliro and Moschato, where several projects are also underway.

According to the Engel & Völkers Market Report 2022:  Lagonisi, Vari, Saronida, Varkiza and the areas up to Sounio and Lavrio are more remote, but with the rise in prices over the last few years in Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni, they seem to attract an increasing number of buyers looking for homes at good prices near the sea.  The greatest demand in suburbs of the Athenian Riviera comes from foreigners looking for owner-occupied housing, as well as for investment.  Recently, a lot of construction activity has been going on in Glyfada, Voula and Elliniko. Older structures are being demolished to be replaced by modern homes with high energy efficiency and excellent con-

Elliniko in its full development will attract about 1.0m tourists per year, a development that will positively impact the entire region of Attica.

struction quality. By 2023, several new constructions are expected to be completed, with luxury apartments having already been put on the market.  In Elliniko, construction builders are trying to capitalize on the future surplus-value of the area and “catch up with” the houses to be constructed within the site of the former airport.  In Vouliagmeni, new construction is minimal because of low availability of free plots. However, some interest has been expressed, with builders buying old structures to renovate them.  In Saronida and Lagonisi, construction is limited due to the low built-surface ratio, since buildings’ floor space is limited and the few new houses being built are mainly owner-occupied. There is stock in old apartments near the beach that are not renovated.

Prices in the South In the Athenian Riviera, prices are determined based on the wider area, property location and proximity to the sea, and quality standards. In Glyfada, prices start from 7,000 euros/sqm for new build homes. In Vouliagmeni, the bar rises even higher, reaching up to 10,000 euros/sqm, while in Vari or Varkiza drops at 2,000 euros/sqm for older builds, and rises to 4,000 to 5,000 euros/sqm for new properties. In Saronida and Lagonisi, houses are sold at prices of 2,000 3,500 euros/sqm, with new builds slightly higher.

Price growth in the most expensive southern suburbs is estimated to average around 10% - 15% during 2022.

Engel & Völkers estimate that growth is expected to continue, albeit more gently, at a rate of around 5% in coming years, precisely because of increased demand from foreign buyers.

In the areas lower from Vouliagmenis Avenue, the percentage of foreign buyers is close to 35% - 40%, while from Vouliagmenis Avenue and above the vast

ATHENIAN RIVIERA Property prices in Athens’ southern suburbs (euro/square meter)

Kallithea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,700 - 2,800 Piraeus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,500 - 3,000 Ilioupolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,700 - 3,000 Nea Smyrni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,000 - 3,500 Argyroupolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,200 - 3,500 Ano Glyfada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,500 - 3,900 Saronida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,000 - 4,000 Vari . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,000 - 4,000 Palio Faliro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,300 - 4,000 Alimos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,500 - 5,000 Lagonisi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000 - 5,000 Varkiza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000 - 5,000 Elliniko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000 - 6,000 Voula . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,500 - 7,000 Glyfada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,000 - 9,000 Vouliagmeni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,000 - 10,000 Source: Engel & Völkers

majority, approx. 90%, are Greeks. For the most remote areas (eg, Saronida or Vari), 7 out of 10 buyers are Greek.

In Voula, Glyfada and Vouliagmeni, home buyers are from Central Europe, of high living standards, while in the areas after Varkiza, buyers are Greeks looking for value-for-money properties. The same applies for the areas of Ano Glyfada and Terpsithea, where demand for value-for-money properties comes primarily from Greek middle-class families.

Residential areas’ diversity On the northern side of the coastal front, according to Engel & Völkers analysis, there are also several popular residential areas, such as Piraeus, Kallithea,

Moschato, Tavros, Alimos, Argyroupolis, Ilioupolis, Agios Dimitrios, Nea Smyrni and Paleo Faliro, although there is great heterogeneity in terms of each area’s attributes and the incomes it addresses.

Indicatively, Piraeus, alone, is a special case. For example, the area of Castella may attract higher incomes due to its closer proximity to the sea. As one moves further into the inner city, it is easy to see that neighborhoods are targeted at middle and lower incomes. In Paleo Faliro, demand is focused on small- and medium-sized properties from both Greeks and foreigners, owing to the coastline which is also the closest and good for swimming one to the center of Athens.

Moschato is a residential area with great locality since very few sales and purchases are made. Nea Smyrni is among the good suburbs of Athens with high demand, attracting families and middle incomes, as it combines a good market, parks and large openings. In Agios Dimitrios, on the one hand, there are several commercial buildings, and on the other, apartment buildings targeted at middle incomes, or small apartment buildings with family characteristics.

In Alimos, the area is separated according to proximity to the sea. Closer proximity means higher prices.

Among older suburbs that combine demand from middle and slightly higher incomes are Ilioupolis and Argyroupolis.

In 2021, all the areas on this side of the beachfront, the northern, recorded an increase in property sales estimated to average close to 21% compared to 2020, ultimately leading to a price increase averaging close to 8%. The largest increases in sales were recorded in Paleo Faliro, Kallithea and Nea Smyrni, while sales dropped in Moscato. In the areas of Piraeus, Kallithea and Palaio Faliro, up to 80% of buyers are Greek and 20% are foreign nationals, with the real estate market moving upwards

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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Rhodes Island WELCOME TO

We make moments matter

At the forefront of creating the most beautiful summer moments in Rhodes stand H Hotels, a collection of six hotels which, for more than 25 years, have been creating unique holiday experiences for guests from around the world; moments that matter.

The H Hotels Collection is an iconic brand of Greek hospitality, promising visitors unsurpassed facilities and services that compose the finest holiday experiences.

Celebrated as one of Greece’s leading hotel chains, the H Hotels Collection remains faithful to the family values of its founders, the Hatzilazarou family who created each of the resorts with love for their homeland, southeastern Rhodes, and an unparalleled passion for hospitality. The H Hotels Collection put the pristine southern part of Rhodes on the map of coveted holiday destinations, paving the way for a lesser-known part of the island to become the top choice for thousands of visitors every summer.

The Collection Discover the essence of summer living and meaningful holiday moments in one of the H Hotels Collection resorts; with its own distinct character, each of them aims to cater to every summer holiday need and desire. The options are endless.

Six proposals, based on the principles of authentic Greek hospitality, effective sustainability actions, and contemporary digital services, meet the needs of the modern traveller and exceed every desire. Simply put, they all offer the best of summer in Rhodes.

Enter the unique, premium adults-only Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa that revolutionised hospitality in Greece from the moment it opened its doors in 2018. Discover the romantic escapism of Boutique 5 Hotel & Spa. Enjoy summer life at the family-favourite Lindos Princess Beach Hotel. Indulge in the restless vibrancy of Princess Andriana Resort & Spa, find your personal version of summer at the inviting Rodos Princess Beach Hotel, or enjoy the summer pleasures of life at the ethereal Princess Sun Hotel.

Apart from the most exquisite accommodation proposals, visitors will delve into myriad gastronomic pleasures, at acclaimed restaurants in each of the hotels. Local and international cuisine is expressed through authentic inspiration and reverence for local ingredients with continuously updated recipes and menus and an inspired devotion to culinary indulgence.

The Life

The Promise

In addition to all of H Hotels’ sublime offerings, each resort opens up a wealth of possibilities for activities that can take place on-site and beyond. The dedicated people of H Hotels can expertly put together superb events and celebrations for any special occasion, as well as tours, excursions, and experiences that can elevate a holiday to an unforgettable experience. And all that, with utmost respect to the environment and set in the dreamy area of South Rhodes, a region filled with stunning beaches, imposing traditional villages, such as the famous Lindos, which is situated only minutes away, and corners of immense natural, cultural and historical interest.

The H Hotels Collection never ceases its effort for improvement, innovation and, above all, heartfelt hospitality, both for its guests and staff. At the same time, it invests to its people, the heart and soul of the Collection, ensuring a high-quality workplace that meets the elevated standards of hospitality it so proudly stands for. A forward-thinking group H Hotels strives to introduce ground-breaking services, digital comforts, and unique experiences, all while doing the best to protect and preserve the beautiful nature surrounding us, but, above all else, what we love is cherishing our time together making all moments with us matter!

The Summer Highlights Many experiences to discover

There’s so much to enjoy! Your holidays at H Hotels Collection have some hidden surprises in store for you! We share the not-to-miss moments in every H Hotel Collection establishment! No matter where you are staying, there is another world just a few steps from your relaxing spot, waiting to be discovered!

Mayia

Exclusive Resort & Spa THE NEW STATE OF BEAUTY The first Premium Adults-Only AllInclusive resort in Greece. Mayia has already set the bar high for luxurious accommodation and it became an instant favourite. It promises a unique experience for those seeking premium holidays in Rhodes, a one-of-a-kind summer world that embraces all that is good in life.

TUI Top 100 Global Hotel Award 2022

Princess Andriana Resort & Spa

DANCING WATERS On the southeast coast of Rhodes, an oasis of sensations await. Set on the sunburnt shore of Kiotari, one of the island’s most beautiful shores, you will find Princess Andriana Resort and Spa, a resort that has been designed to introduce you to an all-immersive island experience.

TUI Top 100 Global Hotel Award 2022

Rodos Princess Beach Resort & Spa

RELEASE YOUR SUMMER ENERGY If there is a place to embrace the energy of the sea and the sun, that is Rhodes. Do not miss an opportunity for a yoga session, pilates or zumba and feel the vibrations of a land blessed by the Gods.

Tripadvisor Travellers’ choice 2022

Boutique 5 Hotel & Spa

THE 5 SENSES OF PLEASURE A unique experience awaits to be enjoyed in a dedicated spot at Boutique 5 Hotel & Spa, where breath-taking sea views, tantalizing bites and drinks and redolent aromas of the orient set the tone for a truly indulgent experience.

Booking.com Traveller Review Award 2022

Lindos Princess Beach Resort & Spa

FAMILY MOMENTS Proud to have welcomed numerous generations of friends and guests over the years, Lindos Princess Beach Hotel is continuously among the top destinations for family holidays.

Promising endless fun, delicious tastes and flawless, heartfelt hospitality, Lindos Princess is a holiday haven for all ages.

Tripadvisor Travellers’ choice 2022

Princess Sun Hotel & Spa

ENDLESS DAYDREAMING Let’s talk about summer wellbeing, surrender to the soothing ambience and the enchanting sea views from Princess Sun Hotel where the sun and sea meet in all shades of blue on the horizon. That’s what taking care of oneself feels like.

Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2022

Gastronomy in Rhodes

Mediterranean delights and healthy, comfort food found an expresion only to be enjoyed here This is where gastronomy goes beyond a delicious Mediterranean meal and reaches new horizons of cooking, to exceed the cravings of your palate and positively surprise you in every bite. Where the indulgent comfort of your private pool overlooking the sea is no longer a dream of luxury, but a lavish comfort that effortlessly brings your holiday dreams to life.

Your H Hotels Gastronomy Guide BEST FOR GOURMANDS

Calling all culinary aficionados to feel free and wander around a world of delightful gastronomy where topquality ingredients and the expertise of innovative Chefs offer a palatepleasing experience. Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa is the place to be if food plays an integral part in your holiday experience. Start by indulging in the treasures of Mediterranean cuisine at the Waterfront Main Restaurant while exploring rich buffets and show cooking stations. Grab a freshly baked slice of pizza by the talented pizzaiolo, or any bite that captures your eye along the food corners available like the Street Food, Canella Patisserie &

Gelateria and the brand new Healthy Bits. Oinos, the Wine & Champagne Bar on the top floor will become your closest friend for some tipples to accompany your stargazing evenings while listening to jazz notes in the background. To spoil you even more, there is always the fascinating alfresco escape to the Eastern cuisine of Wasabi, for some funky flavours from every corner of Asia. For more oriental culinary indulgence, head to Hanami Asian Restaurant, the new delicious entry in the restaurants of Rodos Princess Beach Hotel, promising a dazzling ode to tastes of the Far East in a cosmopolitan ambience.

a moment of Greece ITALIAN FLAIR Spend quality time with your family and share picture-perfect moments around the table, with the little ones squealing with joy as hearty portions of mouthwatering pasta and pizza arrive at your table at the Italian L’Osteria of Lindos Princess Beach Hotel.

~ Buon

Appetito!

ALL-DAY COMFORT FOOD WITH A VIEW Breakfast, lunch or dinner? You do not need an excuse to pull up a chair and indulge in a wide variety of delicacies available at any given time at Princess Sun Hotel and the Sunset Main Restaurant. An exquisite buffet and food stations inspired by traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes with an international approach go far beyond your wildest expectations. The themed nights here are also a must-try, especially if you are fans of tastes from around the globe.

ROMANCE ONLY Couples and honeymooners will have the chance to talk about love in every corner of Boutique 5 Hotel & Spa. Did you know that you could plan a remarkable private dinner in the most idyllic setting and thus, create a romantic dining space just for you?

It is not by chance that some of the most treasured wedding proposals have taken place here. Whether during the day or later in the evening, head straight to the Sketch Bar by the pool for some bartending shakes that whet your appetite! Then, add Impressions Restaurant to the equation for the finest gastronomic experience on the island of Rhodes and let the adventure to Greek and Mediterranean flavours begin!

- One more drink TOP SUMMER COCKTAILS Plan your daily routine by including the aperitif hour on your list! There is practically a different must-visit spot for every day of the week. The dedicated team of bartenders across all H Hotels Collection resorts is eager to serve you with malts you’ve never tried before, shake up some delightful cocktails or even pour some bubbles in a flute. Get ready to toast to summer life!

ENJOY MOMENTS OF TASTE We all have cravings, but how often do we actually fulfil them? This is where an H Hotels holiday comes in, to take you on a culinary adventure that focuses on local products and time-honoured recipes. Though every palate is different, H Hotels Collection has a dining outlet to satisfy all kinds of requests throughout the day. A different adventure for every single day is found either within your resort or close by, at one of its sister properties. No matter what you are craving, it is found just steps away…

AFTERNOON DELIGHTS Accompany your golden-hour sips with an extensive choice of canapés and sweet bites in the sophisticated bars of H Hotels Collection. Lay back and enjoy nonchalant moments in your favourite gastronomic spot, let your gaze wander over the endless Aegean blue and revel in the afternoon moments that promise unforgettable nights!

ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

GREEK TOURISM RECOVERS TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE In July 2022, Greece’s tourism income from Britain alone rose by an impressive 25% compared to 2019, while British tourists have remained in our top three markets

T Sofia Zacharaki Deputy Minister of Tourism

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he year 2022 has been much more than just a comeback year for Greek tourism. In the aftermath of the two years of the pandemic crisis, and despite facing new challenges - soaring inflation, energy prices & war in Ukraine- Greek tourism has managed to exceed all expectations.

In both June and July tourism income has topped that of the corresponding months of 2019, a record year for Greek tourism.

In August, airline arrivals exceeded those of 2019, and September followed a similar trend, while there are significantly positive indications for both October and November.

A particular success story is that of Greek-British tourism relations. This July, tourism income from Britain alone rose by an impressive 25% compared to 2019, while British tourists have remained in our top three markets. So we can now confidently say that 2022 will be the new all-time record year in terms of British tourism in Greece and by a large margin.

This success wasn’t attributed to chance.

During the previous years of turmoil in global tourism, Greece consistently demonstrated that it can offer quality vacations even at a time of extreme challenges. Greek tourism withstood the onslaught of the pandemic in 2020, dynamically recovered in 2021, and in 2022 we’re on our way to outmatch our pre-pandemic levels. Our brand has been enhanced, not just as a destination for visitors but also for investors, as Greece attracted record investments in tourism during the pandemic and the pace is accelerating.

But this is not the limit of our ambition.

To ensure tourism development in the future, we have to enshrine it on three prin-

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

Greek tourism, having withstood the onslaught of the pandemic in 2020, dynamically recovered in 2021 and 2022, and is now on the way to outmatch pre-pandemic levels.

ciples: quality, balance and sustainability.

Quality means more diverse options for the visitor of Greece that go beyond the norm and offer a truly immersive experience.

Balance means the extension of our tourism offer across the country and across the year - not just the summer season. And most importantly, we need sustainable development: tourism must grow in harmony with the natural and social environment of Greece’s destinations.

This is why we are prioritizing the development of alternative and thematic forms of tourism. Gastronomy tourism, agritourism, diving, wellness, and mountain tourism, are at the forefront of the "Greece 2.0" program, for the creation of sustainable infrastructure, in sustainable forms of tourism. More and more innovative sustainability projects are dotting the Greek landscape especially in the islands, like the TUi and Rhodes’ “Rhodes colab”; Halki in the Dodecanese archipelago, where a green energy community project is underway to ensure all energy generated on the island is renewable; Astypalaia, which will feature 100% e-molibility’; Tilos, where the island’s energy needs will be fully covered by RES; Paros and its plastic-free policy; Naxos and the Small Cyclades, which are on the way to a making their buildings more energy efficient; and, Ithaca with the sustainable sailing alliance.

Finally, as Europe prepares to face its

own winter of discontent, Greece is offering a solution. With its mild climate, the off-season, affordable prices, and above all its welcoming people, Greece - this autumn and winter more than ever - is the ideal destination.

Because Greece has so much more than the sea and sun to offer. The hinterland, rivers, mountains and valleys can satisfy even the most demanding visitor. A multitude of activities -from horse riding to river rafting, wine tasting, bicycling and trekkingcombined with the unparalleled historical and cultural features of this ancient land, will truly make you want to stay forever. So this fall and winter, offer the best opportunity -especially for our northern guests- to discover this 'other' Greece and its unique experiences.

In a world of global crises, it is more important than ever to plan ahead, in order to stay ahead. We need to tackle not just the energy and inflation crises we are currently facing, but also the wider and ever-present climate challenge while ensuring a future of viable tourism development for our communities. Greece is poised to achieve this future and upgrade its already unique offer to our visitors. The future is Green, Blue and sustainable. And Greece, as always, welcomes you to it.

MANSIONS OF KIFISIA AN EVENT THAT BECAME AN INSTITUTION LOVED BY THE PEOPLE OF KIFISSIA

Walks through history and architectural wealth in the 180 mansions - architectural jewels of the Municipality of Kifissia.

The idea of the program was first captured by the Mayor of Kifissia Giorgos Thomakos, with the aim to further exploit tourism activities in the area, and became a constitution since 2017.

This action is supported by our courteous Sponsors, as well as the owners of the mansions, who make this walk through our history possible, our valuable scientific groups (architects, historians, urban planners), and finally a great number of volunteers embracing this significant action.

REPORTAGE ●

MULTINATIONAL GIANTS STEPPING UP INVESTMENT IN GREEK TOURISM The outlook for Greece's “heavy industry” is now more optimistic than ever, with powerful multinational groups strengthening their market position

By Stamatis Zisimou szisimou@naftemporiki.gr

G

reece is turning into a “pole of attraction” for multinational giants in the tourism industry, given that following two years of strong recession due to the pandemic, conditions are now changing, with the country's “heavy industry” attracting investments both in tourism regions and in large cities.

Of what is happening in the tourism and hospitality sector only a part is reflected in the recent strategic collaboration between the San/Ikos group and the international institutional investor GIC, at a time when strong brands are looking to strengthen their position in Greek market.

The strategic cooperation between San/Ikos and GIC provides for the latter becoming the group’s main shareholder together with its management team. The transaction sets the value of the Sani/Ikos group at €2.3 billion, and is expected to be concluded within Q4 2022, subject to regulatory approvals.

The new strategic alliance with GIC will further strengthen the resources required to implement Sani/Ikos Group's ambitious 5-year investment plan, valued at over €900 million, which will help support local economies and create new jobs in the Mediterranean.

Obviously, the big international players are looking for a place in the Greek market, owing to its dynamic recovery. Indicative of this dynamic are

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TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

the data by specialist company GBR Consulting, according to which the number of hotels under the umbrella of an international chain showed a 95% increase in 2021 compared to 2016, while five-star hotels increased from 53% in 2016 to 73% in 2021.

Players beefing up their presence in the Greek market Currently, major hotel brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Radisson, Accor, Brown, Fattal and Hyatt are bolstering their presence in the Greek market with new luxury brands, while two of the most powerful international hotel brands, Mandarin Oriental and One&Only are preparing their own presence in the country.

HILTON

Hilton, one of the most powerful hotel chains in the world, is advancing with two deals to reinforce the portfolio of hotels that carry any of its brands on Greek soil.

Hilton Athens, operated until re-

cently, will bring to Greece for the first time two luxury brands of the international chain, Conrad and Waldorf Astoria, which will premiere in 2024 following renovation work.

Refurbishment of the building complex includes the creation of a new luxury Conrad hotel, offering 280 rooms and suites, and the development of 50 luxury residences to operate under the brands Conrad Residences and Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria Residences. The investment is valued at €130 million.

The owners’ objective is to create an innovative mixed-use development model, which will be a reference point for Athens’ residents and visitors, and will respond to the ever-increasing demand for private residences offering high-level hospitality.

Hilton’s second deal is with the SCD Ltd. Group, and foresees the arrival of another brand for the first time in Greece, Hampton by Hilton.

The Hampton by Hilton Piraeus in Mikrolimano, a unit with a capacity of 83 rooms, will be operational following a €5.5 million renovation.

As part of the same deal, the historic Pentelicon hotel will operate again as one of the hotels in the Curio collection by Hilton. In Pentelikon, the SCD group will make an investment of €18 million euros, in view of rebranding, to renovate facilities and upgrade services of the 117-bed hotel.

Hilton’s expansion continues also in Santorini, with the Sea Breeze Santorini Beach Resort, which is also part of the collection Curio by Hilton, and has been in operation in recent months.

The 37-room hotel with a private beach, marked Hilton’s debut on the Cycladic island, following the signing of the franchise partnership with Alexandros Ltd.

MARRIOTT

The W brand in Greece, specifically at Costa Navarino, was brought for the first time this year by Marriott, one of the giants in the field of international hospitality, following a deal with TEMES. The W Costa Navarino welcomed its first guests this summer, being the new-

ATHENS / ATTIKI

RADISSON RED Mitropoleos Square Athens THESSALONIKI

MARRIOT Monastry by Autograph Collection NYX THESSALONIKI

RADISSON The Social Koloukaki Athens Hilton

CORFU

ACCOR Angsana Corfu

HALKIDA

SKIATHOS

HILTON Conrad

RADISSON Radisson Resort Plaza Skiathos

HAMPTON

by Hilton / Mikrolimano MOXY ATHENS CITY Omonia

BROWN LOUTRAKI

BROWN DAVE by the beach Loutraki

CURIO Kifisia Pentelikon

ERETRIA

BROWN

ONE & ONLY/KERZNER Glyfada / One & Only Aesthesis FATTAL Athens (Stadiou str.)

NYX Athens

AG. THEODOROI

BROWN

SARONIDA

SARONIDA OLYMPOS GOLF - PROJECT MYKONOS PYLOS

MANDARIN Costa Navarino Mandarin Oriental

ERMIONI

PLEPI LAND DEVELOPMENT

TZIA

ONE & ONLY/KERZNER One & Only Kea Island

RADISSON BLU EUPHORIA RESORT KORGIA Α.Ε.

W COSTA NAVARINO SANTORINI

SEA BREEZE Beach resort

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FOLEGANDROS

GUNDARI

NOUS Mesaria HYATT Magma Resort Santorini

AG. NIKOLAOS

ACCOR NIKO Seaside Resort Crete MGallery

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TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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REPORTAGE ●

► est addition to the W Escapes chain in Europe, marking the entry of W Hotels Worldwide in Greece. The new hotel is located in Navarino Waterfront, Costa Navarino’s new development area, on a 32-acre beachfront property with 246 modern rooms, suites and villas, many with private pools.

Notably, Marriott already has a presence at Costa Navarino with two more of its brands: The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, which offers guests and families wellness activities, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, a brand that stands for high-level services.

Marriott’s hotel brand Moxy, last March made its debut with another establishment, this time in the center of Athens. The new Moxy Athens City is located in Omonia Square, while the Moxy Patra Marina already operates in Patra, having been the first Moxy in Greece.

In June, the new 121-bed resort NOŪS opened its doors in Mesaria, Santorini, as part of the Donkey Hotels group (owned by the Ioannou family), member of Design Hotels, a premium brand included in Marriott’s portfolio of brands. NOŪS is Donkey’s first investment outside of Athens.

Another Marriott hotel, the Monasty, opened its doors in Thessaloniki in July, as part of the Autograph Collection.

MANDARIN

Mandarin Oriental, set to arrive in Greece in the summer of 2023, is a chain that manages some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences in the world. The first Mandarin Oriental hotel will be located in Costa Navarino, in the Navarino Bay area, offering 99 rooms, including 48 cave villas with private pools.

ONE&ONLY

Two luxury resorts that will carry the brand One&Only of the Kerzner group, are set to make their Greek debut in

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TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

2023. Within the first months of next year, the long-awaited One&Only Aesthesis in Glyfada is expected to open for business, under a project implemented

by Grivalia Hospitality with the aim of reviving the old “Asteria” resort, and transforming the establishment into a five-star hotel destination for high-end tourism.

The operation of the One&Only Kea Island, on Tzia, has been postponed for the spring of 2023. Already, 12 villas have been sold and are under construction, with the first 9 set to be delivered to their owners in 2023, when the resort will also debut, while the remaining ones will be delivered in 2024.

In the context of an investment, valued at approx. €150 million euros and implemented by Dolphin Capital and Kezner, the following projects are currently underway: expansion of a thalassotherapy center, by the Swiss global wellness operator Chenot, and a new design for the beach club.

RADISSON

of sophisticated design, will have 100 rooms and 150 sq.m. of meeting space and gym. On the ground floor of the building there will be a restaurant overlooking the square, while its highlight will be the roof top bar-restaurant, to operate under an acclaimed chef and offering a spectacular view of the Acropolis.

The Social Kolonaki Hotel Athens Hotel, member of Radisson Individuals, to commence operation next November, is a new addition to the Radisson Individuals group’s expanded hotel portfolio in the Greek market. Located on central Athens’ Voukourestiou Street, in the very heart of the Greek capital, The Social Kolonaki Athens Hotel will be the first branded hotel on this street.

The seven-story hotel, with an urban interior style to match its modern location, will offer 24 spacious rooms and suites, including a presidential suite. The hotel is expected to be one of the city’s cosmopolitan destinations, with a modern restaurant and bar on the ground floor, impressive breakfast area and areas for private dining. The hotel lobby will have the capacity to be transformed at any time into a space that can host special artistic events and social gatherings in the city.

ACCOR

The new Radisson Resort Plaza Skiathos in the Sporades islands is the result of Radisson’s expansion operations of its presence in Greece. The 4-star hotel, on the island of Skiathos, has a capacity of 84 rooms and is part of Briq Properties’ portfolio, as the company invested more than €4.0 million to upgrade the unit that previously operated on the property.

Radisson’s presence in the Greek islands also includes Radisson Blu Euphoria Resort on Mykonos, which is the brand’s second five-star resort in the Cyclades, after the Radisson Blu Saffron Resort on Santorini.

In addition, the hotel group recently announced the signing of a deal for the Radisson RED Mitropoleos Square Athens, the first hotel to operate under the Radisson RED brand in Greece. The hotel is scheduled to open its doors in the second half of 2023 and will be a hotel of high aesthetics. The Radisson RED Mitropoleos Square Athens, an old office building converted into apartments

French hotel group Accor also aims at stepping up its presence in the Greek market, by doubling the number of hotels in its portfolio by 2025. Accor in the summer welcomed its first guests at the luxurious NIKO Seaside Resort Crete MGallery, in Agios Nikolaos, Crete.

NIKO Seaside Resort Crete - MGallery is the French group’s second hotel in Greece carrying the brand MGallery, the first one being luxury Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery, in the heart of Athens. The group now operates eight (8) hotels in Greece, with the following four being the latest additions: the Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery, the Mercure Rhodes Alexia, Angsana Corfu and NIKO Seaside Resort Crete MGallery.

HYATT

Hyatt is expanding its presence in Greece with a hotel outside of the greater Athens region. The new luxurious Magma Resort Santorini made its debut and joined The Unbound Collection’s portfolio by Hyatt as the first resort in the Greek islands connected to the international chain. The hotel offers 59 rooms, including 24 suites.

BROWN

Brown Hotels continues its steady expansion in Greece, with the recently opened 39-room resort DAVE by the beach Loutraki. The chain's new resort , which is the hotel arm of the WH Europe investment platform, is located in seaside Loutraki, close to Athens.

During the summer, Brown opened three more resorts near Athens, specifically in Agioi Theodoroi, Eretria and Chalkida. The firm is planning to inaugurate another hotel series in the near future, as its investment plans for the next tree-year period include a total of 42 hotels and resorts throughout Greece, which are already under development.

FATTAL

The new five-star NYX Athens hotel is expected to open its doors within the year, located on central Athens’ Stadiou Street (former Esperia hotel).

The hotel is part of the portfolio of the Israeli Fattal hotel chain, which plans to open another five-star hotel in 2023, the NYX Thessaloniki. Fattal already has a presence in Greece, with the Kolymbia Resort, of a capacity of 114 rooms, on cosmopolitan Rhodes.

72 hotels under common management In addition to the above, it is worth underlining that the consortium: SMERemediumCap / Latonia Enterprises Company Limited - Athanasios Laskaridis family office / WHG Europe Limited - Brown Hotels has recently emerged as the preferred investor for the Project Tethys, namely the sale of a loan portfolio of 72 hotels, of a legal claim of €254 million.

MYKONOS

On Mykonos island, the investment agency KORGIA SA chose the Elia area for the development of a hotel unit, in an investment valued at €65 million.

The project concerns the creation of a tourist complex with a 5-star hotel accommodation, of a capacity of 178 beds, while in addition the plan includes 4 tourist residences and supporting infrastructure. The project is expected to create 550 new jobs.

SARONIDA

A complex tourist accommodation, with a golf course, a helipad, a tourist village, a tourist port, as well as facilities for the production of Renewable Energy Sources, is to be created a few kilometers away from Athens, specifically in Saronida. The specific investment, Saronida Olympos Golf Project, is valued at €840 million. As part of it, the construction of a solid waste management unit, and desalination and biological wastewater treatment unit is planned.

GUNDARI ON FOLEGANDROS

The Gundari Resort project is backed by a group of mostly Australian entrepreneurs, led by founder and CEO Ricardo Larierra. APAX Constructions, Block722 and Focal have undertaken the architectural and construction design. The Gundari Folegandros will be completed in two stages: the first -26 rooms- will open its doors in 2023, while the second will be ready within two years, bringing the total number of rooms to 50. All of the resort’s suites and villas feature a heated pool.

a tourist receptor - i.e. a hotel with supporting infrastructure, holiday homes, art and culture venues, recreation and sports facilities, as well as a marina.

The investment proposal concerns the creation of a model tourist establishment that will include a 164-room hotel complex, a spa, conference space, restaurants, bars, a training center, a 40-berth marina and two holiday home zones, totaling 229 homes in the area of Ermioni, Argolis. The complex will be developed on a seaside area of 75.5 acres (Plepi, Thermisia Community, Ermionida Municipality), and the investment is valued at €119 million.

COSTA NAVARINO

A huge puzzle is being gradually completed that will fully highlight the image of the tourist destination called Costa Navarino in Messinia. An effort that started back in the mid-80s by the late captain Vassilis Konstantakopoulos, is expected to be completed in a few years by his son Achilleas.

Investments by TEMES (development company of Costa Navarino) amounting to €850 million so far (A' and B' phase), are expected to reach up to €1.2 billion when the project is completed in a few years. After the first two hotels, the Westin Resort and Romanos, this year the resort W also opened its doors. A hotel that differs from the first two, which are more of a family character. The resort W is aimed at teenagers and adults, thus managing to reach a new target group of tourists.

The diversification trend will continue in 2023, when Costa Navarino’s fourth hotel will also be operational, the Mandarin Oriental. The new unit is adjacent to the W and is expected to be the spearhead for attracting tourists of high economic level, from the markets of

The tourism sector attracts 80% of total Greek investment “In 2022 it has been confirmed very clearly and with measurable results that tourism is the locomotive of the Greek economy," says Greece’s Minister of Tourism Vassilis Kikilias in a statement regarding tourism investment activity.

“With a well-thought-out plan and a hard team effort, we managed to upgrade our tourism product and go ahead with strategic agreements that resulted, not just in ensuring high travel flows, but Vassilis Kikilias, above all to attract visitors that are high spenders Minister of Tourism. and stay for several days in Greece as part of their vacation, supporting local economies. Quality tourism decisively strengthens the national economy, while at the same time significantly boosts the country's growth.

“Now, 8 out of 10 investments are made in the tourism sector. International giants are investing in Greece, giving added value to our tourism product, offering thousands of jobs and proving that after this year's success, Greece is consolidating its position on the global map of tourism for years to come.

“The development potential of Greek tourism is also confirmed by the international rating agencies, with Wood reporting that tourism was the “great lifeline” of the Greek economy in 2022, contributing decisively to investment growth. Moody's this year predict an increase in real GDP by 5.3% due to tourism and investments, and DBRS point out that the strong recovery of tourism --estimated by the firm to exceed 2019 record levels-will support the Greek economy this year. In this context, we are already working on the big bet of sustainable tourism development. Investments, green and blue, which will create new jobs, and promise a clean, sustainable environment in a place worth living”.

Arab countries, but also from Asia. This particular brand is especially popular in these countries.

Navarino Agora is already being developed between the two hotels, which will also be open to the public, and will include shops, restaurants, an open-air cinema, etc., with the group planning to

HERMIONE

Plepi Land Development recently got the green light for the development of

The number of hotels under the umbrella of an international chain showed a 95% increase in 2021 compared to '16, while five-star hotels increased from 53% in '16 to 73% in '21.

establish it as a “meeting point”.

In an area that is being developed to become “a place to live”, housing could not be missing. The residences of Costa Navarino Residences have now established themselves as one of the most complete, quality and at the same time attractive residential proposals at European level, and are being developed in three “neighborhoods”.

As for the last part of the investment, it will be developed on the opposite side of Costa Navarino and will be located in a close proximity to Kalamata airport, just 10 minutes away. The Navarino Blue is located in the area of Rizomylos, already demarcated as part of Messinia’s Region of Comprehensive Tourism Development (POTA). Thematic hotel complexes are scheduled to be developed there, expected to offer a multitude of high quality sports and entertainment activities

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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Enjoy Cretan hospitality in style, luxury, reliability and excellence GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts, a constantly growing Group characterized by the love for luxury, reliability, excellence, style and social sensitivity, today operates 5 privately-owned hotels in Crete

W

elcome to GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts: the allencompassing hospitality powerhouse poised to introduce you to our home island of Crete, and what will become your island of authentic experiences and vibrant holiday memories

ADVERTORIAL

The Group Our passion for hospitality is our driving force, but also the philosophy of GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts, a group that began its operation as a family business in 1988, with its first hotel being the Golden Beach Hotel in Hersonissos, Crete. The owners’ vision was - and still is - to offer their guests high-quality holidays, luxurious and comfortable accommodation and an overall experience of what “Cretan Hospitality” means in its modern version. Thanks to the consistent quality services, the values that govern the business, and above all its people who are its soul, the group’s expansion did not take long to come. The Group today operates 5 privately-owned hotels, SENSEANA Sea Side Resort & Spa, INSULA ALBA Resort & Spa, AKASHA Beach Hotel & Spa, Golden Beach Hotel, and KING MINOS RETREAT Resort & Spa. Today, 30 years later, GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts, a constantly growing Group characterized by love for luxury, reliability, excellence, style and social sensitivity, decides to reposition itself on the map of Greek hospitality as a strong player, with a renewed profile.

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The idea behind the brand Gold is precious. Anything made of gold has a high value. The jewelry is made of gold. Treasures contain gold items. The word "gold" also describes

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

the sun. Its reflection in the water in the summer, its light but also its precious entity. Beauty and high value are characterized as precious. GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts have value because they embrace Cretan Hospitality in a landscape bathed in light, in pristine nature, and with a temperate climate. Crete itself is a manifesto of the great Minoan culture, healthy cuisine and good quality of life, prosperity, abundance and authentic lifestyle. All these values have been adopted by GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts and their entire philosophy is based on the authentic and the precious.

The promise GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts pamper their customers with incomparable Cretan hospitality, so they can create memories that will be precious to them throughout their life.

The slogan: Precious moments The value of moments is defined by how memorable they are, how important they are to the person who experiences them, how often they return to them and what position they take in the set of important moments of their life. But what defines which moment is important for everyone and why are the moments at GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts precious? The name of the hotels includes luxury as a concept. The architecture and decoration of the hotels have many elements of luxury and high aesthetics. They are about the globally recognized Cretan hospitality that always leaves the visitor with the best impressions and memories. The care, the treatment, the food... everything is consistent with the visitor experiencing some of the most beautiful and unforgettable moments of their life, to experience precious moments for them and their family.

The origin The source of inspiration for the Group's logo was the double pelekis or - in Lydian - lavrys. It summarizes the law of action and reaction that exists in nature. The word Lavrys is related to "ploughing" and from there comes the word labyrinth = house of the Lavryos, a characteristic symbol in Crete from the mythology and history of the Minotaur. The double pelekis (double axe), as a symbol, is found in frescoes and also as a tool during the Minoan period.

About us - Over 30 years of experience in hospitality - Greece - Island of Crete - Five hotels - Wholehearted rest, revitalizing experiences and timeless connection with the holiday host island.

- Passionate team members - Dedication to delivering supreme service - Island’s natural charms, sun-kissed climate, clean air & fresh food - Creation of a carefree escape.

Destination - The fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean - Warm climate, varied landscape of high mountains and low valleys, rich culture and history, and mesmerising mythological stories - An inspiring island and enchanting holiday destination.

- Famous as being the centre of the Minoan civilization (the earliest known in Europe)

- The birthplace of the Ancient Greek king of gods, Zeus, in the Idaean Cave.

Our mission - Integrity - Transparency - Responsibility GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts’ growth is built upon a foundation of respect for the three core pillars of our business: the people, the community and the environment.

Our values Moulding individual aspirations into a community of ambition We know that integrity and open communication give rise to enhanced knowledge, and -for us- knowledge is power. It allows us to deliver inherent value to our guests in terms of their experience and the heartfelt service that we extend, and also allows our business to grow as a living entity, learning, innovating and achieving.

Our people Our people are the heart of our culture, and our culture is the heart of our offerings We believe in access to opportunities, support and lifelong learning, in nurturing the creation of esteemed professionals who are passionate about their role within the wider company, and are focused on diversifying our workforce based on equal opportunities for all. At present, over 500 associates are actively employed at our properties. ►

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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ADVERTORIAL

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1. TUI BLUE Insula Alba Our five-star, adults-only hotel, situated on the island’s northern coast in Analipsis village, is a unique gem amongst the Crete resort landscape.

Named for the Latin meaning “white island”, TUI BLUE Insula Alba is a fresh, modern and inspiring seaside accommodation option for those desiring perfect facilities, sincere service and a luxurious, ethereal ambiance

3. SENSEANA Seaside Resort & Spa When searching for family hotels in Crete, think of SENSEANA Seaside Resort & Spa: joyful in its relaxed ambiance, welcoming in its facilities, and homely in its haven-like nature. Younger travelers will delight in the host of dedicated children’s facilities available, aspiring to be the best amongst Crete family hotels.

Built according to the Cretan style and architecture, KING MINOS RETREAT Resort & Spa offers a great array of facilities and services for everyone to enjoy, welcoming guests to experience the authentic essence of the renowned Cretan Philoxenia to the fullest.

2. AKASHA Beach Hotel & Spa AKASHA Beach Hotel & Spa made its debut in 2021. Utterly redefining luxury hotels in Crete, AKASHA is situated along the shore of the ever-beautiful Mediterranean Sea, and is poised to be one of the best hotels in Crete. AKASHA aspires to unite two different holiday worlds: that of a luxury escape of rest and relaxation, and the exciting adventure of island discovery.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

4. KING MINOS RETREAT Resort & Spa Perched amphitheatrically on a verdant hillside, KING MINOS RETREAT Resort & Spa, a proud member of the GOLDEN Hotels & Resorts, enjoys unobstructed sea views. This charming 5-star hotel in Hersonissos consists of the main building with Classic Rooms and Suites, as well as several bungalows with private pools and outdoor Jacuzzis, scattered throughout the colorful gardens.

5. Hotel Golden Beach Situated a breath away from a beautiful sandy beach, Hotel Golden Beach is a shining star among Hersonissos hotels in Crete, thanks to its warm and welcoming service, comfortable and stylish appointment, and host of amenities designed to make our guests’ stay as calm and carefree as possible. Relax on our grounds, venture out in exploring the island and embrace the good life as you craft unforgettable holidays at one of the most welcoming Hersonissos hotels in Crete.

Development and Promotion of Athens Tourism and Cultural Identity in the post-Covid era

National Garden of Athens

Forward-Thinking Heritage

ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

TOURISM AS I FEEL IT Tourism is a treasure we must keep, not merely because we have to protect and adjust to climate and social change, but mainly because tourism nests deep within our nature

A

Katerina Notopoulou Member of Greek Parliament Thessaloniki A’ SYRIZA Head of Tourism for the Opposition Party (SYRIZA)

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bike ride early in the morning is one of the activities that I look forward to, it rejuvenates me and prepares me for the day ahead.

Yearn for that morning breeze from the sea, hearing the grinding of the wheel on the street and watching the friendly faces of my fellow citizens. The elderly couple who have been walking down this waterfront hand-in-hand for years, all make me feel optimistic about the future of this country, a country that seems to hold through its sins, mistakes, character, history and beauties, an identity worth appreciating.

Greece has always held a commanding role in the history of the world from ancient times to the present day. Over the centuries, its legacy seems to be creativity, innovation, knowledge and culture. It is no accident that Greece is a country with a significant worldwide presence in science, and a country with countless musical groups, a multicultural country, where several cultures, religions and ethnicities left their imprint, creating a unique cultural osmosis that leaves no one indifferent, a country where the forces of attraction significantly prevail.

Indisputably, the pandemic has had a significant impact on tourism, but it is true that the recovery process, as the Covid-19 vaccine was made available, was more than impressive.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

In Greece, tourism is one of our main sources of investment, income, and work at national and regional levels; it is one of our predominant industries, contributing up to 18% to the country’s GDP.

Tourists rush to destinations after two years of lockdowns, and if we ask ourselves why, we will conclude that the need for travel is vital to humans.

It's a part of what connects us to nature, the world and other humans; its our personal way of celebrating our existence. If we try to research the positive effects after the pandemic, it could be that tourism reveals itself as an inflexible economic, and cultural activity, almost fundamental to sustaining our physical and mental health. As Heraclitus was once quoted saying “everything changes and nothing stands still”, therefore, the challenge that arises requires travel destinations to be able to adapt to a new reality if we want to continue to be a predominant player in this industry.

Greece was and remains a beautiful country with a multidimensional tourism product, a country that offers that hot tanning sun, its cool turquoise sea, landscapes of rare biodiversity, unique cultural monuments, distinctive events, unforgettable hospitality, social, political and economic stability and security.

For us, tourism is not just an opportunity to organize holidays, but it is communication, creativity, cooperation, friendship, and peace; it is a chance to overturn stereotypes, break down racist barriers, accept diversity, and set the foundations for building an open, progressive and inclusive society.

In Greece, tourism is one of our main sources of investment, income, and work at national and regional levels; it is one of our predominant industries that contributes up to 18% to the country’s GDP. I believe that Greece has all the ingredients to flourish into a top tourist destination worldwide, thanks to all the diverse experi-

ences it has to offer its visitors.

To achieve this, however, we must redesign a long-term tourism strategy in Greece, prioritizing the values of social cohesion technological progress and sustainability, by drastically intervening in the administrative model, developing alternative forms of tourism, limiting the energy footprint, adapting to new trends, and finally linking tourism to the country’s exceptional local products...We should not forget that Greece is a country of 131,000 square kilometers, an average altitude of 500 meters, 16,000 km of unique coastline, and 6,000 islands offering irreplaceable biodiversity worldwide, in addition to excellent-quality products.

From my point of view, Greece’s tourism product could offer an alternative solution in the complicated and turbulent times we are experiencing.

Tourism is an important instrument for peace, and as such we should manage it keeping in mind that people have more to gain from tourism than from aggressive rhetoric.

Tourism is a treasure we must keep, not merely because we have to protect and adjust to climate and social change, but mainly because tourism nests deep within our nature. The good news is that Greece, my country, is willing to share its intrinsic tourism advantages with the world.

Paxos: A lacework of art Impressive beaches and an underwater world rich in colours and shapes

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axos, the smallest of the Ionian Islands, is a cluster of small islands and rocky islets, the largest of which are Paxos and Antipaxos. They are located 7 miles south of Corfu, at a distance of 8 miles from the coast of Epirus in north-western Greece, and 12 miles from the town of Parga. Both Paxos and Antipaxos have a lizard-like, long and narrow shape. The islands cover an area of 29 square kilometres and 3 square kilometres respectively.

Paxos is an island of endless olive groves, while Antipaxos is one…large vineyard. The eastern coastlines of the islands are smooth, while the west coasts are bold and abrupt, with remarkable natural formations: caves, arches, dome-shaped forms, sheer cliffs... Τhe capital of Paxos is Gaios, a picturesque village built around a port protected by two small islands, Agios Nikolaos and Panagia. On the northern side of the island sits Lakka, and on the east coast the charming village of Loggos. Today, Paxos has a permanent population of some 2500 people. During the summer months, the island welcomes more than 200,000 visitors.

Paxos locals are warm and extremely hospitable people who love tradition but also embrace all developments of contemporary Europe. As a result, the island was proclaimed Cultural Village of Europe for the year 2004, an institution which aims to make known and preserve villages across Europe. As part of the celebrations in honor of being a Cultural Village of Europe, Paxos became and remains a centre for many cultural events as well as pan-European meetings.

Mythology According to mythology, the islands of Paxos were created when the god of the sea, Poseidon, hit the island of Corfu with his trident, breaking off its southern tip in order to form Paxos, where he could keep his mistress, Amphitrite. However, he lost his trident, and the islanders who found it made it into their Island’s Emblem.

Homer was the first to refer to Paxos, whose inhabitants were Greek-speaking settlers from Epirus. The first colonists were probably the Phoenicians, who also had a colony on neighbouring Cephalonia.

The most beautiful beaches The perimeter of Paxos and Antipaxos is like a lacy work of art, making it a ‘must’ for every visitor to take a tour of the island by boat.

The beaches (“spiantzes”), most of which are narrow in size and pebbly, have clean, translucent waters. The most im pressive are those of Gianna, Soulanena, Balos, Agia Marina at Mogonissi, Kloni Gouli, Kamini, Kaki Lagada, Alati, Kipiadi, Marmaria, Levrehio, Glyfada, Monodendri, Arkoudaki, Orkos, Kanoni, Harami (sandy beach), Ahai, Avlaki, Galazio and on Antipaxos the clear, turquoise sea and sandy beaches with exotic charm of Vrika & Voutoumi, popular yet idyllic, as well as the pebbly deserted beaches of Rodovani and Sarakiniko. The magical caves of Mogonissi will surely impress visitors, as will the Tripitos with its natural stone bridge, the cliff of Mousmouli, “Ortholithos” (a great rock formation standing in the middle of the sea), Ahai with its continual caves, the impressive cliff of Erimitis (the sunset from Agii Apostoli in Boikatika in the area of Magazia, with a view of the cliff is a spectacular sight), and the cave of Ipapanti are sights that nature carved over time for us to admire and enjoy.

Boat tours of the island A decidedly unique experience is a boat tour of the island (by high speed or other boats that you can take from all harbours). In this way you can enjoy the beaches as well as the spectacular natural formations on the western coast (Caves, Tripitos, Ortholithos, Ahai, etc.)

Underwater Exploration The sea around Paxos is one of the most beautiful in all of Greece. It awaits fans of underwater activities to explore and discover a world rich in colour and shapes.

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WHY ATTICA IS REALLY “GREECE IN A SNAPSHOT”!

The Region of Attica is a unique, attractive, safe collection of destinations for vacation throughout the year

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ttica boasts some of the most incredible seaside landscapes, historic monuments, beautiful architecture, rich culinary scene, and unique hospitality, and is safely welcoming visitors with a smile, for unique and unforgettable holiday experiences! In 2022, the Region of Attica was awarded in World Travel Awards as Europe’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination, whereas in 2021 it was awarded as the World’s Leading Metropolitan Seaside Destination.

Choosing Attica for your next holiday destination in Greece is sure to satisfy all of your travel preferences and expectations, regardless of the season. Attica, apart from being one of the most popular sun-andsea destinations in Greece, welcomes both new and repeat visitors, all year round, as it always holds something new for them to discover!

An everyday educational trip to ancient and modern history is the unexpected blend that Attica has to offer!

Attica is a modern European metropolis, with stunning cultural wealth. Apart from world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Centers, such as the Acropolis and the Daphni Monastery, Attica has more than 60 museums and impressive contemporary art centres, like the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC) which hosts, among others, the New Library and the Opera House. In every season, numerous festivals and scenes open their doors to the public, featuring cinema, ancient Greek drama, classic or modern music and dance performances and activities open to all ages. With monasteries and churches that are architectural monuments of exquisite beauty and religious pilgrimage importance and traditional villages and towns that have preserved their authenticity throughout the centuries, Attica is really an open-air museum!

In addition to the well-known capital Athens or the port city of Piraeus, now accessible by metro in only 55 minutes from Athens International Airport, visitors will now have a reason to explore the industrial city of Elefsina (Eleusis), Attica, which is designated as one of the European Capital of Culture for

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2023, with its rich archaeological and contemporary history.

Attica offers an incredible In Attica, you will coastline (around 520km) enjoy the crystal with endless, majestic beachblue sea, golden es. In 2022, 18 beaches in sand beaches Attica were awarded the and alluring iconic Blue Flag accreditation islands, each with for the quality of their waters. its own, unique The coasts of Attica are the character ultimate summer getaway, refreshing and relaxing, in just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, ideally combining a business trip with a quick swim. Pebbled or sandy, with shallow or deep waters, with trees or rocks, serviced or secluded, family-friendly or ideal for young couples and groups of friends, in these heavens by the sea of Attica you will enjoy the crystal blue sea, a multitude of accommodation options and delicious food, plus you will feel as if you were on a Greek island. An abundance of water sports, practised with safety, will keep visitors of all ages entertained during their stay at the beaches.

Moreover, in Attica, you will find mountain forests

of extraordinary natural beauty. Nature lovers, hikers and mountain bikers will be amazed by the breathtaking landscapes in Attica, where rocky hills alternate with lush green forests and fascinating paths. Numerous trekking and hiking trails are found in the nearby mountains of Hymettus, Penteli and Parnitha, as well as on the islands of Aegina, Hydra and Kythera.

Cycling routes are also available around Attica, as well as opportunities to enjoy running in different locations!

Make sure to participate or watch live the major athletic event of worldwide magnitude, the Athens Authentic Marathon, the classical route, held each November, deeply rooted in Greek history and promoting world peace and human ideals.

In Attica you will also find plenty of health-related facilities, offering top-quality treatments at competitive prices. You can also visit volcanic areas with thermal springs and therapeutic waters to enjoy wellness treatments, such as Lake Vouliagmeni or the peninsula of Methana where visitors can swim even in winter.

The lush green, aristocratic suburbs offer numerous options for shopping, dining, and blending ►

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in with the locals. Shopping options range from the top-quality products of the Attica land, Greek folk art items, antiques and handmade accessories to well-known chain stores, famous brands, and Greek and foreign designer jewellery, in Attica you will find literally everything! Stroll the open-air markets and bazaars, where you will be impressed by the intoxicating aromas and beautiful colours, head for the shopping malls to do your shopping with comfort and style or visit the shops in galleries and museums, to find unique works of art and elegant souvenirs.

During your stay in the islands of Attica, the extraordinary shopping experience goes together with the pleasure of walking in the picturesque narrow streets of the towns.

Via Attica’s three major ports, Piraeus, Lavrio and Rafina, by ferries, hydrofoils, yachts, and cruise ships, visitors can head on an endless island-hopping tour!

Piraeus and Lavrio ports are home ports to various cruises, touring Attica, with other destinations in Greece or other Mediterranean destinations.

The options for those who love sea travel are numerous! They can either join a day cruise or rent a yacht with or without crew, or a sailboat in one of the various sailing clubs along the coastline of Attica to better explore it and visit the region’s nearby islands located at the Saronic Gulf (Aegina, Agistri, Hydra, Poros, Spetses, Salamina).

Another option is to head by boat (or plane) to the beautiful islands of Kythera and from there by boat to Antikythera. There are nine world-class marinas in Attica, four of which have been awarded a Blue Flag in 2022.

In Attica, you will enjoy the crystal blue sea, golden sand beaches and alluring islands, each with its own, unique character! Visit the authentically

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beautiful island of Aegina, home of the PDO pistachio nut, the paradise-like Agistri, Via Attica’s three taste fresh seafood in Salamajor ports, mina, visit the peaceful and Piraeus, Lavrio picturesque Poros, explore and Rafina, by the two car-free islands, the ferries, hydrocosmopolitan Spetses and foils, yachts, the preserved Greek national and cruise ships, monument of Hydra Island, a visitors can head well-known film location! The on an endless island of Kythera will thrill you island-hopping with its elegance, unique architecture, beautiful nature, and tour. pristine beaches, while in Antikythera you will experience the most relaxing moments, enjoying the peace and quiet, the authenticity of the island and its breathtaking natural beauty as it is located near a Natura protected area. It is no wonder why the Saronic islands were awarded in World Travel Awards as Greece’s Leading Island Destination in 2021 and 2018. In addition, in 2021 Attica’s Islands Regional territory was selected as a replicator at the Interreg Mediterranean Project INCIRCLE for the development of Circular Tourism Strategies.

Accommodation amenities in Attica offer something for every budget. From luxury accommodation, meeting and conference facilities in the big city centres of Athens and Piraeus and Attica’s vast coastline, the Athens Riviera, to smaller boutique hotels located in the islands, each year new facilities open their doors to guests, offering top-quality services, at competitive prices, always with a smile!

Attica boasts a rich gastronomic scene, based on PDO local produce, and invites visitors to dis-

cover all facets of dining. From fine dining at Michelin-awarded gourmet restaurants, with creative cuisine and renowned chefs (some in hotel rooftops), to local Greek taverns, seafood & ouzo places with traditional Greek cuisine, all-day café-restaurants, international cuisine, vegetarian and vegan restaurants, numerous cafes, quality street food, beer houses, wine bars and even 3 bars among the world’s top 50 list in 2022, Attica is truly a destination for foodies from around the globe! You can enjoy dishes made with creativity, love, and the purest ingredients that the Attica land has to offer, satisfying all culinary preferences.

Attica also offers plains with olive groves, orchards, vineyards, and visitable wineries that open their door to guests for wine-tasting events. The local vine variety of Attica is called Savatiano, from which the famous table wine Retsina is made.

For the wedding of your dreams, for a quick city break or a longer vacation, for travelling on a budget or in luxury and indulgence, for couples, friends, families, senior or LGBT travellers, for business or leisure travel, Attica offers the most memorable multigenerational holidays and unique experiences, the warmest hospitality and the most wonderful surprises!

More information on Attica’s rich geographic and thematic tourism portfolio, and information about events, islands, museums and many more, are provided on the official tourism webpage of the Region of Attika: www.athensattica.com. During WTM London 2022, you can visit the Region of Attica at EU1100 & EU1150 (Greek National Tourism Organization GNTO) stands.

This is Attica! A blessed and hospitable place for all

The must-visit azure-blue Lefkada Regarded as the gem of the Ionian Sea, Lefkada attracts thousands of tourists every year as it can brilliantly satisfy many different needs

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these water sports due to the combination of weather conditions and the morphology of the seas. For those who love nature, they can follow organized hiking and cycling routes, as well as go diving to get to know the unexplored marine wealth of the seabed of Lefkada.

Meganisi, Kastos and Kalamos are the largest of the islands that surround Lefkada with picturesque harbors and traditional settlements that are worth visiting. The mountainous areas of Lefkada combine lush vegetation with tradition, offering visitors the chance for perfect relaxation.

Lefkada can satisfy even the most demanding visitor, and that is why it is considered a must-visit island in the Ionian Sea!

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efkada, the island with the blue waters of the Ionian Sea. Surrounded by 24 small islands including Scorpios, firstly owned by Aristotle Onassis, Lefkada can attract a large number of visitors every year due to its easy access. One can arrive on the island by road, air and ferry. Its vast beaches combined with the lush green vegetation and create an enchanting landscape for the visitor. Some of the island’s most renowned beaches are Kathisma, Porto Katsiki, Egremnoi, Agios Ioannis, Mylos, Agiofyli, Mikros Gyalos, Kavalikeuta, Megali Petra and Agios Nikitas.

Cultural heritage and traditional architecture are key features of this place. Internationally renowned poets, writers and artists, such as Aggelos Sikelianos, Aristotelis Valaoritis, Lefkadios Hearn, and Agni Mpaltsa were born or lived a large part of their lives in Lefkada. Lefkada was the first island to introduce the institution of the Speech and Art Festival in 1955, and the International Folklore Festival in 1962, showcasing the Heptanisian tradition, organized at the end of August every year with attendances from all over the world. Delicious traditional cooking based on local products and ingredients, such as Egluvi lentils, lefkadian salami, pastels and mantolas, honey and wine allow guests to enjoy truly unique tastes not found elsewhere in Greece.

Lefkada attracts thousands of marine tourism guests every year, as it boasts one of the most modern yacht marinas with 725 berths. The island features a large number of museums, libraries, and churches influenced by Venetian architecture, with Heptanisian illustrations and beautiful woodcarved icons.

For fans of windsurfing and kite surfing, Lefkada is the paradise of

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AEGEAN ISLANDS: A SEA OF INNOVATION At the Region of South Aegean, the future is well-planned in advance and challenges are dealt with through partnerships, alliances and strategies.

At the Aegean Islands, the future started yesterday

I George Hatzimarkos Regional Governor South Aegean Region

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f the saying ‘every challenge is an opportunity’ is true, then tourism in the Aegean Islands of Greece stands as proof. Having earned the world's trust and praise for the successful crisis management of the pandemic, 2022 has outperformed the record year of 2019, while at the same time Aegean Islands, one after the other, lead the race for a sustainable future.

The far-flung members of the Aegean islands chain, where in the past access of goods and people by ferry were all a challenge, today have moved ahead at the forefront of innovation, quality daily life, environment and saving the planet.

Astypalea Island, this beautiful “butterfly” of the Aegean has become a symbol of change and transformation just like its shape. On the edge of innovation and technology, electrοmobility has become a tool for a better daily life on this island. With mobile apps for the innovative service of vehicles share out, with various actions of circular economy and the biggest collection of public chargers per resident in Greece, “smart and sustainable Astypalea” becomes a global reference point.

Chalki Island is the first one to launch the national “GR-Eco islands initiative”, which promotes new technologies and energy practices for low carbon emissions.

The initiative foresees the provision of free electricity to the members of the energy community generated by a photovoltaic system (PV), the delivery of electric vehicles to be used by public services, such as the police and the Coast Guard, the installation of four electric vehicle chargers at the port, a solar-power boat that will offer tours around the island, as well as the installation of a 5G telecommunications network and IoT technologies that will facilitate access to education (e-learning) and telemedicine.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

Tilos Island is a pioneer in waste management with the “Tilos just go zero” program having achieved 86% recycling.

Tilos Island is a pioneer in waste man agement with the “Tilos just go zero” program having achieved 86% recycling, the biggest percentage globally, having also eliminated trash cans, abolished landfilling, completely switched to electricity from renewable energy sources and has zero waste.

Syros Island hosts the “International Maritime & Technology Innovation Center” which will contribute to the acceleration of the digital transformation in shipping, as well as the growth of this insular region.

Rhodes Island is planned to be an international beacon for sustainable development in tourism via “THE RHODES COLAB” program, a strategic cooperation with TUI group. The choice of TUI, a leading tour operator, to make Rhodes a sustainable tourist destination, constitutes a great alliance and vote of confidence in the biggest of the Aegean islands chain.Naxos Island is becoming a pioneer of the "Smart Island" digital transformation program, which is the

product of our collaboration with Amazon Web Services and more than 20 Greek and multinational companies. As the country’s first Smart Island, Naxos will develop solutions for smart mobility, primary health, and transportation of goods. These solutions include the digital recording of passenger ship arrivals and departures, and the transportation of biological and pharmaceutical materials using drones.

In the Region of South Aegean, the future is well-planned in advance and challenges are dealt with through partnerships, alliances and strategies.

“Smart and sustainable Astypalea”, “Tilos just go zero”, Chalki, the first “Gr-eco island”, “International Maritime & Technology Innovation Center” at Syros and “The Rhodes Co-lab”, “Naxos Smart Island” are all links to the green chain of actions targeting the tourism of tomorrow.

At the Aegean Islands, the future started yesterday.

Sustainable tourism and growth in practice The South Aegean Region carries out a multitude of synergies and innovative sustainable development projects, such as The Rhodes Co-Lab, Naxos smart island Just Go Zero Tilos, Smart Astypalea, and Halki - GR-eco island

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n the South Aegean Region, sustainable tourism and sustainable development are clearly the only way forward. “It is the only road available”, emphasises the South Aegean Regional Governor, Giorgos Chatzimarkos, adding: “In the South Aegean we have a fundamental principle that permeates all of our policies. We have decided to shape developments ourselves.”

Based on these two principles, the region’s future has already started to become a reality, through a multitude of pioneering synergies and innovative projects of global impact and scope:

The Rhodes Co-Lab The Rhodes Co-Lab is a strategic collaboration between the South Aegean Region and TUI Group, joining forces to build a pioneering model for the future of sustainable tourism at a global level, with support from the Greek Ministry of Tourism and the Municipality of Rhodes, as well as with the contribution and participation of local, national and global stakeholders from the public and private sector.

This collaborative initiative of the South Aegean Region, Tui Group and Tui Care Foundation for the development of sustainable tourism, which started in Rhodes and brings together all the operators of the destination at the same table - Hotels and Accommodations, Catering, Transport and Mobility, Experiences, Cruises, Airports, Infrastructure - to implement a Holistic Sustainable Business Model for Tourism Destinations worldwide, prioritizing education and training opportunities for people in the tourism sector. Rhodes, in other words, will be the "beacon" for the sustainable transformation of tourist destinations around the world thanks to the high-level cooperation on all levels of Local Government with each other and with tourism bodies and the local economy and community.

The Rhodes Co-Lab focuses on four axes of work:  Regenerate the Natural Environment  Strengthen Social Development and Culture Heritage  Foster Inclusive Economic Development in the Tourism Business Model

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Just Go Zero Tilos The tiny island of Tilos teaches a new model of integrated solid waste management inside and outside of its borders. The pilot programme, implemented with the cooperation of the Municipality of Tilos, the sponsoring company POLYGREEN and FoDSA N. Aegean (i.e. the Regional Solid Waste Management Agency), aims to turn Tilos into a zero-waste island, while at the same time operating an intelligent and innovative hybrid system using solar and wind energy, through a battery storage mechanism to cover the electricity needs of the residents of Livadia village (with a population of about 500 people).

Smart Astypalea Thanks to an innovative electrification program, which is a ground-breaking joint initiative by the Government, the South Aegean Region and the Volkswagen Group, Astypalaia becomes the first Smart and Sustainable Island with energy autonomy in the Mediterranean. By 2030, the island will

achieve the goal of zero-emission mobility.

The project's objectives include the replacement of the existing vehicle fleet on the island with electric vehicles, the introduction of innovative on-demand mobility services and the promotion of the use of RES. In addition, the Hellenic Republic is committed to ensuring high-quality road infrastructure, excellent signage and sufficient traffic and weather data to guarantee safe, clean and inclusive transport. Ultimately, this venture will lead to the testing of autonomous driving.

Astypalaia has significant untapped green energy potential, making it the ideal choice for this project.

Halki, The first "GR-eco island" of Greece Greening has also begun on the island of Halki (Chalki), which is being transformed into a model island for energy transition, with the “GR-Eco islands” initiative and the relevant memorandum of cooperation signed between the Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, and the French Embassy in Greece, the South Aegean Region, the Municipality of Halki, the PPC, Syngelidis/Citroen Group, AKUO ENERGY GREECE, OMEXOM/ Vinci Energies, Vodafone Greece and ALD Automotive.

The objective of this initiative, which deals with the challenge of climate change, is to transform Greek islands into international standards of green and sustainable development and hotbeds of innovation. This is achieved by connecting the private sector with local communities, encouraging them to work together and find innovative solutions that promote new technologies and low-carbon energy practices.

The project includes actions such as the increased use of Renewable Energy Sources, the promotion of energy efficiency, the sustainable management of waste and water, the electrification of transport, the green transformation of agriculture and tourism, and the development of port and other infrastructure, through targeted interventions and tailored programs by the Ministry of Environment and Energy and other ministries, under the umbrella of the National Energy and Climate Plan.

In the first phase, priority is given to the smaller, unconnected and remote islands, such as Halki, with the Greek sun and the Aegean wind in a leading role in the development of green energy autonomy.

“Naxos Smart Island” “Naxos Smart Island”, a digital transformation program, is the result of a collaboration between Amazon Web Services and more than 20 Greek and multinational companies, as well as the South Aegean Region, the Municipality of Naxos and the local community. Naxos is turning into a “smart island”, with its selection by Amazon Web Services (AWS), a subsidiary of the US technology group, to develop into a point of reference, in terms of utilization of modern technological means, with the aim of improving services provided to island’s permanent residents, visitors and digital nomads.

AWS offers cloud computing services (AWS cloud) where businesses and individuals keep their data.

A sea of creation, the Aegean of Innovation, shows the way to the future.

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Get to know Naxos, the Queen of the Cyclades

The landscape on Naxos is also marked by the numerous towers, witnesses of the Venetian presence on the island, as Naxos was the seat of the Duchy of the Aegean.

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on the endless coastline with wonderful sandy yclades’ largest, most fertile and self-reliant island, with beaches and enjoy your favorite water sports at centuries of history, unique Mikri Vigla, the famous wind and surfing beach. sights from prehistoric times, Get to know Apeiranthos, the “precious gem” antiquity and the Byzantine of mountainous Naxos with its marble alleys, period, is rightly called the Venetian towers and stone houses, and Nax“Queen of the Cyclades”. os’ most historic church of Panagia Drosiani Naxos offers rare natural (a monastery in Byzantine years) between the beauty, high-quality tourist villages of Moni and Halki. infrastructure and distinctive local products, And also, be sure to visit the ancient temcuisine and customs. ple of the goddess Demeter near the village Beautiful settlements, orchards, plains, orange With unique sights from prehistoric times, antiqof Sagri, which was built in 530-520 BC and uity and the Byzantine period, the “Queen of the groves, lemon groves, and olive groves ideally architecturally inspired the construction of the Cyclades” offers rare natural beauty. complement the island’s wonderful beaches Parthenon in Athens almost a century later, with their endless golden sands, the ancient and which in addition is an excellent example of the Byzantine monuments, the medieval Castle in Chora and the Cave in Za, the use of the famous Naxos marble. mountain of Zeus - the highest mountain of the Cyclades, the monasteries and several other natural, historical and cultural “treasures” of the island.

Gastronomic paradise Feel the imposing signs left by the ancient Greeks, but also by the French Naxos features an ancient temple decicated to Demeter, goddess of agriculand Venetian nobles of the fourth crusade in Chora. Visit the giant Portara, ture and fertility in the ancient Greek Dodekatheon. the huge marble door of the glorious temple of Apollo that was never comYou are in a blessed place, identified with the production of some of the pleted. Walk through the narrow streets of the medieval Castle that hugs the most excellent products of Greece. In spite of its great tourism development, hill.

Naxos maintains its prosperous agricultural and livestock activity, as was the The landscape on Naxos is also marked by the numerous towers, witnesscase throughout its history. It is this production that elevated the island since es of the Venetian presence on the island, as Naxos was the seat of the Duchy ancient times, even for its economic autonomy. Moreover, in ancient Greece, of the Aegean. Explore the Bazaios Tower in Sagri, the Crispi-Glezou Tower its wine was likened to the nectar of the Gods, while its cheeses and vegetain Chora, the Belonia Tower in Galanado and the Della Rocca-Barozzi Tower bles have equally uniquely charmed the palate from ancient times to date. in Chora.

Naxos cuisine stands out for its authenticity and deliciousness and carries Admire the imposing Kouros Giants, resting eternally in the ravines of the essence of many different elements of the island's rich, centuries-old culMelanes and Apollo. Enjoy your afternoon coffee at the port, taste the fature. Simple and unpretentious elements, just like the land that created them, mous Citrus (Kitro), the popular local spirit. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing with flavors, colors and smells, such as olives, grapes, thyme and citrons.

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and the local raki are produced. The island's The austerity of the means of earlier times is reflected in many and inventive dishes, made trademark is also the famous Kitro, a spirit with local ingredients and pure products that, made from citrus leaves (citrus medica) that has despite time, excite even the most demanding passionate friends in Greece and abroad. palates to this day. The main thing, however, is Of course, Naxos’ cuisine could not be that the balance of flavors and the purity of the without its equally popular sweets, such as the ingredients of the Naxos diet have made it ideal famous melachrino, a type of walnut pie that for health and longevity, just like the Mediterraalso contains a small amount of citrus. It can be nean diet, of which it is a part. ideally combined with kaimaki ice cream, made Discover the cheese-making tradition of from local sheep’s milk. And of course, don't Naxos, which produces world-famous prodforget to try the Naxos macaroons, and the wonucts, such as the famous Naxos graviera and Naxos cuisine stands out for its authenticity and dederful spoon sweets - eggplant, quince, citrus, liciousness and carries the essence of many different the equally special kefalotyri, the so-called fig, walnut, etc., all produced on the island. elements of the island's rich, centuries-old culture. “male cheese”, but also myzithra, xinomyzithra, It is no coincidence that the South Aegean tulumotyri, anthotiro, afromyzithra of Naxos, Region has registered many Naxos products as thilykotiri, kopanisti, ladotiri, manuri, etc. The Union of Agricultural CoopProtected Domination of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indicaeratives of Naxos produces the largest amount of cheese and collects over tions (PGI), such as its cheese, herbs, potatoes, citrus liqueur and more.

12,000 tons of milk annually from its dairy farmers. You will find Union A special experience that will acquaint you with the island’s local cuisine cheeses at a branch in the port. There are also large cheese factories on the and specialties are the cooking classes at the Platias winery in the village island, while cheeses are also sold by small producers and shepherds. of Galini, just 5.6 km and 10 minutes from Naxos town. You will have the The excellent quality and delicious potatoes of Naxos, owing to the poopportunity to pick yourself the seasonal vegetables from the shop's garden, tassium-rich sandy clay soil, have been coveted for centuries and star in the then cook them to prepare some of the most popular dishes of the local and specialties of Greek and foreign chefs. The island’s approximately 400,000 generally Greek cuisine, always using local pure virgin olive oil. olive trees more than cover the local needs for olive oil, while around 4,000 Such a fertile place with historical roots from deep antiquity could not bee hives produce the famous local pure thyme honey. do without a strong cultural activity. Naxos stands out for the multitude of Winemaking on Naxos has been equally important from ancient times alternatives it offers, with traditional fairs and cultural events that embellish to date. In fact, Greek mythology has it that Dionysus, the god of wine and the stay on the island. pleasure, was born on Naxos and planted the first grapevine on the island as Cultural events include the Naxos Festival at Pyrgos Bazaiou, an event with international appeal, and the Dionysia, high-level cultural events under its patron. The cult of Dionysus in Naxos was intertwined with the cultivation the auspices of the municipality of Naxos, held throughout the summer, endof vines and the production of wine. Vineyards still dominate the island’s ing solemnly in September with the Wine Festival and the Fisherman’s Feast. mountainous and semi-mountainous areas, where the famous sweet wine

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Kos, an international holiday and culinary destination

The entire island where Hippocrates was born and lived looks like an open-air museum, with ancient and medieval monuments scattered in every corner.

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nown around the world as the island of the father of Western Medicine, Hippocrates, Kos is the third largest island of the Dodecanese complex, and one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, offering a multitude of “cures” for the soul, the body and the look. In addition, the island offers unique gastronomic delights of The ruins of Asclepeion in Kos island, a temple dediinternational fame even for the most demanding A must-visit on Kos is the huge Hippocrates plane tree, with a trunk circumference of 12m, which accated to Asclepius, the god of Medicine.The Asclepalates. Besides, the South Aegean Region is peion sits on the slopes of a low tree-covered hill. cording to legend was planted by Hippocrates himself. part of the network of European Gastronomy Regions and was declared a European Gastronomy Region in 2019.

The entire island where Hippocrates was born and lived (460-370 BC) looks like an open-air museum, with ancient International culinary destination and medieval monuments scattered in every corner.

4th World Food Gift Challenge 2023 Historical sights and castles of unique value from antiquity such as the The basis of the traditional cuisine on the island of Kos, recognized as an famous Asklepieion, just 3.5 km southwest of Kos town, landscapes of rare international culinary destination for many years, is olive oil, fresh fish, beauty, endless sandy beaches with clear blue waters - cosmopolitan or not, seafood, local meat and vegetables that derive their deliciousness from the Aegean sun. Local specialties include pitaridia (local pasta), dolmades with high-quality hotels, large squares, wide roads, tall palm trees, pedestrian and rice and herbs, pastitsio with vegetables, katimeria (twisted pancake with cycle paths - Kos is also known as “bicycle island” - together with the famous mizithra, served with honey and cinnamon), ksysmata (breads leavened with forest of Plaka with its countless peacocks, the thermal springs of three different types (hot, hypothermic and cold), the castles of the Knights of St. John, grated myzithra and herbs), the labropites (large round cheese pies filled with of Neratzia and Antimachia, and a multitude of other monuments and sights, prospha, i.e. unsalted myzithra leavened with eggs and yeast), the red cheese which make Kos a multidimensional and particularly interesting destination. that matures in red wine lees, the tomato spoon sweet, the PDO honey of Also, a must-visit is the huge Hippocrates plane tree, with a trunk circumAntimachia, etc. ference of 12 meters (!), which according to legend was planted by Hippocrates Moreover, the island is feverishly preparing soon to be the focus of internahimself. tional gastronomy, through the hosting of the 4th World Food Gift Challenge

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IGCAT's WFGC helps protect and promote local food and cultural diversity by recognizing excellent products from local culinary cultures.

The best products will be awarded at an official ceremony on April 28.

The event is organized at the initiative of the South Aegean Regional Governor, Giorgos Chatzimarkos. “Given the impressive work that the regional authority and the Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarkos has personally done over the past ten years for the Gastronomy of the islands, we are very proud to keep the South Aegean Region in the network of European Gastronomy Regions,” commented Diane Dodd, Built in the middle ages, the Tax Gate is today covFlamingos at the Wetlands of Psalidi, a seaside salt President of IGCAT and founder of the Europelake in the southeastern part of Kos which you can ered with beautiful bougainvillea, and serves as the an/International Gastronomy Regions platform. visit through specially designated hiking routes. entrance to the ancient agora.

She added: “What the islands of the South Aegean have taught us, their culinary richness and the exchange of good practices through the Aegean Cuisine label, the institution of the 2023, of the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism Young Chef Awards, the European Gastronomy Region and now through the IGCAT, to be held in April 2023.

World Food Gift Challenge is a valuable legacy for the international interThe event is to be attended by representatives of Regions, producers and disciplinary network IGCAT. We can't wait to visit another amazing South gastronomy experts from around 20 countries, including Spain, Finland, Aegean island!”

France, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Slovenia, Portugal, countries of the Middle For his part, South Aegean Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarkos points East, etc., to take part in workshops and visits to emblematic places and local out: “Gastronomy has been a major investment of the South Aegean Region, institutions of the island. and the connection of the primary with the tourism sectors is one of the most The competition will bring together high-quality food and food-related craft efficient goals we pursued. We believe in the value and work of our small proproducts from nominated and award-winning Global Gastronomy Regions, ducers, whom we actively support”. which will be evaluated by an international jury of IGCAT experts.

What one should remember when on Kos is that all of the island’s beaches The mission of the international jury will be to identify outstanding, unique are about one kilometer in length! You can award the…first prize to the beach culinary gifts and evaluate them according to criteria such as taste, appeal, of Kardamena, for its wonderful landscape and deep blue waters, but you will sustainability, connection to the region of origin, storytelling, creativity and also be delighted by the impressive Mastichari, Tigaki, Marmari, Golden Coast, innovation.

Kefalos and Paradisos.

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reece’s beauty and the ongoing improvement in its infrastructure have made the country one of the most popular destinations for foreign nationals to buy a holiday

home.

Acquiring a residence on Greek islands is an investment opportunity that combines the option of vacations in a privately owned space, but also receives a good yield from the property’s rental when not used by the owner.

According to real estate companies, things are particularly positive for countryside houses in Greece, a property category that is favored by the rise in tourism and the extension of the tourist season beyond the summer.

The pandemic created new needs and habits. In addition to families choosing for their vacation a holiday home available for rent through short-term rental platforms, citizens of other countries are looking for housing in Greece in order not only to rest on their leave, but also to work for a while if they have the option of teleworking.

For years, a large number of Northern European retirees, mainly Germans, but also from other countries, have been choosing Greece to spend a large part of the year. According to a recent nationwide survey by the real estate agency RE/MAX Hellas, 46% of holiday homes sold in Greece, are bought by foreign nationals.

The search for a holiday home seems to be almost a “Greek” affair in mainland Greek cities such as Xanthi, Komotini and Igoumenitsa (90 out of 100 purchases are made by Greeks). On the contrary, on islands such as Naxos, Rethymnon (Crete) and Corfu, up to 90% of holiday home sales are made to buyers from abroad.

The attractive yields are also a magnet for buying holiday homes, RE/MAX underlines. The highest rate of return on tourist properties nationwide is found in Southern Greece, Cyclades, and Crete (7%), followed by Northern Greece (6%) and the Ionian islands (5%).

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REAL BARGAINS ESTATE Foreigners tempted by holiday homes on Greek islands. Prime properties Price trends - Investors’ profile

By Teti Igoumenidi tigoumenidi@naftemporiki.gr

According to Algean Property, a service provider in the real estate market, the islands of Mykonos, Paros, Santorini and Skiathos are the four Greek islands that receive large numbers of visitors and record the highest yield (or, annual income from the rental of a property in relation to its value), among 30 Mediterranean tourist destinations.

Based on a survey carried out for the 6th time

by Algean Property, in 2022, in addition to the aforementioned destinations, Porto Heli, Halkidiki, Kefalonia and Chania also recorded high yields (the comparison/survey was based on 3,000 holiday homes, of a floor space of 250sqm, with at least 3 bedrooms, a private pool and high-quality home equipment.

As Algean Property points out, the holiday home market in Greece is competitive as investment costs are lower compared to other Mediterranean destinations, with house prices still 22% - 37% lower than 2007 levels, before Greece’s financial crisis.

Engel & Völkers’ report on residential real estate (Market Report 2022 Athens & South Aegean) records interesting facts about the popular destinations as far as the holiday home is concerned.

Company executives note that, based on activity, the islands of Mykonos, Rhodes, Paros, Syros, Symi, Naxos and Patmos are currently at the forefront of the holiday home market.

In the popular Cyclades, as has been the case for several years now, high interest is primarily focused on Mykonos and Santorini, because of their large supply of holiday homes and exclusive villas for sale.

On Mykonos, demand follows tourism development and investment, as for example in Kalo Livadi or Kalafati, where interest in second homes is constantly increasing. The purchase price for a country house, according to Engel & Völkers, ranges between 6,500 - 11,000 euros per sq.m., while in Psarou, Ornos and Chora, the corresponding figures range from 8,000 euros to 17,500 euros per sq.m.

For the medium-demand areas in Agrafi, Fanari,

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The holiday home market is competitive as investment costs are lower compared to other Mediterranean destinations

Ftelia and Kalafati, prices are between 5,000 11,000 euros per sq.m. In areas that are a little further away, such as Ano Mera, Merchia, etc., prices range from 3,500 - 6,500 euros per sq.m.

A new trend has evolved in recent months, which according to Engel & Völkers executives regards the demand for properties with particularly modern and “green” architectural elements, as well as a shift to modern design while maintaining the traditional architecture.

Interest in Paros is constantly growing as the island is one of Greece’s most up-and-coming destinations, also due to new investments being made to upgrade the airport. Specifically, interest is concentrated in new-build properties with traditional features, with prices ranging between 4,000 6 - 8,000 euros per sq.m., while older properties sell at 3,500 - 5,000 euros per sq.m.

Syros island is an alternative for those who prefer a “quiet destination” but without compromising good infrastructure, as the 7 island offers an interesting mix of properties characterized by their neoclassical architecture, situated in the historic town of Ermoupolis, and properties that are more modern and stand out for their modern architectural design.

On Rhodes, the largest of the South Aegean islands with a 8 multitude of beautiful areas, the traditional settlement of Lindos and the wider area

1.Tzia ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� 2,000 - 4,000 2. Symi ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 1,500 - 4,500 3. Tinos ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 2,000 - 5,000 4. Rhodes ��������������������������������������������������������������� 2,500 - 7,000 5. Paros ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 3,500 - 8,000 6. Patmos ��������������������������������������������������������������� 4,500 - 8,000 7. Santorini ����������������������������������������������������������� 4,500 - 9,000 8. Mykonos �������������������������������������������������������� 6,000 - 11,000

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is of great investment interest - even during the period of the global health crisis, prices remained stable at high levels.

As buyer interest is focused on the area of Lindos, prices for houses in prime locations range from 4,500 - 7,000 euros per sq.m., while further south, near the settlements of Kiotari, Gennadi and Lachania, prices for villas vary between 3,000 - 6,500 euros per sq.m. In the medium demand zones, Kolymbia, Afantou and Faliraki -in the island’s east- and Ixia and Ialyssos in the west, house prices are between 2,500 - 5,500 euros per sq.m. In constant demand, of course, is Rhodes town, which offers a rewarding investment to buyers all year round, with prices for houses from 3,500 - 6,000 euros per sq m, while apartments range from 2,500 - 4,000 euros per sq.m.

Symi, a short distance from Rhodes, has been an up-and-coming destination in the Dodecanese in recent years. Prices for luxury homes vary between 3,300 - 4,500 euros per sq.m., while properties up to 150 sq.m., can be bought from 1,800 - 3,500 euros per sq.m.

Interest from abroad in the purchase and rental of real estate in Greece, especially concerning luxury holiday homes in popular tourist destinations and islands such as the Cyclades, Crete and Corfu, is expected to be intense, the executives of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Athens Properties also point out. The Greek real estate market is still the first preference of foreign investors, especially US buyers due to lower prices and the extended tourist season, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices also notes in its European Summer Spotlight Market Report 1

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Enjoy the unique combination of Zakynthian charm and traditional service

ADVERTORIAL

Strofades Hotel

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Located right on the sandy beach of Tsilivi, the hotel consists of 120 rooms, and offers great food and great service by friendly, experienced staff that caters to your every need. The hotel’s modern facilities and the renovated (2019) interior make it the perfect place for your holidays.

Modern hotel rooms and suites for a perfect beach holiday. At Strofades Beach Hotel we aim to put our guest's needs first and our fully trained staff is available to ensure you get everything you require. We offer four types of rooms: suites, family rooms, twin rooms and superior rooms, depending on individual requirements.

The hotel boasts modern facilities and services to ensure a comfortable stay. Fully trained staff is available at the reception 24/7 to assist you with anything you may need. There is a restaurant where you can enjoy all your meals at our luxurious self-service buffet.

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The swimming pool is the hotel's central feature and is located on the same level as the sea. There are free sun loungers and umbrellas around the pool for use by hotel guests. The beach is very close and easily accessible.

The shallow waters are safe for little children. You will also find a snack bar at the beach, offering refreshments, coffee and light meals throughout the day.

Located right on the beach of Tsilivi, one of the most beautiful tourist resorts on Zakynthos on the northeast coast in a scenic area surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The resort has developed over the years and has an array of shops, bars and restaurants just waiting to be discovered.

The Island of Zakynthos is rich in history and provides many interesting sights, various activities, beautiful scenic landscapes, stunning beaches and magnificent crystal clear waters in the Ionian Sea.

Selyria Hotel Welcome to the Selyria Resort, a fun summer escape in luxurious surroundings.

The Selyria Resort is a beautiful, all-inclusive 5-star hotel that promises all guests an exceptional stay. Facilities such as the Spa Center, Swimming pool with Jacuzzi and Children’s pool as well as the Pool Snack Bar, Lobby Bar and Restaurant guarantee a complete holiday experience hard to forget.

Our hotel offers an impressive Spa center to help you take your mind off your troubles and relax. Enjoy the relaxing and welcoming atmosphere and the facilities available such, as the sauna and the various massage and beauty therapies offered by our skilled and friendly staff. ►

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Zakynthos Hotel

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Zakynthos Hotel carries certain historic importance and is now entirely refurbished, as this year’s makeover upgraded the hotel to an avant-garde resort with modern facilities and elegant rooms built with the highest quality standards.

Due to its unique structure, as well as the multitude of facilities, this hotel is appropriate for singles, couples, groups of friends and families with children. Zakynthos Hotel is built in the enchanting Akrotiri, within a private 1.1-acre property. The hotel is a brand-new addition to Sellinas Group Hotels.The Hotel has a floor space of 2,500sqm and offers 80 fully renovated and refurnished rooms, equipped with all the necessary facilities for a remarkable stay. The rooms are divided into single and double rooms,

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

with one double or two single beds, and triple rooms with three single beds.

Furthermore, we also offer quadruple rooms with two separate bedrooms each, one double and two single beds. All rooms have furnished balconies with bewitching views of the deep blue sea or the pool.

At Zakynthos Hotel we appreciate the fact that you desire a unique and high-quality holiday experience, and this is exactly what our new establishment offers, as it was designed to satisfy even the most demanding guests.

On a privileged spot in Akrotiri, amongst traditional olive groves, Zakynthos Hotel offers panoramic views of Tsilivi gulf. A place where the azure sky melts into the deep blue sea, reflecting all the colors of a rainbow as the sun goes down…

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Porto Carras Grand Resort

hree of Greece’s most popular summer tourist destinations (Halkidiki, Pieria, Thassos) are located in Northern Greece. So are five of the country's most popular ski resorts, as well as the megacity of Thessaloniki, with over 2,300 years of history and contribution to the national economy, especially due to its port. Naturally, Northern Greece is a pole of attraction for a large number of tourism investments.

Halkidiki, Pieria and Thassos share a high-level tourism infrastructure, with a multitude of five-star and four-star resorts and hotels, in addition to their great potential for tourism development as they attract a significant number of new tourism investments.

At the same time, a barrage of hotel investments by both domestic and foreign capital is taking place in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city. Thessaloniki is a transit trade gateway to SE Europe thanks to its port, home of the renowned Thessaloniki International Fair.

The city has three Universities and a large number of research centers by Greek and American companies.

On the other hand, in Halkidiki --famed around the world for its sandy beaches and the emerald waters of its three fingers (peninsulas) that stretch lazily in the northern Aegean-- following a short investment respite caused by the pandemic, a number of investments are now being planned or are underway.

Hotel investments in Halkidiki A major renovation in the coming months is planned by Sithonia hotel, of the renowned Porto Carras Grand Resort, by the establishment’s new owner, Ivan Savvidis’ Group.

The investment, valued at €55 million, will be made for the renovation of the hotel, as well as development of the marina, upgrading golf courses and other sports areas, and upgrading and developing the winemaking facility. These are part of the planned investment’s first phase.

The Sani/Ikos Group has evolved from the iconic Sani Resort in Kassandra, Halkidiki (first finder), founded by the Andreadis family, to the fastest-growing and most successful hotel group, operating privately-owned, luxury resorts throughout the Mediterranean.

Recently, the group announced the acquisition of a majority stake in the Sani/Ikos Group by the Singaporean investment organization GIC. New investments are

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planned for four new hotels in Greece (in Crete and Corfu), as well as in Spain and Portugal, in addition to expansions in existing hotels, such as Ikos Andalusia in Marbella and Porto Sani in Halkidiki.

New investments are also being planned by the TOR Hotel Group, owned by the Tornivuka hotel family, for the expansion of the Eagles Villas complex, with the construction of additional and larger villas, while every year the company reinvests 3%-5% of its turnover in upgrading and renovations of the Eagles Palace Resort, which employs a staff of 300 and has eight restaurants, each with a special cuisine and major awards-distinctions.

A new luxurious five-star hotel complex, AMMOA Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort, opened its doors the year in Agios Ioannis Sithonia, owned by the Mendekidis Group and managed by the Zeus International Group.

Three of the six hotels of G-Hotels, owned by the Grigoriadis family, and in particular Athos Palace, Pallini Beach, and Theophano Imperial Palace, situated in Kallithea, Halkidiki were transferred this year to Goldman Sacs Asset Management (GSAM), which is reportedly looking for co-investors, as well as financing for investments valued at €140 million for the renovation-expansion of the three hotels.

At least four other new, five-star hotel complexes are in the initial stage of construction in Halkidiki. A five-star hotel will be built on the islet of Diaporos, opposite Vourvourou, Sithonia by the company Ergon Foods S.A. - Ergon House S.A. The company Ushakova Alekseeva IKE is making an investment of €7.8 million for the construction of a five-star hotel. A four-star hotel, the Crystal Resort, is to be built

by Ambrosiadis IKE. Also, as of 2021, building permits have been issued for the creation of new five-star hotels in Nea Potidaia by AF Partners Monoprosopi IKE; in Gerakini by Bregu Tourism Enterprises IKE; and, another four-star hotel in Olympiada, an investment by Georgi Petrov and Teodora Georgieva. A new tourist resort on a 35-acre plot in Tristinika Halkidiki has also been announced by A.A Investments BV, Netherlands.

The luxury hotel complex Danai Beach Resort & Villas, in Sithonia, is also proceeding with an upgrading-renovation investment valued at €1.474 million.

In Pieria, a favorite road summer destination

IN NORTHERN GREECE

Sani Resort in Kassandra

By Vassiliki Vegiri vveg@naftemporiki.gr

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REPORTAGE ●

In recent years, major investments are also being made on Thassos island.

► of Greek and Balkan visitors, Vasilios Lambrou S.A. is currently embarking on a €6.0-million investment for the expansion and upgrade of the Mediterranean Princess hotel in Katerini Olympic Beach.

The same company is also planning a large tourist investment (€20 million) on Mykonos.

In Kavala, Northern Greece, opposite the island of Thassos, a hotel complex, partly five-star and partly four-star, is being built in the area of Keramoti by a company of Bulgarian interests.

The initial phase of the investment is valued at €10 million and may reach up to €50 million. Another investment by a Bulgarian company a few years ago concerned the building of Thassos Grand Resort, in the area of Agios Ioannis, Thassos.

Another two new five-star hotels, the Vathi Cove Resort & Spa on Vathi beach, and the Alexandra Elegance in Potos, also on Thassos, opened their doors in 2020.

Thessaloniki Thessaloniki’s tourism infrastructure has been upgraded in recent years, through successive new hotel investments One of the major recent developments was the opening, in April 2022, of the

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five-star ON Residence hotel, through an investment valued at €20 million by Tor Hotel Group and Grivalia Hospitality.

The hotel is situated on coastal Nikis Ave. and includes Thessaloniki’s revived historic restaurant Olympos Naoussa.

New hotels are also in the planning stage in Thessaloniki

by Hotel Luisa S.A., with an investment of €16 million in Leontos Sofou Street, while German interests are investing In Pieria, Vasil€5.5 million for the reconstruction of the Egypt hotel on ios Lambrou Ptolemaion Street.

S.A. is currently Another five-star boutique hotel, S Hotel, was put into embarking on a operation on the Kalapothaki pedestrian street, through a €6.0-million in€3.0-million investment by Olympion SA Construction & vestment for the Tourism Enterprises. expansion and The five-star Monasty Thessaloniki hotel, on Vasileos upgrade of the Herakliou St., built and owned by Michaniki Perivallontos Mediterranean S.A., is run by Swot in collaboration with Marriott's AutoPrincess hotel in graph Collection brand.

A new tender is imminent by TAIPED for the upgrade of Katerini Olympic the Aretsou marina, in Kalamaria, Thessaloniki Beach.

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36°49'42.2"N 27°14'41.2"E

In a world of infinite possibilities, open up to your own story at Mitsis Hotels.

ATHENS | CRETE | KAMENA VOURLA | KOS | RHODES

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Exploring the beauty of North Aegean islands The islands of the North Aegean, so very different from one another, like the pebbles on a beach, have something that brings them together and yet makes them stand out

ADVERTORIAL

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ore than two thousand small and large islands adorn Greece, making up the country’s archipelago, like invaluable lily pads resting on the sea. The northeast edge of the Aegean is dominated by the islands of Limnos, Agios Efstratios, Lesvos, Psara, Chios, Oinousses, Samos, Ikaria, Fournoi & Thymania.

Singular islands, with history's marks still easily discernible; they are living organisms of multifaceted cultural activity and expression, with popular events and traditions, performing and visual art forms, local products and practices, and architectural styles.

The unique natural environment and variety of scenery make the islands of the N. Aegean stand out and lead visitors to trails for exploration and recreation. Wetlands with rare flora and fauna, salt marshes, waterfalls, dense forests of pine, walnut, oak, olive groves, mastic trees are just a few of the things to be enjoyed on the islands.

The islands of the North Aegean, so very different from one another, like the pebbles on a beach, have something that brings them together and yet makes them stand out. They have managed to maintain their local culture and natural environment, offering visitors unique images, flavours and scents of times past.

“Anemoessa” Limnos of the rocks and Poliochne – the most ancient organized city in Europe – crowned with its vineyards and its islands, almost untouched by time.

Agios Efstratios, “the green island”, its untamed locals bearing the genuine borderland stoutness known to few.

Lesvos, a multicoloured cultural canvas, harmoniously combining inherent contrasts of natural beauty.

Indomitable Psara, with the flag of the revolution still flying in the harbour.

Fragrant Chios, a theatre where powerful civilizations met, with the characteristic aroma of citrus and mastic trees.

The small island complex of Oinousses, the base of the most active ship owners in the history of Greek shipping.

“Pythagorean” Samos, the centre of Ionian civilization, with its natural beauty and aromatic wine.

Ikaria of longevity, with its fierce beauty and the admirable quality of its people to draw visitors into a merry and relaxed pace.

Fournoi & Thymaina, a journey of the senses to times past and flavours forgotten.

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Lesvos. A land that invites you to discover it.

Lesvos A true gastronomic paradise Aigeira (the dark one), Imerte (the desired one), Lasia (the one dense with trees), Makaria (the blessed one). Over time all of these names were connected to the fertile and truly desired – by countless conquerors and suitors – land of Lesvos, the third largest island in Greece, with eleven million olive trees and famous the world over.

Lesvos, a land that invites you to discover it. If you surrender yourself to its charm you will be richly rewarded, as surprises will come one after the other.

Picturesque seaside hamlets and mountain destinations that make you forget you are on an island.

A rich interchange of scenery, from the lush green of olive trees, pines, walnut trees, and oak trees, to the lunar landscape of the western side. Imposing mansions with neoclassic, baroque, neo-gothic, belle epoque, and renaissance features, as well as traditional stone-built homes and farmhouses.

Lesvos is not a land for visitors in a rush, searching for the myth of wild night life and a hurried tour for some quick snaps on their camera. Lesvos - the beginning and end for cultures that lasted three thousand years – has a rich natural environment, unique local products, a close connection to the arts, letters and folklore. Asimakis Panselinos, a man of letters born and raised on Lesvos, wrote in his own, elegant way: “Here springs the hidden fountain that nourishes the spirit of mother Greece”. Any traveller who stops to drink from this spring will realize that Lesvos is not just great in size. It is great in everything.

This is where the arts and letters have flourished since early antiquity. The two most important lyric poets of Lesvos were Alcaeus and Sappho. Alcaeus, possibly the first political poet, was better known for his pieces on love. But if he was an artist – activist, Sappho was something more. Defying all conventions of the times, which wanted women docile and humble, she, too, got involved in politics, was temporarily exiled to Sicily and returned to found a school of dance and music on Mytilene.

With such deep roots in intellectual tradition and independent thought, it comes as no great surprise that this very same island birthed men of the arts and letters such as Elytis, Myrivilis, Venezis, Panselinos, Iakovidis, Eleftheriadis, Theophilos.

Some want to wear down the soles of their shoes on the broad and well-signposted trail network of an island that is part of UNESCO's Global Geopark

Network, while others to walk through the endless olive groves, the dense pine forests, or on the precipitous rocks leading to the waterfalls of Man' Katsa.

Others want to wander in the petrified forest of Sigri and travel back in time some twenty million years, to the time of dinosaurs and giant plants, which Homo sapiens – with a short life of 200,000 years – never saw with his own eyes; Yet, their history and beauty are still enchanting us.

Other visitors, still, want to see how olives are collected and oil produced at Gera, a symbol of beauty for the island. Or to set the noblest ambush in nature, in order to watch the rare birds that find a safe haven in Lesvos' wetlands; they enjoy them through their binoculars and immortalize them with their cameras.

However, everyone will discover why the proverb that speaks of happiness taking a necessary detour through the stomach finds its true meaning on this land. Aniseed from Lisvori and generations of knowledge in ouzo production have given Lesvos world renown and countless international distinctions.

Lesvos is a true gastronomic paradise. It boasts one of the best olive oil varieties in Greece, high

quality local meat, famed cheeses and, naturally, its excellent Kalloni sardines, which require an iron will to resist. And between you and us, you shouldn't.

Holiday misconduct is what gives meaning to the discipline of the rest of the year. And if one were to sin for Lesvos, Lesvos will honour their sacrifice.

Because, as a great Greek chef of the inter-war era once said about the local island produce and people: “In some places we cook for nourishment. Here everyone cooks for fun”.

It sounds paradoxical, but all this beauty surrounding you on the island was the result of a chaotic prehistoric event. The terrible explosion of the volcano that flooded the island with lava and dramatically changed its morphology, was the beginning of the creation of all this natural abundance that made this land stand out, long before people took to the stage. Five hot therapeutic springs, the volcanic scenery with the petrified forest on the west side of the island and the fertile southeast coast, create the Lesvos of two facets: from the violence of chaos to the refinement of harmony. On Lesvos, nature is the canvas, brush and paints all at once. The people just never forgot how to be alert to it and indulge in it... ►

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Chios Overwhelming the senses

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Even its name sounds aromatic”. This phrase sealed the visit to the island of one of the most renowned travellers of the 18th century, Frenchman Pierre Augustin Guys, who was enraptured by the medieval villages, dozens of caves and unique culture of Chios. Chios could be considered unique just for its mastic trees. A strictly endemic species, the famous Pistacia Lentiscus grow only here – in fact, not even throughout Chios, but only in a specific location of the island. The beneficial properties of mastic, known since antiquity, have been extensively studied at international biochemical laboratories and have been continuously worshipped by healthy nutrition fans Knowledgeable visitors come to the island in late summer in order to witness the mastic production process up close and participate in the harvest of the valuable ‘tears’. This is the best time to walk around Chios. There are many ways to become acquainted with the island, but in order to experience its virgin beauty, you must leave your car behind and satisfy all your senses by seeing, hearing and smelling…

Chios overwhelms the senses. Maybe with its wine, known since antiquity as ‘Arioussios Wine’, maybe with its raki, tsipouro or souma, made of fig distillate, maybe with the light scent of mastic bushes and citrus trees or the lights of Turkey that can be clearly seen across the sea at night – maybe with the energy that the island itself, with its millennia-long history and passion, imbues into visitors. And if you, as a visitor, manage to feel all this within a few days, imagine what Chios people, who have lived here all their life, are made of.

Like the scents of the tiny blossoms of the citrus trees mingle in the atmosphere, the images of old and new, of magnificent and humble co-exist peacefully on Chios. In order to get to know the island in depth, one has to walk throughout the refugee settlement of the city, with its lilac houses and colorful flowers. And in order to bid farewell to the day with due respect, one must walk up to the abandoned village of Anavato or the medieval village of Avgonimi to witness the most mystical sunset they will ever see The Medieval Festival of Chios, held September 3-5, 2022 is being established for the first time on the fragrant island, organised under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organisation (EOT). The Festival will present a series of original artistic events -not history lessons- that aim to inspire, entertain and, above all, to unite eras, landscapes, memories in a way that only art knows and can.

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Samos Cosmopolitan and secluded Samos is an island ruled by legend and beauty. It is the island of the father of mathematics, Pythagoras, the astronomer Aristarchus and the philosopher Epicurus. It is the home of Hera and the land that hosted Herodotus and Aesop. An important center of trade in the Aegean and a major naval force in antiquity, it came into contact with important Mediterranean cultures.

The mythical birthplace of Hera, Samos is home to the largest temple in Greece (according to Herodotus) at the seaside settlement of Heraion, dedicated exclusively to the goddess of marriage and women. Of its 155 gigantic columns, only one still stands and is indicative of the scale of this place of religious worship that includes ruins of at least three earlier temples.

Samos is a place of overwhelming vegetation. Everything around in the virgin landscape is made of colour and light. Each step one takes is a revelation.

Whether in the imposing mountains, such as Mt. Kerkis and Mt. Ambelos – with alpine winter temperatures and endless rain – or in caves and canyons, the environment of Samos reminds one of the Greek hinterlands in miniature.

Walk along Mt. Kerkis, from Votsalakia in Marathocampos, to its peak, Mt. Vigla, at an altitude of 1,400m. Along your hike you will see over 1,400 species of rare plants, many of which are endemic to the island, as well as dozens of species of birds of prey.

The terrain of Samos is a challenge to those who choose to ride mountain bikes on their travels. Each summer, an increasing number of cyclists, fully equipped for their adventures, visit the trail. Birdwatchers set up near the Alyki habitat or Glyfada Lake to photograph herons, Dalmatian pelicans and pink flamingos that rest here before continuing their migration. When the flamingos ascend into the sky at dusk, their colour mingles with the red sunset, creating a visual extravagance that visitors can’t forget.

Pythagoreion, built on the ruins of the ancient city of Samos, is home to what many call the eighth wonder of antiquity – and engineers agree. In 550 BC, the architect Eupalinos undertook the task of constructing a 1,036m tunnel, at the order of tyrant Polycrates, to connect the two sides of the mountain and supply water to the ancient capital of Samos. This innovative aqueduct had to be invisible to enemies, so as not to be destroyed and leave the people of Samos without water.

Samos is a multi-faceted island. It’s cosmopolitan if you stay at Vathy, Kokkari or Pythagoreion. It is isolated if you prefer Marathocampos, Kerveli or Mykali. It is an island of long nights and revelling, as well as a place of peace, ideal for rest, relaxation and contemplation.

Limnos Αromas and flavours from mythology Myth and history. Beaches for the most demanding of visitors. Forthright people who consider hospitality their personal business. A chance to relax or party wildly. Scenery different to anything you have ever experienced.

This is Limnos. Volcanic in its geologic origins; even metaphorically it is an invisible volcano ready to erupt. Under its seemingly quiet surface, it holds treasures to be discovered only by those tired of the obvious cosmopolitan scene on other islands of the Aegean, those in the mood to explore.

With a connection by air to Athens and Thessaloniki, and easily accessible by ship from Kavala in a few hours, this is the island on which Hephaestus found refuge, after Zeus' row with jealous Hera. Mysterious, the shadow of the Cabeiroi still cast upon it, prehistoric, with Poliochne, the most ancient city in Europe, dating back to the fifth millennium BC, devout, with the renowned sanctum to Hephaestia, the great goddess of Limnos,. Fortified, with some of the best known and well preserved castles in the Mediterranean, such as the castle of Myrina (the largest in the Aegean), Moudros and Kotsinos fortress.

More than 100 sandy beaches await you on Limnos, shady or surrendered to the merciless summer sun, with strong winds or absolute calmness. It is impossible, no matter how picky one might be, not to find your personal ideal beach among them.

Amongst the island's hidden beauties are the hanging waters of Katsaitis Gorge in the Kaspakas area. An imposing waterfall and small pools at its base offer a haven to aquatic organisms, adapted to a Lilliputian self-sustaining habitat.

Alyki, Chortarolimni and Asprolimni are singularly beautiful wetlands that have been incorporated in the Natura 2000 network. They are home to more than 250 species of rare birds, many of which are endangered and attract the interest of bird watching fanatics, an activity that is gaining ground as it combines exploring nature and the joy of discovery.

Limnos has been well known for its renowned wines since Homer's time.

Its volcanic ground is ideal for vitculture and the grape varieties of Muscat of Alexandria and Kalambaki (Lemnio) produce excellent white and red wines, respectively. However, Limnos fertile also produces cereals, vegetables and pulses. The pure flower honey, the sweet delight and distinct cheeses, such as kaskavali, kalathaki and traditional melichloro or melipasto, complete the feast of aromas and flavours. At the local tavernas try flomaria (a type of square, home-made pasta), fresh fish and seafood in Moudros and free-range cockerel and rabbit at Sardes. ►

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Ikaria Let life take you where it will Ikaria is first and foremost its people. Beautiful, versatile, with fierce beauty and picturesque hamlets, it could look like any other Aegean island. However, here the mentality of daily life is much different.

The willingness of people to help you adapt, is truly exemplary. The concept of simplicity in life, without alarm clocks, rushing and stress is a universal law on Ikaria. Opening hours for shops are just a general indication and no one seems to take them too seriously. The thing everyone truly respects here is the need for each one of us to experience an honestly rich life, in the sense of the word used by our ancient ancestors. “Rich” is not he who has wealth, but he who has “ploun”, a goal, course and destination. As for the island, it is an adventure in itself: rich flora, wild vegetation, tiered pools, rivers and waterfalls, trails, lakes and secluded beaches. Ikaria has it all.

Chalari gorge, with its turbulent river, the lake, Ratsos waterfall, and the old watermills, is a hiking trail to be recommended here. In the island's south, the ancient forest of Ranti with its perennial Holm Oaks is considered by specialists as one of the most important forests in Europe. And, of course, the tour of Raches, along an easy 25 kilometre trail, that will allow you to explore the most significant sights on Ikaria; you will not believe all this can fit on such a small island.

Ikaria is renowned for its good inexpensive food.

It is also well known for its honey, its preserves (the

rose preserve is a true revelation), its herbal teas, its local Rasko meat and its unique “kathoura” goat's cheese. As far as the catch is concerned, here you will truly have fresh Aegean fish, depending , of course, on the season.

A recent study has moved Ikarians to the top of the longevity chart, amongst all people in Europe, with a ten times greater chance of celebrating their 90th birthday. According to the scientific findings the secret is a healthy diet, exercise and sex. The locals themselves will tell you that you can find all of that in other parts of Greece, too. What makes them stand out is their relaxed nature. “Let life take you

where it will. In any case, whether you like it or not, that's what will happen in the end”. Wise words of an Ikarian, aged 94...

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Agios Efstratios Rebellious, independent spirit

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A small island on the edge of the Aegean, marked by Greece's modern political history, as it was a place of exile, Agios Efstratios – Ai Stratis to the locals – is blessed with the beauty of its landscape and, mainly, the fortitude of its people.

The only hamlet on the island lies in the valley formed by two dried river beds.

Until the devastating earthquake of 1968 this is where the locals’ vegetable and fruit gardens used to be. The old hamlet was perched at the top of the hill, above the harbour, with stone built, two- or three-storey traditional houses, but after '68 the few residents were forced by the military government (junta) to move to uniform homes, abandoning their old “Chora”. Thankfully, some of the stone homes were saved from complete destruction; these were restored with reverence by the locals of Agios Efstratios. One of them, the Marasleios School of 1909 presently houses the Museum of Democracy.

Ai Stratis, with its 250 permanent residents, has intrigued many researchers, as it moves along at its own pace, cut off from the rest of the world by coincidence or temperament. A French director, Jean-Marie Tomasi, recorded the daily lives and stories of these islanders a few years ago, because – as she herself said – they remind her of her own island, Corsica, with its rebellious, independent spirit. A retreat and a refuge, equally for people tired by daily life in the urban beehive and for our rare fauna, it is here, in the sea caves of Ai Stratis, that the Mediterranean seal, Monachus Monachus, finds an ideal haven.

The steep cliffs are home to predatory birds and seabirds. The sea meadows of the Mediterranean seas (the locals call them phykiades) sprawl out on the sea

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bed and offer a valuable habitat for a vast number of sea creatures, as well as a wall of protection against erosion to the island.

You must definitely see the ruins of the ancient city on the hill of Agios Minas, the churches of Christos, Agios Nikolaos and Agios Vasileios (built in 1727) and give in to the luxury of a fresh lobster on your table. The lobsters of Ai Stratis are not just tasty. They are also extremely light on your wallet: they do not cost their weight in gold, which is the case in the rest of the cosmopolitan Aegean.

Oinousses Pure Aegean seamanship A protected area included in the Natura 2000 Network, the Oinousses are a cluster of nine small islands and islets full of beautiful small coves for swimming and beaches for those who better commune with nature when they are in its embrace alone. There is an asphalt road along the perimeter of the island, providing easy access to most beaches. One can even walk along the road on foot, as its total length is a mere 18km.

However, the true secret of the Oinousses is its desert islands. Whether you decide to sail around them on one of the islands’ caiques or paddle to each one in a canoe and spend a night on one of their beaches – as an increasing number of tourists do during summer – you will discover an idyllic natural wealth, virgin fishing grounds and enchanting depths that make up the panorama of the unexplored Aegean Sea. Numerous feasts take place during the summer, when the dozens of scattered chapels on the islands celebrate and welcome worshippers, who travel by caique to honour saints on their feast days.

On the Oinousses, the local cuisine brilliantly combines seafood with the island’s tasty and healthy wild greens, as well as the rare mushrooms that grow during winter, creating sweet-smelling greens pies and the delicious boureklikia, small pies filled with a variety of greens and cheeses. Visitors must try the

excellent honey collected on the islands, the cheeses and ouzomezedes (appetizers served with ouzo) with local octopus that melts in the mouth and cannot be found anywhere else. Before leaving, purchase hand-made pasta and mastelo cheese and return next year for another dose of pure Aegean seamanship.

Fournoi Islands of fishermen and bee keepers

Psara Create your personal paradise When the Greek Revolution began, an island offered up its entire commercial fleet – the third largest in Greece after those of Hydra and Spetses – to the struggle for liberation. That island was Psara.

Travel guides describe the island as “a dot in the sea, far away from established tourism destinations” – but that is only half true, because on this dot, the birthplace of Konstantinos Kanaris, Dimitris Papanikolis and renowned national benefactor Ioannis Varvakis, shrewd travellers from around the world discover – or, better yet, create – their own personal paradise, with the materials offered by the untamed nature of the Aegean Sea. Fans of underwater fishing will discover a true submarine treasure in the countless skerries that surround the island. Hikers will appreciate the simple beauty of the Church of Agios Nikolaos, with its sixty steps, built in 1793, and the monastery/convent of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, with its rare manuscripts and religious books preserved, books printed in Moscow and Venice.

During the historic destruction of Psara, the only thing to survive was the icon of Virgin Mary crafted by El Greco, which was smuggled out to the island of Syros, where it remains to this day.

At Psara, one can sample the tastiest seafood ever, as well as the most affordable lobster pasta in Greece. You can sample local cheese produce by trying mizithra cheese and kopanisti dip and find yourself in agreement with connoisseurs who support that the thyme honey of Psara, which is only harvested once a year, is at the pinnacle of honey production in the entire Mediterranean.

There is only one way to travel back in time and experience old Greece up close. Take a ship and get off at Fournoi. Fournoi is a formation of small islands and islets, of which only two are inhabited: Fournoi and Thymaina.

Islands of fishermen and bee keepers, they provide visitors with all basic comforts. Campos, the island's Chora, offers tavernas, patisseries, shops selling traditional products, a soft drink bottling workshop (the local orange soda is everyone's favourite refreshment here) and bakeries (fournoi) of course!

Each of the island's hamlets has its own character. In Chora, with its whitewashed mulberry trees and central square cafes, homes are still built on tiers above the harbour, with whitewashed alleys and people surrendered to a calm and peaceful pace.

The shoreline of Fournoi, with countless coves and canals that stab inland, like knives, into the island, is 120 kilometres long. Ideal moorings for all weather are Kamari, Elidaki, and Bali. Wonderful beaches for swimming are Psili ammos, Vlychada and Vitsilia.

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REPORTAGE ●

A new cruise pier in Piraeus port, to be constructed in 2023, is envisaged to serve new generation cruise ships of a length of up to 390m.

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Upgrading Greek ports TO BOOST CRUISING A barrage of investments in port infrastructure is expected to give new momentum to the country's “heavy industry” and, by extension, support economic growth

By Paris Tsirigotis ptsirigotis@naftemporiki.gr

T

he development of Greece’s port and transport infrastructure is expected to create new conditions in the country’s tourism market in coming years, further strengthening the cruise and coastal transport industries.

Greece’s Asset Development Fund (TAIPED) plays an important role in the effort to further develop and exploit the country’s 10 largest regional ports through privatization and sub-concession deals.

At the same time, a metro link between Piraeus port and Athens’ international airport is estimated to create tremendous changes, as the ubiquity of transport means will be an additional advantage for further tourism development in the port and the city, both quantitatively and qualitatively.

An investment barrage is already underway in port infrastructure, envisaged to offer new dynamics to both the tourism sector and Greece’s economic growth.

Specifically, a new project set to commence in 2023 in the port of Piraeus, concerns the building of a new cruise pier in Piraeus, envisaged to serve new generation cruise ships of a length of up to 390 meters.

The new pier will have a length of approximately 1,510 meters and a variable depth of -19 to -29.50 meters.

The number of pre-bookings by cruise ships to the end of 2022 in the port of Piraeus are expected to reach 739 compared to 379 in 2021.

Transportation from the mooring areas to the Passenger Stations is free of charge by means of transport provided by the Piraeus Port Authority, while the port’s space for serving cruise passengers offers 240 coach lots, 1 helipad and free wi-fi.

Piraeus is one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean, it already has three cruise stations with the ability to simultaneously moor 11 cruise ships and the ability to serve 25,000 passengers daily.

Thessaloniki means homeporting The port of Thessaloniki, with its new infrastructure, is also dynamically entering the cruise map.

Already, the port management has decided to expand cruise services to a part of Pier II, while plans are in place for a complete renovation of the passenger station.

In 2022, 50% of cruise arrivals were homeporting arrivals. The cruise business plays a decisive role in the development of the tourist industry of Thessaloniki and the wider region.

Within the coming months, a ferry connection is expected to operate between Thessaloniki and Izmir, with the objective being to run the line all year round, instead of being seasonal.

Market officials estimate that the ferry connection between the two cities will succeed in boosting tourism in the big cities of the two countries (Greece and Turkey), as well as facilitating commercial activities and transports.

Heraklion: Security and service Another significant port in terms of tourism is the port of Heraklion, Crete, where the port’s land zone was recently redefined in view of its imminent privatization.

In 2022, the dynamic development of cruises in the port of Heraklion, with 235 cruise ship arrivals, means that the number of passengers will grow up to 300,000.

The Electriport program, already underway in the port of Heraklion, concerns the design of electrification and charging facilities for ships docked at the port.

In the port’s Piers II, III and IV-V up to 5 cruise ships can safely berth, in accordance with the ISPS Code, while the two passenger stations’ facilities can serve more than 10,000 passengers and crew members daily.

At the same time, specially organized and configured spaces serve the parking of pre-paid excursion buses and the safe access/boarding of visitors.

The operation of the new Cruise Passenger Terminal, built on Pier IV-V in 2017, has been decisive as it satisfied a request by major cruise companies, creating the required conditions for the port of Heraklion to establish itself as a homeport.

Connection with the Rafina port In the port of Rafina, the new construction of a windward jetty will allow safe mooring of more passenger ►

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In 2022, 50% of cruise arrivals in Thessaloniki were homeporting arrivals. The cruise business plays a decisive role in the development of the city and the wider region’s tourism industry.

REPORTAGE ●

Basic infrastructure and connection projects with the Athens Suburban Railway and Attiki Odos freeway have been included in the Rafina port strategic planning

The Electriport program, already underway in the port of Heraklion, concerns the design of electrification and charging facilities for ships docked at the port.

► ships, while the port's basic infrastructure and connection projects with the Athens Suburban Railway and Attiki Odos freeway have been included in the port’s strategic planning.

In addition, current planning includes four landbased electric charging points for ships, of a total power of 4 MW. The specific studies are expected to be delivered in 2023.

The railway connection projects for the the ports of Lavrio and Rafina are budgeted at €700 million and are part of ERGOSE’s master programme.

In addition to the residential upgrade and an improvement in the quality of life, these projects are

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also envisaged to change the coastal shipping map.

Traffic to Lavrio A significant part of the high-speed ferry traffic will inevitably be directed to Rafina and Lavrio ports, which are closer to the Aegean than Piraeus port.

Also, Rafina and Lavrio’s proximity to Athens’ international airport will greatly help tourism growth.

Notably, the Lavrio port features a modern cruise terminal which is a “Schengen” gate, driving the strong interest shown by many companies to expand activities here. Today, the port of Lavrio can accommodate cruise ships up to a length of 200m to 220m,

Cruise ships up to a length of 220m can be docked at the port of Lavrio, depending on the displacement of the ship.

depending on the displacement of the ship. Greek cruise company Celestyal Cruises already operate in this port with their two cruise ships.

The Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (TAIPED) is also proceeding with upgrading work in the ports of Alexandroupolis, Igoumenitsa and Volos where new investments are expected to focus on infrastructure required to boost port activities.

Tourism market officials estimate that higher tourism numbers by the end of 2022 and into 2023 will eventually lead to new port conditions, with new infrastructure for cruise ship reception and more jobs

The art of philoxenia at Kyniska Hotels Explore the hidden wonders of the Peloponnese and discover a world filled with antitheses, an uncharted land where time stands still

KYNISKA PALACE CONFERENCE & SPA Kyniska Palace is a serene hideaway at the foothills of mountain Taygetos, Peloponnese where nature, discreet luxury and local myths are in perfect harmony. A breathtaking, all-year-round holiday experience, full of comfort and authentic hospitality in the heart of the Peloponnese, Kyniska Palace offers supreme 5-star hospitality to travelers in search of something unique and extraordinary. In perfect alignment with the natural surroundings, the establishment welcomes you to enjoy the sophisticated architecture and immerse in absolute luxury and comfort. Kyniska Palace is an all-suite boutique hotel comprising 32 luxury suites. The hotel offers comfort, luxury and high-quality service, perfectly reflecting a true ‘fairy tale’. With a variety of accommodation choices that undoubtedly cover all tastes and individual needs of our guests, Kyniska Palace Hotel offers one-room, two-room and three-room spacious luxury suites from 50 to 115sqm, which can comfortably accommodate from 2 to 6 adults.

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PRINCESS KYNISKA Enjoy your stay at one of the splendid suites of Princess Kyniska on the beachfront, with an enchanting view to the cobalt blue of Plytra Bay and feel that absolute sense of relaxation and invigoration. Amidst an enchanting location of unspoiled natural beauty right on the waterfront, Princess Kyniska Suites overlooks the magnificent bay of Plytra, with three extraordinary beaches at its foot. The enchanting scenery provides immaculate panoramic views that can be enjoyed throughout the entire property, in perfect harmony with nature’s bliss. Dip your feet in the water and enjoy the serenity, lay back on a comfy sun lounger by the swimming pool or set out to explore the landmark surroundings of Karavostasi, so you can embellish your experience with even more visuals of infinite natural beauty in the unrevealed gem of Peloponnese. Inspired by the Laconian beauty and aimed at providing a genuine experience, the spacious suites of Princess Kyniska will accommodate you comfortably in discreet luxury.

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The ultimate Kyniska Experience Rejuvenate your body and mind, indulging in a spiritual journey of the senses. Enjoy wellness at its finest moment, as your spirit gets into perfect alignment with your body through absolute relaxation. Are you planning your wedding day in pursuit of the perfect destination to complete this magical experience?

Be part of Kyniska experience and reach out to our wedding experts, to start planning a wonderful wedding ceremony and an epic wedding reception. Are you interested in hosting a corporate event or a conference?

Peloponnese is calling out to you, if you wish to blend 5-star quality services with a cherished location, Kyniska Palace is the perfect choice.

Pick among the various luxurious spaces that are available both outdoors and indoors, combined with modern tailor-made services.

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REPORTAGE ●

GREECE LOOKING TO A

SPEEDIER GREENER COSTAL SHIPPING & In the summer of 2022, the Greek coastal fleet served 115 islands on a daily basis, with as many as 100 coastal ships

By Antonis Tsimplakis atsimplakis@naftemporiki.gr

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urope's largest coastal shipping fleet is currently in the process of green renewal. The Greek coastal shipping, which serves with quality ships the largest network of island ports in Europe, and is a driver of growth of the country's island economy, is already planning the day after to raise funds for investments in new, environmentally friendly ships.

According to the latest survey by XRTC Business Consultants (founded by Managing Director George Xiradakis), in the summer of 2022, as many as 100 coastal ships served 115 islands daily, either connecting them to the mainland or making connections between them.

XRTC separates the 28 companies that serve Greece by ferry into three categories, according to the type of their ships and their characteristics.

In the first category are the group of Attica and

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ANEK, with both companies in the process of merging, and Minoan Lines.

The 43 ships in the category of large companies, according to XRTC's analysis, are the pillars of the market since they transport passengers, and above all, most of the cargo to and from the islands. They cover all year round the needs of the inhabitants of the islands uninterruptedly with large passenger/vehicle ferries whose average length is 145m.

The class of medium-sized companies also includes three companies, which are active both on main lines, as well as on barren and inter-island routes. Seajets, owned by Marios Iliopoulos, is the largest privately-owned Greek shipping company with a fleet of 24 ships (20 high-speed boats and 4 conventional ones). The company operates the largest fleet of high-speed ships in the Aegean, serving 33 islands in the Cyclades, both with connections from

Piraeus, Lavrio, Crete, Thessaloniki and Rafina, and with inter-Cycladic connections.

Fast Ferries was founded by Panagiotis and Yiannis Panagiotakis and currently operates 4 ships, 3 conventional and one high-speed ferry on the lines Rafina - Andros - Tinos - Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Koufonisia and Piraeus, Syros, Mykonos, Naxos.

Levante Ferries, owned by Giorgos Theodosis, operates on the line Patra/Kyllini-Zakynthos-Kefallonia, and Ithaca with 4 ships. The 5th ship, Smyrna di Levante, underwent a complete conversion and an extensive technological upgrade, as well as a complete remodeling and refurbishment of interiors, and began the new ferry route between Thessaloniki and Smyrna (Turkey). The firm recently purchased its 6th ship, Contessa di Levante (formerly Queen Coral 8), built in Japan in September 1999.

The category of smaller companies comprises 22 coastThe necessity al shipping companies that operate mainly in non-profitof renewing the able and inter-island routes. fleet is combined Many of these companies, with the evolueven though they are local in tion of mechaninature, present innovative cal technology. management structures, adopt privilege card programs, online bookings, Web check-in, e-tickets, just like the larger companies, thus developing coastal shipping.

XRTC also emphasize that most of these companies prefer to repair or in some cases build their ships in Greece.

“

Insularity The development of the islands relies exclusively on coastal shipping. Coastal shipping connects 115 habitable islands where 14.6% of the country's population lives. Of these islands, only 25 have an airport, and cabotage services are only served by sea, while 85% of the islands’ freight needs and all of their supply are met by coastal ships.

Green path Challenges that must be faced in order to preserve the cohesion of the Greek and the EU space include

COSTAL SHIPPING STRUCTURE (vessels number)

Large companies

43 Medium companies

34 Small companies

37 The Marine Chamber of Greece, assisted by the Association of Passenger Shipping Companies (SEEN), formulated the idea of building ships whose energy generation system can be replaced by adapting to a fixed propulsion system.

the age of ships carrying out domestic maritime transports, environmental requirements for the elimination of air pollutants, and instability of the passenger and freight work.

Connectivity is a key policy choice of the EU. However, in the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) programme, which aims at developing infrastructure and networks, no support is provided for the replacement of ships, while shipping companies are unable to undertake this challenge, as it requires funds exceeding €11 billion over time.

Considering these factors, the Marine Chamber of Greece, assisted by the Association of Passenger Shipping Companies (SEEN), formulated the idea of building ships whose energy production system can be replaced by adapting to a fixed propulsion system.

Thus, the necessity of renewing the fleet is combined with the evolution of mechanical technology.

With the assistance of external expert advisors, the idea was shaped into a proposal submitted to the relevant Greek government and EU bodies and received a positive response.

This was followed, with input also from the NTUA School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, by the preparation of a technical study that specifies the generic design by setting the parameters of the types of ships required for Greece’s domestic transports, the basic technical specifications and the most suitable fuels, such as, for example, electrification for ferries.

The initial positive response has evolved into support from the Prime Minister, the Ministers of Finance, Development and Investments-Environment-Energy, Maritime and Island Policy.

In addition, the response from the relevant community bodies and the European Investment Bank is en-

couraging. The drafting of a business plan is underway, together with the implementation of a proof of concept project, which are the prerequisites for the preparation of a comprehensive finance and subsidies proposal by EU and national banking resources and equity.

An Advisory Committee has been established for the renewal of the Coastal Fleet that will recommend the principles and operating conditions of the program for gradual upgrading of the fleet, as well as the criteria for the rational distribution of funding.

The Marine Chamber of Greece hopes that by 2040 a significant part of the program for a “green” and modern coastal shipping fleet, to meet the needs of island communities and tourism, will have been implemented.

The intention is to achieve the maximum possible added value for the domestic and European economies

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

THESSALONIKI: AN IDEAL DESTINATION FOR BRITONS The Thessaloniki Tourism Organization has set the UK as the main axis in its strategy for the promotion of Thessaloniki as a tourism destination. Thessaloniki is an ideal destination for the British, as long as they get to know us

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Voula Patoulidou Deputy Regional Governor of the Metropolitan Area of Thessaloniki.

President of the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization

74

targeted promotional campaign of Thessaloniki as a tourism destination in the UK tourism market is a key axis of the strategy of the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization (OTTH).

Our actions so far seem to have paid off.

The British love culture, good food and travel experiences in Mediterranean destinations.

And Thessaloniki boasts the qualifications to seduce them.

OTTH works closely with GNTO UK & Ireland Office to promote Thessaloniki as a tourism destination.

The “LONDON CALLING, THESSALONIKI COOKING” project was a dynamic moment in our collaboration. London subway commuters ‘saw’ Thessaloniki for two weeks!

The project included participation by OTTH in the National Geographic Traveler’s Food Festival, with a parallel promotional display at 41 metro stations.

The next stop was Dublin. The OTTH presented “Thessaloniki” to media and tour operators in a workshop held in the Irish capital.

In the context of GNTO UK & Ireland Office’s communication policy for the promotion of alternative forms of tourism, including city tourism, OTTH hosted the

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

“Traverse Elite Mini Conference Greece” in Thessaloniki, attended by 38 influencers and opinion leaders.

The conference’s objective was to create a large amount of content and material that was then channeled by conference participants on social media. From October 6 to 11, the UK internet was flooded by Thessaloniki.

Enhancing promotional action continued with the hosting of The Times editor-in-chief, Mrs. Nina Caplan, certainly a big name in the field of tourism.

At the same time, OTTH carried out the following:  Advertisements in print and online media such as the Guardian in early September.  Promotion of Thessaloniki as a city break destination through the channels of Jet2 Holidays, Britain's second-largest tour operator  Press trip organized by OTTH in collaboration with the GNTO UK & Ireland Office for Green Traveler journalist Mr. Richard Hammond.  Creation of an online Greentraveller's Guide at www.greentraveller.co.uk  Participation of OTTH in the webinar “TTG Greece Fest” on the platform of the professional tourism magazine TTG, held by the GNTO UK & Ireland Office to bolster up business ties with the British tourism market.

Knowing that the internet is one of the most important tools used by travelers in researching and preparing for their trip, Thessaloniki was at the top of searches by British internet users.

During the WTM London, and for 14 days from November 7 to 21, the Red Buses in central London will be promoting “Thessaloniki”.

In the first half of 2022, the total volume of online searches for accommodation recorded an increase of 51% compared to 2019 and 239% compared to 2021, according to TOURIX ANALYTICS. The top three (3) countries in terms of Internet searches for accommodation in Thessaloniki in 2022 were Germany, Cyprus and the United Kingdom, with Romania following close behind in fourth place.

In particular, the largest increase in searches compared to 2019 was recorded

by US (+65%), Germany (+47%) and the United Kingdom (+37%).

It is then quite obvious that OTTH's strategy is paying off.

The above-mentioned data are not the only evidence confirming Britons’ desire to travel to Thessaloniki.

The goal is to boost this desire to visit, and that is why we are participating in the leading international travel event World Travel Market London 2022.

During the event, and for 14 days from November 7 to 21, the Red Buses in central London will be promoting “Thessaloniki”.

London will be filled with the heart of a welcoming, delightful city that anyone can get to know in three hours!

We insist...the British way!

Thessaloniki is an ideal destination for the British, as long as they get to know us.

Enjoying luxury and Greek hospitality on Zakynthos Zante Hospitality Group, boasting a long-standing reputation in the hospitality industry, owns and operates the Zante Park Resort & Spa and Galaxy Beach Resort, two of the most prestigious hotels operating on the Ionian island of Zakynthos. Along with luxury amenities, it matters to us that all of our facilities and services are environmentally friendly since our primary objective is to protect and enhance the natural wealth of the area, as evidenced by our “GreenKey” International Ecolabel award.

ADVERTORIAL

Zante Park Resort & Spa In between the idyllic natural landscapes that are the main source of continuous visitor flow on Zakynthos, the absolute visiting experience awaits you to seize: the Zante Park Resort & Spa. Situated in the magical Gulf of Laganas, the Zante Park Resort & Spa has the warmest welcome in store for you, with its 5-star services and facilities and all-inclusive packages that will satisfy even the most demanding visitor, being a proud member of the Best Western “Premier Collection”.

Its excellent location makes it the perfect starting point to explore the island, as guests can take advantage of many beautiful routes and enjoy the area’s remarkable natural wealth, and its evident cosmopolitan aura.

Being synonymous with comfort and luxury, Zante Park Resort & Spa features 140 luxury rooms and suites in its renewed facilities, designed to offer visitors dreamlike vacations, tinged with notes of wellness. Enjoy delicious Mediterranean dishes in our restaurant, and relax at one of our bars or pamper yourself with a refreshing personal treatment.

In Zante Park Resort & Spa, the guests’ stay experience is met with discreet luxury. Being guided by high standards of service, we make sure that we offer our distinguished guests all the necessary conditions to discover an idyllic world of relaxation and well-being. Taste our unique gastronomic suggestions, enjoy a refreshing drink under the rejuvenating rays of the sun, let us entertain you, or simply choose to relax at our wellness facilities and be inspired by the charm of Zakynthian hospitality.

Galaxy Beach Resort Galaxy Beach Resort will allow you to experience all aspects of Zakynthian hospitality within a frame of relaxation, euphoria, and gastronomic enjoyment. Whether you are visiting Zakynthos for work or leisure, our hotel will welcome you warmly and satisfy your every need, wholeheartedly.

Our 120 rooms and renewed facilities are designed to offer high standards of hospitality so that the visitor can fully enjoy the best features of the island. Galaxy Beach Resort is an ideal choice for spending family holidays, but also for anyone who wants to combine the coveted sense of relaxation with 5-star service.

Indulge in the approachable luxury of our hotel and get ready for a comfortable, warm, and magical memory trip.Our luxurious amenities, the variety of services and facilities we offer, and especially our love for hospitality, are the key elements that create the wonderful mosaic that comprises a complete stay experience.

Here you will savor many culinary delights, relax with a drink under the light of the stars, and indulge in the coolness of diving in the pool and various other creative activities. At the same time, your children will discover a wonderful world of play and fun. To experience all of this to the fullest, you may enjoy the privileges of an all-inclusive hospitality package.

Whatever the purpose of your trip to Zakynthos, you can be sure to take advantage of the complete service and benefits at Galaxy Beach Resort, and experience an unprecedented stay experience.

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GREEK CRUISES ON A STRONG RECOVERY PATH Improvements in infrastructure, homeporting, extension of the tourist season and better organization of trips create further optimism for the sector in the new year

By George Georgiou ggeorgiou@naftemporiki.gr

T

Thessaloniki is expected to end this year with a total of 60 cruise ship arrivals, a number ten times higher than in 2019.

he Greek cruise industry enjoyed a year of strong growth in 2022, as the sector is recovering spectacularly from the troubles caused by the pandemic, and is now attracting all the big names in the industry.

“Greece showed resilience, flexibility and quick reflexes in dealing with the pandemic, while certainly the communication strategy for the “Greece” brand produced the desired results,” Giorgos Koubenas, president of the Association of Cruise Ship Owners and Maritime Agencies (EEKFN), told “N” in a recent interview.

According to data shared with “N” by the honorary president of EEKFN and Operations Director of Majestic International Cruises, Theodore Kontes, the number of cruisers docking in Greek ports this year is expected to rise to approx. 3,500 to 3,600, with some 3.5 million passenger arrivals.

This year's performance --if the estimates are confirmed-- is significantly improved compared to the past two years, while in terms of approaches numbers are very close to 2019 levels, the last year before pandemic restrictions came into force.

Specifically, based on data from the Hellenic Ports Association (ELIME), in 2021 cruise ship arrivals stood at 2,064 with 1.41 million passengers, while in 2020 ship arrivals dropped to 210 with 67,528 passengers, and in record year 2019, 3,979 arrivals were recorded with 5.5 million passengers.

The main reason why the number of passengers did not correspond to the number of ship arrivals was the fact that on mega cruise ships, of a capacity of up to 5000 passengers, the occupancy rate did not exceed 50%-60%, according to Mr Kontes. On the

contrary, in the smaller and medium-sized cruise ships --expedition vessels-- occupancy rates reached even up to 90%.

Of course, as Mr Koubenas says, these smaller ships “are aimed at higher income passengers, while also visiting various other less popular Giorgos Koubenas, destinations…This results in President of the Asan increase in cruise destinasociation of Cruise tions and the dispersion of the Ship Owners and sector's activity with multiple Maritime Agenbenefits for our country”, he cies (EEKFN). underlined.

In this context, the EEKFN's forecast for 2022 is that the revenues of the national economy from the cruise will be higher than those of 2019 (€550 million, according to the Bank of Greece).

Greece’s cruise destinations Among the top cruise destinations are of course Piraeus, Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu, Heraklion, Katakolo, Chania, while the port of Thessaloniki has played an upgraded role in the past two years.

A typical example of this year's growth is Piraeus.

In particular, as Mr Koubenas explains, “in 2019, which was a record year, we had 622 approaches with 1,098,091 passengers, while this year, just by the end of September, we had 510 approaches with a total of 511,000 passengers, of which 141,000 boarded in Piraeus… similar increases in homeporting (starting ►

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REPORTAGE ●

Greece and other Mediterranean countries’ flexibility in dealing with the pandemic, and an improved organisation of cruise trips, compared to other regions such as the US and the Caribbean, contributed to a considerable increase in the number of ships arriving at Greek ports.

► and terminating cruises in Greek ports, allowing embarking and disembarking of passengers), we also had in the ports of Lavrio, Thessaloniki, Corfu and Heraklion”.

The official figures of ELIME show that Thessaloniki is expected to end the current year with a total of 60 cruise ship arrivals, a number ten times higher than in 2019. In fact, in 2023 it is estimated that ship arrivals will increase to just under 80.

“In homeporting, a passenger will spend about four times more than a transit passenger, with multiple benefits for the community and the economy,” estimate cruise industry experts. In fact, the information indicates that the vast majority of approaches to the top Greek cruise ports this year will be homeporting.

Outlook for 2023 “The international circumstances at the moment and the chain of effects on our daily lives, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, the increase in energy prices and raw materials, and the economic recession in Europe are certainly troubling us,” Mr. Koubenas underlined while contemplating next year.

“My assessment is that there will be a delay in

Theodore Kontes, Honorary President of the Association of Cruise Ship Owners and Maritime Agencies (EEKFN), and Operations Director, Majestic International Cruises.

Future needs In recent months, the EEKFN has been conducting intensive discussions with the State, port authorities and local communities, with the aim of organizing the cruise sector in the best way in 2023, as the sector is expected to show improved performance, compared to the current year.

CRUISE SHIP ARRIVALS

80

the full recovery of the cruise industry at international level, which I would place towards the end of 2024, not 2023”, he emphasized.

“Nevertheless, especially for our region, the confidence shown by major companies in the sector who have already confirmed a significant number of approaches for 2023 and 2024 is a positive indication that the upward trend will continue in the coming years,” Mr Koubenas concluded.

These constructive meetings have helped bring to light several issues of priority facing the ports, which must be settled in order to meet the increased demand of the new year and beyond.

A first issue is the design and construction of the passenger stations, to meet future needs in terms of number of passengers and especially those coming from non-Schengen countries, as new requirements will apply as of May 2023 new requirements will apply under the Entry/Exit System (EES). Several ports are far from ready to respond to the new EU border controls, such as the EES and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

Another very important topic is the climate crisis and the “greening” of infrastructure. In this context, it is necessary to take measures such as the installation in ports of power supply units from land to ships.

A unified cruise ship arrival-departure control system (berth allocation) is currently under construction, considered necessary for the optimal organization of the cruise field.

Also, EEKFN promotes the extension of the tourist season, with the aim of achieving full year operation, especially in destinations enjoying milder weather conditions

PASSENGER ARRIVALS (MIL.)

2019

2020

2021

2022

2019

2020

2021

2022

3,979

210

2,064

3,600

5.5

0.068

1.41

3.5

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

Soak it up.

Work, play, dream.

BO OKI NGS ON

novotel.accor.com

Novotel Athenes

4-6, Michail Voda street, 104 39 Athens, Greece T. (+30) 210 82 00 700 | F. (+30) 210 82 00 777 | M. h0866@accor.com

Novotel Athenes 243x304.indd 1

7/10/2022 13:35:46

Lindian Village: An exquisite place to escape A revamped 5-star international branded hotel, the first in S. Rhodes

ADVERTORIAL

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he emblematic Lindian Village is revamped and reintroduced to its audience as a member of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the first 5-star International Brand in S. Rhodes, in the magnificent area of Kiotari very close to Lindos.

Lindian Village will feature 195 Rooms & Suites with a private pool or jacuzzi, beach in front of the hotel, spa facilities, a sophisticated Kids Club, and seven different F&B Outlets. The unique dining and entertainment concept, designed by the renowned Trastelis Group, owner of Michelin-star restaurants, invites guests to explore a rich culinary world from Italian to Asian restaurants, and Greek Ouzeri to Wine Bar. Lindian Village demonstrates an eclectic variety of dining options with exceptional service.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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nriched with activities for everyone, Lindian Village is the ultimate place to escape, while the hotel’s dedicated concierge team will assist guests in exploring Rhodes island.

Lindian Village is owned by Zetland Capital Partners LLP and managed by the leading company SWOT HOSPITALITY, specialising in hotel management.

An investment valued at €10 million is being made for the establishment’s complete renovation, designed by Makridis Associates architectural office.

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REPORTAGE ●

T

he performance recorded by the yacht industry in Greece this year climbed to near 2019 record-levels, in spite of the troubles from the war in the Ukraine and the resulting energy crisis.

As yachting agents tell N, charter activity in 2022 is around 75% of 2019, with the market appearing particularly vivid until the end of September. This year's performance is improved by approximately 20% compared to a year earlier, as Greece attracted even more tourists, being a covid-free destination.

At the same time, the Greek market again won the bet on ultra-luxury yachts, as it recorded the highest number of charters of yachts over 20m in length compared to all destinations in the summer of 2022, according to figures provided by the honorary president of the Hellenic Professional Yacht Owners Association (EPEST) and general secretary of SETE, Giorgos Vernikos at the European Parliament.

According to data made available to

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TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

“N”, concerning manned vessels 24m and above, traffic increased by approximately 4% compared to 2021.

Internationally, the superyacht market saw a 20% increase in charters year-on-year.

During this year’s summer high season, that is, end of June to end of September that is, from the end of June to the end of September, arrivals of yachts of all kinds in the Greek space increased by approximately 26% on an annual basis, according to data shared with “N” by the shipping portal MarineTraffic. In neighboring Turkey, which was visited by approximately 100 more vessels, an annual increase of 19% was recorded, while in the developing market of Croatia, which welcomed approximately 900 vessels less than Greece, an increase of 14% was recorded.

According to the international company Moravia Yachting, the cost of chartering a large boat, over 100m long, may be up to €2.0 million per

Know a better

destination yachting for

than Greece?

Improvements in infrastructure, homeporting, extension of the tourist season and better organization of trips create further optimism for the sector in the new year

By George Georgiou ggeorgiou@naftemporiki.gr

week. For smaller vessels, 80m-90m long, the cost ranges from €480,000 up to €1.0 million per week. A 30-meter boat can be chartered for €48,000 to €90,000 per week, depending on its specifications.

Yachting sector contribution The Greek coastline reaches up to 16,000 km and the country's national port system includes 12 major ports, 72 port and municipal funds and 1,250 regional ports, marinas, fishing shelters and jetties. It is estimated that in Greece there are 170,000 pleasure boats of all sizes, with 6,500 being professional vessels.

According to a study by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping (NEE), for every 100 berths, 4.4 jobs are created (or, 6 direct jobs according to the Greek Marinas Association), and another 100 indirect jobs in a marina’s wider area, where professionals and small- and medium-sized businesses are active.

Marinas and yachting contribute to

the consumption of goods and services with €1.016 billion to GDP, as well as 43,626 jobs and €218 million in government revenues. VAT, alone, paid to the State exceeds €52 million per year.

Overall, it is estimated that the blue economy accounts for 15% of employment in Greece (570,000 jobs), and contributes 5.1% of gross added value.

Growth prospects Experts in the yachting industry estimate that if a number of critical issues are resolved, Greece will be able to host many times more yachts, compared to the current numbers, based on the coastline and the large number of its islands. A critical issue is the need to create reception areas for boats of all categories, mainly professional, in addition to the large marinas for superyachts. According to a study carried out by diaNEOsis on tourist ports, compared to the rest of the European Union member states in the Mediterranean and Adriatic, Greece

Yacht arrivals 2,152

2,050 1,808 1,633

1,142 1,000

2020 2021 Greece

Turkey

Croatia

lags in the density of berths, having 0.5 berths per kilometer of coastline. In fact, out of the 27,512 allocated berths for pleasure boats, only 30.9% are currently available, or a total of 8,499 berths.

At the same time, a long-standing demand by the sector’s professionals

is the reduction of the rate of VAT in charters to 12%-14%, from the current 24%. Notably, the tax rate is lower in competing countries. Specifically, in Croatia is at 13%, in Italy 18%-20%, in France 22%, while in Turkey it is zero.

Also, the optimal promotion of the Greek yachting activity abroad plays an important role. A targeted advertising strategy of the country's advantages is required, as this issue has not been considered so far. ---- nothing has been done so far. At European level, the Commission is called upon to strengthen green and environmental investments, among which are the electrification of boats, the electrical support network in marinas and municipalities, and waste management. Finally, a legislative initiative for yachting has been undertaken by the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, with the sector's stakeholders estimating that it will boost the number of visitors to Greek destinations, provided that certain important issues are addressed

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Welcome to the heart of Greece!

Municipality of Delphi!

ADVERTORIAL

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ccording to Greek mythology, Zeus, the king of the gods in ancient Greece, released two eagles into the sky.

Where their paths would cross over would be the center of the world. The eagles' paths crossed over Delphi. Since then, Delphi has been marked as the "Omphalos" (navel) not only of ancient Greece but also of the entire world.

Geographically, the Municipality of Delphi is located in the center of mainland Greece, in the Central Greece Region. It is literally located in the heart of Greece. The Delphic land is situated at the meeting point of two key components that make up Greece. Between the high mountaintops and the 100km laced coastline of the Corinthian Gulf.

Here you will find the famous Archaeological site of Delphi, characterised

by UNESCO as a World Heritage Monument. The impressive Delphic Landscape, where the silver-gray, perennial Olive Grove of Amfissa holds a dominant position. The modern sea hub of Itea and the gracious marine city of Galaxidi, which is like an “island on land”. The Desfina plateau, Mount Parnassos, the historical Gravia and Kallieis of the primal mountainous inland.

Whatever your thoughts may be, it is worth discovering the true Heart of Greece. Here, in Delphi, at the Center of the World!

The Municipality of Delphi is the tenth-largest Municipality in Greece. It comprises eight large units: Delphi, Amfissa, Itea, Galaxidi, Desfina, Gravia, Parnassos and Kallieis.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

DELPHI One of the most imposing places in the world, the “Navel of the World”, where mythology and history meet at a stunning geophysical landscape that leaves the visitor breathless and floods them with positive energy.

AMFISSA The historical town, currently the capital of the Municipality of Delphi, is located 20 minutes from Delphi, at the foothills of Mount Giona, beneath the legendary Castle of Salona.

ITEA A modern town, where you can enjoy your swim on blue-flagged beaches, stroll along a splendid esplanade, and enjoy the beauty that the water element offers the senses.

GALAXIDI Once a leading world maritime power, Galaxidi is imperiously and graciously still the famous “island of the land”. The feeling that you are on an island is so strong that you refuse to believe that you are on land.

DESFINA It has a balcony view of the imposing Mount Parnassos and only a couple steps away to the south, it has a birds-eye view of the laced coastlines. The rich rural

and farming tradition is converted to a true culinary pleasure, which you just have to experience.

GRAVIA A key crossroads and passage between Mt. Parnassos and Mt. Giona. Perched on these slopes, you will find many picturesque and verdant villages, where you will be able to feel the sounds of the forest.

PARNASSOS The region of the Parnassos National Park, the largest ski center in Greece, the fir-covered slopes, the grape vines and its internationally-renowned paths, the unfathomable flora of a unique ecosystem.

KALLIEIS The land of hidden legends and primal history discloses its beauty only to visitors. At the Mt. Vardousia and Mt. Oiti cliffs, gorges, faces and small pristine valleys, nature sets its own scene, enrapturing the senses and leaving you breathless.

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Comfort and luxury living Crystal Waters Lefkada: A place where landscape, architecture and crystal waters become one

ADVERTORIAL

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rystal Waters Lefkada opened its doors in 2018 to become the go-to place for those seeking something out of the ordinary on Lefkada island. This Luxury Island Retreat occupies a lovingly selected plot in the desirable location of Nikiana village. It is situated at the foot of the scenic Skaros Mountain, with lush greenery on one side and the deep blue sea on the other.

It is the perfect base for leisure guests to discover the spectacular island of Lefkada and its world-famous beaches.

Crystal Waters Lefkada is an exclusive environment designed for comfort and luxury living. Responding to a modern, contemporary brief, that exemplifies creating well-crafted architecture and design to stand the test of time.

The primary focus is to bridge the “Crystal Waters” experience with a modern narrative that openly welcomes its surroundings and embraces its location and connection to the water. The result remains sensitive to the environs

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

while fusing a calming and minimal approach that elevates the hospitality experience.

A place where landscape, architecture and crystal waters become one.

Offering 146 luxury rooms and suites with a unique layout, original decoration, and a handpicked selection of top-quality materials, minimal, elegantly designed modern spaces provide a comfortable, relaxed ambience and high-profile, superior hospitality.

Conveniently situated alongside the main pools, the Emerald Restaurant and the Duende Restaurant offer a wide range of tempting local and Mediterranean specialties in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. Breakfast is inspired by the local traditions and international cuisine featuring hot and cold options. All-Day menus are prepared by talented chefs, bringing you the freshest flavours and finest ingredients of the Mediterranean. Sample delectable, nutritious dishes of the famous Greek cuisine in a space with subtle earthy decor and soft lighting that will tantalize your taste buds.

At Crystal Waters Lefkada, the connection with the water is profound with fifty (50) private and public swimming pools being featured throughout the retreat. Guests can book their room or suite with their private pool and choose from 47 plunge and private pools to enjoy the water at their leisure and privacy. The property features three (3) stunning public pools scattered throughout the resort to cater for all tastes. Guests can either enjoy a tranquil pool or a pool surrounded by extensive services such as restaurants, snack bar, swim-up pool bar, luxury pool cabanas, and cozy sitting areas.

It’s not only about the pools and crystal waters all around us. It’s as much about the “alfresco” feeling, the gardens, the open-air freedom. Crystal Waters Lefkada is your very own alfresco canvas to enjoy as soon as you open your window. The premises are full of flowers and gardens.

Strengthen your body and mind while staying in a serene environment and experience our newly build outdoor gym and yoga area as well as our spa.

Whether that be families with kids or a group of friends travelling together,

relaxation, peace of mind, and safety go hand in hand at Crystal Waters Lefkada. The place invites you to reward yourself with your well-earned vacation and leaves you relaxed and simply happy to be present in the moment.

Inspiring design and architecture, ambient lighting, aesthetic poolside settings, the dramatic mountain vista backdrop, and a gentle bohemian mood work together to achieve an elevated cosmopolitan ambience.

Hospitality from the heart, zestful island architecture and a genuine community feeling are lovingly injected into this unique property’s DNA.

Crystal Waters Lefkada Nikiana, 31100 Lefkada Island, Greece Telephone: +30 2645072383, e-mail: info@crystalwaters.gr www.crystalwaters.gr/ Instagram: @crystalwaterslefkada / Facebook: crystalwaterslefkada

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THE CITY WINS THE TOURISM BET Thessaloniki is a top destination, compared to other competitive destinations, with a degree of visitor's satisfaction that reached 84.6% in June, exceeding Athens, Barcelona, Constantinople and many popular destinations in Italy

T Konstantinos Zervas Mayor of Thessaloniki

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he city of Thessaloniki is making steady and upward steps in the field of tourism, and this progress is not due to an autopilot process.

Making methodical efforts, targeted and coordinated promotion, the name of the city becomes familiar even to those who have never heard about it before. We have strengthened the extroversion of the city and now Thessaloniki is not simply regarded as a “city break” destination, but also as an “experience destination” where every visitor has a lot to see, taste and experience.

Overcoming the obstacles of the pandemic, the blow to tourism from the war in Ukraine, and struggling with the energy hikes, Thessaloniki welcomed a large number of tourists from all over the world, which proves that the city has gained international recognition and is now on the world travel destinations map.

Thessaloniki has a distinct identity and is one of the most attractive urban destinations in the global tourism market. The characteristics of the city, the high-level hospitality infrastructure offered and the safety of Greek and foreign visitors make the city competitive against many other urban destinations.

The comparative advantages of Thessaloniki were strengthened by the inclusion of the city in the UNESCO creative cities network for its gastronomy, and now the

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

We will continue to promote and showcase all of Thessaloniki’s characteristics and main strategic advantages, to further enhance the city's brand in the global tourism market.

city enjoys exposure from the international media. The city’s image was upgraded with the new Airport, the development of cruises in the Port of Thessaloniki, the new hotel units that are operating or are preparing to operate, as well as the large infrastructure projects that are underway and near completion.

According to the monthly statistical report of the Institute of the Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises (INSETE), visitors leave the city with the best impressions.

Thessaloniki is a top destination, compared to other competitive destinations, with a degree of visitor's satisfaction that reached 84.6% for June, averaging 84.5% for the entire six-month period. Specifically, in June the degree of visitor satisfaction in Thessaloniki exceeded that of Athens, Barcelona, Constantinople and many popular destinations in Italy.

We will continue to promote and showcase all of Thessaloniki’s characteristics, which are its main strategic advantages, with the objective being to further enhance the city's brand in the global tourism market.

In addition to the city’s “strong cards”, such as hospitality, gastronomy, security, rich historical and cultural heritage, world monuments and modern culture, the Municipality’s administration is upgrading the urban environment through extensive renovations, as well as transforming the city into a smart city, while interventions in its historic center are completed. At the same

time, promotional activities, B2B meetings, participation of the city in international fairs, exhibitions and forums, and the organization of major events that promote Thessaloniki worldwide are implemented.

The success of the city is not determined only by the number of visitors, but also by variables such as sustainable development and the value created for the local society and economy; the fair distribution of tourism benefits; citizen satisfaction; quality of life and welfare; and, the environmental management and protection of natural and cultural assets.

Following international practice, I believe that the implementation of policies in terms of sustainable development is an immediate priority if we want the city to continue to enjoy the benefits of its tourism development.

The well-intentioned tourism development, which harmonizes with the environment, human activities, and the city’s daily functioning, has been for us the basis of mapping out a tourism plan, from the first day of our term in office, and this is what we are implementing.

Thessaloniki has proven to be a resilient city, but it has to keep on offering new experiences for its visitors, and benefits for its residents.

Sustainability in tourism is nothing more than our gaze into the future.

SKY express: The Greek success story reinforces its international present With the recognition from Google, the Greek airline flies to 8 international destinations and contributes to the tourism development to the country

I

n just two years SKY express has substantially changed the aviation landscape in Greece. It grew, expanded its network, multiplied the destinations it serves as well as its passengers. By investing in new aircrafts, cutting-edge technologies and targeted communication campaigns, it gains its own share in the aviation market.

Its dynamic course is daily recognized both by passengers, who trust it more and more, but also by the other airlines. Aviation giants such as Delta, Emirates, Air France, KLM, Qatar Airways, American Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Air Serbia etc. have entered into partnership with SKY express to serve their domestic flights. It was recently elected to the Board of ERA (European Regions Airline Association).

ADVERTORIAL

Every year higher By investing in a modern fleet of Airbus A320neo and ATR 72-600 new generation, SKY express owns Greece's greenest fleet and one of Europe's most environmentally friendly. Today, SKY express flies 12 months a year to 34 Greek airports and to 8 popular international destinations, to which new ones are constantly added.

With a record number of passengers and high occupancy rates, the summer of 2022 was a milestone in the operation of SKY express.

It served 34 domestic and 24 international destinations in 12 countries.

Thanks to its timely preparation, it successfully dealt with even the most demanding conditions that prevailed at airports all over Europe without having to cancel even a single flight throughout the summer.

With modern organization, having adopted a sustainable model of air transport and a way of operating that meets the needs of every traveler, SKY express is evolving into the airline of the future.

International Awarded Promotion Campaigns By contributing to the promotion of Greece as a top tourist destination throughout the year, SKY express implements innovative campaigns for the promotion of the country, such as the "Greece is bliss" campaign and the "Infinite Greece" campaign in cooperation with the Greek Tourism Organization, which are presented in top digital high-traffic media, with an impressive impact With a record number on international audiences. of passengers and high The combination of creativity and efficiency occupancy rates, was recognized by Google, highlighting SKY the summer of 2022 express on an international level as a case was a milestone study in digital advertising. Using Google 's in the operation tools, the airline of the future achieved excelof SKY express. lent visibility, significant increase in demand It served 34 domestic and of course the promotion of the Greek and 24 international tourism product. destinations The success was also nationally rewarded in 12 countries. with the company's top honorary distinction as a Brand of the Year and the award of ten awards at the Peak Performance Marketing Awards.

The successful course of SKY express has a wider reflection. It supports the Greek economy and especially the Greek Regions. It contributes to the further development of Greek Tourism. It benefits the travelling public, through its highly competitive fares for a number of destinations. Always sensitive to the environment, responding to the desires of dynamic audiences and vision with open horizons.

And this course will continue.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

91

Evia (Euboea) and Skyros Islands: Explore destinations’ diversity and originality SKYROS

CHALKIDA

MARMARI

PEFKI

CAVO D' ORO LICHADONISIA

ADVERTORIAL

D 92

o you know which is the second-largest island of Greece, next to the east coast of the mainland, extending from Mt Pelion to the Cyclades, is easily accessible by land and sea, and is only an hour's drive from Athens' international airport?

It is called Evia (Euboea). To the west, it borders the Euboean Gulf and to the east, it borders the vast Aegean Sea. 23 miles northeast of the east coast of Evia the Island of Skyros is located, which has a ferry connection and an airport.

It is a jewel in the centre of the Aegean Sea. Some facts that you might not have heard about this destination: the alphabet of Chalkida was transferred to Europe by Euboean settlers and it formed the basis of the Latin alphabet. Aristotle died in Chalkida in 322 BC. Evia is the homeland of the famous composers Nikos Skalkottas and Iannis Xenakis, as well as the Greek physician Georgios Papanikolaou

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

THE EUBOEA ISLAND

who was a pioneer in Cytopathology (Pap Test).

Evia and Skyros are authentic places, untouched by mass tourism and they preserve their cultural and natural heritage.

These islands stand out for the more than 140 beautiful, diverse, crystal-clear beaches and bays. All the above-mentioned features, in combination with the hospitality of the local people, make these islands a highly tempting choice.

The visitor can enjoy: rare natural beauty, archaeological monuments, museums, the world-famous and unique tidal phenomenon of Euripus in Chalkida, the Hot Springs in Εdipsos, the famous Dragon Houses in Karystia, the fossilized forest and the Mammal Museum in Kerasia, the Dionysian atmosphere of the carnival in Skyros, the unique Skyrian horse which is of ancient origin, the picturesque villages, the wetlands, the gorges, the mountain shelters, the hiking and climbing routes, mountain biking trails, underwater activities, horseriding, a variety of entertainment activities, fresh fish and seafood, local meat and wine which abound and stand out because of their excellent reputation.

REPORTAGE ●

By Fanis Zois f.zois@naftemporiki.gr

A

irlines have been betting and continue to bet on Greece's potential as a tourist destination by extending their routes to the country’s cosmopolitan islands by at least two months. At the same time, European airlines are upgrading Athens and Thessaloniki into citybreak destinations, setting the course for new passenger traffic records. US-based airlines are also joining the trend as they have decided to extend their routes in the winter season.

Airlines from key European markets for Greek tourism, such as Germany and the United Kingdom, are adding routes to the country's largest airport, Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, in the winter months, making the Greek capital a citybreak destination for Europeans who wish to travel on winter weekends.

For their part, domestic carriers,, such as Aegean

94

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM 2023

“

Airlines, which have been steadily investing in the destiThe Greek govnation Athens, and is currently ernment, AIA and doing more so now as traffic Fraport, recovers, continue to increase provide incencapacity to/from the Greek tives to airlines capital, having the advantage for the winter of upgrading its fleet with new, season, beginning larger aircraft delivered by Airbus. Similarly, Sky Express early November (Grylos group) continues to to March. upgrade its program, having recently announced the extension of its flying schedule as of November to Munich, Milan and Sofia, also increasing flight frequencies to other destinations such as Rome.

In August 2022, the country's largest airport saw passenger traffic drop by 6% compared to the record-setting August 2019. In fact, if it weren't for the

major problems in Europe’s central airports, which forced major airlines to cut their routes, the gap from the period of normality in 2019 would be even smaller.

Incentives for winter tourism The incentives given by the Greek government, AIA and Fraport --with discounts to airlines for the winter season, essentially from the end of October - beginning of November to March-- are expected to give impetus to the achievement of new records. And this at a time when Greece wants to extend the season as much as possible, while the air transport scene in Europe once again refers to uncertainty due to high energy costs and high fuel prices, given that until now airlines operated on fuel they had pre-purchased at lower prices.

The provision of incentives is part of a general plan by the Ministry of Tourism, to strengthen winter tourism and efforts to extend the season; plans include the

wider tourism chain, airlines and tour operators, who wish to continue their activity in Greece during the winter too.

Airline intentions With regard to foreign airlines, the US-based ones have shown their intentions for Athens early this year, such as Delta with the time extension of its routes from the US to Athens, a market that has contributed even more to the increase of its revenues of Greek tourism, especially in the two months of July - August.

The markets that have also contributed to the malas, with arrivals and receipts performance already above 2019, include the UK, the second inbound tourism market for our country as a whole after Germany, from where routes are also increasing this winter.

Hungary’s Wizz Air has announced plans to restart flights this autumn from London (Luton airport) to Athens, with company officials stating: “Athens is an

“

ideal destination for passengers wishing to discover the heart of Athens is an ideal Greece”. destination In addition to the 2022for passengers 2023 season, Jet2.com and wishing to Jet2CityBreaks are already discover the offering packages to Athens for heart of Greece, the 2023-2024 winter season. according The group that just last spring included the Greek capital in to airline repreits schedule will for the first sentatives. time fly from London (Stansted airport) to Athens during the winter season, as well as from Manchester throughout the year, given that the group, which operates the third largest registered airline in the UK, is following demand.

Notably, the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays group announced an increase in its capacity from the United

Kingdom in 2023 to 1.3 million seats.

Now, following a record number of flights and tourist “packages” this season, the group includes trips to Rhodes and Halkidiki as early as April 2023, for the Easter period.

As part of this, the group is also increasing connections for 2023 to destinations such as Corfu, Rhodes and Skiathos, while adding services from regional UK airports to Chania, Athens and Santorini. With the 2023 summer season flights starting earlier than ever, the first flights scheduled on April 1 and 2 are already being booked for destinations such as Rhodes and Halkidiki. Besides, with two daily flights from Larnaca airport, Cyprus Airways connects Cyprus with Athens in its new winter schedule as of October 30. This route is dominated by Aegean Airlines, which has established itself among regular passengers both as a result of the privileges and stability it offers following the collapse of the state-owned Cypriot airlines

Airlines are renting more space at Greek airports in view of higher demand.

WINTER CHECK-IN Foreign airlines are investing in the destination Greece by adding new routes even in winter TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM 2023

95

Elefsina, a timeless city, becomes the next European Capital of Culture 2023 Eleusis creates a comprehensive artistic and educational programme titled MYSTERIES OF TRANSITION

ADVERTORIAL

E

96

xploring the ancient and modern history of Elefsina (also known as Eleusis), one is astonished by the city’s rare wealth of historical and mythological past, as well as its multifaceted and ambitious present. The city’s web comprises amazing traces of antiquity, contemporary stories of migration, workers’ movements, industrial and cultural development, as well as texts and songs, making this place a unique historical landmark of ancient and modern Greek history.

Elefsina was the favorite destination of the Ancient Greek goddess of the harvest, Demeter and has been famous since antiquity for the Eleusinian Mysteries, one of the most important religious ceremonies in ancient Greece. Beyond the mythological tradition, Elefsina as one of the five most important Sacred Cities in antiquity, boasts a rare archaeological wealth. The glorious temple of Demeter and Persephone, the entrance of the Underworld in the Ploutoneion, the stunning Caryatids of the Lesser Propylaea, and the solid walls that protected the treasures accumulated over countless generations, create one of the most remarkable places in Greece. The Archaeological Museum of Elefsina is under restoration to house the city’s ancient artefacts offering an exceptional experience for visitors from all over the world.

The importance of Elefsina as the birthplace of Aeschylus, the special place of women in the long history of the city, its significance in the folk songs about immigration, unrequited love and the working man’s toil – through the legendary bard Stelios Kazantzidis – are the features of this unique, colourful city. Thanks to its natural harbour and strategic location - 21 km west of Athens - in the Thriassian Plain, at the northwestern edge of the Saronic Gulf and opposite Salamis island, home of Ajax the Great, Elefsina has always occupied a prominent position on the map of Greece. Since the 19th century, the city became a hub of productivity, taking on a special place among the greatest industrial centres of the country.

Elefsina has won the well-deserved title of European Capital of Culture (ECOC) for 2023, being the fourth Greek city to hold the tittle. The aim is to promote the wealth, variety and common features of the cultures of Europe, and to exchange knowledge, experience and emotion, with the participation of Elefsina inhabitants, the networking between groups in the city, and to strengthen the bonds and the mutual understanding between European citizens. Through an “industry of the arts” that promotes, encourages and supports the local community and the workforce, the event creates a pioneering “constellation” of artistic hubs as a model of development for a European city.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

2023 Eleusis creates a comprehensive artistic and educational programme titled MYSTERIES OF TRANSITION, with internationally-renowned theatre director Michail Marmarinos as general artistic director. The tangible heritage of the Cultural Capital, its cultural infrastructure develops strategically based on the cultural heritage of Elefsina. The former cinema “Eleusis” as a property owned by the Municipality, will be restored as a municipal cultural centre for movie screenings, exhibitions of visual and performance art and workshops. The former IRIS factory is been restored as a multipurpose hall with auxiliary installations. The Old Oil Mill Factory will be hosting art exhibitions and activities of modern art. Public, municipal and common-use buildings are already being used, such as the Old Train Station and the surrounding area as a hub for seminars and horizontal activities. The Old Town Hall is gradually converted into Information, Documentation and Heritage Centre. Other venues of cultural, architectural, industrial and environmental value are re-activated, such as the Clocktower, a landmark in the archaeological site of Elefsina, and the former campsite Oasis, an area of rare natural beauty in the outskirts of the city.

The MYSTERIES OF TRANSITION comprise proposals from 47 countries, and include theatre and dance performances, networking events, seminars, open discussions and many other events that unfold gradually, climaxing on February 4, 2023 with a spectacular opening ceremony; a celebration of the cultural tangible and intangible heritage of ECOC in the city of Elefsina. In this context, 2023 Eleusis European Capital will welcome Time Circus in the longest pilgrimage procession in the history of the city.

ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

A NEW ERA OF TOURISM EXPERIENCES IN WELCOMING GREECE New investments, development of innovative services, the attraction of major brands, upgrading of infrastructure, enrichment of tourist product, promotion of digital transformation, and upgrading tourist education are some of the initiatives to secure Greece as a world-quality tourist destination

I Alexander Vasilikos President of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels

98

n spite of the great global challenges, the World Travel Market finds Greek tourism in positive momentum. During the pandemic’s two tough years, we ensured excellent health management and decisively enhanced our credibility. This is how we succeeded in making the most of the high demand for the Greek tourism product in the 2022 season, as people expressed a desire for travel, holidays, and human reunion.

Hospitality is Greece. We proved it for yet another year by offering our millions of visitors the opportunity of a unique experience in destinations of unparalleled natural beauty, history and culture, with a distinct culinary tradition and countless options for entertainment. In this very special season, the British market has put its stamp, confirming the timeless relationship of cooperation and trust.

However, in a rapidly changing world, complacency is simply not allowed. Tourism is a sensitive product and is affected by factors such as the digital revolution, the climate threat, demographic develop-

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

Having confidence in the prospects for our cooperation with the United Kingdom, we can set new ambitious goals, in both qualitative and quantitative terms.

ments, and geopolitical events. That is why we must be constantly prepared to adapt to emerging trends.

The effort to secure Greece as a worldclass quality tourist destination, with a distinct identity and being less and less dependent on circumstantial fluctuations, is continuous. The steps we take in this targeted course include the following:  Investing €1.0 billion every year by Greek hoteliers in the renovation and upgrading of their establishments.  Pioneering design and development of innovative hospitality services in our country.  Attracting direct foreign investments and placement of major brands and international chains in the Greek hospitality market.  Upgrading the country's infrastructure to guarantee first of all the quality of life of the residents of the destinations, and of course of our visitors as well.  The thematic enrichment of our product so that we can reliably address specialized audiences of the global market for whom trust and quality play a primary role in their choices. Greece offers a multitude of options, 365 days a year. City and city break tourism, sun and sea, cultural, culinary and conference tourism, sightseeing and religious tourism, health and wellness tourism, marine, sports training, countryside tourism, and luxury tourism.

 Promoting digital transformation and responding to the new speeds and new data created by the digital revolution by having every destination online 24/7.  Cultivating modern skills through an upgraded tourism education, with human resources being the main protagonist in a new quality model.

Greece’s positive momentum marks the opportunity to open a clear and safe corridor for an impressive jump in Greek tourism in the new, complex and demanding global experience market.

Having confidence in the prospects for our cooperation with the United Kingdom, we can therefore set new ambitious goals, in qualitative, not simply quantitative, terms.

The best can and must be ahead. But it is not ready and just waiting for us. We, ourselves, must jointly envision it, plan it and make it happen.

I firmly believe that the World Travel Market marks not only the beginning of the preparation of Greek tourism for the new season, but also the beginning of a new era of tourist experiences in the ever-hospitable Greece.

Discover

Greek Islands

with speed, comfort & luxury

50 Ports, 400 Interconnections to the Aegean Sea from Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Rafina & Crete.

@seajets seajetsgr SeaJets Seajets

The largest network of high speed vessels

Seajets.com

Elefsina, a timeless city, becomes the next European Capital of Culture 2023 Eleusis creates a comprehensive artistic and educational programme titled MYSTERIES OF TRANSITION

ADVERTORIAL

E

96

xploring the ancient and modern history of Elefsina (also known as Eleusis), one is astonished by the city’s rare wealth of historical and mythological past, as well as its multifaceted and ambitious present. The city’s web comprises amazing traces of antiquity, contemporary stories of migration, workers’ movements, industrial and cultural development, as well as texts and songs, making this place a unique historical landmark of ancient and modern Greek history.

Elefsina was the favorite destination of the Ancient Greek goddess of the harvest, Demeter and has been famous since antiquity for the Eleusinian Mysteries, one of the most important religious ceremonies in ancient Greece. Beyond the mythological tradition, Elefsina as one of the five most important Sacred Cities in antiquity, boasts a rare archaeological wealth. The glorious temple of Demeter and Persephone, the entrance of the Underworld in the Ploutoneion, the stunning Caryatids of the Lesser Propylaea, and the solid walls that protected the treasures accumulated over countless generations, create one of the most remarkable places in Greece. The Archaeological Museum of Elefsina is under restoration to house the city’s ancient artefacts offering an exceptional experience for visitors from all over the world.

The importance of Elefsina as the birthplace of Aeschylus, the special place of women in the long history of the city, its significance in the folk songs about immigration, unrequited love and the working man’s toil – through the legendary bard Stelios Kazantzidis – are the features of this unique, colourful city. Thanks to its natural harbour and strategic location - 21 km west of Athens - in the Thriassian Plain, at the northwestern edge of the Saronic Gulf and opposite Salamis island, home of Ajax the Great, Elefsina has always occupied a prominent position on the map of Greece. Since the 19th century, the city became a hub of productivity, taking on a special place among the greatest industrial centres of the country.

Elefsina has won the well-deserved title of European Capital of Culture (ECOC) for 2023, being the fourth Greek city to hold the tittle. The aim is to promote the wealth, variety and common features of the cultures of Europe, and to exchange knowledge, experience and emotion, with the participation of Elefsina inhabitants, the networking between groups in the city, and to strengthen the bonds and the mutual understanding between European citizens. Through an “industry of the arts” that promotes, encourages and supports the local community and the workforce, the event creates a pioneering “constellation” of artistic hubs as a model of development for a European city.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

2023 Eleusis creates a comprehensive artistic and educational programme titled MYSTERIES OF TRANSITION, with internationally-renowned theatre director Michail Marmarinos as general artistic director. The tangible heritage of the Cultural Capital, its cultural infrastructure develops strategically based on the cultural heritage of Elefsina. The former cinema “Eleusis” as a property owned by the Municipality, will be restored as a municipal cultural centre for movie screenings, exhibitions of visual and performance art and workshops. The former IRIS factory is been restored as a multipurpose hall with auxiliary installations. The Old Oil Mill Factory will be hosting art exhibitions and activities of modern art. Public, municipal and common-use buildings are already being used, such as the Old Train Station and the surrounding area as a hub for seminars and horizontal activities. The Old Town Hall is gradually converted into Information, Documentation and Heritage Centre. Other venues of cultural, architectural, industrial and environmental value are re-activated, such as the Clocktower, a landmark in the archaeological site of Elefsina, and the former campsite Oasis, an area of rare natural beauty in the outskirts of the city.

The MYSTERIES OF TRANSITION comprise proposals from 47 countries, and include theatre and dance performances, networking events, seminars, open discussions and many other events that unfold gradually, climaxing on February 4, 2023 with a spectacular opening ceremony; a celebration of the cultural tangible and intangible heritage of ECOC in the city of Elefsina. In this context, 2023 Eleusis European Capital will welcome Time Circus in the longest pilgrimage procession in the history of the city.

ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

A NEW ERA OF TOURISM EXPERIENCES IN WELCOMING GREECE New investments, development of innovative services, the attraction of major brands, upgrading of infrastructure, enrichment of tourist product, promotion of digital transformation, and upgrading tourist education are some of the initiatives to secure Greece as a world-quality tourist destination

I Alexander Vasilikos President of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels

98

n spite of the great global challenges, the World Travel Market finds Greek tourism in positive momentum. During the pandemic’s two tough years, we ensured excellent health management and decisively enhanced our credibility. This is how we succeeded in making the most of the high demand for the Greek tourism product in the 2022 season, as people expressed a desire for travel, holidays, and human reunion.

Hospitality is Greece. We proved it for yet another year by offering our millions of visitors the opportunity of a unique experience in destinations of unparalleled natural beauty, history and culture, with a distinct culinary tradition and countless options for entertainment. In this very special season, the British market has put its stamp, confirming the timeless relationship of cooperation and trust.

However, in a rapidly changing world, complacency is simply not allowed. Tourism is a sensitive product and is affected by factors such as the digital revolution, the climate threat, demographic develop-

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

Having confidence in the prospects for our cooperation with the United Kingdom, we can set new ambitious goals, in both qualitative and quantitative terms.

ments, and geopolitical events. That is why we must be constantly prepared to adapt to emerging trends.

The effort to secure Greece as a worldclass quality tourist destination, with a distinct identity and being less and less dependent on circumstantial fluctuations, is continuous. The steps we take in this targeted course include the following:  Investing €1.0 billion every year by Greek hoteliers in the renovation and upgrading of their establishments.  Pioneering design and development of innovative hospitality services in our country.  Attracting direct foreign investments and placement of major brands and international chains in the Greek hospitality market.  Upgrading the country's infrastructure to guarantee first of all the quality of life of the residents of the destinations, and of course of our visitors as well.  The thematic enrichment of our product so that we can reliably address specialized audiences of the global market for whom trust and quality play a primary role in their choices. Greece offers a multitude of options, 365 days a year. City and city break tourism, sun and sea, cultural, culinary and conference tourism, sightseeing and religious tourism, health and wellness tourism, marine, sports training, countryside tourism, and luxury tourism.

 Promoting digital transformation and responding to the new speeds and new data created by the digital revolution by having every destination online 24/7.  Cultivating modern skills through an upgraded tourism education, with human resources being the main protagonist in a new quality model.

Greece’s positive momentum marks the opportunity to open a clear and safe corridor for an impressive jump in Greek tourism in the new, complex and demanding global experience market.

Having confidence in the prospects for our cooperation with the United Kingdom, we can therefore set new ambitious goals, in qualitative, not simply quantitative, terms.

The best can and must be ahead. But it is not ready and just waiting for us. We, ourselves, must jointly envision it, plan it and make it happen.

I firmly believe that the World Travel Market marks not only the beginning of the preparation of Greek tourism for the new season, but also the beginning of a new era of tourist experiences in the ever-hospitable Greece.

Discover

Greek Islands

with speed, comfort & luxury

50 Ports, 400 Interconnections to the Aegean Sea from Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Rafina & Crete.

@seajets seajetsgr SeaJets Seajets

The largest network of high speed vessels

Seajets.com

REPORTAGE ●

SPEEDING UP AIRPORT PRIVATISATIONS Airport performance -thanks to this year’s increase in tourismis pushing the government and airport operators to accelerate their upgrading and privatisation plans

By Fanis Zois f.zois@naftemporiki.gr

102

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

N

either the problems at European airports, nor the inflationary pressures and estimates for a tough winter in terms of energy, seem to be stemming the public's desire to travel, which continues to flock en masse to Greek destinations, creating high expectations.

Having been improving month after month, passenger traffic at almost all of the country's airports just shows that the country is gradually returning to pre-pandemic numbers. On the positive side are also the comments coming from abroad that Greek airports do not share the chaos seen in European airports.

The excellent performance recorded by the airports, as well as the benefits resulting from the rise in tourism, lead the government and airport administrations to speed up their modernisation and privatisation plans.

Starting from Kalamata’s “Captain Vassilis Konstantakopoulos” airport, the Growthfund has compiled a privatisation list of the remaining 22 regional airports, which are still managed by the Civil Aviation Service (CAA).

These are the airports of Alexandroupolis, Ioannina, Kozani, Kastoria, N. Anchialos, Araxos, Lemnos,

Chios, Ikaria, Skyros, Milos, Naxos, Paros, Syros, Kalymnos, Astypalaia, Sitia, Leros, Kasos, Karpathos, Kythira and Kastelorizo.

The international tender for the concession of the right to administer, manage, operate, develop, expand, maintain and exploit the international airport of Kalamata, for a concession period of approx. 40 years, is already underway.

In fact, according to estimates, through such investment, Kalamata airport will have the capacity to welcome an ever-increasing number of passengers, estimated to reach 500,000 much earlier than the end of the current decade.

The main objective is to upgrade, modernize and expand the airport's infrastructure, especially the passenger building (terminal). The expansion and upgrading of the infrastructure (terminal, aircraft parking area) is a necessary condition, due to the rapid development of the airport in question. In the current year (2022) the number of passengers will exceed the record number of 2019. This increased number of passengers, combined with the significant private investments in the tourism industry and the improvement of the road infrastructure in the prefecture, is expected to have a multiplying positive impact

in Messinia , but also the wider zone of influence of the airport.

The tender process is implemented in two phases:  During the first phase, interested investors who meet specific technical-economic criteria, are invited to submit the Expression of Interest Files by November 4, 2022. The Growthfund will then evaluate the submitted files and select the candidates that meet the relevant criteria.  The selected tenderers will be given the right to participate in the second (and final) phase of the tender, during which they will submit their final bids.

In this phase, the exact duration of the concession and other critical contractual arrangements will be determined.

New strategy At the same time, the process of selling 30% of the Athens International Airport (AIA) through the Stock Exchange is underway. TAIPED (Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund) has proceeded with the recruitment of the legal and financial advisor, who will advise the privatisation Fund on the process.

The selection will be made by the privatisation Fund through a closed process. ►

Aviation and passenger traffic data show that the Athens International Airport is this year set to record new record highs, beating 2019 records.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

103

REPORTAGE ●

The new Kastelli airport will have the capacity to handle up to an annual 18 million passengers.

►

The new advisers, in addition to indicating the best solution to TAIPED, will have to get in touch with the other shareholders of the airport --especially private shareholders AviAlliance and Kopelouzos Group-- in order to agree on the new strategy. It is noted that, based on the Spata airport concession agreement of 1995, as amended in 2019, although minority shareholders, the private shareholders in AIA must give their consent to the solution Kalamata airport proposed by the main sharewill be able to holder, the Greek State. welcome an The Greek State is currently represented in the AIA both by ever-increasTAIPED, which holds a stake ing number of of 30%, and by the Grothfund passengers, (HCAP) which holds a 25% estimated to stake. In addition, a 40% stake reach 500,000 is held by AviAlliance and 5% much earlier than by the Kopelouzos group. The the end of the two private shareholders have current decade. expressed their intention to increase their holding, in the event the allocation of a 30% stake in AIA was made through a tender for the selection of an investor.

Data for air transport and passenger traffic show that the company is heading for new historical highs, exceeding those of 2019. Thus, decisions will not take long to be made, while no one doubts a successful distribution of shares to the general public, with the aim of revitalizing the domestic stock market.

With regard to the expansion projects of the airport facilities that started in 2019 and stopped due to the pandemic, the company says that they will restart once traffic reaches 2019 levels.

“Subject to the development of the air traffic,” it says in the financial statements, “we are planning to start some of the Terminal and runway capacity projects that we have put on hold due to the pandemic in the past two years. Major projects related

“

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An international tender for a 40-year concession of the Kalamata airport is already underway.

to the mandatory expansion of the Airport's building facilities will become timely again when passenger traffic approaches 2019 levels”.

Greece’s second largest airport Meanwhile, progress on Crete's new airport, in Kasteli, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, has so far exceeded 15%. The new airport, to replace Heraklion’s “N. Kazantzakis” airport, will be Greece’s second largest, with the capacity to handle up to an annual 18 million passengers (at first it will serve 10 million passengers, forecast to gradually reach 15 million passengers).

The project’s construction budget amounts to €520 million, with the Greek government having paid €180 million.

Shareholders in the new airport are the Greek government with a stake of 45.9%, TERNA with 32.46% and India’s GMR with 21.64%. The concession period, which started in 2020, spans 35 years, including the 5-year construction period, meaning that the concession period ends in 2055.

As part of the concession agreement, the Greek government finances part of the construction, by providing part of the proceeds from airport fees of the existing Heraklion airport to the contracting consortium. According to aviation market analysts, between 2016 and 2019, the existing airport in Heraklion saw a significant increase in passenger traffic from 6.0 million to almost 8.0 - 8.2 million, with a network of more than 100 airlines flying to some 160 destinations in Europe, Asia and Africa

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Rethymno, a unique experience all year round

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n the heart of the island of Crete, embraced

by Mount Psiloritis and the White Mountains, Rethymno is one of Europe’s best-preserved renaissance settlements. A cultural crossroad, a superb natural environment, special architecture, unique hospitality, and infinite entertainment options are the elements that make up Rethymno’s multidimensional identity.

With the walls of the Castle Fortezza dominating over the magnificent Old Town, Rethymno combines the Venetian romance with the needs of the modern visitor.

Winding stone-paved alleys, charming intimate courtyards, flower-filled balconies and window boxes, traditional taverns and restaurants serving exquisite Cretan cuisine, and the multi-cultures that harmoniously coexist here, are the companions on your stroll.

Aromas, flavors, doorways, sounds, spontaneous smiles, and a sip of local wine welcome your wandering spirit, present and past. Antiquities, adventure, and nature surround the seaside hotels, many boutique hotels, and luxury villas.

The outstanding natural wealth will impress nature enthusiasts; imposing canyons, beautiful caves, stone bridges, rare species of fauna and flora, authentic mountain villages, and unique walking and cycling routes complete the picture of Rethymno’s inland, an awarded bike-friendly and sustainable city.

The outdoors adventure is accessible to all, the only thing you need to do is pick the trails and itineraries that best suit you! Besides, it is because of its

new regulations regarding citizen and visitor road safety that the city was chosen as a recipient of the 2021 EU Urban Road Safety award. The city boasts a 12-kilometer bicycle lane, while the Rethymno district includes 22 cycling routes, 12 of which are connected to famous landmarks. Cyclists have the opportunity to cross wonderful scenic paths overlooking the mountains of Crete and visit many traditional villages, where they can stop for a little rest and a coffee.

Thanks to its award-winning beaches, Rethymno is an ideal destination for summer vacations. On the north shore with its sandy, serviced beaches you can find some of the biggest and most luxurious hotels in the country. The 12 km sandy beach stretches along the east side of the town, where every year 180 Caretta-Caretta sea turtles nest. The southern coast hosts some of the most beautiful, untouched exotic beaches of Crete, including Preveli beach, awarded as a European romantic beach.

Rethymno has prioritized ensuring the highest standards of health and safety procedures that are applied in all venues and attractions, celebrates all expressions of culture and respects the region’s great traditions by organizing events throughout the year. The most popular are the famous Carnival held in February, a farm-to-table festival for foodies like the Cretan Diet Festival in July, as well as for delectation seekers, the Renaissance Festival held in the fall.

Let Rethymno welcome you with warm hospitality, sophisticated services, and local farm-to-table delicacies. Explore a unique town with a rare combination of history and modern-day luxury.

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naftemporiki.gr

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Your best way to Greece!

Everything you need to know about: • The Greek economy • The opportunities it offers across all sectors • Taking advantage of investment opportunities • But the tourist destinations, too

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Indulging in Halkidiki’s luxury leisure Νewly-built complex of luxury suites and villas just a breath away from the sea

ADVERTORIAL

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LPE LUXURY ACCOMMODATION was established in 2021 and meets all the requirements of modern, luxury accommodation. The firm operates three establishments, the Penelope Collection, Villa Arches and Alexander Villas. Hotel facilities offer a comfortable environment with modern aesthetics, where guests of all ages feel welcome, as our goal is to satisfy your needs and make sure you have a gratifying and enjoyable stay.

Our newly-built complex of luxury suites and villas lies just a breath away from the sea, with Olympiada beach being an astonishing sandy beach with white, fine sand, and a nearby Natura 2000-protected plane-tree forest.

In the enchanting waters of Halkidiki, guests have the opportunity to sail with our boats: a boat trip on the island opposite Olympiada, a day trip along Mount Athos and a dive in clear blue waters, inaccessible by car, can transform their stay into an unequalled experience.

Our range of facilities and services includes wi-fi in all areas, children’s area and playgrounds, private parking, restaurant, bar, bicycles, transfer to and from the airport, boat trips, cleaning/ironing services, laptop/tablet and PlayStation. Our Kelari (cellar) is made with passion and love for wine.

In an atmospheric space, warmly decorated with wood, guests can enjoy a

wide variety of wines, accompanied by fine cheeses and cold cuts.

In addition, Alpe Luxury Accommodation offers a number of VIP services, including private transfers. Our luxury cars safely transport our guests to various areas of Halkidiki, Thessaloniki and beyond. They offer the opportunity for carefree excursions, guided by our experienced guides.

Accommodation One-Bedroom Suites: Equipped with kitchen, promise to offer you the comfort and luxury you desire. There is one one-bedroom suit designed to serve people with special needs.

One-Bedroom Suite Loft/Jacuzzi: The comfortable, luxurious environment and the modern comforts of the four suites of one-bedroom loft, with kitchen, offer a dreamy stay to every guest.

Superior Double: The Superior Double rooms have a very comfortable interior, designed with impeccable detailing.

Villa Arches: The comfortable and large space of Villa Arches, with their traditional architecture, with an emphasis on stone and wood, and the careful decoration have been designed to create unforgettable memories.

Two-bedroom villas with private pool: Our comfortable villas with private pool are designed with meticulous aesthetics in every detail of the decoration and the amenities provided ensure a refreshing and relaxing stay.

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

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Kinsterna Hotel: A fresh dimension in the concept of luxury A restored mansion offers unique rooms and suites, blending magically into the surrounding vineyards, timeless olive groves, imposing eucalyptuses and the lofty cypresses

ADVERTORIAL

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e invite you to travel to Monemvasia, one of the most romantic and historic destinations in Greece (Peloponnese) and experience a truly unique stay at the highly acclaimed Kinsterna Hotel which has been awarded by TripAdvisor, with the “Certificate of Excellence 2022”. Kinsterna has also been awarded as “Luxury Boutique Hotel of the Year” by the prestigious LTG European Awards 2017 and also won the Green Key award, the leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry!

The Kinsterna Hotel, which is a Byzantine-era rural mansion, was pains-

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

takingly restored with tremendous respect to its long history, with the intent to establish a comprehensive settlement encompassing the main mansion and surrounding houses. Moreover, all activities that took place in the past on the premises have been revived. Private label products including wine, extra virgin olive oil, olives, tsipouro (a Greek spirit), bread and marmalade are now on site.

Tucked away in the folds of the lush hillside, with privileged views of the Medieval Castle’s Rock and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the lovingly and superbly restored mansion offers unique rooms and suites, autonomous residences and 2 magnificent villas and blends magically into the surrounding vineyards, timeless olive groves, imposing eucalyptuses and the lofty cypresses, within an estate of 25 acres.

Kinsterna Hotel offers several historic, cultural and sport activities, which are associated with the estate and specially designed for guests wishing to become

better acquainted with the history of the mansion and the surrounding area.

Throughout the year, Kinsterna’s activity menu features a variety of experiences including tour of the mansion, hiking through the vineyards, horse riding or a donkey ride, cycling on the estate, wine tasting, bread baking at the mansion’s old stone oven, cooking classes, homemade soap-making, private boat tours around the Rock of the medieval castle-town and nearby secluded beaches or fishing!

Our guests can also take part in seasonal activities associated with the 25acre estate, such as the grape harvest or grape crushing to produce the Greek spirit tsipouro, and picking of olives to produce extra virgin olive oil.

The Kinsterna Hotel breathes a new dimension in the concept of luxury.

From the enchanting nights with a glass of wine from the local privately owned vineyards next to the awarded Sterna restaurant sitting in the Byzantine

cistern, to the incredible culinary creations from the Greek and the Mediterranean cuisine, with delectable local products and ingredients cultivated in the estate, in the Kinsterna Restaurant, and from the traditional hearty Greek breakfast to the impressive river-like pool with private relaxation areas amidst the fragrant orange trees, and the atmospheric Kinsterna Spa, with the signature treatments and the highly qualified therapists, the Kinsterna Hotel fully justifies why it was included in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2011 as one of the 65 best new hotels in the world!

Monemvasia, Peloponnese, Greece +30 27320 66300 www.kinsternahotel.gr

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REPORTAGE ●

THE PROFILE OF FOREIGN TOURISTS

A breakdown of tourism receipts - Who spent the most and how much - Which are the areas mostly visited Many islands enjoy occupancy rates similar to record year 2019

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Tourism receipts in 2022 expected to top €20 billion Growth in travel receipts was driven by a 191.4% increase in inbound travel traffic as average spending per trip fell 13.6%

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By Fanis Zois f.zois@naftemporiki.gr

ourism, being this tough year’s bet, has exceeded even the highest of expectations. Even against the background of the war in Ukraine and the high cost of energy, Greece’s tourism losses from Russia were more than compensated for, with all signs pointing to an absolute record in arrivals, bookings and revenues.

Revenues from tourism, the national economy’s critical mass, are expected to top €20 billion this year, from €18.2 billion in 2019, recording a spectacular increase in the average spending per trip, mainly by American and Northern European tourists.

In recent months, tourism revenues supported the country’s high growth rate, compared to other EU member countries, and will help the country deal with proving a significant stepping stone during the harsh winter ahead of us.

Specifically, in the period January-July 2022, the travel balance showed a surplus of €7,710.1 million, against a surplus of €3,027.4 million in the corresponding period of 2021. Travel receipts recorded an increase by €5,367.5 million or 154.2%, to €8,849.4 million, while travel payments rose by €684.8 million or 150.7%, to €1,139.3 million. The increase in travel receipts was driven by a 191.4% increase in inbound travel traffic as average spending per trip fell by 13.6%. Net receipts from the provision of travel services offset the deficit in the goods balance by 36.7%, and contributed 76.1% to the total net receipts from services.

The field of congress and business events organization enjoyed a fantastic season as the market rose to €1.7 billion, with widespread optimism for an exceptional year also in 2023.

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► July 2022 In more detail, revenues from EU-27 residents recorded an increase of 37.6% in July, amounting to €2,125.1 million, while receipts from residents of countries outside the EU-27 jumped 113.9% (July 2022: €1,542.6 million, July 2021: €721.2 million). The rise in receipts from EU-27 residents was the result of a 32.2% increase in receipts from residents of eurozone countries (July 2022: €1,579.7 million, July 2021: €1,195.1 million), as well as an increase by 56.1% in receipts from residents of EU-27 countries not in the eurozone.

In particular, with regard to the most important countries of origin of travelers from the euro area, receipts from Germany rose by 30.5% and amounted to €550.6 million, followed by France, up 15.8% to €281 million.

With regard to countries outside the EU-27, receipts from the United Kingdom rose by 171.6% to €685.8 million, while receipts from the US rose by 65.8% to €229.4 million. Receipts from Russia fell by 90.6% to €2.7 million.

The first seven months of 2022 In the period January-July 2022, travel receipts recorded an increase by 154.2% compared to the corresponding period a year earlier, and amounted to €8,849.4 million.

This is attributed to an increase in receipts from residents of EU-27 countries by 116%, to €5,105.9 million, as well as to an increase in receipts from residents of countries outside the EU-27, up 230.1% to €3,571.5 million. Particularly, receipts from residents of eurozone countries amounted to €4,056.3 million, up by 119.9%, while receipts from residents of EU-27 countries outside the eurozone showed an increase of 102% to €1,049.6 million.

Receipts from Germany rose by 127.4% and amounted to €1,636.7 million, while receipts from France were up by 87.6% and amounted to €659.7 million. With regard countries outside the EU-27, receipts from the United Kingdom recorded an increase of 342.8%, to €1,478.5 million. Receipts from the US increased by 183.6% to €566.2 million, while those from Russia fell 52.8% to €16.6 million.

Inbound travel traffic Inbound travel traffic in July 2022 rose to 5,277.3 million travelers, an increase of 87.3% compared to the same month in 2021. In particular, travel traffic

Average spending spending by by foreign foreign tourists tourists Average (in euros) January - July in Greece in Greece (in euros) January - July 757,4 757,4 600 600

588,0 588,0

654,4* 654,4*

468,8 468,8

2019 2019

2020 2020

2021 2021

2022* 2022* *Provisional data *Provisional data

Inbound travel travel traffic traffic Inbound

(million travelers) January - July TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM (million travelers) January - July 15 15

15,1 15,1

2020 2020 2020

2021 2021 2021

2022* 2022* 2022* *Provisional *Provisional data data *Provisional data

(million (million travelers) travelers) January January --- July July (million travelers) January July 15 15 15

(in mil. euros) January - July 2019 (Total 9,116.5) EU-27

4.797,3

Εurozone countries Non-eurozone countries Countries outside the EU - 27

3.850,7

January - July 2022 (Total 8,849.4) EU-27

5,105.9

4.056,3

13,3* 13,3* 13,3*

15,1 15,1 15,1

946,6

4.080,5

Εurozone countries Non-eurozone countries Countries outside the EU - 27

Inbound Inbound travel travel traffic traffic Inbound travel traffic

5 5 5

200 200

112

2019 2019 2019

Receipts by origin of travelers

10 10 10

400 400

0 0

through airports rose by 79.9% compared to July of 2021, while traffic at road border stations was up by 117.2%.

The increase in inbound travel traffic is attributed to a rise in travel traffic both from EU-27 countries (up 58.7%) and non-EU-27 countries (up 165.4%).

In more detail, travel traffic from eurozone countries amounted to 2,047.8 million travelers, increased by 49.4%. Travel traffic from EU-27 countries outside the eurozone also recorded a 77.2% increase, which amounted to 1.224 million travelers. In particular, Average spending by tourists Average by foreign tourists Average spending by foreign foreign tourists travel trafficspending from Germany showed an increase of (in euros) euros) January January -- July July in Greece (in in Greece (in euros) January July in Greece 39.9% to 643 thousand travelers, while travel traffic 757,4 from France rose by 42.0% to 370.5 thousand trave757,4 757,4 654,4* 654,4* lers 654,4* 588,0 588,0 588,0 600 600 With outside the EU-27, travel 600 regard to countries 468,8 468,8 468,8 traffic from the United Kingdom increased by 357.9% 400 400 400 to 813.5 thousand travelers, while travel traffic from the200 USA rose by 95.2% to 189.1 thousand travelers.

200 200 Finally, travel traffic from Russia dropped by 85.1% to 0 0 4.0 thousand travelers.

0

13,3* 13,3*

0 0 0

3,0 3,0 3,0 2019 2019 2019

Source: Bank of Greece Source: Source: Bank Bank of of Greece Greece

2020 2020 2020

4,6 4,6 4,6

2021 2021 2021

2022* 2022* 2022* *Provisional data *Provisional *Provisional data data

3.571,5

1.049,6

Vote of confidence in the Greek islands Notably, for yet another year, foreign visitors to the Greek islands gave a vote of confidence, with figures so far showing an increase in arrivals compared to 2019, a record year for Greek tourism. As industry officials point out, all Greek islands with no exception attracted a large volume of foreign visitors this year. Starting from the cosmopolitan islands, such as Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Patmos and Astypalaia, only positive figures are recorded. In any case, the end result will be shown at yearend, with the goal being to help tourism businesses recover from the tough years of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the hikes in the cost of energy.

Mykonos: Summer occupancy rate above 90% Mykonos island enjoyed an occupancy rate of more than 90% throughout the summer months, while figures for September are at the same levels. As far as October is concerned, arrival numbers are dropping as a result of the termination of air connections from abroad. The island’s highlight in the summer season was that July and August recorded an exceptional occupancy rate, rising hopes that overall arrival numbers will be better than in 2019. Regarding traffic at the island’s airport, so far it has received 677,000 thousand visitors compared to 750,000 air arrivals in 2019.

Santorini: Air arrivals jump 103% As far as Santorini is concerned, air traffic from both domestic and inter-

national arrivals, in the period January-August, rose by 103% against 2021 figures, specifically: 1,961,175 arrivals were recorded in 2022 compared to 966,067 arrivals in the same period a year earlier. Uncommonly, the comparison with 2021 is made because Santorini proved its endurance against the pandemic last year as well, according to the island's authorities. The largest increases were recorded in February with almost 120%, March with approx.

200%, April with over 450% and May with over 250%, while in June the increase also exceeded 90%. This alone shows that the objective to extend the tourist season has been achieved, and it looks like the season will last for at least another two months.

The summer season in Paros continues in October Paros broke several tourism records as the island has already exceeded the figures of 2019. Arrivals in June

show that over 120,000 arrivals were recorded by sea and air, with increases of more than 40% against June 2019. Specifically, in June this year, 23,305 people arrived on the island by air compared to 16,945 in the same month of 2019, marking an impressive increase of 37.5%. At the same time, with regard to private aircraft, 7 domestic flights and 2 foreign flights were recorded in July. In the same month, the number of tourists who visited the island by boat reached 100,000, an increase by 5%-7% compared to the corresponding month in 2019, meaning that June 2022 was a record month in terms of arrivals in Paros. Official statistics by the Paros State Airport show that air arrivals of visitors in the last two summer months of 2022 showed a significant increase compared to the corresponding period of 2019.

While in July and August 2019, 22,307 and 22,832 people, respectively, had arrived on the island by air, during the same months in 2022, visitor numbers rose to 28,652 and 27,459 respectively.

With regard to the number of flights to Paros, data show that 589 and 596 flights respectively landed on the island in July and August. Judging from arrival figures, it can be deduced that a considerably higher number of tourists landed on Paros during this year's summer high season, compared to the same months in 2019. In percentage terms, the increase in July was 28% and in August 20%. In any case, the season continues unabated and an impressive performance is expected in October as well.

Patmos: A tourist “revelation” this year In recent years, the “Island of the Apocalypse” has emerged as a destination that attracts high-end visitors, a trend confirmed also this summer as visitor numbers exceeded 2019 figures.

This year, the month of September was also particularly productive in terms of tourism, with a higher number of visitors. A multifaceted narrative has been shaped on the island with its UNESCO World Heritage sites, award-winning beaches, tradition, religiosity, culture, local cuisine and activities. Development projects currently under way are aimed at enhancing cruise facilities and accessibility of visitors, elements that have already become visible in the current year. ►

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►

with Greeks and foreigners alike. The Italians overran the island once again, while good numbers of visitors came from markets such as France and Great Britain. Tourist flows are continuing in September, leading to remarkable occupancy rates of up to 90%.

Naxos: Coastal arrivals break all previous records Naxos has been setting successive records every month, breaking all previous ones in ferry arrivals. Already, in the period May - August, the island has seen an increase in arrivals by 7.3%, while interest is maintained at high levels for the whole of September and part of October. This year, the highest numbers of foreign visitors came mainly from US, France, Great Britain, Italy, Germany, and other markets.

Astypalea: Air arrivals up 52% The island of the butterfly, Astypalaia, this year achieved an impressive 52% increase in air arrivals and 7.4% by sea, from May to August compared to 2019, while the tourist season also expanded in September.

In spite of the troubles facing the tourism industry mainly due to higher prices, the tourist season recorded excellent results. For the first time, Astypalaia enters the tourist map so dynamically and attracts visitors from abroad, thanks to the quality of professional services, improvements in accessibility from islands with international airports, as well as the strategy to blend sustainability, authenticity and emotive experiences.

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Milos beaches enjoy new records In Milos, expectations for tourist traffic exceeding 2019 records were totally confirmed, as even last year the island (in the second half of the summer season) enjoyed similar tourist numbers as in the pre-Covid-19 era.

Sifnos beats 2019 figures

Leipsoi: Standing out for its sustainability actions

In Sifnos, ferry arrivals in 2022 exceeded 2019 figures. September showed equally satisfactory occupancy rates, also recording an increase in the number of organized groups.

Leipsoi this year broke the 2019 record in ferry arrivals, with visitor numbers rising 25% compared to a year earlier.

The call for a green way of vacationing “without organized sunbeds” resonated

Lasting experiences on Ios Ios this year exceeded 2019 arrivals from May to August, in spite of the high cost of travel due to the energy crisis. What’s encouraging is that the traveling public is responding to the messages and focuses on experiences such as gastronomy, trails, culture and marine tourism, along with fun and relaxation. Ios visitor numbers were satisfactory also in September, with an increase in the demand for weddings on the Cycladic island of Homer.

Tinos: Another “miracle” this year Tinos island once again managed to stand out and achieve all of its goals for the current tourist season. The good start was seen in the early days of the tourist season, pointing to a record year in 2022 compared even to the successful 2019. In the summer, both arrivals and revenues recorded increases, while in the autumn, the occupancy rate exceeds 70%, which is unprecedented for Tinos.

Andros: Emphasis on quality characteristics Although the travel capacity of Greeks has shrunk this year for economic reasons, Andros presented a new dynamic with a 20% increase in arrivals from May to August, and an impressive offseason increase of more than 54% in May and June, compared to 2021. September figures are also positive, with the lead coming from the island’s quality features, such as the impressive 100 km hiking network, the alternating mountainous - coastal landscape, the centuries-old monasteries and local gastronomy

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Costa Navarino: Discover the prime sustainable destination in the Mediterranean Just a 40-minute drive from Kalamata International Airport, Costa Navarino is easily accessible but still remote enough for guests to feel they have escaped to a secluded place where there is so much to discover

L ADVERTORIAL

ocated in Messinia, southwest Peloponnese, Costa Navarino is one of the last unspoiled, yet easily accessible corners of the Mediterranean.

The story of Costa Navarino is as old as Greece itself. It is a story of respect not only for the region’s nature, history and traditions, but also for the local community and visitors.

This is a place where friendship can always be found and happiness is measured by footsteps in the sand.

Whether interacting with local people or engaging in cultural activities and outdoor pursuits, guests not only experience the region at first hand but become part of it.

Be part of our story…

Costa Navarino is currently home to a range of 5-star hospitality offerings.

The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort is ideal for couples seeking a distinctive luxury holiday. The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino is the perfect choice for families. While W Costa Navarino has a more vibrant atmosphere suited to groups of friends and the young at heart. As of Summer 2023, Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino will offer guests an ultra-premium experience with earth-sheltered villas and guesthouses designed for absolute privacy, comfort and tranquility.

All guests at the destination have access to 27 fine-dining venues, state-of-the-art sports facilities, world-class spa centers and a wealth of experiences to engage with the region’s culture, history and nature. Costa Navarino is now globally recognized as a preeminent golf destination, with four signature 18-hole courses offering contrasting natural landscape and sea views. Opening in Spring 2023, Navarino Agora will offer visitors a contemporary take on the ancient Greek agora. Located right on the Bay of Navarino, the pulsating marketplace will present a fascinating mix of shops, open-air stalls, street food, outdoor cinema, and live events.

Costa Navarino is also an upcoming residential destination offering a

collection of luxury villas for private ownership. Standing only a few meters from the beach or nestled among verdant olive groves, Navarino Residences are much more than a residential proposition, they are a way of life.

Just a 40-minute drive from Kalamata International Airport, Costa Navarino is easily accessible but still remote enough for guests to feel they have escaped to a secluded place where there is so much to discover.

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MH.T.E.: 1039K014A2512000

RESORTS

Nourishing souls with stories of a truer, more timeless Greece BLUE PALACE, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT, ELOUNDA, CRETE CRETAN MALIA PARK, A MEMBER OF DESIGN HOTELS

WWW.PHAEARESORTS.COM

CONSCIOUS, INNOVATIVE, COMMITTED TO PEOPLE

Amidst the storied backdrop of Greece, a new view is emerging. Defined by a strong unity of heritage and family values, a collection of hotels by Phāea Resorts presents a glimpse into the soul of a nation. Privately run and supported by a decades-long history, the group’s vision manifests in the shape of four Cretan hotels in which meaningful travel experiences are made. In juxtaposing the old with the new — what was and what will be — these properties are a celebration of both past and present.

Here, Phāea’s overarching narrative of a truer, timeless Greece comes to life; a palpable energy that is felt at every level.

A Greek hospitality leader, Phāea Resorts is distinct for its continuous strive to develop new hotel concepts that appeal to international guests seeking responsible travel experiences. At Cretan Malia Park and Blue Palace, multiple strands of Greek hospitality are tied together with bold ideas and a unique connection to the land.

This exciting dynamic is enhanced by award-winning design, a commitment to sustainability and forwardthinking collaborative projects with locals and the wider Greek community.

At present and beyond, Phāea Resorts will forever be a gateway to a timeless Greece and represents a hub of discovery and innovation. For guests, it all adds up to a collection of elevated hotels where like-minded people are brought together to indulge in slow-paced living and sustainable luxury. With innovation, regeneration and consciousness at their core, these stylish spaces are designed to nourish the souls of all those who encounter them. This vision is born from a passion to create memorable moments and singular guest stories that honour creativity, nature and, most importantly, authenticity.

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ΟPΙΝΙΟΝ ●

CRISIS-PROOF RELATIONSHIPS OF TRUST In spite of current challenges, we firmly believe in our constantly upgraded and enhanced tourism product, and in the power of our partnerships, with the UK remaining firmly among the top markets for Greek tourism

T Grigoris Tassios President of the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation

122

he enhanced Greek brand in the global tourism market coupled with people’s great desire to travel after the pandemic, created a record-high demand for Greece and its popular destinations in the 2022 season. Not at all accidentally, the UK remained firmly among the top markets for Greek tourism in this season, as well.

There is a timeless, deep relationship of trust that has been built over the years, which withstands even large-scale upheavals, such as the recent pandemic adventure.

Based on this strong relationship, we can and deserve to create new opportunities and new options for the Greek tourist product in the British market. As it turned out, the benefits of further strengthening this mutually beneficial partnership infinitely outweighed any temporary difficulties.

Greece is a global destination with unparalleled natural beauty, inexhaustible historical wealth, monuments of unsurpassed aesthetics, and unique experiences of entertainment and fun. It can offer unique experiences 365 days a year, either in popular destinations such as the islands, or in steadily rising destinations of the mainland, such as Halkidiki which achieved a global

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

The objective is to make Greece enjoyable every season of the year, and allowing all friends of the country to feel the special emotions of a truly unique experience.

distinction, having been recently awarded as “Greece's Leading Mainland Destination 2021”.

Wide range of options Α wide range of thematic options is offered throughout Greece, from luxury tourism to rare sightseeing experiences, and from cycling to diving tourism. Gastronomy is of a special dimension, based on the Mediterranean diet and the Greek tradition, but also on the quality products of the Greek soil, offering unsurpassed authentic flavors. Greek wines are also of particular significance, with labels that are awarded internationally steadily leading to the development of wine tourism.

All of the country's destinations boast state-of-the-art hotel infrastructure, constantly upgraded to provide high-quality services, with a value-for-money pricing policy and the human warmth of traditional Greek hospitality.

The choices and prospects of Greek tourism are certified in the most absolute way by the investments made in the country by large international hotel chains, giving a positive vote of confidence to Greece.

Notably, the country’s tourism realm, in cooperation with the State and local governments, is going ahead with the implementation of the National Plan 2030, with an emphasis on sustainable development, infrastructure enhancement, facilitation of accessibility, and highlighting the special character and local comparative advantages of each destination.

The top objective of this Plan is to extend the tourist season, making Greece enjoyable every season of the year, and allowing all friends of the country to feel the special emotions of a truly unique experience. And all of this in a modern, European country, friendly to new technologies, and safe.

Despite any challenges of the times, we firmly believe in our constantly upgrading and enriching tourism product, and in the power of our partnerships.

Human desire for experiences Tourism has been, is and will always be an integral part of the way of life of our communities. It will express our culture and values. And our very freedom, as shown by the restrictions of the pandemic that we have now left behind. We can now express even more dynamically the human desire to know, to discover, to relax, to have fun, to live unique moments that create memories.

I am confident that through the World Travel Market, an acclaimed institution of the global market, there will be good omens for both the immediate and the medium- to long-term future of Greek tourism, confirming that joint efforts, collaborations and synergies always bring good results.

Port of Piraeus: An excellent one-stop hub for all port services

The new enhanced and upgraded Port infrastructure, as well as the high-end, quality services provided have turned Piraeus into one of the most attractive hub destinations for the cruise industry worldwide.

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reece has traditionally playing a leading role in the global shipping industry with the historic Port of Piraeus, the country’s largest port, being at the very core. The Port of Piraeus is at the crossroads of three continents. This unique geographical position creates favorable conditions transforming the port but also the country into a significant freight, touristic and logistics hub on a global scale, while connecting at the same time the mainland with the numerous Greek islands.

During the past years, under the COSCO Shipping Group investment and the new PPA management, the necessary investments alongside a great number of projects have been implemented at a fast pace based on a comprehensive plan and a holistic strategy approach aiming at a complete port upgrade and modernization.

Piraeus Port Authority (PPA) runs a coastline of 43km and a total port area of over 5.0 million square meters, while providing customers and passengers with quality integrated port services.

Piraeus, center of the Mediterranean Cruise Experience The Port of Piraeus is a major destination for cruise ships in the Mediterranean Sea with 11 places able to accommodate the simultaneous berthing of the largest cruise ships in the world. In 2019, before the pandemic, Piraeus port broke the mark of 1.0 million cruise passengers. In 2021, the port succeeded in serving a significant number of cruise ships, contributing to the recovery of Greece’s tourism industry.

Today, the recovery of the cruise business is moving at a rapid pace,

achieving at the same time a significant structural modification in the business mix, since many cruise ships use the Port of Piraeus as home port. This trend was especially evident during the first half of 2022, with 65% of the cruise ships serviced being homeported. During the same period, the overall growth of the cruise business was exponential, skyrocketing over 800% compared to 2021. The rapid uptake of the cruise routes and the homeported ships generates positive prospects for the coming years, while also contributing to the national effort towards an overall country port industry growth and island development.

At the port’s three Passenger Terminals, Cruise passengers are offered high-end, integrated services, including host duty free shops, Tourist Police, Customs office, free port shuttle services and a number of other essential passenger services.

Some of the world’s largest, most advanced and luxurious cruise ships of the leading cruise companies internationally made their debut, while arrivals of new companies are added on a frequent basis. Also, during 2022, new large-scale cruise ships of around 300 meters in length arrive on a weekly basis. Based on 2023 pre-bookings, the positive prospects will continue also into the next year.

The dynamic cruising restart is not an accidental event, but the result of the implementation of major investment projects at the Port of Piraeus.

The new enhanced and upgraded Port infrastructure, as well as the high-end, quality services provided, backed by the high expertise and the unique geographic location of the largest harbor in Greece, have turned the Port of Piraeus into one of the most attractive hub destinations for the cruise industry worldwide.

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Aegeo Spas: Leading spa management solutions from Greece

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egeo Spas, founded in 2007 in Greece, today operates more than 300 wellness centers & spas within 4- and 5-star hotels and resorts in Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria, including major hotel groups that are ambassadors of world-renowned Greek hospitality, such as Metaxa Hospitality Group, Atlantica Hotels & Resorts, Electra Hotels, H Hotels, Sapounakis Group of Hotels, as well as international chains like Hyatt, Hilton, Labranda, Wyndham and more.

The firm employs a staff of more than 1300 on rotation, and provides 360o solutions and concept integration for customized spa services in a wide range of locations like summer resorts, city hotels, gazebos, mountain resorts. The company’s R&D includes specialized welcoming and servicing protocols, a wide range of holistic therapies for face & body with signature Aegeo Spas techniques, detoxifying exfoliating treatments, thalassotherapy, and fitness and beauty services. In 2019, Aegeo Spas developed its own Cosmetics line, formulating 13 products combining clinically-proven actives and a variety of natural ingredients for a skincare & bodycare spa experience at home. Aegeo Spas believes that physical and mental wellbeing is the basis for a balanced and happy life. The company’s vision is to offer people from all over the world the opportunity to explore with all their senses the richness of Greek nature through signature treatments and effective beauty products.

Aegeo Spas builds on long-standing and successful relationships with key clients through an innovative, synergistic B2B proposal. It offers two (2) distinctive cooperation options that meet the needs of every hotelier:

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 Spa

Rental: Aegeo Spas rents the spa area of the hotel and fully manages all aspects of operation, staffing and administration, thus allowing the hotelier to simply enjoy the benefits and profits from the spa without having to worry about running that specialized part of the business.  Spa consulting & management: The hotelier assigns to Aegeo Spas the partial or full management of the existing spa and all related responsibilities. With this customized, flexible form of cooperation, the hotelier can allocate any parts that require support, from consulting, recruiting, training to the full operation of the spa.

Each form of cooperation is based on development steps consisting of identifying opportunities and shaping them into business concepts. Each business plan includes feasibility analysis and assessments, qualitative and quantitative characteristics of visitors, configuration of existing or new facilities, and space optimization, interior design and selection of a matching Spa concept with menus, services, protocols and supplies.

The company aims at utilizing the dynamics of each space by making the least possible interventions if possible, and proposing smart solutions, while at the same time ensuring a fully functional spa exuding professionalism, luxury and tranquility. At Aegeo Spas, staffing is crucial. Up to 70% of Aegeo Spas employees have concluded specialized studies in Aesthetics and Physiotherapy and are continuously trained to ensure high-quality treatment. Each therapist receives an average of 156 hours of online and onsite training.

The overall goal is to present a clear picture of the project before implementation and always offer a long-lasting, unforgettable experience to the guests.

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ALTERNATIVE TOURISM

RECREATION ALONG WITH NEW

EXPERIENCES Alternative tourism is Greece’s next bet, as the country features all the necessary conditions and several advantages to tap into the ever-growing trend of travelers who are now looking for diversity in their holiday experience

By Danai Alexaki dalexaki@naftemporiki.gr

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eing a philosophy of sustainable tourism developing in an impressive way and creating a new field of innovative perspective in the tourism product, alternative tourism is an umbrella term, not a single type of tourism. An “umbrella” of alternative tourism that includes activities whose characteristics differ from mass tourism.

Alternative tourism develops and moves along the axis of sustainable tourism at all levels: environmental, economic, social, cultural. A basic principle in alternative tourism is the pursuit to have a neutral or positive footprint on the respective destinations, essentially click‘Tourism carrying ing on the concept of ‘tourism capacity’ is the carrying capacity’. According maximum numto the World Tourism Organiber of people zation, tourist carrying capacity who can visit a “is the maximum number of people that may visit a tourist tourist destinadestination at the same time, tion at the same without causing destruction time, without of the physical, economic, causing permasocio-cultural environment and nent damage to an unacceptable decrease in the environment. the quality of visitors’ satisfaction”.

Alternative tourism is growing as an increasing number of citizens wish to combine a leisure trip with different experiences beyond the stereotypes of traditional holidays.

Some of the more well-known types of alternative tourism are:  Sustainable (or responsible) tourism: it involves

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actively taking care of the ecosystem during travel by making environmentally friendly choices, such as staying in green hotels or choosing environmentally friendly modes of transportation.  Solidarity tourism: also known as pro-poor tourism, this type of tourism revolves around the equitable socio-economic development of the destination. It includes ensuring that local businesses and communities benefit from visitors being there.  Participatory tourism: it is about getting involved with the local population, learning from them or engaging with their culture. It creates bonds between visitors and locals and provides space for authentic cross-cultural experiences  Disaster tourism: it refers to the choice of a destination immediately after some kind of natural (or man-made) disaster, either to offer aid or for research reasons.  Volunteer tourism: although popular in its own right, volunteer tourism is still distinct from mass tourism, and involves visiting a place and volunteering in some way, such as building a school. This is often done through programs by organizations and non-governmental bodies.  Agro-tourism: agricultural tourism involves going to rural areas such as farms to gain an experiential experience of agricultural work either for or simply to relax near nature.  Thematic tourism: a largely unknown form of tourism that is rarely discussed, but it is alternative tourism at its best. It includes visiting a number of places that are all connected to a very specific theme: eg. archaeological or historical, musical-artistic.

The most recognizable types of alternative tourism

The most recognizable types of alternative tourism also include: sports, medical, religious, maritime, culinary, wine tourism, conference and educational tourism.

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Eastern Orthodox monuments, such as the Monastery of Meteora, pictured above, are harmoniously integrated into nature and are an integral part of Greece’s cultural heritage.

also include: sports, medical, religious, maritime, culinary, wine tourism, conference and educational tourism.

As far as the basic characteristics of the alternative traveler are concerned, they include the willingness to coexist with the locals, the use of traditional, local products, spiritual, physical and mental rejuvenation and relaxation.

Traits of an alternative tourist Alternative tourists are a segment of the market with differentiating characteristics in their motivations for travel, their activities during their vacations, etc.

The differences of alternative tourists from almost all other types of tourism tend to isolate them into distinct categories, each of which presents its own particularities.

According to researchers Laarman & Durst, the alternative tourist has the following characteristics:  Tries to visit places where no human has set foot.  Is stimulated by the feeling of touring.  Tries to avoid civilization for some time.  Tries to create channels of communication with the local population.  Does not seek the existence of a tourist infrastructure.  Collects more information before and during the trip.  Travels alone or in small groups.  Well trained.  Has more income than average.  Tends to stay in a country for more days than traditional tourists.

Considering that alternative tourism is a four-season form of tourism, claiming a stronger presence of Greece on the map of “alternative destinations” would automatically signal a long-term development of local societies in terms of economic viability, as well as ecosystem euphoria.

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Exploring different cuisines has always been associated with moments of leisure and travel, but the concept of gastronomic or food tourism takes on a completely different meaning when talking about the Mediterranean diet.

Promoting targeted strategic planning The promotion of alternative tourism in Greece presupposes, however, the development of a targeted strategic plan which should include a network of actions along the axis of respecting the regions’ tourism carrying capacity, through the organization of infrastructure, connection with the respective local community, preventing the collapse of other economic activities that should be treated as complementary instead of competitive, preservation of

cultural heritage, and preservation of the ecosystem.

In addition, it should provide investment incentives in the specific sector, and educate and guide local communities in the direction of developing activities that complement the effort to highlight each region as an alternative tourist destination.

Such strategic planning should be based on clear objectives that are measurable, achievable, friendly to the environment and human values and balance out the benefits and diversity in each local community

Serifos: Beauty untouched by time SERIFOS

PLATI GIALOS

Against the ridge of Serifos, when the sun rises, the cannons of all the great worldviews misfire.

Odysseas Elytis

PIRGOS

PSILI AMMOS

PANO PIATSA

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erifos island, a mere two hours away by speedboat from the port of Piraeus, is the “Iron Lady” of the Cyclades, an excellent traditional destination where rest seekers can take a relaxing break and enjoy the unparalleled, authentic beauty of a genuine Cycladic landscape almost untouched by time.

The island boasts as many as 72 beaches, in addition to picturesque, traditional settlements waiting to be explored. Serifos’ trails are ideal for vacationers to discover its history and mythology, plus all of its secrets! In recent years, investments have been made in green energy, while big leaps have been achieved in the digital transition.

Don't miss the chance to get to know Serifos’ beauties and experience the Cycladic Greek summer…

AYLOMONAS

AGIOS MINAS

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TRAVEL AGENCIES’ PIVOTAL ROLE IN A YEAR OF GREAT CHALLENGES FedHATTA is the connecting link between Greek tourism and international markets through continuous communication and cooperation mainly with tourist agencies’ associations in Europe, Asia, America, Australia, India, Israel, etc.

S Lyssandros Tsilides President of the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Travel & Tourism Agencies (FedHATTA)

o far, 2022 has been and still is a year of big surprises. Until May, the market remained frozen due to the restrictions all countries continued to apply, as a result of the health crisis, but following the health safety net offered by vaccination certificates, travel traffic recovered dynamically.

Due to the multiple lockdowns during the two years of the pandemic, people's desire to travel, which has been a key factor in the comparable performance in 2019, sharply boosted demand for vacations. The traveling public helped revitalise all categories of products and services, from expensive luxury services to affordable all-inclusive packages and short-term rentals, with a new demand: safety.

Then came the geopolitical crises in Europe, the path towards inflation and price hikes, but as it has been seen so far, people around the world are not avoiding travel, but adapting it to the new circumstances.

Top destination Greece will continue to enjoy its ranking as one of the top holiday destinations for travelers from around the world. Its natural beauty, the services it offers to visitors, the safety of the country, its rich culture from ancient times to the present, the irresistible thematic and activity tourism, the endless sailing options on its islands, its gastronomy and so many other elements make up an irresistible destination that offers unique travel experiences for every taste. Not only that, but such a destination has also changed the habits of travelers, who can tour its islands in groups by sailing boat, experience many

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different places along an endless coastline and try exquisite traditional cuisine. In addition, the increased mobility seen in the cruise sector proves the special interest of Greece as an international destination for people of all ages and interests.

Travelers’ high expectations have highlighted the evolution of cooperation between travel agencies in Greece, especially in recent months where knowledge and information are more than ever prerequisites for the organization and realization of a trip.

This applies especially for travelers from distant markets who need the contribution The branch of travel agency agencies handling global organized tourism, shapes the tourist product in every sector of tourism.

of travel agents for immediacy in serving them and covering any need during transportation and stay at the destination. After all, the security guarantees offered by tourist agencies are established by Greek and European legislation.

FedHATTA’s constant communication and cooperation with all markets (Europe, Asia, America, Australia, India, Israel), primarily with the associations and organizations of tourist agencies in these countries, is essentially the connecting link of Greek tourism with international markets.

The branch of tourist agencies handling global organized tourism, shapes the tourist product for every sector of tourism: corporate, MICE, congress, religious, cultural, activities, yachting, sightseeing, cruises, etc.

Thus, they are the number one key factor of information and assurance for the tourist product internationally.

Passionate hospitality in central Athens

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ith its unique blend of tradition and constant growth, Antonis A. Moussamas SA plays a leading role in Greece’s hotel and tourism industry for over six decades.

The company presently runs three hotels in the Greek capital: (1) Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre, (2) Holiday Inn Athens, Attica Ave., Airport West, and (3) Holiday Suites Arnis Street, with the first two run as franchises of Intercontinental Hotels Group. The IHG Group operates more than 5000 hotels worldwide. Each of our hotels offers a unique experience for our guests and constitutes a superior choice.

All three hotels share quality characteristics that make our hospitality an unforgettable experience, including exceptional staff and services, an elegant environment, attention to detail, flexibility, consistency and reliability, innovation, integrated security systems, and energy efficiency and environmental awareness practices.

Our properties Our properties appeal to different market segments, therefore, they are three unique products. Each of them is carefully designed to cater to different guests’ preferences.

Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre on Michalakopoulou str. was the first hotel in Greece to be branded by the globally-renowned chain and is strategically located for visiting Athens. Following its complete refurbishment in 2008, all its services befit its 5-star rating. Facilities such as the fully equipped gym, swimming pool, sauna, and exquisite dining are conducive to relaxation even during a business conference, as the modern banquet halls can accommodate 15 – 550 persons. The lobby-bar area, the rooftop

and our largest conference room were renovated in 2019.

Holiday Inn Athens, Attica Ave., Airport West was built in 2004 for the Athens Olympic Games. Ideal for travellers and professionals, the hotel is connected by private bus to the airport on a 24-hour basis. It is located just 10 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from the centre of Athens, the Greek capital (by motorway or metro). The establishment features a gym, swimming pool and sauna, a restaurant with exceptional cuisine and a hospitable bar. The restaurant, bar and lobby were overhauled in 2018.

Holiday Suites Arnis Street was fully renovated in 2017 and constitutes an Athenian gem, located in a calm, verdant pedestrian walkway in the city centre. This elegant and functional hotel is ideal for professionals, couples and families (with an award-winning pet-friendly policy). The 34 spacious suites are equipped with the latest technology that can be converted easily for office or entertainment use.

Our values Antonis A. Moussamas SA is a robust and constantly growing company, with Apostolos Antoniou Moussamas (born in 1976) as a key shareholder and CEO at its helm. He is an alumnus of Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. Inspired by the vision of its founder, Antonios Mousamas (1928-2015) and building on his legacy of achievements and principles, we pursue our timeless business objective: excellence. This extends from our buildings to our equipment, services and amenities - we are passionate about consistently delivering excellence.

Recognition is our reward and greatest joy, which we share with our people. We are proud of our staff’s training and character. We entrust them with your experience so that you continue to trust us to offer you the best in hospitality.

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DISTRICT OF KIFISSIA: Α LIVING LEGACY The Municipality of Kifissia, an upscale residential and shopping district, is a local council keen on the environment, tradition and history, consisting of three towns: the historic Kifissia, Nea Erythraia, and the garden city of Ekali

T Nina-Aspasia Vlachou Municipal Councilor of Kifissia President of Cultural and Sports Center "DIMITRIOS VIKELAS", and Head of Tourism

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he Municipality of Kifissia, an upscale residential and shopping district, is a local council keen on the environment, tradition and history, consisting of three cities: the historic Kifissia, the Nea Erythraia and the garden city of Ekali.

Kiffissia is in itself a Cultural Destination, boasting several museums (Natural History-Goulandris, House of warrior Pavlos Melas, OTE Telecommunications, etc.), art venues - galleries (Kouvoutsakis Art Institute,Tsichritzis Foundation for the Visual Arts), etc. The Municipality has been and still is chosen by great personalities to live here, including people of the arts, and leading political figures, Prime Ministers and Presidents of the Republic. A strong footprint has also been left by major private companies based in Kifissia, which have been and still are assisting local authorities with Corporate Social Responsibility actions.

An upscale residential and shopping district, Kifissia is a local council keen on the environment, tradition and history, consisting of three towns: the historic Kifissia, the Nea Erythraia and the garden city of Ekali.

The district is considered such an aristocratic destination that could be envied by many European metropolises. Being one of Athens’ most exclusive neighbourhoods, its natural beauty, Mansions, historical monuments, luxury hotels, popular shops with products from Greek and international houses, distinctive restaurants with international-local cuisines and picturesque cafes make up an excellent environment for walks and shopping.

A stroll in Kifissia has to be accompanied by a stop at the Kifissia Grove, where the popular Flower Fair has been organized since 1937, every May. The specific event is the largest and most recognizable in the field

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One of Athens’ most exclusive neighbourhoods and blue-blooded destinations that could be envied by many European metropolises.

of Greek floriculture, hosting some 2,000 species of plants and flowers in an area of 5 acres. Equally significant are the environmental actions of “Sustainable City”, taking place as parallel events during the fair, but are also implemented throughout the year.

The aim is to reduce the environmental footprint, to promote a circular economy and energy-saving solutions.

The area’s scheduled 19th- 20th-century mansions are a living legacy of different architectural trends that influenced the urban landscape in Greece. The Municipality organizes walks to the imposing turrets and the once luxurious hotels, the Mansions that fascinate with their architecture and their heavenly courtyards, and historic Churches and Chapels. These pleasing walks through time and history include a romantic note of another era, the emblematic coachmen of Kifissia, who continue a tradition of decades.

In these beautiful walks, on foot or by bicycle (the area features an extensive network of cycle routes), under the towering plane trees that create green domes on the streets of Kifissia, citizens and visitors are given the opportunity to learn about our History and Culture.

Nea Erythraia was founded by Greek refugees from the region of Erythraia, a peninsula in Asia Minor, who fled to Kifissia after the Asia Minor Catastrophe of 1922.

Modern Nea Erythraia, with a multitude of cultural and social activities, has always been an unquenchable beacon of Asia Minor Hellenism and its special tradition. In the

city’s picturesque alleys, visitors can discover beautiful taverns with delicious snacks and music. Nea Erythraia’s commercial market is comparable to Kifissia’s.

The country-like Ekali is a purely residential area, an oasis of architectural and natural harmony in our Municipality. Ekali is an example of a settlement in a balance between nature and man. Its visionary architect Spilios Agapitos, inspired by the model of the British garden cities of the interwar period, conceived and implemented the plan of an idyllic garden city. A walk in Ekali is always a journey through authenticity, history and beauty.

The Mayor of Kifissia, Giorgos Thomakos together with his colleague, who work tirelessly for the Municipality, also claim programmes and projects of vital importance, envisaged to make life easier for residents, while highlighting the area’s its Culture and History in combination with mild tourism development. Redevelopment projects are constantly being underway in the Municipality, taking into account the special characteristics of the three municipal units.

In close cooperation with the local Trade Associations, actions are being implemented to stimulate the local market. Leading cultural events (Menandrea, Allotines Patrides, Kifissia Festival, etc.), take place all year round and attract thousands of attendants and visitors.

In the field of entrepreneurship, the Municipality runs several programmes to help young people in their innovative business steps. Already, in the entrepreneurship incubators, 158 ideas have been developed which can be innovations in many professional-business sectors.

The Municipality of Kifissia is definitely among the Greek capital’s best tourist destinations!

Aldemar Resorts: A supreme holiday destination Choose your favorite resort, Aldemar Olympian Village, Aldemar Royal Olympian, Aldemar Knossos Royal, Aldemar Knossos Villas and enjoy the Aldemar experience

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or more than 30 years, Aldemar Resorts provide hospitality, excellence and 5-star experiences, and welcomes travelers from around the world. By combining Greek authenticity and international standards, Aldemar Resorts develop concepts, products and services that create and offer added value.

Innovation in practices and products is always an objective, but what characterizes the company mostly is its focus on a core set of values: accountability, adaptability, responsibility.

Aldemar Resorts owns 4 beachfront resorts in two strategic destinations: Heraklion, Crete and Olympia, West Peloponnese along with two Conference Centers and one Thalassotherapy & Spa Center.

Throughout its long operation, Aldemar Resorts has demonstrated a high level of responsibility towards people, society and the environment, and is recognized as one of the most dynamic and socially responsible businesses in the Greek hospitality industry. The company has received numerous prestigious awards and distinctions, for its commitment to quality and excellence, and its dedication to sustainability. This dedication begun in 1997 when Aldemar Resorts introduced its first Corporate Social Responsibility program (named Mare Verde – now called CARE), becoming the first company to launch such a program in the Greek tourism industry.

Aldemar resorts are situated in unique locations that enjoy magnificent sea views and a sense of freedom. Either in Peloponnese (Olympian Village and Royal Olympian) or in Crete (Knossos Royal and Knossos Villas), visitors enjoy luxurious services with an emphasis on personal service, as well as a connection with nature. Every visitor and every expectation may be fulfilled in one of the four Aldemar Resorts, as each of them has a unique identity.

Aldemar Olympian Village is the ultimate family destination. A hospitable, seaside, village-style resort near Ancient Olympia that combines the luxury of a five-star resort with the pure love for family moments. It promises carefreeness to parents and endless playtime to kids with activities at the long sandy beach and other dedicated areas.

Bungalows and suites, surrounded by blooming gardens and dozens of pools form a beautiful kingdom of harmony and luxury in Aldemar Royal Olympian. The relaxing atmosphere, the variety of fine restaurants and the Thalasso & Spa Center promise a pure touch of wellness and indulgement during holidays.

Aldemar Knossos Royal, the perfect summer getaway, is located at the most mesmerizing spot of Limenas Hersonissou overlooking the deep blue of the Aegean. The elegant architecture, the iconic palm trees passage, the beautiful gardens, the sophisticated and spacious rooms, the private beach, the breathtaking sunsets and the large swimming pools make all holiday dreams come true.

The selection of luxurious Aldemar Knossos Villas is characterized by harmony and privacy, and is the ideal getaway for those who quest for the absolute relaxation. Easy living combined with exclusivity, superb services and overwhelming views are offered lavishly.

Spacious and grand, all four Aldemar Resorts harmoniously blend in with their verdant natural habitat and the refreshing sea breeze. Facing beautiful sandy beaches, favored for the relaxed and intimate atmosphere, characterized by attention to detail and distinguished for genuine hospitality and unmatched quality of service, Aldemar Resorts is the ultimate holiday destination. Choose your favorite resort, enjoy the Aldemar experience.

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At Novotel Athens time is on your side!

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ovotel Athenes is a destination place itself; this is the reason why is ensured each guests to be able to choose between relaxing moments using in-house services, or socially energizing by exploring the city and the Athenian Greek nightlife. Member of ACCOR Group, Novotel Athenes is located in the city center of Athens, walking distance from the closest metro station, from where anyone can fully discover the Greek Culture and live like a local.

At Novotel Athenes quality, time is about making everyday moments matter. Choose one of the 196 rooms and dive into the comfort of the unique bedding, Live N Dream. Come and explore a new way to travel: enjoy the Rooftop Garden with its breathtaking view of Acropolis and Lycabettous Hill. Relax and reenergize under the Greek sky in the outdoor pool, looking 360° around Athens or to the ground floor near the Botanic Garden. Finally start a unique journey full of flavors, by tasting International or Mediterra-

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nean specialties and cocktails in one of the two restaurants.

If you are traveling for business, for successful business meetings, allow Novotel Athenes meeting specialists to provide expert guidance for your conferences, meetings, and seminars. With 8 meeting rooms from 20-620m² with or without natural day-light, which can host until 1265 persons, the experience teams driven by your needs and desires can offer faultless organization, highest-technology equipment and wide-ranging expert advice.

For Family memorable moments do not forget the unique Novotel & Family policy: Free lodging and breakfast for 2 children under age 16, who share the same room as their parents or grandparents.

Take time to rest and relax - for you or your loved ones, to refresh, reset and feel good.

Make time for those you know or those you don’t, to get together to try something new or just have fun.

Alone, as a couple, with your family or for business, live life to the fullest.

So much to live at Novotel Athenes!

NOVOTEL ATHENES 4-6, Michail Voda Street, 104 39 Athens, Greece HØ866@accor.com, www.all.accor.com/0866

TREASURES OF GREEK TOURISM

AGRITOURISM

REPORTAGE ●

The bet on Greek agritourism can be won by combining the offer of rural life, using local products, and maintaining the elements of typical Greek hospitality

By Danai Alexaki dalexaki@naftemporiki.gr

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reece’s domestic primary sector has the potential for significant performance in the tourism industry, as it enjoys the advantage of diversity within the rapidly growing agritourism category.

According to international analysts, the global agritourism market was valued at $5.95 billion in 2021 and is expected to show an annual growth rate of 11.4% from 2022 to 2030 (data by Grand View Research).

Agritourism market growth is attributed to the re-approaching of the business dimension of farming, from the perspective of the farming world, combined with the emerging trend of travelers to choose destinations combining their holidays with a hands-on experience in agricultural work.

Agritourism is often confused with “rural tourism,” a broader context that refers to all activities that can be developed in the countryside, without

necessarily being linked to a farm.

The Greek countryside does not have in abundance the basic characteristics that led to the development of agritourism in Europe, i.e. large farms, with large areas and buildings. However, it can take advantage of the diversity of agricultural activities supported by the local climate, combining also gastronomy, and develop an innovative philosophy similar to that of “boutique hotels” that claim a dynamic share in the tourist accommodation market.

Cooperation between the tourism and the agricultural sectors focused on domestic nutritional culture and education, will result in foreign visitors becoming the greatest ambassadors of our country upon their return home, a development that will further enhance the brand of Greek agrifood products on international shelves. In fact, through sustainable agritourism, the entire chain from field to shelf will benefit, and Greek food exports will be further boosted.

Taking for granted that Italy has a highly organized agritourism market, such as Tuscany which is a region where the entire scale of production is supplied by local products, services and labour, the Italian model could be applied in various regions of the Greek province.

Italy’s example The Italian model indicates that agritourism is not only about attracting foreign visitors but is

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also a captivating option for the domestic tourists of each country. Indicatively, a recent survey by the polling institute Noto Sondaggi and the agricultural organization Coldiretti, showed that 72 out of 100 Italian citizens plan to visit one or more farms this summer. According to the survey, one-third of Italians wish to work in the industry, under the right conditions.

The researchers point out that the strong current of agritourism stems, among other things, from the increasing promotion the sector enjoys through the haute cuisine sector, as various acclaimed chefs tend to promote local traditional specialties. Apart from food and nature, other factors that make visiting farms attractive to Italians when it comes to planning their holidays are the need to relax, avoid crowded environments and participate in outdoor sports and other activities. According to an equally recent survey carried out by Italy’s State-owned Service Institute for the Agricultural and Food Market (ISMEA), today there are a total of 25,060 licensed farms in Italy. Of this total, 82% offer overnight stays, while 62% have a restaurant. Almost 1/3rd of the registered farms also organize tasting activities for their local products. ISMEA points out that the farms visited have become ambassadors of traditional local recipes and products such as extra virgin olive oil and wine, allowing visitors to taste and learn about the history of these products.

Such performance on Italian soil suggests that agritourism is a vehicle for the transition to a 12-month tourist season.

Greece’s bet on agritourism can be won by combining the offer of rural life, using local products and maintaining the elements of typical Greek hospitality, through the utilization of all the tools offered today to promote a tourist business.

Agritourism significantly benefits the Greek

countryside, as local incomes are enhanced, rural areas gain vitality, while local heritage, local identity and traditional architecture are preserved. In addition, through the production and sale of local products, jobs are offered, retaining the local population in the countryside.

Young people and the internet The domestic agricultural world has shown strong interest in recent years; however, state support is also required for this tourism model to gain the momentum it deserves. So far, there are many notable private initiatives throughout Greek territory, led by younger age groups of farmers making use of their training, and using the internet as a key tool for attracting visitors.

Agricultural sector officials believe that there should be a national targeting in the field of agritourism, both through investment incentives and promotion programmes.

In this direction, at the end of September, the deadline expired for applying for inclusion in the Green Agritourism program, with a total budget of €49 million, financed by the Recovery and Resilience Fund 2022-2025, with aid reaching up to 50%.

The program attracted intense interest as within the first two days from the start of the membership application process, 87 Investment Plans were submitted, exceeding the Public Expenditure.

Such high interest indicates that agritourism is a fertile field for investment that can even be supported by small- and medium-sized representatives of the agricultural world. This is particularly important in terms of the real economy perspective. Given that there is also investment interest and willingness for cooperation between the primary sector and the pure tourism industry, the field of agritourism can and should be the next big thing for the sector

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Sustainable agritourism will benefit the entire chain from field to shelf, further boosting Greek food exports.

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MEDICAL TOURISM AS A GROWTH DRIVER FOR GREECE Among the most desirable health services are IVF, eye operations, cosmetic medicine, thermal baths, dentistry and even heart surgeries

By Anthi Angelopoulou aagelopoulou@naftemporiki.gr

M

edical tourism can be one of the main drivers of growth and stimulation of Greece’s economy. Among its main advantages is the increase in the income of the country chosen by a person to travel to for lower-priced medical services, especially when this is done in combination with vacations.

The demand for medical tourism services is constantly growing due to an increase in the aging population, as well as wellness activities, the demand for health services in developing countries and the waiting lists in hospitals in developed countries.

Greece, in addition to its large number of medical and nursing personnel, enjoys sufficient infrastructure with 160 hospitals (public, private and military), while its main advantages include the climate, its cultural heritage and the Mediterranean diet.

A new report by Glasgow Research & Consulting suggests that growing demand could represent a huge opportunity for healthcare institutions and clinics around the world in coming years, and the total value of the global medical tourism market could grow by 9.7% (CAGR) by 2025 - with approximately 44 million people moving cross-border for healthcare annually.

In 2021, medical tourism internationally reached $82 billion and is forecast to reach $97 billion in 2022. However, it remains below 2019 levels of $105 billion.

As for 2023, 2024 and 2025, the data show that the value of the medical tourism market will increase significantly.

It is estimated that in 2023 it will be $120 billion, with over 27 million people looking to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Among the most desirable health services are in vitro fertilization, eye operations, cosmetic medicine, thermal baths, dentistry and even heart surgeries.

In 2021, oncology, cardiovascular and neurological treatment accounted for the majority of spending.

Average cost per patient for oncology was $16,581, cardiovascular $17,597, and neurology $13,559. Also, falling airfares have helped boost medical travel because patients can afford both the fare for a long-haul trip and the overall cost of treatment abroad.

For example, while the average cost of cardiovascular treatment appears high at $17,597, bypass surgery in the US costs up to $123,000.

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Kidney patients Another important area is dialysis services. The bulk of kidney patients in Europe (who are fully covered by their insurance funds) choose Spain, Italy and Turkey for their holidays.

With these figures as a trigger, Greece is investing in the sector, and already two medical groups have created Hemodialysis Units in several urban centers. According to professor of nephrology Dimitris Goumone, the cities of Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, Corfu, Mykonos, Halkidiki, Meteora, etc., in addition to accommodation for all patients, have certified Artificial Kidney Units with modern machines and experienced medical and nursing staff.

The dental sector can also generate solid revenues.

A recent study by professor Constantinos Zopounidis (Polytechnic of Crete, Academic Royal Academy of Economics & Finance of Spain, Royal European Academy of Teachers, Distinguished Research ►

Up to 46% of global medical tourism turnover is spent on dental treatment.

In Greece, the cost of dental treatment is a mere 20%-30% of the equivalent spending in the patients' destination.

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