Despite the loss of the Israeli market, the second-largest market for Cypriot tourism, the expected turnout of tourists remains high for the upcoming summer season and the current winter period.
Costas Koumis, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, stated yesterday on the state channel that he estimates a 20% to 30% increase in tourist flow to the country from November to February compared to the same period last year.
He hinted that October, the month when the crisis in the Middle East began after the Hamas attacks, performed satisfactorily, with hotel occupancies around 80% (October arrival data is expected next Friday).
He mentioned that extending the tourist season remains a perennial goal for Cypriot tourism, a strategy which is gradually yielding results through various efforts and collaboration with all partners.
He noted, however, that seasonality is not unique to Cyprus but is a characteristic of all Mediterranean destinations, attributed to the reduced demand during the winter.
As an example for Cyprus he highlighted that, despite efforts from all involved parties, the airlines operating in winter will be limited to 31, compared to the 50 that operate during the summer period.