The leader of the Cyprus Hotels Association (PASYXE), Thanos Michaelides, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of reservations for the upcoming tourist season.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) Michaelides mentioned that in 2023, Israel held the position of the second-largest tourist market. However, due to the ongoing war, this market is currently experiencing losses.
Michaelides highlighted the challenges in making predictions, considering the recent developments caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, and the current situation in the Middle East.
He stressed the importance of hoteliers, the Deputy Tourist Ministry, and Hermes Airports (the company managing Larnaca and Paphos airports) remaining vigilant and collaborating to attract more tourists to the island.
Michaelides revealed that about one-third of the hotels are currently open, but occupancy rates are notably low. In the Paphos district, these rates stand at 30% at present.
He added that the primary tourist markets now include the UK, Poland, and Germany.