Cypriots continue to favour the Greek islands above all other summer destinations, with Italy and France drawing the most interest elsewhere in Europe, travel agents say. Cruises are also becoming increasingly popular among Cypriot holidaymakers this year.
Former travel agents’ president Akis Kelepeshis said Cypriot summer holiday preferences have changed little since last year. The bulk of travellers head to the Greek islands first, followed by Europe, particularly Italy and France. Kelepeshis said no significantly new destinations have gained ground compared to last year, though some variations have emerged, such as combining Italy with Switzerland, or Germany with France.
Kelepeshis said Cypriots traditionally travel to Rhodes, Crete, Skiathos and Preveza, the latter serving as a gateway to islands such as Lefkada.
This year, however, interest has grown in longer-haul destinations including the Far East, the United States, Northern and Eastern Europe, and countries such as Poland. Japan has also entered Cypriot travel preferences this year, as the country continues to draw tourists from around the world.
Kelepeshis said cruises have become increasingly popular among Cypriots in recent years, with tourism office figures confirming a rise in demand. He noted a marked increase in the number of Cypriots choosing cruises departing from either Piraeus or Rome, covering the eastern and western Mediterranean respectively.
When Cypriots prefer to travel
As usual, July and August see the highest travel volume. An estimated 370,000 to 480,000 Cypriots are expected to travel abroad during these two months, compared with 120,000 to 140,000 per month during the rest of the year.
The most affordable destinations this year
Kelepeshis said there is little overall cost difference between Greek island and European destinations, noting that islands such as Mykonos and Santorini are more expensive than destinations such as Rome or Florence. However, islands such as Rhodes, Lefkada and Crete can be considered more affordable options.
He added that larger islands such as Rhodes and Crete, which offer bigger hotels with facilities and activities suited to children, are best for families. Younger couples, by contrast, tend to prefer Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, as well as more distant exotic destinations such as Bali.
Are Cypriot travel numbers rising or falling?
Kelepeshis said travel numbers are slightly down this year compared to last year, as the Iran war affected bookings in March and April, the months when Cypriots typically finalise their summer holiday plans. He said, however, that last-minute bookings have picked up recently, though they remain limited compared to last year.
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