Argophilia

Αργοφιλία: For the love of the journey.

Eastern Europe

Greece Loses Russia Travelers to Agency Flop

Phil Butler

For the Greece tourism sector sanctions against Russia may have already spoiled the end of an otherwise record summer touristic season. At least this is partially true for customers of one of Russia’s largest Greek focused tourism agencies, Labirint. The company, the third to fail in Russia ins the last few months, has put Russian travelers at a disadvantage even though officials say current trips are secure.

Cyprus Fast Tracks New Grand Casino Bids

Aleksandr Shatskih

Cyprus has just announced plans for creating the first integrated casino resort to meet all international standards. Government spokesperson, Nicos Christodoulides, told reporters last week that the cabinet is in the process of granting for the operation of the casino complex.

UK Warns of Bulgaria Beach “Don’ts”

Aleksandr Shatskih

A new warning for British tourists visiting the Bulgarian resort of Sunny Beach was issued late last week. The FCO announced and increase in the number of muggings and other crimes along the coastal resort area on the Black Sea.

Russia’s Dobrolet Airlines in Holding Pattern Over Europe

Phil Butler

The “boomerang effect” of US and EU sanctions Russian President Vladimir Putin foretold of may be about to hit Europe travel businesses hard. The newly launched Russian low-cost Russian airline, has been forced to suspend its operations after the European Union (EU) sanctioned the airline over the Ukraine crisis.

SIGNAL: Prague dressed up in Light

Mihaela Lica Butler

A fascinating light and motion festival takes place in Prague, from the 16th till the 19th of October, at Čertovka.

Lamda Development Unveils Hellinikon Details

Aleksandr Shatskih

The company that purchased the old Athens airport, Lamda Development, has now turned over their plans for the coastal area of Ellinikon. On Tuesday CEO Odysseas Athanasiou announced construction work of the €8 billion plus project is to begin in 2016.

Turkey’s Newest Art, Fashion & Design Scene in Alacati

Aleksandr Shatskih

The Aegean town of Alacati manages to effortlessly combine traditional Turkish hospitality with stylish boutique hotels, high-end fashion, independent art galleries and lively beach clubs. Popular for its boutique hotels with bijou pools and great food, there are also a myriad of new designer-led shops and unique artworks blossoming in Alacati.

Serbia Adopts “EcoDots – Europe Green Travel”

Aleksandr Shatskih

Serbia has now become the first country in eastern Europe to adopt “EcoDots – Europe Green Travel”, an international green initiative aimed at connecting tourists and the hospitality industry. From hospitality sector professionals to local communities, the initiative promotes sustainable travel across Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Slovenia and Serbia.