The International Tourism Trade Fair (ITTF) 2024 in Warsaw wrapped up with applause for Crete. Held from November 21-23, the event showed how Crete continues to capture the hearts of Polish visitors. Representing the land of sunshine and raki were Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Tourism Department Heads Manolis Bolikakis and Manolis Markantonakis, and local tour guide Justyna Kulik.
Crete’s All-Star Team at the EOT Pavilion
The Region of Crete set up camp at the Greek National Tourism Organization’s (EOT) pavilion. Among the mix of public and private sector exhibitors, Crete stood out — and not just because of the baklava samples (though that helped). The stunning insights into Crete’s unique offerings drew crowds like moths to a flame.
Poles Dig Crete (Stat Sheets Don’t Lie)
It turns out, Crete is basically a Greek rockstar among Polish tourists. Stats back it up; they’ve been flocking to the island for years. From school kids snagging brochures to retirees planning their next big adventure, Crete promises something for all. Students seemed especially pumped, grabbing some glossy leaflets and dreaming up future vacations.
Why Crete Is the Talk of Warsaw
Here’s what Crete brought to the table (and why Warsaw loved it):
- A diverse destination perfect for all ages
- Gorgeous landscapes from beaches to mountains
- A rich history and vibrant local culture
- Top-notch hospitality the Cretans are famous for
High-Profile Cheers at Crete’s Booth
Greece’s Ambassador to Poland, Niki Kampa, and Consul Dimitris Linardos stopped by to chat and lend their support. EOT Director Stavroula Skaltsi, always a champion of Greek tourism, also joined in. Together, they reiterated Crete’s importance in grooming Poland-Greece tourism relations.
Seal-the-Deal Moments with Polish Tour Operators
Key meetings with Rainbow and ITAKA, Poland’s tourism giants, confirmed what we already know: Crete isn’t just a place to visit; it’s the place. Collaborations were discussed to further boost these visits. Spoiler alert: more Poles are packing their bags for Crete in 2025.
Quote of the Day: No Filter Necessary
“From journalists to school kids, everyone wanted to know about Crete,” said Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou. “Warsaw isn’t just a tourism market for us; it’s a must. Poles love Crete and with good reason. They know they’ll find something amazing, everywhere on the island!”
Crete didn’t just attend ITTF Warsaw 2024; it conquered it. Whether young students dreaming up vacations or tourism professionals extending handshakes, the message was clear: Crete is on Poland’s must-visit-and-love-again-and-again list. Just ask anyone who walked by that pavilion.
