With the 2020 tourism season looming just ahead, Greece faces several serious challenges that could end up stifling industry growth.
Turkey
WWF Calls for Action to Save the Mediterranean Sea
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has now called for countries to adhere to the agreements of its Mediterannean Sea Initiative.
Southern Mediterranean Destinations Win Out for Summer 2018 Growth
According to a European Travel Commission’s latest report, “European Tourism – Trends & Prospects 2018”, 32 out of 34 reporting destinations showed growth for the summer season. In all, 1 in 4 destinations enjoyed double-digit increases in arrivals.
Turkey Travel Warnings On Uptick Since Khashoggi Affair
According to a recent EUobserver report, Germany issued a warning to all nationals visiting Turkey to beware of posting social media messages that criticized Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Tensions are on the rise since the controversial Khashoggi affair has caused increased friction in the region. The German Foreign Ministry has warned citizens traveling to Turkey to lay […]
US, Turkey Friction May Boost Tourism Competitors
The latest US-Turkey friction may be a boom for Greece and other vacation hot spots in the Med. Political tensions between the U.S. and Turkey nay prompt travelers from both countries to choose Greece or other destinations this season.
Tour Operators Anticipate “Sunshine Saturday 2018”
According to reports from Thomas Cook and TUI, International tour operators and travel agents are preparing for this year’s “Sunshine Saturday”, which is one of the busiest booking holidays.
Russia Warns Airlines on Turkey Charter Flights
Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency Rosaviation has warned the country’s airlines of a possible ban on charter flights to Turkey, citing a “complicated political situation.” The agency warned it may again halt charter flights to Turkey, as tensions between the two countries intensified over events in Syria.
Spain Prices Boost Southeastern Europe Sales
Hotel price hikes in Spain have prompted big travel entities to opt for Greece and Balkans destinations.
Thomas Cook Group executives say they expect a 40% rise in demand for Greek destinations.
World Tourism Forum Moscow: Focus Turkey
In Moscow last weekend the World Tourism Forum at the Ritz-Carlton brought together professionals of the tourism industry of Turkey, Russia and other countries, along with investors and government representatives. The big topic of discussion was Russian-Turkish tourism for the coming season, along with expectations of professionals in the industry.
Spain is Top Destination for Russian Tourists
According to the press service of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), Spain has become the most popular destination for Russian travelers. Outbound Russian tourist flows are rebounding, especially for vacation packages. Tour operators note that most Russians vacationers prefer economizing on excursions.
Turkey to Get Free Shengen Visas Despite
The European Commission is going to allow visa-free travel for Turkish citizens inside Europe’s passport-free Schengen zone, according to reports. As part of the deal offered Turkey for taking back migrants who crossed into Greece, Turkey is to get a free visa-ride if the country meets EU criteria.
Vladimir Putin Says Egypt & Turkey Travel Problematic
Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed last week the situation with regard to Russian tourists once again visiting Egyptian and Turkish resorts. Mr. Putin spoke in an annual Q&A session before the Russian people, saying no good solution has been found for ensuring security of Russian tourists in Egypt.
Security Concerns: Turkey Tourism Suffers in 2016
Turkey Tourism is already suffering in 2016 because of security concerns. Cruise operators cancel stops in Turkey, and number of bookings drop alarmingly.
TripAdvisor Names Best Europe Beaches
Just in time for Spring, TripAdvisor has named the top 25 beaches in Europe for 2015 in the Traveler’s Choice Awards. With Spring having sprung just in the nick of time, what better information do those with cabin fever over the winter need? Here’s a look at some fantastic beaches to start warming up at […]
5 Lesser Known East Europe Travel Gems
Photographer Cristina Drafta talks about the Eastern Europe she loves. Find out about coffee in Istanbul, the Paris of Siberia, Irkutsk, and much more.