Cyprus officials optimistic about UK tourist arrivals

Cyprus Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Antonis Paschalides, the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, the Cyprus Hoteliers Association and other tourist organisations believe that the impact on the tourist industry from the world economic crisis, with regard to arrivals to Cyprus from Britain, will be limited to the minimum.

In statements after contacts the Minister and other Cyprus tourist officials had in London, on the sidelines of the World Travel Market, COT Chairman Panos Englezos said that major tour operators are not contemplating to reduce their bookings for Cyprus.

He expressed the belief that if the CTO, the hoteliers and others involved in tourism implement a short-term plan they have prepared, they will be able to deal with the crisis efficiently with the minimum possible negative repercussions.

He said that this plan provides for the improvement of relations with the tour operators and support to them so that they can make the bookings they are planning and undertake a targeted promotion of their product.

Speaking during a dinner hosted by CTO for tour operators and other tourist organizations, Pascchalides expressed optimism that with the promotion of various measures challenges arising from the world economic crisis will be effectively addressed and Cyprus will become more competitive.

He also announced the launch of a new low-cost offer for short vacations under the title Short Escapes—Great Experiences, for people living in Cyprus but also to be extended at a later stage to people living abroad.

President of the Hoteliers Association Haris Loizides expressed deep concern about the repercussions of the financial crisis but appeared certain that losses will be limited to the minimum if the necessary measures are taken.