Cyprus Tourism Organisation satisfied with increase in tourist arrivals

Chairman of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) Alecos Orountiotis has expressed satisfaction over the upward trend in tourist arrivals in October 2010, noting that the increase of 4.9% indicated that CTO efforts were bearing fruit.

Orountiotis also expressed certainty that in 2011 the positive results would continue, and pointed out the 52.7% increase in the arrival of tourists from Cyprus during the ten first months of 2010, compared to the same period last year.

Speaking at a press conference, Orountiotis said that the positive results were achieved despite the global financial crisis, the Icelandic volcanic ash and various airline issues.

Referring to statistical data for October, Orountiotis said the British market was still weak, adding that many efforts had been made to constrain the drop in arrivals from the UK.

He noted that arrivals from other markets recorded an increase, such as Russia with 60%, Germany 23%, France 45.2% and The Netherlands 34.1%.

Regarding the arrival of tourists during the first ten months of the year, compared to the same period in 2009, Orountiotis said British tourists were down by 6%, while increases were recorded from Germany with 7.3% and Russia with 52.7%.

Referring to 2011, Orountiotis said the foundations were placed in 2010 for better results in 2011, and expressed hope that nothing unexpected would arise that might affect tourism.

Orountiotis also referred to the winter period, noting that more hotels have stayed open, compared to the winter months of 2009.

Asked if the CTO was concerned about the closing of Cypriot airline Eurocypria, Orountiotis said it was a negative development but noted that tourists would be brought to the island in cooperation with Cyprus Airways.