Greek authorities said international arrivals at the country’s regional airports in September this year exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
The Greek Ministry of Tourism said in its latest press release that the number of foreign tourists at Greek regional airports increased by 7.2 percent in September compared to the same month in 2019.
Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias noted that Corfu, Chania (Crete), Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Kos have seen the largest increases in arrivals. In Corfu, the increase in tourist traffic reached 17 percent, in Chania – plus 15 percent, and other directions – 14 percent more tourists.
The Minister said that the task of tourism is to surpass the financial results of 2019 when Greece received $18.2 billion.
The official praised the course of the tourist season this year, especially the strategic agreements concluded with other countries. For example, Americans operated 63 direct flights a week from the United States.
As for the winter season, Kikilias said he is in talks with airlines and tour operators to extend the season. “Last year it was a great success to stay open after two years of the pandemic. Greece has entered the field of view of Europeans – and not only – an all-season destination.
The Minister invited pensioners to spend the winter in Greece. Since the climate in Greece is much milder than in other European countries, pensioners can save decent money: the cost of living is lower here, and they do not have to spend much on electricity.