Domestic Tourism Shows Losses
Overnight stays of Greeks at various destinations in the country reported significant reductions, which in some cases reached over 20 percent, the Research Institute for Tourism and Forecasting (ITEP) and the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels said recently. ITEP said that hotel revenue was also hit due to the reduced number of overnights of Greeks and foreigners and the lower hotel prices.
The institute estimated that Greek overnights during the high season (15 July-25 August) would drop by 10 percent in Chalkidiki; 15-20 percent in Chania; and 20 percent in Heraklio.
However, according to ITEP, the Ionian Islands seem to be in front of a new situation since the completion of the Egnatia Highway has significantly increased road access to the islands from Northern Greece.
In addition, ship frequency and punctuality, as well as ticket discounts (up to 20 percent) increased the region’s passenger traffic in July by 13 percent.
A similar increase was noticed in overnights but along with a dramatic fall in revenue that amounted to some 40 percent.