Trump & Tourism: The Impact on Greece

Greek tourism experts expect that newly-elected US President Donald Trump’s policies once put in place will have a positive impact on sector figures, which are already on a robust trend.

Stepping into the Oval Office last week, Trump has said he plans to strengthen ties with Greece and boost its economy. At the same time his plans to keep China, Germany and Mexico at bay may in the end be good news for Greek tourism.

”The US economy is in a much healthier state than it was eight years ago… the strengthening of the US economy that the new president wants to achieve will make the trip from the US to Europe financially viable,’’ Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) President Andreas Andreadis told Greek financial daily Naftemporiki.

At the same time, Andreadis adds that the dollar – euro rate, Trump’s plan to reach out to Russia making it easier and cheaper for Russian travelers to come to Greece, as well as a potential Syria resolution will have a positive effect on the reputation of the Eastern Mediterranean.

“The combination of these policies will have a positive impact on our country should they be implemented. We currently do not have insight into his [Trump’s] actions or the reactions they may cause,’’ Andreadis added.

Additionally, oil prices set in US dollars may mean cheaper airfares and lower transport costs. This may likely affect cruise travel which is also priced in dollars, as well as global currencies linked to the US dollar.