Greek Tourism Bill Ready for Parliament

The Hellenic Parliament. Photo Source: @PressParliament / © Aliki Eleftheriou

A bill foreseeing the establishment of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) and a development council for cruise tourism in Greece is expected to soon be submitted to Parliament for a vote.

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias on Thursday introduced key parts of the bill during an interview on Open TV station.

The minister said the new bill paves the way for the operation of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs), which will give local authorities the opportunity to advertise with the private sector and promote the country’s destinations in a more holistic manner.

The new tourism bill also foresees the establishment of a development council for cruise tourism in order to help the sector further evolve.

“We already have a 250 percent increase in cruise routes for Thessaloniki and very positive signs for the sector in Piraeus and Athens for 2022,” the minister said.

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias

Kikilias added that the new bill will help the ministry properly develop thermal springs and baths, which have been left unexploited in the country for many years.

“Tourism is the locomotive of the Greek economy; it is a source of income for Greeks; it is a source of growth of the country’s GDP; and so it must be addressed by all,” the minister said.

Kikilias added that the ministry has realistic goals and is working hard to assist with infrastructure and development projects in the region and big cities, the upgrade of hotel units and attract more tourists and visitors in both winter and summer.