Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Ayia Napa mayor Christos Zannetou expressed cautious optimism for tourism while warning that instability in the Middle East is weighing on bookings and hotel occupancy in Cyprus.
Bookings slowdown and reduced occupancy
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) on Wednesday, Zannetou said tourism in Ayia Napa and the wider Famagusta district is under significant pressure, with a noticeable slowdown in reservations. He said April occupancy is down by around 40%.
Hotels remain closed and openings delayed
Zannetou said a freeze in bookings from international partners has forced some properties to remain shut. He said several hotels have stayed closed due to low occupancy and the suspension of bookings by foreign tour operators, leading accommodation providers to delay openings until the end of April rather than the beginning of the month.
Cancellations affecting earlier pre-bookings
Zannetou said cancellations in arrivals and hotel bookings are offsetting pre-bookings secured since February for the free Famagusta district. He added that the current flow of bookings is insufficient to meet seasonal expectations and said hotel occupancy in Ayia Napa is not currently satisfactory.
Outlook tied to regional developments
Zannetou said the continuation of the war could affect the area’s tourism image until the end of April, and expressed hope that diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran might support more stable travel demand.
How do you think regional instability will affect your travel plans for Cyprus in the coming weeks?