Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus is facing a challenging tourism season as the conflict with Iran has eroded the island’s safety image abroad, according to Charis Papacharalambous, president of the Association of Cyprus Travel and Tourism Agents (ACTTA). He said negative safety perceptions overseas are being reinforced by travel advisories issued by various countries.
Safety perception and travel advisories
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Papacharalambous said the main problem facing Cyprus as a tourist destination is the negative perception of safety overseas. He said developments related to the war will be decisive for the course of tourism in Cyprus, while travel agents are awaiting further government measures to address the crisis.
Support measures and wider impact
Papacharalambous said current support measures are focused on airlines and hotels, while other sectors of the economy affected by the crisis have not been included. He added that agents expect broader government support across the economy.
Bookings, cancellations and outlook
Papacharalambous said a slight improvement in new booking trends has not been enough to restore the situation to the desired trajectory, with cancellations continuing at notable levels. He said bookings have improved compared to the first 10 to 15 days after the war began, but added that the current pace is not sufficient, with significantly lower booking volumes for March, April, May and likely the summer period. Based on current data, he said the tourism season is expected to be difficult despite ongoing efforts by industry stakeholders.
Airline scheduling and flight programmes
Papacharalambous said airlines are likely to adjust their schedules in response to reduced demand, leading to changes in flight programmes. He said aircraft cannot continue operating back and forth with low occupancy, and he expects reduced flight frequencies.
Industry actions
Papacharalambous said travel agents are taking actions daily, including travelling abroad, holding meetings with tourism industry stakeholders and tour operators, and communicating through media and social networks that Cyprus is a safe and attractive destination.
How do you think travel advisories are affecting your willingness to book a trip to Cyprus?
