Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus tourism is showing early signs of recovery after a geopolitical crisis battered bookings and created misleading impressions abroad that the island was directly involved in the war. Officials and industry players pointed to a more positive flow of messages over the past 24 hours.
Tourism officials to review data
A meeting is due at noon on Monday at the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, where officials are expected to review the latest tourism data and assess whether the improved mood can translate into bookings during the peak summer months.
Flights between Israel and Cyprus expected to resume
One of the clearest positive signals is the expected resumption this week of flights between Israel and Cyprus. Pasyxe director-general Christos Angelides described the development as “an unexpected breath of fresh air” for the sector, noting that Israel is Cyprus’ second-largest tourist market.
Angelides said efforts are focused on protecting the period from June to the end of October, when hotel occupancy, arrivals and tourism revenue usually peak.
Poland upgrades travel advice
Another boost came from Poland, which upgraded its travel advice for the Republic of Cyprus to level one, the standard caution category. Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis said the move strengthens Cyprus’ image as a safe destination, while adding that it remains too early to make firm forecasts for the summer.
EU tourism ministers meeting and sustainable tourism agenda
Koumis said a recent informal meeting of EU tourism ministers in Nicosia helped improve the climate, as visiting officials were able to see the destination first-hand and form their own view of the level of security and the hospitality on offer. The gathering formed part of Cyprus’ EU presidency agenda and focused on the bloc’s sustainable tourism strategy.
TUI research ranks Paphos and Limassol
Further support came from new TUI research, which ranked Paphos seventh and Limassol eighth among more than 150 seaside destinations in Europe assessed for family-friendly holidays. The study looked at factors including attractions, entertainment options and weather conditions.
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