Cypriots flock to the coast for summer holidays despite rising prices

Coastal areas remain the top choice for Cypriots' domestic summer holidays, with destinations like Ayia Napa, Protaras, Paphos, Limassol, and Larnaca seeing high demand, according to the Cyprus Hotels Association (PASYXE). However, hotel prices have risen slightly compared to last year, adding pressure to an already tight accommodation market.

Popular destinations and occupancy rates

According to Kathimerini's Marios Christophi, PASYXE's director general, Filokypros Roussounides, noted that the coastal areas, especially the free Famagusta region (Ayia Napa and Protaras), and Paphos, are the most sought-after by local vacationers. Limassol, Larnaca, and the cooler mountainous regions are also popular, particularly as temperatures soar. Roussounides added that this year mirrors last year's trends, although tensions in the Middle East could impact travel patterns.

Hotel occupancy rates are nearing capacity across popular destinations. According to data from the Booking.com platform, Protaras has a 99% occupancy rate for August 8-31, with Ayia Napa, Paphos, and Larnaca close behind at 98%. Even in mountainous areas like Kakopetria, occupancy is at 96%, with Limassol at 91%.

Occupied territories see increased tourist traffic

Tourist accommodations in the occupied territories also report high occupancy rates, continuing a trend seen in recent years. According to Turkish Cypriot press reports, hotel occupancy in these areas has been steadily rising. From January to June 2024, the average hotel occupancy rate was 39.6%, up from 36.2% in the same period in 2023. Despite the increase, occupancy in June only reached 49.6%, a slight decrease from last year's 51.7%.

Roussounides expressed concern over the growing number of Cypriots choosing to vacation in the occupied territories, a trend that has been increasing annually. He emphasized the need for awareness and cooperation with travel partners to curb this phenomenon.

Consumer warnings and complaints

Consumers are being urged to exercise caution when booking accommodations, as the risk of misleading information and unfair commercial practices remains high. Marios Droussiotis, president of the Cyprus Consumer Association, highlighted the dangers of booking services that fail to meet expectations. Consumers have the right to file complaints with the Consumer Protection Service, which can impose significant fines on offending establishments.

So far, 14 complaints have been lodged regarding misrepresentation of services, with additional complaints concerning unfulfilled bookings and double-booked rooms. Between January 1 and August 7, 2024, there were 18 complaints related to unavailable accommodations despite confirmed reservations, and 21 cases involving issues with extended stays in tourist areas.

Official data for the first months of summer 2024 is still pending, according to the Cyprus Hotels Association.