Hoteliers express concern over slowdown in summer bookings

Cyprus Hotel Association (PASYXE) chair Thanos Michaelides has said there is a slowdown in summer bookings and appeared concerned that 2024 will end at a lower booking level than last year.

In statements to CNA after the general assembly of the Hotel Association of Famagusta, on Tuesday, Michaelides said that the Famagusta district is one of the most important districts for Cyprus tourism not only in terms of quality but also in the number of beds in the area hotels.

He said that all hoteliers are teaming up to try to limit the problem of slow bookings through special campaigns to attract tourists. Michaelides said, replying to a question, that the issue of limited bookings exists island-wide, adding that there is also the issue of last-minute bookings which makes planning quite difficult.

He also said that efforts are underway to bring tourists from central Europe, but, as he added, this cannot cover the losses. Michaelides also told the press that Britain’s economy, which is the main market for Cyprus, is weak and impacts bookings.

Invited to comment on the rise in fuel prices and air ticket prices, the PASYXE Head said that Cyprus will always be a relatively expensive destination and, consequently, efforts are made to provide the tourists with a product worth what they pay.

He also said that the government has to support the goal of year-round tourism in Cyprus. Michaelides also expressed satisfaction with the rate at which the applications from foreign employees are being assessed.

Famagusta Hotel Association Head Panagiotis Constantinou said that the debate held during the general assembly was constructive. He said that there is a slight decrease in bookings but expressed hope that the situation will improve.