Poland has upgraded its travel advisory for Cyprus and this is a positive development, Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis has said, noting that the country is now classified at Level 1, which corresponds to a recommendation for normal caution.
Speaking to CNA, Koumis described the development as particularly positive, as it reinforces Cyprus’s image as a safe tourist destination.
He also pointed out that “the Informal Meeting of EU Tourism Ministers sent a message of optimism.” As he said, “all delegates had the opportunity to experience the destination firsthand, noting the high level of safety as well as the hospitality it offers.” Several delegates mentioned in their remarks the positive image Cyprus projects as a tourist destination, as well as the hospitality they received, he added.
Asked about the outlook for the summer season, Koumis expressed cautious optimism, noting that, despite encouraging signs of recovery, it is still too early to make reliable predictions. As he explained, “developments in the particularly sensitive air transport sector will play a decisive role.”
At the same time, ACCTA (Association of Cyprus Travel & Tourism Agents) expresses optimism regarding the trend in tourist arrivals ahead of the summer season.
The Association’s press spokesperson, Antonis Orthodoxou, told CNA that “Poland’s upgrade of its travel advisory for Cyprus to Level 1, combined with the island hosting the Informal Meeting of EU Tourism Ministers, strengthens the country’s image in terms of safety, a fact that is expected to have a positive impact on tourist arrivals.
He pointed out that recent developments create positive prospects for this year’s tourist season, while noting that a potential deterrent for the UK market is the warning that remains posted on the country’s Foreign Office website, according to which the possibility of terrorist attacks in Cyprus cannot be ruled out.
He explained that this specific reference, “may affect travelers’ psychology,” leading some to have second thoughts or even to ultimately decide not to book their trips.
It should be noted that regarding United Kingdom, the updated assessment states that the possibility of terrorist attacks in Cyprus cannot be ruled out, while the U.S. classifies the destination at Level 3 (reconsider travel) for American citizens.
(Source: CNA)
