Thanos Michaelides on rising hotel occupancy rates and the outlook for Kataklysmos

07:11 - 05 June 2025

Economy

Hotel occupancy rates in May 2025 were lower on average than last year, Cyprus Hotels Association (PASYXE) President Thanos Michaelides has said, noting, however, that, overall, the first half of 2025 will have better occupancy rates than the corresponding half of 2024.

Responding to questions from CNA, Michaelides also said that occupancy rates are expected to be slightly better this summer than last year.

The PASYXE President stated that an increase in the occupancy rate is expected during the three-day Kataklysmos holiday due to increased demand from the Cypriot market. Also known as the Flood Festival, Kataklysmos marks Pentecost, a Christian holiday which takes place on the 49th day after Easter Day. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles of Jesus.

He added that "the flow of reservations for the months of June, July and August, which are the main months of the summer, seems to be satisfactory," noting that "occupancy will fluctuate at last year's levels and is expected to continue for the rest of the season."

When asked about June specifically, Michaelides said that "in the current month, occupancy rates will range from 75% to 80%."

Regarding the markets from which most visitors to Cyprus come, he noted that the British market is first, followed by Israel and then Poland.

Regarding the workforce, Michaelides stated that there has been an improvement in the way applications from third-country nationals interested in working in the hospitality industry are processed, however, he also noted that there is always room for improvement in procedures.

There are difficulties in finding staff in many tourist destinations, he said, emphasising that we are at better levels than last year in terms of processing applications.

(Source: CNA)

Thanos Michaelides on rising hotel occupancy rates and the outlook for Kataklysmos

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