International arrivals to Greek airports “soared” from January to September, according to data released by the Greek Tourist Organisation (SETE). More specifically, arrivals to the main airports of the country rose 7.6 percent in the 9-month period compared to last year.
In Crete, the Ionian islands and the Cyclades arrivals rose 11.3 percent, 12.2 percent and 10.2 percent respectively in September on a year-on-year basis. Arrivals also rose in Athens (14.3 percent) and Thessaloniki (23.5 percent). On the other hand, Kos, Samos and Lesvos recorded a drop of 2.9 percent, 13.7 percent and 44.5 percent respectively.
“The increase in arrivals is thanks to special tourist packages and lower prices promoted by companies in an effort to attract last minute tourists,” SETE said. However, it noted that despite the increase in arrivals, tourist businesses are expected to record losses for another year as a result of over-taxation and reduced prices that undermine competitiveness and threaten their viability.
(source: ana-mpa)
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