Greece’s ongoing economic problems and the migrant situation have not deterred visitors. Recent figures show tourism continued to grow in 2015 and looks set to remain strong into 2016.
Between January and August 2015, Greece recorded an 11 percent rise in visitor numbers compared with the same period in 2014. The tourism ministry projected total arrivals of around 25 million for 2015, an increase of roughly 3 million over the previous year. This growth is a welcome boost for a country still coping with a deep economic downturn.
“The migrant crisis has not had a major impact on tourism, despite the way some of the British media has exaggerated the problem — describing an image that doesn’t exist,” said Elena Kountoura, Greece’s alternate minister of tourism, to the Telegraph. She noted that even on islands that received large numbers of refugees, tourism held up well: Kos saw only a three percent drop in arrivals during the first eight months of the year, while Lesbos experienced a two percent increase. Many visitors responded with compassion, bringing clothing and offering assistance throughout September.
Lower prices, driven in part by the country’s economic situation, appear to be encouraging travel to Greece. Competitive fares, affordable accommodation and value for money are likely persuading tourists to visit despite occasional negative headlines.
The resilience of Greece’s tourism sector is important for the broader economy, providing jobs and revenue across islands and mainland destinations. While challenges remain, the tourism recovery offers a stabilizing influence and a source of optimism for communities that depend on visitor spending.