The celebrations for the World Tourism Day in Cyprus have been overshadowed by the pessimistic messages after the drop in the island’s tourist arrivals by 6.5% in August. The Cyprus Tourism Organization believes that this slump is partially attributable to the recent crisis in Lebanon and the situation will change with the enforcement of the Strategic Plan for Tourism. On the other hand, the hoteliers demand the hastening of the procedures for the infrastructure projects and the provision of incentives for the withdrawal of old hotel units.

Tourist revenues

Despite the drop in tourist arrivals, the tourist revenues in January-July 2006 have recorded an increase of 5.8% to £542.2 million against £512.5 million last year. This improvement is linked to the increase in expenditure per traveler.

House Commerce Committee

The prospects of the island’s tourism were the major issue of discussion at a recent House Commerce Committee session. CTO Chairman, Panos Egglezos appeared optimistic for the recovery of tourist economy, while Chairman of the Committee, Lefteris Christoforou, criticized strongly the organization for the delay in the infrastructure projects.

Events

At 11.00 am, CTO will give a press conference on the occasion of the World Tourism Day and the 35 years of the organization. World Tourism Day is dedicated to “Tourism Enriches”.