The Head of Cyprus Hotels Association (PASYXE) Thanos Michaelides described as satisfactory the course of reservations for the new tourist season, adding that the interest shown from both small and large markets is also satisfactory.

In statements to Cyprus News Agency, Michaelides said that in 2023 Israel was the second largest tourist market and now, as a result of the war, this market records losses.

He noted that it is extremely hard to make any predictions recalling the recent picture due to COVID pandemic, the war in Ukraine and currently the situation in the Middle East.

Head of PASYXE said that hoteliers, the Deputy Tourist Ministry and Hermes Airports - the company which manages and controls Larnaka and Pafos International Airports - must be constantly on alert and cooperate in order to bring more tourists to the island.

He also said that approximately 1/3 of the hotels are open during this period. But occupancy rates are very low, he added, noting that in Paphos district these rates reach 30% at the moment.

Replying to a question Michaelides said that the main tourist markets are now the UK, Poland and Germany.