The use of self-catering accommodation by tourists (Airbnb) is a new trend in Cyprus, Marios Tsianakas, Tourism Officer at the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, told CNA, on Tuesday, noting that there has been an increase in their number in recent years.

"We passed 6,700 in accommodation units and we exceed 30,000 in terms of beds," he added.

This is a trend also developing in Europe by younger generations who want to plan their trips more flexibly alongside lower accommodation costs, he stressed.

It is a market, he noted, which is putting together cheap flights with relatively lower prices on accommodation.

"They make a good contribution to the local economy as people who chose these accommodations use several services such as restaurants, transport, car rental, etc.," he added.