Paphos’ 2024 tourism season is shaping up to resemble that of 2023, though it still lags behind the peak figures of 2019, except for July, which could see similar arrivals to the pre-pandemic year. This insight comes from Euripides Loizides, President of the Paphos Hoteliers Association.
Loizides explained that although the winter months started well for Paphos hotels, April and May held steady with last year’s figures. June was a mixed bag, showing a 5.5% decline compared to 2019 but a slight increase when compared to 2023. Describing July as “unusual,” Loizides noted that overall arrivals to Cyprus had improved relative to both 2019 and 2023. However, this rise was not as evident in Paphos hotels. He speculated that the growing preference for Airbnb-style accommodations and a rise in overnight stays in the occupied territories may have contributed to this disparity.
Loizides also highlighted a shift in the average length of stay, which has dropped from 10.5 days to about 7, largely driven by broader economic factors.
Looking forward, August seems promising, with a significant uptick from local tourism. Loizides expressed cautious optimism for September and October, citing early indicators of solid hotel occupancy. However, he warned that the situation could change if unexpected events occur in neighboring regions.
Source: CNA | knews.kathimerini.com.cy