Greece Shines at the Quality Travel Fair in Copenhagen
Greece, alongside the Greek Tourism Organization (EOT), made a remarkable appearance at the recent Quality Travel Fair held in Copenhagen. This prestigious event emphasizes high-quality tourism and draws in various international participants each year.
A Global Showcase of Quality Tourism
The Quality Travel Fair is organized annually by the esteemed Danish tourism magazine VAGABOND, focusing specifically on promoting quality tourism. This year, Greece joined ten other countries, represented through their respective state tourism organizations. Among the countries featured were Cyprus, the Philippines, Norway, Poland, the Czech Republic, Tunisia, the Seychelles, Thailand, Tanzania, and Uganda, along with 26 travel agencies, three of which included trips to Greece.
Collaborating Regions and Initiatives
At the EOT booth, notable representatives included officials from the Region of Crete and a delegation from the Municipality of Karpathos. This collaborative effort aimed to strengthen Greek tourism’s visibility and establish connections with other involved parties. The event also featured a hands-on workshop, engaging exhibitors, industry professionals, and journalists in productive discussions.
A Unique Experience for Visitors
In a thoughtful initiative, the organizers created a designated relaxation area for visitors, prominently displayed with Greek colors and a captivating background wall. In this welcoming space, advertising materials were available for attendees, while the Region of Crete treated guests to local delicacies, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Promoting Greek Islands Through VAGABOND
An exciting highlight of this year’s event was the October issue of VAGABOND, distributed free of charge to all participants. This edition featured the breathtaking island of Santorini on its cover, capturing the essence of Greece’s picturesque landscapes. Moreover, the EOT received a complimentary advertisement on the back cover, showcasing the nation’s commitment to promoting its tourist destinations.
Denmark: A Key Market for Greek Tourism
With a population of 5.8 million, Denmark represents a vital market for Greece, demonstrating a significant yearly increase in Danish tourists choosing Greece for their vacations. The figures reflect a compelling trend, with 389,243 Danish arrivals recorded in 2016. By 2019, this number surged, showing an impressive 26.46% increase to 492,266 visitors, which constitutes nearly 8.44% of Denmark’s total population.
Recovery Post-Pandemic
Comparing the overall tourist influx from Scandinavian countries during the pandemic, entries from Denmark were 118,477 in 2020, rebounding to 250,804 in 2021, and experiencing 219,833 arrivals from January to July 2022. Nonetheless, the recovery trajectory highlights the enduring appeal of Greek destinations, even amidst global challenges.
Senior Travelers Embrace Greek Adventures
A noteworthy demographic among the increasing flow of travelers includes seniors, particularly those aged 60 and above. Over 8,500 of these travelers have been reported, with many retirees planning to take multiple trips each year. This group often seeks less crowded, unique inland destinations within Greece, illustrating their desire to explore new experiences at a leisurely pace.
Exciting Networking and Promotions
The EOT booth stood out at the fair, showcasing its commitment to excellence in tourism. Key figures, such as Maria Karavida, the EOT’s Advertising Department representative, and Elena Gerolymatou, the Head of the Public Relations Department, were also present, engaging in key discussions that could shape the future of Greek tourism.
The Appeal of Quality Travel
As evidenced by its participation in events like the Quality Travel Fair, Greece continually seeks to enhance its image as a quality tourism destination. By aligning with international standards and promoting a diverse array of experiences, the country aims to attract a wide array of travelers from parts of the globe that share an appreciation for quality.
Future Outreach Strategies
Greece’s attendance at the Quality Travel Fair also reflects ongoing efforts to not just promote its beautiful islands but also to market lesser-known destinations, like Karpathos and Crete, to create a more diversified tourism portfolio. Initiatives to promote these areas can help spread the economic benefits of tourism more evenly across the nation.
Conclusion
Greece’s strong presence at the Quality Travel Fair indicates a thriving commitment to promoting its rich tourism offerings. By enhancing its visibility in markets such as Denmark and catering to the specific desires of diverse traveler demographics, Greece is positioning itself for a successful future in global tourism. The emphasis on quality experiences, personalized service, and unique attractions ensures that Greece will remain a favored destination for years to come.
