Ayia Napa reports drop in bookings
Cyprus tourism is facing challenges due to ongoing instability in the Middle East, according to Ayia Napa Mayor Christos Zannetou, who expressed cautious optimism for the coming months.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), he said hotel occupancy in April has dropped by around 40%, while booking activity remains weak.
Hotels delay opening amid cancellations
The Cypriot tourism sector in the free Famagusta area is feeling the impact, with several hotels remaining closed due to low occupancy and a freeze in bookings from foreign tour operators.
As a result, some accommodation providers have postponed opening until late April instead of early in the month.
Zannetou said cancellations are replacing early reservations made since February, adding that the situation remains uncertain.
Demand shifts and economic concerns
The mayor noted that tourism in Cyprus is being affected not only by geopolitical tensions but also by changing traveller behaviour.
He said many tourists are now more cautious due to economic conditions, rather than concerns about safety in Cyprus as a destination.
Cyprus still seen as safe destination
Despite travel advisories issued by some countries regarding the wider Middle East region, Zannetou stressed that Cyprus has not been directly targeted.
He referred to a single incident involving a drone near the British Bases in Akrotiri at the start of the conflict, but said the island remains a safe destination overall.
Preparations continue for summer season
Despite the challenges, preparations for the summer season are continuing in Ayia Napa.
The municipality is finalising work on beaches and progressing with cultural events, although under conditions of financial restraint.
Zannetou said no events have been cancelled, stressing the importance of maintaining tourism visibility in Cyprus during the peak season.
Wider economic impact expected
He warned that the situation could have broader consequences across Cyprus, affecting not only tourism but also food imports, construction, and local economies.
The municipality continues to coordinate with regional tourism bodies, including the Famagusta Tourism Development and Promotion Company, to support recovery efforts.
Source: CNA
Also read: Crisis domino effect: Pressure on fuel, tourism and real estate
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