Several cancellations and reduced new bookings have been reported for April and May, according to the Cyprus Tourism Enterprises Association (STEK), while the Cyprus Hotel Association (PASYXE) notes that long-term summer plans are currently not significantly affected.
Immediate meetings and coordinated action
Both tourism bodies stress the need for an urgent meeting of all relevant tourism authorities, including the Government, to decide on appropriate measures, while advising calm and measured responses.
STEK President Akis Vavlitis said in an interview with CNA that the Government will raise the issue with the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus and the U.S. State Department to lift the “unfair travel advisory” issued for Cyprus.
He added that several hotel bookings for April and May have already been cancelled, and new bookings for the remaining season from June onwards have dropped significantly. There is also concern over potential flight cancellations following the U.S. travel advisory.
“The most worrying aspect is the very low number of new bookings for the coming months,” he said, noting that March and April are typically the peak months for securing reservations for the rest of the season.
Coordinated efforts and emergency planning
STEK is in constant communication with the Tourism Deputy Ministry and will request an urgent meeting with tourism stakeholders, along with the Ministers of Labour and Finance and the Deputy Minister of Tourism, possibly under the President’s chairmanship, to present proposals and minimise the impact of ongoing regional conflicts.
Vavlitis emphasised that all stakeholders must remain calm and rational while identifying necessary measures. An extraordinary STEK Council meeting is scheduled for Friday to decide on next steps.
PASYXE perspective
PASYXE General Manager Christos Angelides stated that while some cancellations have occurred, a complete picture will emerge after all information is received. He confirmed that the long-term summer plan is currently not significantly affected.
Angelides, who is in Berlin meeting European partners, airlines, and travel agents, said that follow-up meetings will be held upon his return to address the situation.
He highlighted two main points: first, there should be no excessive concern about the summer programme to reassure customers of safe travel; second, any short-term cancellations or adjustments remain manageable.
Travel organisers are allowing clients to postpone or reschedule trips for the next two to three weeks, or for the remainder of summer, and airlines such as British Airways and EasyJet are expected to resume flights, which is considered a positive sign.
Angelides stressed the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, learning from past challenges in Cyprus tourism, and ensuring swift, coordinated decisions among all tourism authorities.
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