Hotel sector reports lower advance reservations
Bookings for the upcoming summer season are down by around 25% compared with the same period last year, according to the General Director of the Cyprus Hotel Association (PASYYXE), Christos Angelides.
He told CNA that current hotel occupancy levels for the summer stand at around 40%–50%, significantly lower than last year’s levels, when bookings reached approximately 75% during a record season.
The bookings trend shows a slow pace of recovery, with cancellations now stabilising but new reservations increasing only marginally.
Angelides warned that the current booking momentum is not strong enough to reverse the decline caused by cancellations over the past two months.
He noted that the situation is being closely monitored, as the tourism sector remains a key pillar of the Cypriot economy, supporting thousands of jobs and households.
Air travel and fuel costs add pressure
Rising jet fuel prices are also affecting airline planning, with carriers reassessing routes and frequency based on profitability.
According to Angelides, Cyprus is not among the most flexible destinations for increased flight frequency compared with competing markets such as Spain, where airlines can operate multiple daily flights.
He added that some airlines have already reduced routes, limiting further growth in Cyprus tourism bookings for the time being.
The PASYYXE director said current demand does not support optimism, while efforts are underway to improve travel advisories from key markets such as the United Kingdom and the United States.
Discussions have already taken place with embassies as part of wider promotional efforts to support tourism bookings in Cyprus ahead of the peak summer season.
Hotel sector calls for support measures
Angelides also confirmed that several hotels have introduced promotional offers for repeat visitors and regular clients in an effort to stimulate demand.
Most hotel units are expected to be operating, while sector representatives are awaiting the next update on wage subsidy schemes, which currently run until the end of April.
The association has requested an extension of support measures for May and June, arguing that additional backing is needed to safeguard employment and maintain competitiveness.
Despite the challenges, the sector remains focused on maintaining service quality and protecting Cyprus’ reputation as a tourist destination.
Angelides stressed that preserving the country’s tourism image is essential, as the industry continues to adjust to shifting demand and external pressures.
Source: CNA
Also read: Blind tax increases could subsidize the occupied territories
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
