chinese tourism in greece

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Greece expects more Chinese tourists this year: official

ATHENS -- Greece expects more Chinese tourists this year by offering a tailored tourism product to suit the needs of the Chinese market, a Greek tourism official said here on Wednesday.

"We are creating a comprehensive tourism product that will move all Chinese visitors," Dimitris Fragakis, secretary general of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), told Xinhua in an exclusive interview.

China is an important market for Greece and the GNTO is cooperating with airlines, tour operators and media to promote Greek tourism, he said.

Greece is developing a special mixture of experiences for Chinese tourists and culture remains a pillar in this strategy, he said, adding that its unique civilization always plays a key role in promoting Greece as a tourism destination for Chinese visitors.

More direct flights connecting Athens to Beijing and Shanghai are also scheduled to facilitate their travel, he said.

"We are definitely very well-prepared to host them so that they can enjoy our country and come back," he said.

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Interview: How Greece Leads on Tourism Recovery

Ahead of the greece-china virtual b2b travel roadshow, we spoke to the director of greek national tourism organization in beijing, yannis plexousakis, about greece's leadership in post-pandemic tourism recovery and expectations for the return of chinese tourists..

Ahead of the Greece-China Virtual B2B Travel Roadshow from 22-25 November 2021, we spoke to the Director of the Greek National Tourism Organization in Beijing, Yannis Plexousakis , about Greece’s leadership in post-pandemic tourism recovery and expectations for the return of Chinese tourists.

Out of all European countries, Greece had a particularly strong summer for tourism recovery. What were some of the keys to achieving that? Greece experienced indeed a strong tourism recovery this year and a clear message was sent last May that has paid off. Our country has set two main goals for this year’s tourist season. The first was to open our borders safely by applying health protocols and travel procedures that would ensure the health of visitors, employees and society. Key ingredients for this opening were Greece’s AI screening and testing program created to vet the Covid-19 risk of incoming tourists through all of the country’s entry points, the use of rapid tests and finally a commitment that all health needs, including hospitalization, related to Covid-19 will be provided by the Greek state at no cost to tourists. The second goal was to have a better season than last year, reaching even 50% of the arrivals of 2019. We are happy to announce that we achieved both goals! And this success was the result of a specific plan which was successfully implemented with the assistance of all those involved in the tourism industry.

Tell us about Greece’s tourism marketing in China in 2021. Our tourism marketing in China has changed significantly during last two years and is mainly focusing on promoting Greece through various digital campaigns, participation in virtual tourism exhibitions and organizing B2B webinars/roadshows like the upcoming Greece-China Virtual B2B Travel Roadshow in November.

Before COVID, was the Chinese tourism market to Greece significantly different from other markets in any ways? The Chinese tourism market to Greece is different in many ways from other markets, starting from seasonality. Chinese holidays are different from the Western ones, and this fact creates a big opportunity for countries like Greece for filling low seasons, making tourism more evenly distributed and more sustainable. Chinese tourism-related platforms and Chinese internet and social media channels are completely different from those in Western markets and this requires a whole other approach and strategy from our side.

Before COVID, what were the most popular destinations in Greece for Chinese travelers? Do you expect changes in the post-pandemic era? The most popular Greek destination for Chinese travelers was Santorini Island followed by Athens. I believe that in the post-pandemic era there will be an increasing demand for more authentic experiences, personalized tailor-made tourism products, a demand for greener sustainable tourism experiences, an increase in FIT tourism and decrease in large groups. The geography of Greece with hundreds of islands and its family-friendly destinations and infrastructure makes it an ideal destination to cater those changing trends.

If a Chinese friend asked you for advice on traveling to Greece in 2022, what destinations or activities would you suggest to them to have a more unique, local, off-the-beaten track experience? I would suggest to my Chinese friend to explore the less known but extremely beautiful Aegean Sea islands like Astypalea, Sifnos and Milos or the small islands close to Athens like Hydra and Spetses. I would also suggest to include on his/her itinerary the Greek Mainland, which features forested mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, rich fauna and flora, and remarkable archaeological sites. For example, there are beautiful traditional villages, amazing hiking routes and adventurous activities in Mt Pelion, the Centaurs’ homeland above the city of Volos.

How have Greek tourism providers adjusted their products to suit how people prefer to travel since COVID? Greek tourism providers have adjusted their operations and products in many ways starting from embracing new health protocols into their businesses and products, creating new products for smaller groups and private experiences, investing in technology to provide touchless services (for example, e-checking in at hotels). Packages with rental cars and hotels are more popular than less intimate forms of transportation, such as group tours.

Before COVID, what was the typical profile of Chinese travelers to Greece? Do you expect this to change significantly when Chinese outbound travel comes back, at least in the short term? The typical profile of Chinese travelers to Greece is divided in two categories. The first and biggest category includes the less experienced first-time travelers that travel in groups totally, are dependent on travel agents, spend 7-8 days and visit popular destinations like Athens, Santorini, Meteora, and Delphi. The second category includes repeaters and high-end experienced travelers that seek more authentic, luxury experiences and travel as FITs or design their own tailor-made itineraries.  In the first period of the post-pandemic era, we expect that the demand will be higher from the second category.

Greece is one of only six European countries so far to recognize Chinese vaccines. How do you think this will impact the future of Chinese tourism to Greece? In a positive way, I hope. The EU and China must strengthen coordination and vaccine cooperation to build a Great Wall against COVID. I believe it’s the only way to achieve a smooth, stable recovery and restoration of tourism activity and travel flows.

What are your favorite travel destinations in China? Are there any destinations or attractions you’ve visited in China that remind you of Greece? That’s hard to answer because I have many destinations that I love in China. If I had to pick I would say Yunnan Province, Guilin and Xinjiang. There is one Chinese destination, Zhangjiajie national park, that reminds me Meteora, a World Heritage Site in North Greece. “Meteora”, which literally means “suspended in the air”, refers to the 24 monasteries built on top of gigantic rocks rising towards the sky in a variety of shapes. Meteora and Zhangjiajie are both breathtaking natural wonders that are definitely worth a visit.

The Greece-China Virtual B2B Travel Roadshow will be held on Dragon Trail’s all-in-one virtual event platform on WeChat mini-program and web from 22-25 November. 45 Greek exhibitors will participate in the online exhibition, 1-on-1 meetings, and presentations for the Chinese travel trade. Check out the exhibition at https://thenextravelmarket.com/greece .

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ATHENS - Greece is ready to welcome back Chinese travelers, after China's COVID-19 reopening, Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"We are ready to greet our Chinese friends, travelers and tourists, in this new touristic season," he said in Athens on Thursday.

In 2011, just 70,373 Chinese tourists visited Greece, according to official data from Athens International Airport

The outbreak of the pandemic put the brakes on an impressive increase in Chinese arrivals in Greece in recent years.

In 2011, just 70,373 Chinese tourists visited Greece, according to official data from Athens International Airport (AIA). However, following the launch of the first direct flight between Athens and Beijing in 2019, this number reached 217,600.

ALSO READ: Retailers back in the black as tourists return

On Dec 22, 2022, a second direct flight was launched by Air China between Athens and Shanghai, which is expected to further boost arrivals.

"For us, China and the Chinese market are very important in terms of tourism, but also culture, and we are very happy to have top-shelf relationships with the Chinese people," Kikilias said.

The return of Chinese travelers to Greece will boost the Greek tourism industry's performance in the wake of the adversities of recent years, he added.

Greece had an exceptional touristic season in 2022, and this trend is likely to continue in 2023, the minister said. An essential part of that equation is the Chinese market, he added.

The Chinese hold a special place in the hearts of Greek people, and play an important role for Greek tourism stakeholders due to their unique characteristics compared to other visitors. They tend to travel off-season, and appreciate culture, Kikilias said.

"They're deeply involved in finding out about our culture and our civilization, since in both countries culture and civilization go many centuries back," he said.

ALSO READ: As tourists return, HK retailers wait for uptick

With tourism accounting for about 25 percent of Greece's gross domestic product (GDP), Greece values Sino-Greek cooperation in the tourism sector highly.

In March 2022, Kikilias and China's Ambassador to Greece Xiao Junzheng signed the Joint Action Program 2022-2024 to strengthen cooperation on tourism in the coming years.

"Being able to connect again gives us bigger opportunities to be able to push forward on our joint actions," Kikilias said.

"We cherish the (Chinese) people and of course we're happy to see joint actions in terms of culture, in terms of sports, in terms of commerce and of course in terms of tourism," he said.

On the occasion of the Chinese Spring Festival, the Greek official sent warm wishes to the Chinese people.

"We are very eager and happy to host them in Greece," he added.

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China, Greece sign deal to boost tourism cooperation

Xinhua | Updated: 2022-03-15 11:01

Greece and China have signed a Joint Action Program aimed at strengthening cooperation on tourism in the coming years.

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias and China's Ambassador to Greece Xiao Junzheng, on behalf of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism, signed the agreement on Monday in Athens.

"We welcome today's political signature of this MOU concerning my field of expertise which is tourism ... and the possibility to strengthen the cooperation," Kikilias told the press after the signing ceremony.

The Joint Action Program 2022-2024 focuses on enhancing Sino-Greek cooperation in tourism sectors including cultural, medical, wellness and wedding tourism.

Culture and people-to-people exchanges, including tourism cooperation, are key areas for enhancing bilateral relations, Xiao said.

"(It is) also a very important step for our two countries to celebrate the 50th anniversary (of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Greece) and to enrich our cooperation in the Year of China-Greece Culture and Tourism (2021-2022)," the ambassador added.

China and Greece both have comparative advantages in tourism, he said, and the signing of the Joint Action Program shows their determination to overcome difficulties and look to the future.

The two countries set an example for the international community to conquer the pandemic, strengthen coordination and nurture economic recovery, Xiao noted.

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Editor's note:  Decision Makers is a global platform for influential leaders to share their insights on events shaping today's world. Georgios Iliopoulos is the Ambassador of Greece to China. This article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily those of CGTN.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Greece and the People's Republic of China. Admittedly, both countries have come a long way since June 1972. Greece has become a member of the European Union and is a pillar of stability in southeastern Europe, whereas China has risen to become the second economic power globally. Regardless of these changes and the transformation our world has been through over these last 50 years, both countries have always appreciated and respected each other. They have enjoyed, especially over the last years, a solid, friendly relationship on the political and institutional level, as it is evident by the numerous agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) that govern our relations, especially after the joint communique, of the establishment of comprehensive strategic partnership in 2006. The excellent relations that China and Greece enjoy are a true reflection of mutual understanding and affinity between two ancient civilizations, aiming to promote global peace, development and cooperation. 

Building on our high-level bilateral cooperation, Greece is open and welcomes new Chinese productive investments in fields where Greek enterprises enjoy a comparative advantage, such as transportation, energy, tourism, infrastructure, green and digital economy. We also wish to further strengthen our economic and trade ties with China, addressing asymmetries and imbalances that persist over the last few years.  

In the maritime sector, our mutually beneficial partnership justifies our confidence in future common projects. The investment of China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) in Piraeus port is evidently a good example of the successful cooperation between Greece and China. With the combined efforts of Greek and Chinese partners, Piraeus has become a strategic hub for East–West shipping ties and a landmark project of our cooperation. The success of this investment is clearly demonstrated by the port's annual turnover in 2021, which reached more than 150 million euros, increased by 16 percent over 2020. Besides Piraeus, we should not forget that over the past 17 years, Greek ship-owners have built more than 1000 vessels in Chinese shipyards, an investment worth over $70 billion, thus considerably contributing to the growth of the local shipbuilding industry and its suppliers. Greece and China play indeed a decisive role in the development of the world maritime trade. Our cooperation and solidarity in the sea goes beyond trade, addressing a wide range of issues, from piracy to humanitarian crises, such as the evacuation of citizens from distress areas.  

The energy sector also provides room for cooperation between Greek and Chinese companies and institutions. Our country is rapidly abandoning fossil fuels in favor of renewable energy and is becoming an energy hub for southeastern Europe, while China is accelerating its drive towards carbon neutrality. Several Chinese companies are already involved in projects in Greece, like China's State Grid Corporation, through its stake in the Greek Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO), or China Gezhouba Group International Engineering Co. Ltd. and Zhejiang Supcon Solar Technology Co. Ltd. for the engineering, procurement and construction of the Minos CSP power plant near Sitia on Crete. While the "green" revolution in Greece is gaining momentum and the country speeds up its process of energy diversification and carbon neutrality, the overhaul goes beyond traditional energy projects and spills over to the digital sector. In this context, the University of West Macedonia in Greece collaborates with Chinese Huawei in creating the first "green data center" in our country, which will replace the old, bulky and high energy consuming servers and units, saving considerable space and energy.  

Unfortunately, COVID-19 has hindered our academic exchanges and Greek students have not yet managed to return to their Chinese universities. Still, our countries' institutions continue exploring ways to cooperate. Recently e.g., the Universities of Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras and Crete have signed a framework agreement with the Southwest University in Chongqing, introducing a master's degree on the comparative approach of Greek and Chinese civilizations. The program will allow graduate students to study both in Greece and China, providing them with the opportunity to gain solid in-depth knowledge of the two civilizations, and will promote scientific research collaborations between our universities, paving the way for broader cooperation in the academic field in the future. Greece supports the development of cooperation programs in education with China and we look forward to welcoming Chinese students to our English-language university education programs. Over 200 foreign language programs for undergraduate, postgraduate and doctorate studies, are expected to be offered soon to foreign students choosing to study in Greek universities.  

Culture has also provided a strong basis for the development of our relations. Looking back, over the last few years, notable events such as the Cultural Year of Greece in China in 2008, the China-Greece Cultural Exchanges and Cultural Industry Cooperation Year 2017 have provided us with plenty opportunities to host significant and memorable cultural events, bringing closer together our peoples and countries. Even over the last couple of years, and in spite of the obstacles set by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing Greece-China Year of Culture and Tourism, and, of course, the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, are celebrated successfully in collaboration with the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Greece as a major touristic destination is looking forward to welcoming once again, the Chinese tourists who wish to explore the riches of both a historical and modern country.  

Taking into consideration our successful partnership over the last 50 years, I am confident that our two countries, China and Greece, two ancient civilizations and current promoters of multilateralism and enhanced international cooperation, will continue to deepen and intensify their relations for the interest of our peoples.   

In this context, I would like to wish to our countries and our peoples a happy 50th anniversary of the Greece-P.R. China diplomatic relations, and a prosperous future for our countries' partnership.

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China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism concludes with grandeur

The closing ceremony, marked by cultural unity, strengthened Sino-Greek ties, highlighting shared values and future cooperation possibilities.

The closing ceremony of the China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism was successfully held at the Athens Conservatory Amphitheater , featuring a concert by the Hong Kong String Orchestra . The event was attended by distinguished speakers including the Chinese Ambassador to Greece, Xiao Junzheng , Greece’s Secretary General for Tourism Policy and Development, Myron Flouris , Secretary General for Reception of Asylum Seekers, Dimitrios Iatridis , and the Deputy Director of the Hong Kong Office for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Raistlin Lau . Approximately 500 individuals from political, shipping, cultural, and other sectors of both countries were in attendance.

In his speech, Ambassador Xiao Junzheng highlighted that the Year of Culture and Tourism between China and Greece was a realization of the joint decision made in 2019 by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis . Over the past two years, a series of captivating activities centered on the Beijing Winter Olympics, cultural dialogues, and educational and cultural exchanges were organized. During the recent visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to China, the Greek leaders once again expressed their mutual desire to promote cultural exchanges and mutual learning between our cultures.  The successful organization of the China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism might be a new starting point to continuously strengthen exchanges, mutual trust, friendship, and the development of Sino-Greek relations in our societies.

On behalf of the Greek government, Secretary-General Myron Flouris stated that cultural and tourism exchanges and our cooperation can contribute to a better acquaintance with the culture and civilization of both countries, promoting mutual understanding between our nations. Despite the great distances separating China and Greece, they are close in heart and mind. We are willing to utilize the closing ceremony of the China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism as a new starting point and write a new chapter in cultural exchanges and bilateral cooperation. He then briefly presented Greece’s tourism vision aimed at attracting more Chinese tourists.

Deputy Director Raistlin Lau noted that the China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism managed to further intensify contacts and exchanges within the cooperation of the “One Belt, One Road” Initiative. The Hong Kong String Orchestra is an important representative of Hong Kong’s culture and art. It performs and presents Western pieces worldwide, incorporating traditional Chinese and specifically Hong Kong sounds, narrating stories from these places, and strengthening the bonds between people.

The closing ceremony concert marked the first stop of the Hong Kong String Orchestra’s European tour for 2023. Renowned Chinese violinist Yao Zhue and the orchestra’s musicians captivated the audience with their stunning and passionate performances. The Orchestra also performed the well-known Greek piece “Mia Poli Magiki” (A Magical City) and the famous Chinese piece “I Love You, China”. Through their melodies, senses, and emotions, they built a bridge of friendship to promote bilateral cultural exchanges and crowned the China-Greece Year of Culture and Tourism with success.

Vicky Karantzavelou

Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.

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Discovering Greece with a Chinese Travel Agency

Greece is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, including China. However, planning a trip to Greece can be a daunting task, especially for Chinese travelers who may not be familiar with the language and customs. This is where a Chinese travel agency can help.

A Chinese travel agency in Greece can provide valuable assistance to Chinese travelers in planning their trip. They can help with everything from booking flights and hotels, to planning an itinerary that includes all the must-see sights and experiences. They can also provide valuable advice on local customs and etiquette, making sure that Chinese travelers are prepared for their trip.

One of the most well-known Chinese travel agencies in Greece is China Tour. They are a Chinese-owned travel agency that specializes in providing travel services for Chinese travelers in Greece. They offer a wide range of travel services, including tours, flights, and hotels. They also have a team of experienced and knowledgeable guides who can provide valuable insights into Greek culture and history.

Another Chinese travel agency in Greece is China Friendly Travel. They are a Chinese-owned travel agency that specializes in providing travel services for Chinese travelers in Greece. They offer a wide range of travel services, including tours, flights, and hotels. They also have a team of experienced and knowledgeable guides who can provide valuable insights into Greek culture and history.

When choosing a Chinese travel agency for a trip to Greece, it is important to select one that is reputable and has a proven track record of successful trips. Research the agency and read reviews from previous Chinese clients to ensure that they have a good reputation.

In summary, a Chinese travel agency in Greece can provide valuable assistance to Chinese travelers in planning their trip. They can help with everything from booking flights and hotels, to planning an itinerary that includes all the must-see sights and experiences. China Tour and China Friendly Travel are two of the most well-known Chinese travel agencies in Greece, which offers a wide range of travel services and have a team of experienced and knowledgeable guides who can provide valuable insights into Greek culture and history. By choosing a reputable Chinese travel agency, Chinese travelers can ensure that their trip to Greece is an enjoyable and memorable experience.

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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Greece in Americans’ top five

Major scope for further growth of greek tourism from markets on other continents.

Overseas markets, such as the US, Australia, China, Japan, Korea and Canada, from where the air journey to Greece takes more than 10 hours, offer scope for significant further development of Greek tourism.

Most of the travelers from those markets belong to the upper income classes and usually their daily expenditure per capita is significantly higher than that of other nationalities, such as those from the main European markets, namely Germany, France, Italy and also the United Kingdom, which are the backbone of Greek tourism.

This is according to the Long-Haul Travel Barometer (LHTB), the latest survey by the European Travel Commission and Eurail BV on a broad sample of respondents in those overseas markets about their travel intentions in 2024.

The same data rank Greece fifth along with Austria in the preferences of Americans as well as Australians who intend to travel to Europe this year, sixth in the preferences of Canadians, seventh for Brazilians and South Koreans, ninth in the preferences of the Japanese and 10th of the Chinese.

These are markets that cumulatively have a population multiple times that of Europe and can potentially lead to a new era of growth and higher revenues for Greek tourism, economists comment. Across all markets, 38% of respondents are willing to spend more than 200 euros per day, more than double the average per capita daily spent in Greece in 2023.

Security, quality of accommodation infrastructure and price competitiveness are the three “keys” for the final choice of destination, according to the survey. Of the nationals from the above seven key overseas markets wishing to travel abroad in 2024, 75% plan to visit Europe, with the remaining 25% considering other regions. Greece is consistently in the top 10 choices and in some cases higher.

Those who will avoid traveling to Europe this year cite as the main reasons the war in Ukraine, the tension in the Middle East, previous visits to continent, the high costs of air travel and the limited time they have for vacations.

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News & features, winter center, news / weather news, acropolis apocalypse: skies turn orange, red over greece, libya.

The sky turned hues of red and orange in Libya and Greece Tuesday evening as a massive dust storm dimmed the sun.

By Jesse Ferrell , AccuWeather meteorologist and senior weather editor

Published Apr 23, 2024 12:35 PM PDT | Updated Apr 24, 2024 9:53 AM PDT

A red haze enveloped Derna in eastern Libya on Tuesday, April 23, as a dust storm moved through the region.

A potent weather system in Europe pulled Saharan dust up from the desert into Libya and Greece late Tuesday, turning skies red and orange. Famous spots in Athens, like the Acropolis, were shrouded in orange and red hues. A local weather researcher said it was the worst dust storm in the area since 2018 .

In Benghazi and Derna, cities in northern Libya, Africa, on the Mediterranean Sea, videos showed scenes of apocalyptic orange and red skies, buildings and trees. The dust storm was accompanied by winds as high as 45 mph (70 km/h) according to The Libya Observer. On satellite, dust could be seen over a wide part of Libya's northern coast, stretching southward into the desert and northward over the Mediterranean Sea.

AccuWeather AQI (Air Quality) readings were in the Unhealthy to Dangerous levels in much of northern Libya and Egypt on the evening of Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

AccuWeather's Air Quality readings for Derna, Libya , were still in the unhealthy range at 9 p.m. Tuesday local time -- 128 AQI -- a number at which healthy individuals may experience difficulty breathing and throat irritation with prolonged exposure. That number was forecast to fall slowly to 75 AQI by Wednesday evening.

Air quality was also reaching unhealthy levels in parts of Greece due to dust blowing northward over the Mediterranean Sea.

A satellite animation shows clouds (white and gray) and dust (yellow) moving over the city of Derna, which experienced a heavy dust storm. (NOAA/CIRA)

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Athens and China Further Develop Relations in Tourism and Culture

China Intercontinental Communication Center (CICC) Deputy Director Cui Binzhen and Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA) CEO Ioannis Georgizas. Photo source: Athens Municipality

The Municipality of Athens and China agreed this week to work together to strengthen ties through the joint promotion of tourism and culture.

In this direction, Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA) CEO Ioannis Georgizas and China Intercontinental Communication Center (CICC) Deputy Director Cui Binzhen signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) which foresees join initiatives in culture , tourism, film and television, as well as participation in international film and culture events.

Additionally, the This is Athens-Convention & Visitors Bureauu (ACVB) also discussed the possibility of cooperating with China to promote conference tourism in the Greek capital.

Athenian and Chinese officials during their meeting in Athens.

“The City of Athens warmly supports this initiative of cultural exchange between Greece and China. Our peoples have always shown their mutual appreciation and respect, which is why any cooperation between Greece and China has solid foundations to succeed”, Georgizas stressed.

On his part, Binzhen said the focus will be on cinema and television, books, as well as cultural exchange through international collaborations. He went on to invite a delegation for the ADDMA to participate in the Beijing culture fair in September.

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I visited fake Greek holiday island…4,400 miles away in CHINA – they’ve copied every detail & even weather is the same

• Aliki Kraterou , Senior Foreign News Reporter
• Published : 2:31 ET, Apr 21 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

A TIKTOKER has revealed how she visited the most iconic Greek island 4,400 miles away - in China.

Yasmin von Roon, 27, was left stunned when she discovered the resort of Dali’s Ideal State - an exact replica of Instagram-favourite Santorini.

Sprawling across 3700 acres on the side of the Cangshan mountain range, the popular resort oversees the lake Erhai - almost like the picturesque Oia.

The resort - dubbed "fake Santorini" - has copied the island's iconic whitewashed cobblestone alleyways and blue windows.

The Dali boasts clear skies and a laid-back vibe while visitors can enjoy an icy frappe in the sun - just like in Greece.

It might be missing the Aegean, the volcano and the world-known Santorini sunset but otherwise, the Chinese version bears great resemblance to the original one.

The sunny Greek island is a particularly popular wedding destination for Chinese couples - which could be why nearly £1billion was spent to recreate its copy in the Yunnan province.

Italian-German content creator Yasmin von Roon, 27, stumbled upon the unique spot while solo travelling.

The content creator told The Sun she first saw photos of the area circulating on Chinese social media.

She said: "Being nearby the beautiful Dali old town, I couldn't resist seeing it with my own eyes!"

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The Dali has become a popular tourist resort - especially for those who cannot afford the pricey authentic- and has various hotels, shops and restaurants that bear a resemblance to the Greek ones.

The TikToker who's studying International Affairs and Global Governance at Zhejiang University in China reckons that while the replica is quite convincing nothing could be compared to the original.

She added: "Having visited Greece several times, including Santorini, I can appreciate the allure of the Chinese replica.

"It's situated in one of China's most picturesque locations, and the ambience, complete with sipping frappés, exudes a laid-back vibe reminiscent of Greece.

"There were couple doing their wedding pictures there, just like in the authentic Santorini.

"While the setting is stunning, the essence of Greece is irreplaceable.

"While the replica showcases the visual aspects well, such as the architecture and coastal setting, the cultural and historical depth of the original is unmatched."

She said she sees Dali as a "gesture of admiration and an opportunity for those who cannot travel abroad to experience a taste of Greece."

Chines media described Dali as a "resort town features beautiful landscapes and Santorini-style buildings, attracting many couples to take wedding photos."

China's copies of Western towns

THE pretty Greek island is not the only copy of a Western location China has.

• Sky City or Tianducheng, has been designed to look like Paris - and it's complete with its own Eifel Tower.
• Overseas Chinese Town East (OCT) is built near a manmade lake and it has been modelled after Interlaken in Switzerland.
• The Chinese Florence is called Tianjin and has fountains, canals, and mosaics - just like the Italian original.
• A perfect copy of London's iconic Tower Bridge exists in China's Suzhou
• Guangdong boasts wooden European-style houses and it's inspired by Hallstatt, Austria
• A Chinese version of Manhattan, Tianjin has its own Rockefeller Centre and Twin Towers
• Thames Town is designed based on the area around the Thames and has Victorian terraces and red phone booths
• Ghost town Pudong is modelled after Amsterdam
• The port city of Dalian is a perfect replica of Venice - and even has goldoliers dressed in Venetian costumes
• Leafy Luodian New Town is inspired by Sweden’s LakeMälaren