KOS WILL host the 2000 ABTA Convention after squeezing out Lisbon.
The ABTA board voted narrowly in favour of the Greek island which will stage the event between October 27-30. The key factor behind the decision was ABTA’s preference for resort locations. Virtually all the hotels are within walking distance of the island’s new 2,200-capacity convention centre while more than 2,000 airline seats on direct flights to Kos have already been earmarked.
The Greeks have also agreed to reduce their prices – one of the original stumbling blocks to the bid.
Chief executive Ian Reynolds said: “Both bids were excellent and the board would be happy to hold the convention in Portugal the following year, whether in the Algarve or in Lisbon.”
Adisappointed Portuguese Tourist Board UK director Mario Ferreira said: “It is a great pity ABTA will not have the opportunity to experience what Lisbon has to offer.”
The Convention’s popular golf tournament will be held on the neighbouring island of Rhodes.