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The Travel Convention in Greece heard an impassioned plea for the benefits of tourism to extend to all and for the Greek tourism sector to make “a fresh start” in its final session on Wednesday.
Abta chairman Noel Josephides drew the Convention to a close by saying: “This country relies on tourism.
“All governments seem to think tourism happens by itself. The challenge facing Greece us to make tourism the centre of its economy.”
Josephides argued: “The ministry of tourism should be all powerful. [But] to my knowledge no country has achieved this.
“It is not all about numbers, it’s about quality. But quality does not only mean luxury.”
He said: “Tourism should be de-politicised and put in the hands of those who care. Most important, the benefits need to go to all.
“Greeks recently voted for a fresh start. Let us hope they make sure this applies to tourism as well.”
Earlier, Josephides told the Convention in Costa Navarino, in the Peloponnese: “It’s not uncommon to doubt the ability of Greeks to deliver anything.
“But you were transported here by one of the best airlines you have never heard of [Aegean Airlines] and Costa Navarino provides an example of how life in Greece can move forward.”