The shift of German tourists to new destinations with authentic experiences is reflected in the recent list of the German magazine AD with Greek islands that offer unique moments.
«With more than 200 inhabited islands in the Aegean and Ionian Sea, choices abound» says the article of the leading international magazine for architecture and quality of life, which then singles out the 21 most valuable «diamonds» for this summer after extensive research.
Syros for cultural visits, Naxos for activities and endless sandy beaches and Kefalonia for relaxing family holidays are the top three «surprises» of AD's list for Germans looking for something different on their holidays. The top ten are completed by Sifnos for foodies, Hydra for artistic escapes, Milos for photographic tours, Serifos with its enchanting nature, Zakynthos for holidays with children, Paxos for moments of isolation and Lefkada for windsurfing enthusiasts. Next come Ithaca for couples in love, the authentic Folegandros, Tinos for traditions, Patmos with its mystical atmosphere, Symi for its picturesque little harbours, Astypalaia for a different way of life, Amorgos with its shades of blue, Skiathos for «dolce vita», peaceful Aegina, Andros for walkers and relaxing Antiparos.
Representatives of destinations included in the list tell APE about the dynamics of this summer:
«Naxos and the Small Cyclades are a top choice for travellers this summer. Naxos has already broken a decade's record this year in terms of ferry arrivals in June and there is more to come. Occupancy rates for August on all our islands will reach almost absolute levels with forecasts for September being very encouraging,“ said the Deputy Mayor of Tourism of the Municipality of Naxos and Small Cyclades, Vangelis Katsaras.
«Astypalaea is evolving into a modern model destination of sustainability and authenticity. In collaboration with Volkswagen and the Greek government, the pioneering programme “Astypalaea: Green and Sustainable Island” is constantly being enriched, with the result that the destination is gaining in popularity in Germany and around the world. At the same time, the Municipality is also targeting new markets such as Australia, Spain and America, which can be seen from the destination's increased visitor numbers. August will be a month where occupancy in many periods will range between 98% and 99% and September shows very promising prospects,» added Astypalaia Mayor Nikos Komeneas.
«Patmos claims a place in the hearts of visitors from Greece and abroad. Occupancy in August is expected to exceed 90%, while September also shows that the season will expand. Along with international recognition and excellent tourism services, a systematic effort is underway for new infrastructure projects on many levels that will significantly improve the tourism “product” in the coming years. The creation of a new docking pier for cruises, electromobility, the upgrading and maintenance of the Chora and Unesco monument and cutting-edge technology in water supply networks to save natural resources will contribute significantly to extroversion and sustainability» said the Mayor of Patmos, Lefteris Pentes.
Mr. Halkiadakis
