In recent months, there has been an increasing number of public statements - by professionals and institutions - expressing concern about the so-called «quality» of tourists on Greek islands and this year's decrease in per capita spending (without any official figures, of course). It is true that in some areas of tourist interest, professionals are noticing variations in the behaviour and spending of visitors. But instead of alarmism, is it time to take a fresh look at reality?;
International tourism demand has changed. Travellers now emphasise experience, authenticity, quality of environment and value for money. It's not that tourists «have less money» - they are just more selective. Destinations that invest in infrastructure, service and diversification of their tourism product are the ones that see an increase in both quality attributes and economic return per visitor.
On the contrary, destinations that rest on increased accessibility or their «reputation», without reviewing the services they offer, may see a decrease in tourist expenditure and an increase in tourist saturation.
The solution, then, is not to be complacent. The solution is to invest in quality. That means:
- Staff training and quality service at all stages of the experience.
- Promotion of cultural and natural heritage with modern practices.
- Digital maturity, easy access to information and services.
- Development of alternative forms of tourism focusing on the comparative advantages of each destination (maritime, gastronomic, wine tourism, etc.)
- Strengthening sustainability, something that is increasingly appreciated by visitors.
Per capita spending is not increased by wishful thinking or nostalgia for the «good old days». It increases when the island (or any destination) becomes consciously attractive to those who are willing to spend more - not necessarily because they are rich, but because they see value.
So let's stop focusing on «what's wrong with others» and ask ourselves: What can we do better? Tourism is a living organism. It does not need fatalism, but needs constant care, adaptation and evolution.
The Greek islands have all the tools to become leaders in quality, not only in quantity. The question is whether we are willing to work together to achieve this.
Anastasios Konstantaros
Marine Tourism Development Consultant
(Managing Director of BoatsAdvisor - Hub&Events and Rhodian Tourism Promotion Agency)
