How Have Celebrities Potentially Saved Greek Tourism?
This article looks at celebrities who have recently been spotted enjoying holidays in Greece, leading to a surge in last minute and late bookings for the summer season and giving added impetus to the struggling country.
Temple of Aphaia Aegina, Greece by Dennis Jarvis
Less Familiar Faces First
Although there has been a number of globally popular celebrities spotted in Greece recently, perhaps the most telling visitors have been less-well known yet controversial figures. Despite the German Government taking a hard line when it comes to the austerity measures it says Greece needs to put in place, several prominent German politicians have been seen holidaying in the country. Many of these politicians are, however, in opposition to the Government, so it is debatable whether they actually enjoy the country or are just simply playing the political game, as is so often the case.
Regardless of the motivations, they have attributed to a huge increase in bookings from German tourists, especially important as there had been many cancellations which threatened to ruin the country’s tourist industry altogether.
More Famous People
If Greece needed any sort of indirect endorsement or help in getting people to visit the country, then it came in the shape of the many A-list superstars who have been spotted in the country recently. The list reads like a red carpet appearance list at an Oscars ceremony. Robert de Niro, John Travolta, Tom Hanks, Ethan Hawke, Brad Pitt, and Angelina Jolie have all been spotted either around Athens or splashing in the clear blue seas around one of the beautiful islands of Greece.
Of course, as with many things in life, if people see a celebrity doing it then they want some for themselves. Bookings in Greece have recovered to the point where many in the country are optimistic that visitor numbers will reach 16million by the end of the year. Even as recently as last month, when economic trouble and an exit from the Euro were reported to be on the horizon, the Greek Tourism Minister would not have projected those numbers in his wildest dreams. Amazing what a sprinkling of stardust can do, isn’t it?
Other Boosts
The lower prices being offered for stays in Greek hotels in recent months has also seen tourism from other areas increase rapidly in recent months. Greece has quickly become a “go to” destination for many eastern European citizens, with citizens from Russia and even neighbour and fierce tourism rival Turkey travelling to Greece for a holiday this summer. This in itself is almost unheard of, yet has proven an extremely welcome fillip to an industry that was on its knees a matter of weeks ago.
Touristorama provide a wealth of travel information for those wishing to visit Greece or book Greece hotels.
Category: Greece, Travel Tips
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