WTM London: Greece aspires to lead on sustainable tourism

Speaking to TTG at WTM London, Kikilias highlighted a new collaboration with Volkswagen to make the island of Astypalea the country’s first carbon-free destination by transitioning to electric vehicles and renewable power.

Soufli, Western Samos and Alonissos, meanwhile, have been nominated for the UNWTO’s "Best Tourism Villages" initiative, which looks to safeguard communities by promoting and preserving local traditions and cultural heritage.

Kikilias added Greece’s tourism sector had shown “remarkable resilience” over the past 18 months, with a “full recovery” expected next year. “Our original goal in 2021 was to reach 50% of the 2019 record-high figures, which we have already surpassed,” he said.

Other focuses heading into 2022 include introducing visitors to lesser-known destinations and establishing the country as a year-round destination.