Despite the positive performance recorded at Mykonos Airport, local tourism professionals continue to express strong concerns about the course of this year’s tourism season. Data from Fraport show an 8.4% increase in passenger traffic during the five-month period from January to May, with international arrivals rising by 18.5%. However, these figures do not appear to be reflected to the same extent in activity across the local market.
According to representatives of the island’s tourism sector, Mykonos’ reputation as an expensive destination continues to influence the choices of many travellers. At a time when financial pressures are leading more visitors to seek destinations offering better value for money, many are shortening their stays or opting for alternative destinations.
At the same time, market representatives note that part of the increase in passenger traffic relates to travellers using Mykonos as a gateway to the Cyclades, before continuing their journeys to other, more affordable and less crowded destinations.
For local businesses, therefore, the key issue is not simply the increase in arrivals, but the actual length of visitors’ stays on the island, the duration of their holidays, and above all the level of tourism spending they contribute to the local economy.
This is why, despite the positive airport figures, concerns within the Mykonos tourism market remain strong.
Content Manager: Ambassador Mykonos Promo Kostas Skagias