Greece

Hospitality

Mandarin Oriental, Athens: A new landmark on the Athenian coastline

Kristin Mariano May 26, 2023

 Mandarin Oriental is pleased to announce the development of a new hotel and accompanying residences in Athens. Mandarin Oriental, Athens will be located on the city's shoreline and just a…

Global

Top five most popular Greek Islands for 2023

Kanchan Nath Apr 5, 2023

For anyone who loves natural beauty, rich history, fascinating culture, warm hospitality and delicious food, the Greek islands are an ideal destination to visit any time of the year.

Hotels

Dusit Suites Athens opens in Greece with 36 keys

Kanchan Nath Apr 4, 2023

Dusit Hotels and Resorts, under Dusit International, one of Thailand’s hotel and property development companies, has continued its global expansion with the opening of Dusit Suites Athens –…

Weddings & Honeymoon

The Dunes, opens at Carpe Diem Santorini  

Kanchan Nath Mar 24, 2023

Say ‘I do’ at Carpe Diem Santorini’s NEW carbon-negative wedding venue, The Dunes. Perched on the lofty hills of the charming town of Pyrgos, with sigh-worthy 270-degree views so seductive…

Hotels

Ella Resorts to open on 20 April 2023

Kanchan Nath Mar 10, 2023

Moments away from the mediaeval city of Rhodes, 20 kms away from the international airport, both Ella Resorts properties, Helea Family Beach Resort and Elissa Lifestyle Resort, celebrate the…

Eturbo News

Athens – Munich direct flights have started

Harry Johnson Nov 2, 2022 0

SKY express launched the Athens-Munich direct connection on Thursday, October 27, offering passengers a new travel proposal, five days a week on the most competitive terms. Representatives…

Airlines and Aviation

Gulf Air celebrates 40 years of operations to Athens

Kanchan Nath Oct 18, 2022

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain recently celebrated 40 years of direct operations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Hellenic Republic, as Athens International…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Greece launches a new sustainability hub

Kristin Mariano Oct 12, 2022

The Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) has unveiled a new sustainability hub, shining a light on the incredible sustainability initiatives across the country. The destination is…

Eturbo News

Costa Cruises updates COVID-19 health protocols

Harry Johnson Sep 23, 2022 0

Costa Cruises has updated its COVID-19 health protocols and procedures, including requirements for vaccinations and pre-cruise testing. The changes will go into effect for cruises departing…

Eturbo News

Thailand and Greece travel agenda

Linda Hohnholz, eTN editor Sep 14, 2022

Thailand and Greece (the Hellenic Republic) are in talks to rebuild and further grow mutual tourism between the two countries. Thailand and Greece travel agenda

Azamara Starts Summer With Mediterranean Cruises

Dmytro Makarov May 27, 2022

Azamara Starts Summer With Mediterranean Cruises - With Azamara Journey returning to sail today, the fleet’s four ships are all sailing the high seas Azamara, the upmarket cruise line and…

Hotels

InterContinental brand to debut in Crete

Kristin Mariano May 26, 2022

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced the signing of InterContinental Resort Crete – marking the luxury brand’s debut on the Greek island.

Quarantine Free Travel

Greece removes all COVID-19 entry rules

Megha Paul May 3, 2022

All travellers can now enter Greece without having to provide COVID-19 proof – a vaccination, recovery, or test certificate – upon their arrival

Eturbo News

The Best Student-Friendly Countries to Visit

editor Apr 29, 2022

The Best Student-Friendly Countries to Visit - Modern students have all opportunities today to quench their wanderlust. Besides, many of them can easily afford it, and more and more young…

Tourism

Greece lifts COVID restrictions for summer travellers

Megha Paul Apr 15, 2022

Greece said that pandemic restrictions such as mask-wearing indoors and COVID certificates will be lifted throughout the summer tourism period and authorities will consider reinstating them…

Cruise

Norwegian’s Meet the Winemaker set to debut in Europe

Megha Paul Mar 7, 2022

The 2022 season of the Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) Meet the Winemaker series is back by popular demand, with an exciting line-up scheduled for its sixth year

Reopening updates

Greece to open tourist season on 1 March

Megha Paul Feb 21, 2022

Starting from next month, Greece will officially open its doors to international tourists, as the Minister of Tourism, Vassilis Kikilias, has said that the Hellenic Republic’s tourist season…

Vaccination Updates

Greece extends entry rules for international travellers until 24 January

Megha Paul Jan 11, 2022

Greek authorities have decided to extend their entry rules imposed against all travellers for another two weeks and this was announced by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Greece

Tourism

Passenger traffic in Greece picks up 75% in November

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2021

The passenger traffic in Greece has increased by 344.2 per cent, in addition to international arrivals, which have surged by 524.7 per cent in November 2021 compared to the corresponding…

Greece lifts travel restrictions for Indian travellers

Megha Paul Dec 10, 2021

Limited categories of visitors are now allowed to enter Greece, including citizens of the EU & Schengen Area countries as well as residents of a limited number of third countries,…

Oman and Greece sign visa waiver deal

Megha Paul Oct 22, 2021

Oman and Greece have signed an agreement on mutual visa waiver for holders of diplomatic, special and service passports between the Sultanate and Greece

Tourism

European tourism leaders meet in Athens to restart travel

Megha Paul Jun 4, 2021

European members of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have met in Athens to advance the safe and sustainable restart of tourism across the region

Greece gears up to receive vaccinated and COVID-negative tourists from May

Megha Paul Mar 11, 2021

People who are vaccinated against COVID-19, have antibodies or test negative can travel to Greece this summer

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi takes off for Greek land

Megha Paul Dec 31, 2020

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the newest national airline of the United Arab Emirates, confirmed that Athens will be its inaugural destination, with flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport…

Greece extends travel restrictions amid COVID-19

Megha Paul Dec 2, 2020

Greece has extended its restrictions on domestic and international travellers, the Civil Aviation Authority of Greece has announced

Tourism

12 quarantine-free destinations where Brits can travel to

Kristin Mariano Nov 19, 2020

As Brits are eagerly waiting for the end of the second lockdown on December 2, they are desperate for some winter sun. However, mandatory quarantine deterred travel planning.

Intrepid Travel runs first tour in over four months

Megha Paul Aug 10, 2020

The trip is part of the newly launched product range called Intrepid Retreats

Israel to reopen in August but only to these travellers

Kristin Mariano Jun 18, 2020

Israel is preparing to welcome back tourists arriving from Greece on August 1.

OTAs & Tour Operators

10 international destinations in Brits’ wish list

Kristin Mariano Jun 8, 2020

Booking.com shares the top destinations and properties on Brits’ minds as they wait for when the time is right to travel again.

10 destinations where Brits want to go post lockdown

Kristin Mariano May 7, 2020

Coronavirus may have halted the nation’s short-term travel plans, but it hasn’t stopped British holidaymakers dreaming of the destinations they’ll visit as soon as the lockdown is lifted.

Ultima set to open first beachside retreat in Corfu

Megha Paul Apr 8, 2020

Ultima Collection, the luxury operator with hotels, residences and spas across the most sought-after destinations in Europe, will expand their portfolio with the addition of a new…

Gennadi Grand Resort welcomes new GM

Megha Paul Mar 25, 2020

Gennadi Grand Resort, member of the Lindos Hotel Group, has announced the appointment of Ipapanti Aivalioti as its new general manager. Aivalioti brings over 25 years of experience in…

Luxury Travel

Top 5 luxury family holiday destinations for 2020

Kristin Mariano Mar 14, 2020

The Worldwide Travel Report also revealed a 10% rise in family bookings for 2020, and an 8% rise in family bookings which include three generations of a family travelling together.

Nana Golden Beach, Crete to open doors on 1 May

Megha Paul Mar 12, 2020

Previously known as Nana Beach Hotel, the renovated and rechristened Nana Golden Beach will offer guests an elevated luxury all-inclusive offering as it opens doors on 1 May. Located on…

Jet2 announces summer 21 programme from Leeds Bradford Airport

Megha Paul Mar 9, 2020

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays has launched summer 21 programme from Leeds Bradford Airport which includes three new and exclusive destinations - Santorini, Skiathos and Lisbon. More than two…

Elounda Peninsula, Crete announces first phase of reconstruction post USD 7.80 million investment

Megha Paul Mar 5, 2020

Elounda SA Hotels & Resorts, Crete, has just announced the first phase of the reconstruction of Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel which is set to complete for April 2020 - reopening…

Consumer

Greece welcomes UNWTO support for sustainable tourism growth

Megha Paul Feb 19, 2020

Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) paid a high-level visit to Greece to meet with the Prime Minister and minister of tourism and offer…

Jet2holidays expands Mykonos portfolio with new hotels

Megha Paul Jan 29, 2020

Jet2holidays has expanded its presence in Mykonos for summer 2020, by adding new properties to its portfolio of hotels just weeks after announcing its operation to the island. It takes…

Going outdoors: MarBella Collection Adventure Club on the anvil

Megha Paul Jan 23, 2020

The MarBella Collection is partnering with London’s prestigious outdoor education provider The Exploration Society to create the MarBella Collection Adventure Club. Launching in summer…

Qatar Airways to unveil Dubrovnik route in May

Megha Paul Jan 15, 2020

Qatar Airways has confirmed it will launch flights to Dubrovnik, Croatia, on 18 May 2020. The national carrier for Qatar will also begin seasonal flights to Santorini, Greece, in the…

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays expand Greek offering

Megha Paul Jan 9, 2020

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays has demonstrated its commitment to Greece by announcing a hugely expanded summer 20 programme, with over 220 peak weekly flights and 18 new routes on sale.…

Aegean Airlines enters Croatian Airlines bidding

Megha Paul Jan 2, 2020

Aegean Airlines has launched a bid to acquire Croatian Airlines, submitting a non-binding bid. In a statement, the Greek carrier confirmed: “Aegean has participated in the non-binding…

Features

Where are Brits flying to this Christmas?

Kristin Mariano Dec 23, 2019

As Christmas is just a few days away, people are packing their bags gearing for the holidays. Peer-to-peer travel money provider WeSwap has commissioned research from its 500,000-strong…

Harry’s Game: An in-depth interview with the Greek Minister of Tourism

Alastair Newport Dec 17, 2019

Following a busy and eventful WTM  in London a few weeks ago, TD had the opportunity to catch up with Greece’s Minister of Tourism, Harry Theoharis, to discuss over-tourism, market…

By the Way

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines breaks record crossing historic Corinth Canal

Tian Tolentino Oct 14, 2019

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Braemar has broken the record to become the largest ship ever to traverse the 6.4-kilometre-long Corinth Canal in Greece. 

7 most travel-friendly cities in Europe

Kristin Mariano Sep 19, 2019

Airport transfers company Taxi2Airport.com has investigated the most travel friendly cities in Europe.

eRevMax partners with Greek booking engine expert BookOnlineNow

Megha Paul Sep 10, 2019

eRevMax has completed a two-way integration with Greece-based internet booking engine BookOnlineNow. Hotels using eRevMax connectivity solutions can leverage this interface to make…

10 most Insta-worthy wedding locations

Kristin Mariano Aug 13, 2019

Your wedding is once-in-a-lifetime and must be extra special. The food, ceremony, and location must be perfect.

Features

Hot hotel openings: Santorini’s 5-star resort on a volcanic island and more

Tian Tolentino Aug 2, 2019

In this week’s roundup, we’re looking at Santorini’s latest beachfront resort, a new Art Deco hotel in Miami, a historic hotel revival and more.

Air

airBaltic extends operating season of flights to Athens and Reykjavik

Megha Paul Jul 30, 2019

Latvian airline airBaltic has announced the extension of the operating season of its flights from Riga to Athens, Greece and Reykjavik, Iceland. Flights to Reykjavik will be operated…

Hospitality

Moxy makes its debut in Greece

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2019

Moxy Hotels, Marriott International’s experiential hotel brand, has made its exciting entrance into Greece, opening the doors to Moxy Patra Marina. The third-largest city in the country,…

Tourism

10 Greek islands that are becoming popular

Kristin Mariano Jul 19, 2019

Move over Mykonos and Santorini, Kythira and Samos are in! New research reveals that interest in Greece’s lesser-known islands is growing.

Air

Ryanair launches flights in two new Greek airports

Megha Paul Jul 3, 2019

Ryanair celebrated the opening of its two new Greek airports as the first flights on its Preveza-Aktion service to Budapest and Kavala service to Poznan took off. These two new routes…

Tourism

EBRD supports sustainable tourism in Greece, unveils new programme

Megha Paul Jun 13, 2019

In a move to boost sustainable tourism in Greece, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is now teaming up with the authorities in Greece to roll out a programme in…

Air

Oman Air launches new route to Athens

Megha Paul Jun 3, 2019

The national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, Oman Air, has commenced its new daily direct service between Greece and Oman, with the first flight departing Muscat International Airport…

Travel Agents

5 destinations rising in popularity among Brits

Kristin Mariano Apr 17, 2019

London Stansted Airport reveals Athens and Vienna have risen in popularity over the last five years among British passengers.

OTAs & Tour Operators

“Provocative and cheeky”: Olympic Holidays launches turn of year campaign

Tian Tolentino Jan 1, 2019

Olympic Holidays, a UK-based tour operator to Greece and Cyprus, has announced details of its new multiplatform #WelcomeToOurIslands campaign.

Hotels

Go green in Greece: Sani Resort’s sustainable ways

MILI SEMLANI Semlani Oct 25, 2018

Sani Resort, one of Greece’s luxury hotels, has adhered to the current increase in sustainable travel and strives to reduce its environmental footprint with a set of initiatives which are…

Global

Cor fly me: Ryanair connects Liverpool to Corfu for Summer 2019

Alastair Newport Oct 12, 2018

Ryanair has announced passengers flying from the North West of England will be able to experience more bang for their buck with cheaper fares and, what the airline calls, “Always Getting…

Air

Oman Air jets in to Athens for Summer 2019

Alastair Newport Sep 20, 2018

Oman Air has announced details of the latest addition to its schedule of global network this week, with the introduction of a new daily flight to and from Athens, set to fly as of June 2019.

Hospitality

Gennadi Grand Resort: An eco-friendly paradise opens in Rhodes Islands

Tian Tolentino Jul 10, 2018

Part of Lindos Hotel Group, Gennadi Grand Resort has opened its doors to luxury travellers in Rhodes Island, the largest of the Greek Islands and the island group’s historic capital.

UK

Gimme Gimme Gimme a weekly summer service to Skiathos

Alastair Newport Jul 6, 2018

Southampton Airport launches first direct flight to Greece flanked by ABBA tribute act.

UK

Flylolo announces new Southampton – Skiathos service

Alastair Newport Jun 19, 2018

Flylolo has now announced a new Anglo-Greco connection out of the southern hub of Southampton with the launch of its Skiathos service.

Hospitality

Small Luxury Hotels of the World announces five new hotels this May

Tian Tolentino May 10, 2018

Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) added five new properties this May including four newly opened hotels to its spirited global portfolio.

Europe

Jet2’s new flights to Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey means 1.7 million seats in summer 2019

Alastair Newport May 7, 2018

Jet2.com has announced its plans for summer 2019, which include three new European destinations flying out of London Stansted: Bourgas in Bulgaria; Chania in Crete; and Izmir in Turkey.

UK

Newcastle International celebrates flights to Tunisia, Turkey, Croatia and Greece with surprise gift for local family

Alastair Newport May 4, 2018

With summer finally arriving to the UK, Newcastle International Airport has announced new flights to Tunisia, Turkey, Croatia and Greece.

Asia

onefinestay launches in Sydney, Melbourne and… Mykonos

Alastair Newport May 2, 2018

Private rental brand and Accor Group subsidiary onefinestay, has unveiled a glut of new sites to its global portfolio of luxury destinations today, with the announcement it will add 22…

Hospitality

Canaves Oia Epitome aims to be “the pinnacle of hotel luxury” in Santorini

Tian Tolentino Apr 26, 2018

In May 2018, Santorini will welcome a new hotel that will stand as the "pinnacle of luxury" in the quaint fishing town of Ammoudi: Canaves Oia Epitome. A visit to Greece can be frequently…

Air

Aegean announces US$5bn deal with Airbus – the largest private investment in Greek history

Alastair Newport Apr 2, 2018

Following a solid opening to 2018, which saw Aegean Airways report a 12% growth in January and February's passenger numbers to 1.5 million, Greece’s largest airline has announced more good…

Consumer

Going places by making faces: Vacation glow inspires Expedia collab with Estee Lauder

Simon Willmore Jan 22, 2018

Both lifestyle brands jointly offer the opportunity to win the trip-of-a-lifetime to one of eight dream destinations from now until May 2018.

Tourism

Greece promotes itself as a 365-day destination

Jill Sayles Nov 7, 2017 20

The Ministry of Tourism, Greece is implementing a national policy focusing on promoting the country as a global 365-Day Destination.  This is on a long-term plan of five strategic pillars…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Marpunta Village signs first tour operators for 2018

Jill Sayles Nov 2, 2017 16

Marpunta Village, Alonnisos, part of the Santikos Collection has signed up its first UK tour operators ready for its re-launch in May 2018. The property, which was previously run as…

Hotels

Celebration holidays at the five star Aldemar Royal Mare in Crete

Jill Sayles Aug 15, 2017

A rise in groups of people travelling together for a celebration holiday has been seen at Aldemar’s 5-star Royal Mare in Anissaras, Crete.  There has been a r7% increase in the…

Tourism

Larnaka tourism board updates on summer activities

Jill Sayles Aug 8, 2017

The Larnaka Tourism Board has highlighted a summer of activities this year. The destinations offers a variety of water sports and sea-based activities, including sea yoga. The session…

Airlines and Aviation

BA launches inaugural Skiathos route from London City

Jill Sayles Jun 27, 2017

British Airways has launched flights to Skiathos from London City airport.  The route will operate three-times-a-week from London City. As well as its famous Mamma Mia! film connection…

Airlines and Aviation

Scoot goes long-haul with European launch

Mark Elliott Jun 21, 2017

Scoot reached a new milestone this week when it launched its first genuine long-haul route and its inaugural service to Europe. Singapore Airlines' low-cost carrier touched down in…

Airlines and Aviation

Blue Air to launch eighth route from Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Aaron Greenwood Mar 22, 2017

Blue Air has confirmed it will launch its eighth route from Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) on 17 June.  Flights to Larnaca in Cyprus will operate twice weekly on Tuesdays and…

Hotels

Where to Stay: New hotels in Singapore, the Maldives, Greek Islands and more…

Mark Elliott Feb 16, 2017

Hotel G Singapore (pictured above) Location: Close to Singapore's main shopping street, Orchard Road, and few minutes away from Bugis and Dhoby Ghaut MRT stations Grade: Upper-upscale…

Hotels

Choice Hotels expands in Greece

Aaron Greenwood Nov 30, 2016

Choice Hotels Europe, the company behind the Comfort, Quality, Clarion and Ascend Collection brands in Europe and part of Choice Hotels International, has signed a multi-unit development…

Tourism

Record tourism arrivals in Greece continue in 2016

Aaron Greenwood Nov 8, 2016

Greece has seen a 1.3 per cent increase in year-on-year arrivals from all overseas markets between January and August 2016, provisional data released by the Bank of Greece reports. …

Hotels

New adult-friendly hotel to open in Halkidiki

Aaron Greenwood Sep 30, 2016

Sani Resort, the five-star resort and ecological reserve in Halkidiki, Greece, has confirmed plans to open a new adult-friendly hotel, Sani Dunes, by the end of June 2017.  This chic…

Airlines and Aviation

India pens open skies deal with Greece

Mark Elliott Sep 8, 2016

Indian travellers could soon be offered more opportunities to holiday in Greece, following the signing of an "open skies" aviation agreement between the two countries. Under the new…

Airlines and Aviation

Scoot to launch first flights to Europe

Mark Elliott Aug 16, 2016

Scoot, the Singapore-based low-cost carrier, will start flying to Europe for the first time next summer. Scheduled to commence on 20 June 2017, the airline will operate non-stop…

Hotels

The Wyndham Grand Athens to open next year

Aaron Greenwood Jun 30, 2016

Wyndham Hotel Group has confirmed it will open its first hotel in Greece early next year. The Wyndham Grand Athens will be situated on Karaiskaki Place, where Zeus International, a…

Airlines and Aviation

Greek summer for China Airlines

Mark Elliott Mar 9, 2016

China Airlines has unveiled plans to launch a new seasonal charter service to Greece. Commencing on 3 June 2016, the Taiwanese carrier will operate the route once a week, with flights…

Expedition Cruising

Greece cruise specialist offers 2016 incentive

Aaron Greenwood Feb 18, 2016

To celebrate one of its key 2016 destinations, Greece and the Greek Islands, small-ship cruise line Voyages to Antiquity is offering a Greek-themed hamper worth £50 for selected new bookings…

UK

Brits flocked to Greece in 2015

Aaron Greenwood Feb 2, 2016

Arrivals to Greece from the UK grew by 14.6% between January - November 2015 compared to the same period in 2014 according to the latest figures from The Bank of Greece.  Total…

Airlines and Aviation

BA confirms Kalamata route

Aaron Greenwood Nov 19, 2015

British Airways has confirmed it will commence direct flights to Kalamata in the Greek region of Messinia in southwest Peloponnese from Heathrow on 30 April.  The flights will have…

World Travel Market

Greece looks to double UK arrivals in two years

Gemma Greenwood Nov 4, 2015

Greece has revealed ambitious plans to double its UK tourist numbers by 2017.  Adding more air capacity from the UK, prolonging the country’s holiday season, developing more niche…

ABTA Travel Convention

Brits give Greek tourism a boost

Gemma Greenwood Oct 13, 2015

The number of British holidaymakers heading to Greece has increased 29.3% in 2015, making the UK the country’s second largest source market for tourists.  That was the message from…

ABTA Travel Convention

ABTA confirms new speakers for Travel Convention

Aaron Greenwood Oct 6, 2015

ABTA has announced two new speakers for its Travel Convention set to be staged in Greece next week.  Hugo Jenkins, head of Global Sales, onefinestay and David Trunkfield, partner,…

Tourism

Brits flock to Greece despite economic warnings

Gemma Greenwood Jul 22, 2015

With overall sales to Greece up 40 per cent compared to the same time last year across its 400 plus strong contingent of independent travel agents, The Global Travel Group has revealed that…

Hotels

Six Senses to open second spa in Greece

Gemma Greenwood Jul 2, 2015

Six Senses Spas is set to open its newest facility at Greece’s renowned Belvedere Hotel, which overlooks Mykonos Town and the Aegean Sea.   “We are delighted to introduce our second…

Tourism

ABTA warns UK holidaymakers heading to Greece

Gemma Greenwood Jul 2, 2015

ABTA has urged UK holidaymakers heading to Greece to carry sufficient cash funds as the country balances precariously on the edge of economic collapse.  “Due to the ongoing financial…

Tourism

Greek Islands last-minute bookings surge

Aaron Greenwood Jun 16, 2015

Greece and its islands are proving particularly popular for holidaymakers looking for last-minute holidays, with late-deal bookings up an average of 58% on last year, according to beach…

UK

Record early season for Carrier

Mark Elliott Feb 13, 2015

Luxury tour operator Carrier has revealed the peak sales period has been one of the busiest trading months in its history. Sales at the operator for travel in 2015 have increased more…

Hotels

20 properties join Historic Hotels

Mark Elliott Feb 8, 2015

Twenty hotels from countries including Wales and Ireland have recently joined Historic Hotels of Europe. The group now has 500 members from across the continent, which also include…

Airlines and Aviation

Flight capacity to Greece picks up

Mark Elliott Jan 15, 2015

Flight capacity from London to Greece and Cyprus will be updated this summer, as two airlines announced new routes. Aegean Airlines has revealed it will operate a total of six direct…

Airlines and Aviation

AEGEAN ups UK services for 2015

Mark Elliott Dec 15, 2014

AEGEAN Airlines has announced new flights between Gatwick and Heraklion, Crete next summer as part of an increased summer schedule. The new service will commence 21 June with up to…

Expedition Cruising

WTM14: Louis Cruises looks for growth under new Celestyal brand

Mark Elliott Nov 6, 2014

Louis Cruises is gearing up for further growth moving into 2015 when its new Celestyal Cruises brand launches for its Aegean products. From the start of next year the Celestyal…

Tourism

2014 ‘breakout year’ for Greece tourism

Mark Elliott Oct 29, 2014

This year will mark a ‘breakout year’ for tourism in Greece as visitation picks up. Private sector organisation Marketing Greece has released figures showing UK visitor numbers were…

OTAs & Tour Operators

TUI to extend Greece summer season

Mark Elliott Oct 22, 2014

TUI Travel has revealed it will increase its summer season in Greece next year as it has reached its target of boost arrivals into the country. It’s been a year since TUI’s chief…

Airlines and Aviation

Manchester Aegean flights continue

Mark Elliott Sep 29, 2014

Aegean Airlines has announced its Manchester flights will continue into winter. The summer route to Athens will carry on during the winter months, alongside connections from the Greek…

UK

ABTA 14: Travel Convention heads to Greece for 2015

Mark Elliott Sep 23, 2014

ABTA has announced its Travel Convention will be held in Costa Navarino, Greece in 2015.  The Peloponnese region will host the convention from 12-14 October 2015 at The Westin Costa…

Expedition Cruising

Louis Cruises targets trade to grow UK business

Mark Elliott Aug 27, 2014

Cyprus-based Louis Cruises has announced plans to grow its UK passenger count. The cruise line aims to carry at least 10,000 UK customers by 2018 and double this to more than 20,000…

Airlines and Aviation

Jet2 announces seven new destinations

Mark Elliott Aug 12, 2014

Jet2 and Jet2holidays have announced seven new destinations to its network for summer 2015. The airline will launch flights to Antalya, Gran Canaria, Larnaca (Cyprus), Malta, Rome,…

Ocean Cruising

New brand announced by Louis Cruises

Mark Elliott Aug 7, 2014

Louis Cruises has announced plans to launch a new brand in September. The Greece-based cruise line will launch Celestyal Cruises using Louis Cristal and Louis Olympia sailing out of…

UK

New Thomson Platinum Lifestyle collection launches

Mark Elliott Aug 6, 2014

Thomson has announced a new ‘Platinum Lifestyle’ portfolio to group together design-led hotels already in the Platinum collection. Hotels in the Platinum Lifestyle grouping must have…

Turkey

TUI builds on exclusive excursions

Mark Elliott Jul 28, 2014

Thomson and First Choice have launched more exclusive excursions for its customers through a ‘Collection’. The Thomson Collection and First Choice Collection excursions all have at…

Interviews

On the Deck: Diogenis Venetopoulos, Variety Cruises

Mark Elliott Jun 25, 2014

Family-run Variety Cruises has a strong Greek heritage and specialist knowledge dating back to 1949 and is still run by the Venetopoulos family with a focus on experiential, luxury…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Greece backs Make Holidays Greener

Mark Elliott Jun 17, 2014

Visit Greece has shown support for the Make Holidays Greener campaign. The awareness week will be held all July to encourage cleaner and greener beaches with clean-ups and tips to be…

Airlines and Aviation

Air Astana adds European charter flights

Mark Elliott May 14, 2014

Kazakhstan’s national carrier Air Astana has unveiled plans to launch a series of new charter services to Europe this summer. Commencing in June 2014, the airline will fly from…

Scotland

TUI adds 29 regional UK routes

Mark Elliott Apr 28, 2014

Thomson and First Choice have announced 29 new routes from regional airports in the UK for its summer 2015 programme. Its new flights include services from the likes of Birmingham,…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad boosts Mediterranean air connectivity

Mark Elliott Apr 17, 2014

The Mediterranean region can look forward to more capacity from Etihad Airways. The airline announced a boost in frequency and capacity on its routes to Athens and Larnaca. Peter…

Turkey

Neilson unveils two new Beachclubs

Mark Elliott Apr 14, 2014

Neilson has announced the launch of two new Beachclubs for this summer season. The activity holiday specialist will open the Andriake Beachclub in Turkish region of Demre on 3 May…

Airlines and Aviation

Gulf Air resumes services to Athens

Mark Elliott Apr 13, 2014

Gulf Air will resume flights to the Greek Capital this summer, with four weekly services to Athens International Airport. The Bahrain national carrier will begin fights on 16 June, in…

Turkey

Thomson unveils three new Sensatori Resorts

Mark Elliott Apr 13, 2014

Thomson has announced three new Sensatori Resorts among new additions for the summer 2015 season. The company plans to open new Sensatori resorts in Ibiza, Fethiye (Turkey) and…

Tourism

Greek museums to open longer

Mark Elliott Mar 23, 2014

Thirty three museums and archaeological sites will extend their opening hours during the summer months, the Greek Culture Ministry has confirmed. From 1 April until the end of October…

Tourism

Saudi Arabia looks to ink tourism pact with Greece

Mark Elliott Feb 11, 2014

Saudi Arabia and Greece will sign a major agreement here on Monday to boost cooperation in the tourism sector, as reported by Arab News. The pact will also look to generate growth in…

Tourism

Record numbers heading to Greece

Mark Elliott Feb 10, 2014

Greece welcomed a record number of tourists during 2013, according to the Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises (SETE). A record 12.7 million people traveller to the main Greek…

Tourism

New Greece tourism website launched

Mark Elliott Jan 24, 2014

Tourism organisation MARKETING GREECE has announced the launch of a new consumer website to promote the destination. The website, at www.discovergreece.com, hopes to act as a central…

Hotels

European hotel demand outpaces North America

Mark Elliott Dec 23, 2013

Demand growth for hotels in Europe has surpassed the rise in North America for two months in a row. According to new data from STR Global, Europe has seen 3.2% growth in a 12-month…

Guest Column

Part 2: Hidden Treasures

Mark Elliott Dec 6, 2013

“We’ve been driving the ship all night like we stole it,” announces Crystal Serenity’s droll captain, Birger Vorland, as his mighty craft motors towards Kotor. The Montenegrin resort…

Cyprus

Thomson gets in on the scene with new hotel brand

Mark Elliott Dec 4, 2013

Thomson has launched a new hotel concept aimed at young travellers looking for quiet hotels near nightlife centres. The new Thomson Scene hotels are aimed at 25-35 year olds and have…

Ocean Cruising

Ocean Countess on fire off Greece coast

Mark Elliott Dec 1, 2013

Cruise ship Ocean Countess is currently on fire off the coast of Greece. The five crew onboard the former Cunard Countess have been accounted for in the port of Halkis, where the ship…

Events

Athens to host wedding planners event

Mark Elliott Nov 13, 2013

Athens has been chosen as the host destination for the first ever Destination Wedding Planner Congress (DWP) next year. Leading Hotels of the World member Grand Resort Lagonissi will…

United States

AirFastTickets unveils new website

Mark Elliott Nov 12, 2013

Travel firm AirFastTickets has unveiled a new website after developing its service and product offering. The company, which has offices in Greece and New York, has developed new…

World Travel Market

Greece looks to appeal beyond beaches

Mark Elliott Nov 7, 2013

Greece is hoping to extend its tourist season past the summer beach holiday as it starts to recover from its recession. The number of British tourists heading to Greece in the first…

Northern Ireland

Ten new routes for easyJet

Mark Elliott Oct 24, 2013

easyJet has announced 10 new routes for summer 2014. The carrier will add services from Gatwick to Newcastle, Brittany, Paris and Jersey; as well as Belfast International to Bordeaux…

Tourism Boards

Greece to host agent concert

Mark Elliott Oct 20, 2013

The Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) will host a special concert for travel agents next week. The tourism body will celebrate Greek tradition and culture at the event at The…

Airlines and Aviation

Norwegian announces new UK-US routes

Mark Elliott Oct 17, 2013

Norwegian has announced three new long-haul routes from Gatwick to the USA. The carrier will launch services from the Sussex airport to New York (JFK), Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale…

Tourism

TUI’s Long meets with Greek PM

Mark Elliott Oct 17, 2013

TUI Travel’s chief executive Peter Long has met with the Greek Prime Minister to discuss the company’s growth plans in the country. Long commended PM Antonis Samaras for having a…

UK

Sun and city breaks top winter getaways

Mark Elliott Oct 1, 2013

UK holidaymakers taking holidays in the winter are most likely to head to the sun and cities, according to ABTA. In a recent poll by the association 19% said they are planning a…

Airlines and Aviation

SIA to fly to Athens

Mark Elliott Sep 30, 2013

Singapore Airlines (SIA) will launch a new service to Athens next year. Operating on a seasonal basis from 9 June to 9 October 2014, the new route will aim to take advantage of strong…

Ocean Cruising

Princess cancels Royal cruise

Mark Elliott Sep 23, 2013

The newest ship of Carnival subsidiary Princess Cruises, has suffered an electrical power cut while on a Mediterranean itinerary, ending in a cancelled cruise.  The ship, which was on…

Croatia

The Moorings to rebrand

Mark Elliott Sep 10, 2013

TUI’s yachting arm The Moorings has will go through a rebrand for 2014. The new identity is to “incorporate the company’s heritage into a fresh identity for today’s customer” and will…

Tourism

New Greece marketing body created

Mark Elliott Sep 1, 2013

A new organisation looking to increase tourism from the UK to Greece has launched. Marketing Greece has been created by the country’s private sector working closely with its Ministry…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Greece makes comeback

Mark Elliott Aug 12, 2013

A glut of major UK tour operators are reporting an increase in business because of renewed interest in Greece, the Mail on Sunday has reported. Mark Warner, Sunvil Holidays and TUI…

Hotels

Thomas Cook awarded Louis Hotel damages

Mark Elliott Jul 30, 2013

Thomas Cook has been awarded a damages payout by Louis Hotels after two children died of carbon monoxide poisoning in one of its hotels in 2006. Robert and Christianne Shepherd died…

Airlines and Aviation

EasyJet reschedules flights ahead of Greek strikes

Mark Elliott Jul 16, 2013

Low cost British carrier easyJet has been forced to rearrange a number of its Greek departures because of a planned strike by the country’s air traffic controllers. The airline has…

England

Josephides steps down as Sunvil MD

Mark Elliott Jun 7, 2013

Sunvil Group’s operations director Chris Wright has been promoted to managing director after Noel Josephides announced a move to chairman. Josephides has taken the role of chairman…

Airlines and Aviation

Olympic Holidays pens Air Partner deal

Mark Elliott May 22, 2013 13

Olympic Holidays has signed a deal with Air Partner for a new flying programme this summer. The air charter broker has organised flights from Gatwick and Manchester to all the Greek…

Airlines and Aviation

New Manchester-Athens service announced

Mark Elliott May 15, 2013 1

Aegean Airlines is to launch flights between Manchester and Athens later this month. The carrier will operate flights each Saturday and Monday from 25 May and will provide connections…

Cruise

Excel Travel launches Mediterranean cruise holiday destinations

Mark Elliott Mar 26, 2013 0

Excel Travel announced its exclusive partnership with AbouMerhi Cruises to offer Egyptians access to luxurious southern European holiday destinations aboard recently renovated Orient Queen…

Airlines and Aviation

Sunvil introduces new carrier

Mark Elliott Dec 11, 2012 17

Sunvil Holidays and sister company GIC The Villa Collection has announced it will introduce a new airline to its summer Greece programme next year. Flights by  Berlin-based Germania from…

Tourism

New campaign unveiled by Rhodes

Mark Elliott Nov 5, 2012 1

Tourism authorities from Rhodes unveiled a new marketing campaign at WTM today aimed at the British market. Its ‘Sunkissed by Rodos’ campaign will see its ‘sunkissers’ hug and kiss…

Tourism

New Athens B2B workshops announced

Mark Elliott Nov 1, 2012 16

New B2B travel workshops are to be held in Athens next year to promote tourism in the city and surrounding areas. The ‘Travel Trade Athens’ shows have been developed by the Athens…

Airlines and Aviation

Aegean Airlines acquires Olympic Air

Mark Elliott Oct 23, 2012 10

Aegean Airlines has acquired Olympic Air for EUR72 million. Under the deal with Aegean and Marfin Investment Group (MIG) Olympic Air will become a subsidiary of Aegean and retain its own…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates to connect Athens with A380 service

Mark Elliott Oct 22, 2012 0

Emirates will operate its A380 scheduled service into Athens from 26 October 2012. The airline has been servicing the route for the past 16 years. Additional A380 destinations that are set…

Airlines and Aviation

Turkish Airlines orders 15 A330s

Oct 10, 2012 18

Turkish Airlines has placed an order for 15 new Airbus A330-300s. The deal, which is worth US$3.3 billion at current list prices, marks the airline's seventh A330 order and will almost…

Airlines and Aviation

Greece strike to hit travel

Mark Elliott Sep 25, 2012 16

Flights, ferries and transport to, from and in Greece are expected to face delays and cancellations tomorrow due to a general strike. Greece’s largest labour unions have called a general…

Hotels

Rotana Group expands its Dubai portfolio

Mark Elliott Sep 11, 2012 13

This October, the Rotana Group will open two new hotels to cater to growing tourists in Dubai. The two new facilities to be launched this October are Al Ghurair Arjaan Rotana hotel…

Greece

Turkish Airlines profits jump 142%

Mark Elliott Sep 3, 2012 1

Turkish Airlines recorded net profits of TRY164 million (US$91.8m, GDP57.8) in the first half year of 2012 - 142% better than the same period last year. The result followed a 36% jump in…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Brits ‘spend £200 in-resort in all-inclusives’

Mark Elliott Aug 26, 2012 18

All-inclusive holidays may end up more expensive for consumers than previously thought, with ‘big differences’ between the offering in Europe and long-haul, a new report has said.…

Greece

Turkey continues tourism boost

Mark Elliott Aug 21, 2012 1

Turkey has continued to see an increase of tourism this year, its tourism authority has revealed. New figures show the number of foreign visitors to June this year increase 2.7%…

Guest Column

Club Med Gregolimano, Greece

Mark Elliott Aug 21, 2012

‘All-inclusive resorts’ seem to have a bad reputation in Britain, but the French-owned Club Med has been bucking this trend for half a century, finds Simon Willmore As our boat thunders…

UK

Two million head overseas this weekend

Mark Elliott Jul 20, 2012 13

Two million British holidaymakers are expected to head overseas in the next four days as schools break up for the summer holidays. ABTA expects most holidaymakers to head to Spain…

Hotels

Rixos rolls out expansion plans

Mark Elliott Jul 11, 2012 11

In an effort to create a Turkish niche in the market, the Rixos Group has announced that it will expand its operations abroad this year with the addition of five new hotels to its present…

Panama

Paul Gauguin to add 73 new ports on 2013

Jun 21, 2012 0

Paul Gauguin, the South Pacific cruise operator, has unveiled its 2013 itineraries including 73 new ports of call. Next year, the company will offer 19 itineraries calling at 22…

Hotels

Mark Warner moves forward with new resort

Mark Elliott Jun 14, 2012 0

Mark Warner Holidays marked a ‘new future’ in its business this week as it showed its new Rhodes resort to press and travel agents. The independent company, which has been operating for 38…

Tourism

All-inclusive leads Greece bookings amid financial woes

Mark Elliott May 18, 2012 0

British travellers flocking to Greece this summer needn’t be worried of dramatic changes to the country no matter what happens to its government and economy, some operators have said. While…

Airlines and Aviation

Turkey flight links improve

Mark Elliott May 16, 2012 0

Tour operators in the UK have welcomed new flights to Turkey and North Cyprus from a private airline based in the country. Atlasjet has filled a gap in the market left by Cyprus Turkish…

Greece

‘Warning’ sparks Greek euro confusion

Mark Elliott May 15, 2012 16

Holiday companies and consumers faced confusion over the state of the Greek euro yesterday after DialaFlight warned customers to dispose of Greek-printed notes. Financial analysts have…

Hotels

TUI defends all-inclusive product

Mark Elliott Apr 23, 2012 10

TUI has defended its all-inclusive offering and impact on communities by saying comment around the issue is ‘exaggerated’. Speaking at a panel session last week, David Burling,…

Airlines and Aviation

Avro expands regional Greece departures

Mark Elliott Oct 21, 2011 15

Flight-only operator Avro has expands its Greek flights further for next summer. The company has added charter flights from both East Midlands and Newcastle to Corfu and Heraklion in Crete.…

Airlines and Aviation

Flights reinstated as Greek strikes shortened

Mark Elliott Oct 19, 2011 13

easyJet and British Airways have reinstated flights toGreece and its islands across the next two days after an air traffic controllerstrike was shortened. The 48-hour strike will now only…

Airlines and Aviation

Greek flights disruption expected Weds, Thurs, Fri

Mark Elliott Oct 18, 2011 19

Flights to and from Greece will be affected for two daysfollowing an air traffic controller strike in the country. Services could be cancelledor delayed from midnight during the 48-hour…

Cyprus

Ionian Weddings launches to trade

Mark Elliott Oct 11, 2011 14

A bespoke weddings company has announced it is to begin selling its products through travel agents. Ionian Weddings specialises in ceremonies in Greece and Cyprus with locations including a…

United States

Exodus launches 14 new cycling tips

Mark Elliott Oct 6, 2011

Exodus has launched 14 new cycling tours for 2012-13. The new trips add five more countries to the bicycle tour operator's portfolio; the USA, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Greece and Iceland.…

Human Resources

Greece flights hits by fresh strike

Mark Elliott Oct 5, 2011

A general strike has brought air services in Greece to a standstill today. The country's two largest carriers, Aegean and Olympic Airlines, have been forced to cancel all flights on…

Greece

Avro further increases 2012 Greek capacity

Mark Elliott Aug 23, 2011

Trade operator Avro has further expanded its Greek programme for next summer. The flight-only operator has added flights from Bristol to Corfu, Zante and Crete and there are also new flights…

Tourism

Directline Holidays sees Greek popularity up

Mark Elliott Aug 17, 2011

Directline Holidays has revealed that the Greek islands have been catching up with sales to Majorca this summer. The online travel agent saw sales to Larnaca in Cyprus increase 28% last…

Tourism

Greece tourism arrivals increases

Mark Elliott Aug 14, 2011

Greece has seen a 10% increase in visitor arrivals for the first seven months this year. According to figures from the Federation of Greek Tourism Enterprises, the largest increase in…

Road

Greece taxi service suspended, says FCO

Mark Elliott Jul 20, 2011

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned that taxi services in Greece have been suspended following ongoing strikes in the country. Taxis had previously blocked access to Athens…

Greece

Greek taxi drivers block access to Athens airport and port

Mark Elliott Jul 18, 2011

A strike by taxi drivers in Greece has caused traffic chaos in the country, including limited access to Athens' airport and harbour port. Officials at Athens International Airport have urged…

Tourism

Greece tourism arrivals grows, Athens buses to offer WiFi

Mark Elliott Jul 15, 2011

International tourism to Greece has increased 9.52% in the last six months, according to the Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises. More than four million overseas tourists are said to…

Cruise

Seabourn debuts new luxury liner

Mark Elliott Jun 21, 2011

Seabourn launched its new 450-passenger Seabourn Quest in a naming ceremony in Barcelona on Monday 20 June. The award-winning actress, Blythe Danner served as godmother to the new vessel -…

Airlines and Aviation

Flights to be hit if Greece 24-hour strike goes ahead

Mark Elliott Jun 14, 2011

Flights to and from Greece could be hit by a nationwide strike in the country tomorrow over budget cuts. easyJet has said it expects significant disruption if the 24-hour strike take place…

Cruise

Voyages of Antiquity launches six new cruises for 2012

Mark Elliott Jun 8, 2011

Voyages of Antiquity has added six new itineraries to its programme. Its new 2012 brochure contains the new cruises, which cover various areas of western Mediterranean. Early booking offers…

Airlines and Aviation

Greek airline Hellenic Imperial launches Gatwick flights

Mark Elliott Jun 6, 2011

Greek carrier Hellenic Imperial Airways has announced it will commence flights between Gatwick and Athens next month. Flights on the route will begin on 1 July three times a week, with…

Tourism

Greece makes a comeback in holiday sales

Mark Elliott May 8, 2011

Tour operators are reporting an increase in holiday sales to Greece as the country moves on from its heavy economic uncertainty. While Youhotels.com has seen a 10% increase in bookings to…

Cruise

One Stop Touring Shop launches incentive

Mark Elliott Apr 15, 2011

One Stop Touring Shop has launched an agent incentive offering one agent the chance to win a holiday to Greece. To enter the competition, agents need to book a tour with each of the 1STS…

Cruise

Rhodes tourism to benefit from more cruise visits

Mark Elliott Apr 12, 2011

Rhodes' tourism is set to be given a boost this year from the cruise sector, following Greece's decision to develop ports and ship diversions from North Africa. The change in itinerary to…

Tourism

Solo’s Holidays reports Turkey and Greece popularity

Mark Elliott Mar 25, 2011

Solo's Holidays has seen a rise in bookings to Turkey and Greece on the run up to Easter. The solo traveller specialist believes that more travellers are opting for sunny holidays at…

Greece

Greece to waive airport fees in bid to boost tourism

Mark Elliott Mar 17, 2011

Greece is to waive its airport fees for nine months in a bid to regenerate the country's tourism industry. The country's airports, except Athens, are to stop charging landing, takeoff and…

Cruise

Costa Cruises reports 33% growth in Med product

Mark Elliott Mar 15, 2011

Costa Cruises has grown its Mediterranean-based cruise product by 33 percent this year. The cruise line is set to make 2,800 calls at 92 destinations in the Med this year, with nine million…

Hotels

Brand new resort for mainland Greece

Mark Elliott Mar 19, 2010

A new prime coastal destination is set to open on mainland Greece this May boasting the destination's first signature golf course and a spa offering treatments inspired by ancient Greek…

Hotels

Luxury Greek resort looks for niche operators

Mark Elliott Mar 19, 2010

A new top-end resort in Greece is on the hunt for specialist agents and tour operators to sell its property to the UK market. Kinsterna Hotel & Spa, located in the medieval castle city…

Hotels

AQUIS acquires first city hotel

Mark Elliott Feb 4, 2010

AQUIS Hotel and Resorts has acquired its first city hotel, the five-star Corfu Palace Hotel, and plans on increasing its portfolio to 20 in total by the end of the year. The luxury 112-room…