Chinanews, August 1, according to the Greek "China Greek Times" report, according to a survey conducted by the Greek Business and Retail Industry Association (SELPE), only one-third of Greeks plan to go on vacation this summer. In order to promote the recovery of the tourism industry, the Greek Tourism Minister Theoharis recently announced that the Greek government has increased the budget of the 2020-2021 “National Tourism” plan from 30 million euros to 100 million euros.
On May 18, local time, Athens, Greece, the Acropolis was opened to the public, attracting tourists to visit. Greek open-air archaeological sites and various theme parks resumed opening that day.
According to reports, a survey conducted by the ELTRUN laboratory of the Athens University of Economics and Business showed that only 14% of Greeks would still go on vacation in the summer of 2020 as they did in previous years, while 18% of the respondents said that due to reduced income As a result, their vacation plans will have to be adjusted in 2020. Many interviewees said that they will shorten their vacation time, and at the same time, they will no longer choose expensive hotels in terms of accommodation options. Another 44% of respondents said that they will no longer go on vacation in 2020.
In order to promote the recovery of tourism, Greece's newly launched "tourism for all" plan will give thousands of Greeks the opportunity to enjoy subsidized holidays. The plan is aimed at low-income groups. Those included in the plan can receive a subsidy for 2 nights if they stay in a hotel for 4 nights.
Greece’s Tourism Minister Haris Theoharis said: “This plan has helped Greek families who are eager to take a vacation realize their dreams, and on the other hand, more people can participate in tourism activities. To promote the recovery of tourism in Greece."
This travel plan has begun to accept applications for subsidies. According to data from the Greek Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry has received 450,000 applications so far, covering approximately 750,000 Greeks.
In addition to the "tourism for all" program, Greece's domestic travel will also receive a budget of 37 million euros in subsidies and company vouchers. Through this plan, the private sector will provide employees with travel vouchers for vacations.
Theoharis also emphasized that the biggest challenge currently facing Greece is to find a balance between receiving tourists and effective epidemic prevention, which is also a common problem in the world. Unfortunately, so far there has not been a win-win model of "both fish and bear's paw". (Cai Ling)