Booking Declines Signal Looming Slowdown
Hoteliers in Ayia Napa, Protaras and Larnaca are reporting a slowdown in bookings ahead of the new tourism season, as tensions in the Middle East continue to affect travel demand. Operators say cancellations have increased in recent weeks, particularly in key resort areas.
Shifting Reservation Dynamics
Recent data show that most cancellations are concentrated in April and May, just as hotels prepare to reopen for the season. Panayiotis Constantinou, president of the Famagusta Hoteliers Association (Pasyxe), said existing summer bookings remain largely stable. However, the lack of new reservations from key European markets is becoming a growing concern.
Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram
Calls For Targeted State Intervention
Industry representatives are calling for additional government support, including an extension of unemployment benefits for hotel staff affected by delayed demand. Such measures are seen as necessary as hotels reopen with lower-than-expected occupancy levels.
Challenges In Larnaca And Broader Mediterranean Trends
In Larnaca, cancellations have reached around 35%, while new bookings are estimated at roughly one-tenth of last year’s levels, according to Marios Polyviou, president of the local hoteliers’ association. The district has been particularly affected due to its reliance on visitors from Israel, traditionally one of its main markets.
Similar trends are being observed across other Mediterranean destinations, including Spain, Greece and Turkey, as travellers remain cautious. At the same time, there are early signs of potential recovery. Flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport may resume by late April, which could support a gradual return in bookings.
