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Cyprus Tourism: Ayia Napa and Protaras Set to Break Records in 2025

Ayia Napa and Protaras are gearing up for an exceptional tourist season in 2025, with efforts suggesting it could be a record-breaking year. The areas have already achieved a modest extension of their tourist season, thanks to a series of strategic collaborations.

Uniting Forces for Greater Impact

Previously viewed as competitors, Ayia Napa and Protaras have joined forces since last year, moving past their differences to leverage combined strengths. Their collaboration with the Famagusta Tourism Board and local stakeholders initiated a high-impact campaign titled “Live Unforgettable Moments”.

Expanding Reach Through Strategic Campaigns

The campaign’s wide reach is evident as over 14 million advertisements have been disseminated across English, German, and French platforms. These efforts have successfully connected with more than 4.5 million unique users across key markets such as the UK, Germany, Austria, and the Nordics. The positive response, particularly from the British and emerging Polish markets, hints at significant growth potential.

Beyond Advertising: Real Engagement

The collaborative strategy extends beyond advertising. Meetings with key tour operators like Jet2holidays, TUI, and easyJet have been productive, with plans to extend the tourist season until mid-November. Active dialogues are also ongoing with local entertainment venues to maintain operations longer into the year.

For more insights on tourism and real estate trends, check out our article on 2025’s Real Estate Trends in Cyprus.

Sports Tourism: A Driving Force

Sports events have infused significant enthusiasm into the region, bolstering visitor numbers. Notable instances include the international ELITE NEON tournament and the 4th Run for Autism Half Marathon, drawing thousands of participants. These events emphasize the potential of sports tourism in enhancing the area’s brand recognition.

Sustainable and Intelligent Tourism Initiatives

Looking forward, Ayia Napa and Protaras aim to harness advanced technologies like AI to enhance tourist experiences. Initiatives include creating AI-driven guides and virtual tours, enhancing both tourist engagement and infrastructure sustainability.

Ultimately, the goal remains clear: extend the tourist season year-round, offering diverse tourism options from sports to cultural and wellness travel. This strategic push promises to bring lasting benefits to Cyprus’s dynamic tourism landscape.

Eurobank Launches First UPI Cross-Border Payment From Greece To India

Eurobank has launched its first cross-border payment from Greece to India through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), marking a new step in the bank’s international expansion and its strategy to strengthen financial ties between Europe and India.

The transaction, completed in cooperation with NPCI International, follows the launch of Eurobank’s new payment service. The inaugural payment was made in the presence of India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Eurobank Chief Executive Fokion Karavias and senior executives from NPCI International.

A Strategic Bet On India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem

According to Eleftherios Vlachogiannis, Eurobank’s head of transaction banking, the service currently supports outgoing payments by Indian citizens living in Greece to recipients in India, representing the first phase of a broader collaboration with NPCI International.

UPI is operated by NPCI International. By integrating the system into its e-banking platform and mobile app, Eurobank enables customers to make real-time transfers.

“The most important aspect is the philosophy behind the initiative,” Vlachogiannis said. “Instead of creating another closed payment system, we are integrating mature and internationally recognised payment ecosystems into the bank’s services so customers enjoy a simple, secure and modern transaction experience.”

He added: “Innovation creates value when it delivers a genuine benefit for the customer.”

Building A Financial Bridge Between Europe And India

The UPI launch follows Eurobank’s opening of a representative office in Mumbai, making it the first Greek and Cypriot bank with a physical presence in India. The bank has also expanded its presence through the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council, a technology centre in Pune and partnerships with Indian institutions.

Vlachogiannis said India’s economic growth and closer ties with the European Union support the bank’s long-term strategy. He also pointed to progress in negotiations on the EU-India Free Trade Agreement.

Mumbai Office Serves As A Regional Business Hub

Eurobank’s Mumbai office supports businesses seeking to establish operations between India, Greece, Cyprus and the wider European market. It provides access to banking services, business networks and market support.

For Greek companies expanding into India, the bank offers international payments, foreign exchange management, trade finance and supply chain finance. Indian businesses investing in Greece, Cyprus or elsewhere in the European Union can also access financing and corporate banking services through Eurobank.

Aiming To Strengthen The India-Europe Corridor

Looking ahead, Eurobank said it will continue investing in technology, international payments, trade finance and partnerships with Indian organisations.

“Our ambition is to act not only as a banking services provider but also as a strategic partner for businesses and investors seeking to benefit from the opportunities created by this dynamic market,” Vlachogiannis said.

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